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  1. I’m just saying…if your last name is Timbers and you’re not doing something outdoors related for your job, you’re just not doing life right!

    Thanks for the review! This helps a lot. I got the go-ahead from my wife to spend the money on a ‘vacation box’ for my bike this week.

  2. i got the old evoc which was waaaay cheaper for almost the same bag as the current evoc (also same weight at 8.6kg). its _just_ big enough for my long mtb.
    I find that you can put rotor protecting discs to avoid having to take them off (bikes generally have these when shipped these days, its quite handy to grab a couple from a trash near a bike shop).

    The only issue id say is the weight, 8.6kg isnt terrible but its still too high to fit within the 23kg limit usually.

  3. Thanks for this run down. I’ve been considering investing in a travel case for some time now, and your pros and cons really hit the nail on the head while being easy to search, compare, and consider. Thank you for compiling this info.

    Many XXL frames these days exceed 130cm wheelbase. I have not personally tested the Dakine or new Thule options with my XXL Sentinel (132cm), but it does not fit in the EVOC Standard or older Thule Roundtrip Pro. I’m hoping to test the Dakine bag in the coming year. If anyone has experience fitting a 130cm+ frame in any bag, I’m all ears!

    With that said, I have a few comments and corrections regarding larger frame mountain bikes that others may find useful:

    -The EVOC XL bag is not intended for larger frames. In fact, the maximum wheelbase is actually SHORTER than that standard bag. It is intended for plus bikes and fat bikes with more volume in width and wheel pockets.
    The wheelbase maximums for EVOC bags are:
    Standard: 126cm
    XL: 125cm
    Pro: 130cm

    -The EVOC Pro and Thule Roundtrip MTB both use rigid mounting rails, so 130cm max is exactly 130cm max. I have not personally tested it with a bike, but inspecting the frame mechanisms in-store, I don’t see a way to squeeze a larger bike. Maybe Problem Solvers or another company could make a wheelbase shortening thru-axle insert for such a thing? Niche market, but sure would be nice.

    -There is no published wheelbase max for the Dakine bag, but it seems to compete with the EVOC Pro around 128-130cm. Without the mounting rails it could be larger. However, several reviewers stated the XXL Transition Spire (135.2cm wheelbase) did not fit in the Dakine bag.

    -Weight: Even the lightest XL-XXL mountain bikes, when combined with a bag, will almost certainly go over the typical 50lb weight limit of most airlines. Either accept that and load ‘er up (additional “extremely overweight” fees usually apply after 75 lbs or even 100 lbs), or start removing parts.
    I’d consider removing the dropper post, saddle and cassette+freehub to save on weight (assuming you have room in another bag). This way the bike still holds the structure of the bag, but you can easily ditch 4-8 lbs depending on your component spec. Many modern freehubs bodies pull out of the hub shell without tools, just be sure to remove any exposed springs/pawls and keep them safely secured (or bring a cassette wrench in your tool bag). Tires would be the next option, but even when flat they provide additional protection for the rim during transport. Plus, tubeless tires can add a huge headache during setup at your destination if they are unseated during packing.

    -Can’t find bike packaging materials in a pinch? Most home/hardware stores sell black pipe insulating foam “noodles” that work great. They come in various lengths and widths with a split down the middle just like the white bike packaging. Not free, but they cost very little ($2-5 USD) and can be custom cut for maximum protection.

  4. Super helpful, thanks! I’m considering the Dakine bag you use. Wondering if I could also use it for a drop bar gravel bike?

    1. Thanks Patrick! I have my eye on the new EVOC pro bag that has a removable front wheel. It would make traveling with a heavy, awkward bike so much easier!

  5. This B & W International Bike Case is a really nice travel box. It is extremely lightweight and has an incredible lifespan. My racing bike fit easily into the case and was very well protected because  its self-reinforced curve structure is suitable for road and gravel bikes, mountain bikes, and downhill bikes. The best feature of this bike case is that it is impact-resistant, abrasion-resistant, and tough, even at low temperatures. Also, this bike case is so hassle-free when walking, as it is designed with four easy-rolling wheels. For my trip, I was able to easily roll my bag with one hand and pull the bike case with the other, which was really nice.

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