So you’re coming to Whistler to ride your bike. When going to ride abroad, many mountain bikers ask themselves the same question year on year – “How do I travel with my bike?” In addition to getting from A to B, this means you’ll be packing not only your gear but your bike as well. While these tasks can be daunting, there are a number of ways to travel easily and safely with your prized possession. Here are some steps to bike friendly travel.
STEP 1: Invest In A Bike Bag
When traveling, your bike must be packed in a rigid and/or hard shell container specifically designed for shipping. Many choose to ship in a cardboard bike box but bike bags or bike suitcases are the easiest as well as the safest packing solution. Handlebars must be fixed sideways, pedals must be removed and tires must be partially deflated for air travel. Remember to be conscious of weight if you are flying as extra charges may occur.
STEP 2: Decide What Bike To Bring
Whistler has a variety of types of mountain biking available. There are copious amounts of all-mountain trails surrounding the village, cross-country loops, and of course, the Whistler Mountain Bike Park. This leads to the dilemma of what bike to pack. In short, bring an aggressive all-mountain bike if you have one. It can be ridden on all types of trails including the bike park. Rental options are available for downhill and cross-country should you want another bike.
STEP 3: What To Pack
Together with packing necessities, you will have to include your mountain bike gear as well as tools to rebuild and maintain your bike while abroad. Here is a quick reference list for what to pack:
- Pump
- Set of allen keys (make sure you have one large enough for your pedals)
- Torque wrench if possible
- Lock
- Multi-tool
- Tire levers
- Patch kit
- Helmet (Full face and half shell for DH and all-mountain trails)
- Shoes
- Gloves
- Glasses
- Jersey
- Shorts
- Knee pads
- Elbow pads
STEP 4: Getting From The Airport
There are a number of ways to get from the airport to Whistler with your bike box or bag. You can book a shuttle, rent a vehicle, or even fly. Regardless, planning ahead will save a lot of hassle and waiting around.
STEP 5: Choose A Bike Friendly Hotel
When booking your Whistler mountain bike holiday, make sure to book a bike friendly hotel. Bike bags are big, so you will want to think about where you will be storing these during your stay. You will also want to know where your bike will be stored when you are not using it. At the Listel Hotel Whistler, we offer secure bike storage and a bike wash station.
Safe travels and see you on the trails!