Cycling UK Forum

coendejong wrote: ↑14 Apr 2024, 5:35pm Hope you don't mind me chipping in to the discussion.
We are planning something similar with a group of cyclists, end of Sep.

Was wondering what the best way to get from city center to airport would be when the bike is packed in such a box? Do taxis take you with bike and all?

And these polyester bags, what brand is good? Any recommendations? Is it always allowed or can airports / airlines refuse these?

Sorry missed this.

Yes you can take a bike box in a taxi, but will need a big one. The SUV type normally work or maybe an estate if they still use them.

I have folded a box flat and secured to bike. Cycling not easy, but OK if using train and pushing bike. In Malaga, I saw an American guy cycling while wearing the box on his head and hanging down behind like a cloak. Couldn't have been comfortable.

I have also used a bike bag. A Groundeffect one. For this I carried pieces of cardboard on bike to use to pad the bag, No problem with one of these bags on a plane, however using something like a poly bag you could be refused.

These posts always amuse me.

OP posts an unclear question that needs clarifying. Does he need a visa, or more likely not. Never comes back to answer.

Replies were for non visa as per UK nationals. As far as I know, only roubaixtuesday has so far applied for an EU visa.

Onerous entry requirements apply to almost all countries, but are only a backstop to keep out undesirables or secure a bribe. I have entered the EU 4 times since 2021 with bike and never been asked anything.

Can you imagine the chaos at all entry points if every passenger had to make a full declaration of accom, cash, health, etc.

There is now a road legal e-scooter available in the UK. This could muddy the waters a bit.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/joanneshur ... e-scooter/

I use MKS CT- Lite. With basic plastic toe clips and loose straps.

Have used them for nearly 30 years and they have been fine. Cheaper than Sylvan etc. last well and you can adjust and lubricate the bearings.

Thanks for detailed reply scragend.

Going back to bike reservations.

MrsHJ I remembered that when I bought my tickets for TER on the station machine (June 23) there was a "have you got a dog or bike?" question. I answered yes (to bike) and bought the ticket. Can't remember if there was a charge for bike, don't think so. Perhaps this was reserving a space??

Why Calais? A quick Google maps shows Spanish border to Ouistreham (Caen) channel port is 850 Kms, Calais 1100.

Also, if you can give an idea of how far into France you want to ride, it'll be easier to give advice.

It'll be interesting to see how reservations work and on which trains.

Last summer (twice) I took a TER train I just turned up and bought a ticket from a ticket machine. Will the machines now issue reserved seats or do you go and then get reservation. Or will it all be online???

They used to do a good breakfast in the Station Buffet at Manningtree station.

Opens at 05.00, about 18 Kms from Harwich ferry if heading that way.

They also sell good beer.

Working the other way.

I had 9 speed Deore.

Not now available and I have replaced with Altus and Acera rear mechs over the years. No problem. However must be the same type of derailleur.

I can't guarantee on 8 speed, but on 9 they are all interchangeable. It's just a drop in quality for me and a raise for you.

It's Shimano policy to withdraw higher spec models and only leave the lower ones in redundant groups.

hamster wrote: ↑8 Apr 2024, 2:32pm

simonhill wrote: ↑31 Mar 2024, 12:05pm It was essentially the press reports that are often disingenuous and emotive. A current BBC one saying about a couple felt like criminals as they were escorted out of airside. As they didn't have valid documentation they were illegally airside. Of course they have to be escorted out, they can't just be left to wander out. I doubt they were handcuffed, frog marched or tasered.

You are wrong - they were legally airside as they had a valid passport in the UK.
The problem is that the passport wasn't valid in the destination country. As it's the airline's responsibility to repatriate anyone who arrives without valid documentation, you can see why they were removed

I said they didn't have valid documentation.

You need a valid boarding pass to be airside. When the airline saw their passports weren't acceptable the boarding passes were invalid and (effectively) withdrawn.

That left them airside without ALL the necessary valid documents. At that stage, the passport was irrelevant.

Hi Tec squash trainers. Used them exclusively for over 25 years.

Lightweight, stiffish flat soles, cheap, very durable.

Look OK off bike for social and travel.

Follow up on the radio prog the next day. They said possibly the biggest post bag on a subject that they'd ever had.

More stuff discussed. Edmond King, people not being able to go out in their cars after dark, etc but the bottom line is that a lot of people find the lights a big problem.

Hopefully some action will follow the review.

simonhill wrote: ↑3 Apr 2024, 1:04pm BBC World at One today trailed an article on bright headlights. Awaiting it now.

3/4/24 13:00 BST.

Interesting discussion.

Person affected described her problem. An optometrist described the physiology and effects. Many times worse for older people.

The DoT now taking on the matter and doing research. Baroness?? actively pursuing and supporting this.

BBC World at One today trailed an article on bright headlights. Awaiting it now.

3/4/24 13:00 BST.

I had something similar with my Supremes. Couldn't get them to seat properly.

I pumped up very hard and they popped on. At home with track pump, but had to do once on tour, so I i used garage airline to about 80 psi.