Scicon's original Aerotech was the travel case which all others on the market aspired to, it being the toughest, cleverest and best way to protect your bike when shipping it by air.
The Evolution has taken the original design and refined the details which kept it from being perfect. The wheels are now smaller and cowled into the box shape, preventing them from being snapped off by clumsy baggage handlers; they also now have integral bearings (previously these were nylon bushes) to keep them running smoother for longer
. The interior is fully padded for extra protection, and the package now includes wheel covers and high density foam frame tubing pads.
What makes the Scicon better than the competition is the clever way in which everything packs: the wheels are held in place on the side of the case by steel skewers (provided with the case) which you thread through the side and lock.
The frame is suspended by straps through the centre of the luggage compartment, and the saddle, seatpost and pedals go in a protective bag. To fit a 57cm standard geometry bike it was simply a case of loosening the stem bolts and bar clamp and rotating them to fit in.
The Aerotech is 114cm at it widest point and 36cm deep, and fits easily into an estate car. It weighs 12kg so you’ll need to book your flights with bike carriage. We’ve travelled long haul with the previous Aerotech (with the same dimensions) and there was plenty of space to also fit clothing, shoes, helmet, tools and track pump for a four-week trip.
The Evolution is made of a tougher ABS plastic than the original, and it’s safer too, with double combination locks.
The big downside has always been the cost, with a recommended retail price of £639.99. Luckily, online retailer Wiggle has picked up distribution and is selling it at a not-quite-so-painful £450. Yes it’s still a lot, but if you have an expensive bike then the extra level of protection is worth paying for.
The case is backed with a worldwide lifetime warranty against any manufacturing faults, but should any airline mistreat the case, a full range of spares is available.
