By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Supplied
Johannesburg, 25 February 2026 — With thousands of cyclists preparing to descend on the Mother City for the iconic Cape Town Cycle Tour on 8 March, the logistics of transporting bicycles safely has become a key focus.
South Africa’s leading low-cost carrier, FlySafair, has stepped in with a comprehensive and practical guide to ensure riders — and their prized bikes — arrive in Cape Town race-ready.
Taking the Stress Out of Bike Travel
For many cyclists, their bicycle is more than sporting equipment; it is a finely tuned machine built for performance. Recognising this, FlySafair has outlined clear, structured guidelines aimed at protecting equipment in transit while streamlining the airport process.
“Good preparation makes all the difference,” says Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair. “The Cape Town Cycle Tour is one of the world’s great cycling events, and we want every rider travelling with us to have complete peace of mind.”
With race day fast approaching, the airline’s message is simple: pack properly, plan ahead, and focus on the ride — not the runway.
Key Requirements for Flying with a Bicycle
FlySafair requires all bicycles to be securely packaged prior to arrival at the airport. The airline does not provide packing services. Cyclists must use:
- A hard case, padded soft-shell case, or sturdy cardboard bike box
- Packaging that fits within the airline’s sports equipment dimensions (190 x 75 x 65 cm)
- A maximum weight limit of 32kg
Wrapped or loosely protected bicycles will not be accepted.
Cyclists are advised to remove both wheels, partially deflate tyres, insert fork spacers, align handlebars with the frame, and protect the derailleur and gearing. Only bike components may be placed inside the case, and water bottles must be emptied before check-in.
What Not to Pack
To avoid loss or damage, riders should keep valuables and loose accessories out of their bike boxes. GPS devices, power meters, helmets, cleats, and pedals should travel in hand luggage or standard checked baggage.
CO₂ cartridges are permitted, limited to four (28g each) per bicycle, and must be declared at check-in.
Any equipment exceeding the 32kg limit must be shipped as cargo, potentially on a separate flight.
Added Peace of Mind
Understanding the value — both financial and personal — attached to performance bicycles, FlySafair offers optional sports equipment cover for R13. This provides up to R10,000 in cover in the unlikely event of loss or damage.
“We understand that a bicycle is often tailored to personal preference and represents a significant investment,” Gordon adds. “Our aim is to ensure every bike arrives exactly as it was packed.”
Resources for Riders
To further assist participants, FlySafair has produced a detailed step-by-step instructional video and published a comprehensive FAQ guide on its website, helping first-time participants and seasoned competitors alike navigate the process confidently.
With the Cape Town Cycle Tour drawing riders from across the country and beyond, preparation extends well beyond training miles. Safe, secure travel is part of race strategy — and for many, it begins at check-in.
As cyclists count down to race day, FlySafair’s message is clear: pack smart, fly confidently, and ensure your bike earns its rightful place at the start line.
