Back in 2013, I reviewed the Scicon Aerocomfort 2.0 (read the review here). That bag has had some significant use: for transporting bikes on planes, trains, and even yachts. With many of my bikes now having thru-axle designs though, the Aerocomfort 2.0 had required some questionable 'bodging' on my part to make it usable. I was therefore relieved when the new 3.0 was released—this new design is much improved.
Thru-Axle Compatibility
One of the biggest differences with the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 Bike Bag is that it will accommodate 12 mm thru axles on the front and rear of the patented suspension frame system.To fit thru-axles, you simply remove the QR inserts in the suspension frame, then use your bike's existing axles to secure it to the frame. You can fit 12 mm axles up front and 12 mm axles on the rear (if you have 142 mm x 12 mm on the rear, you need to use a provided spacer to open the suspension frame up to 142 mm wide rather than 135 mm).
This added compatibility is significant, given that most disc brake equipped road bikes are now using thru-axles. It also means that the bag is more usable for a cyclocross or gravel bike (the wheel pockets are also slightly larger to accommodate 33-35c tyres).
It is also worth noting that I have successfully used this with a 15 mm axle on the fork of the bike; by leaving the QR adaptors in place, and simply clamping the bike in place using a front quick release skewer. This is not how the system is intended to work, but it does give you even more options for bike fitment.
Added Protection
The Scicon 3.0 Aerocomfort design features added protection compared to its predecessor. This comes in the form of rigid plastic plates around the rear derailleur area and more padding around wheel hubs and on the hoods/handlebar area.To make packing easier, Scicon have also neatly labelled the padding strips that go on the handlebar, top tube and saddle—so you can quickly see where each pad needs to go.
New Rolling Chassis Design
The third significant development to the Scicon Aerocomfort Road Bike Bag is an improved suspension frame design. The frame and chassis on the 2.0 was great, but this bag evolves further.The new frame features a solid plastic base that means you can store the provided gear bag safely in the bottom of the bag (containing shoes or similar) without the risk that it will push down on the base and cause the bag to drag on the floor.
The frame also features new wheels, which are lighter and all-plastic in design. This makes them less likely to scratch things or rust/bend with use. Replacement wheels are available from Scicon, if you do damage one in transit.
How to Pack the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 Bike Bag
Packing of the new Scicon Aerocomfort Road 3.0 Bike Bag is even easier than before:- Remove the wheels from the bike frame and fit these into the padded pockets on either side of the bag
- Attach the bike frame to the bag frame using the appropriate axles. Place the chain over the rear bar of the suspension frame and put it in the biggest chainring on the front. Use the rear derailleur protector
- Add the padding strips to the handlebar, top tube and saddle
- Strap the bike into the bag with the four straps: over the handlebar sides, saddle and top tube
- Zip up the bag, and lock it with the provided TSA lock
Summary
Overall, the new Scicon Aerocomfort Road 3.0 TSA Bike Bag shows great learning and development from the Italian brand. The original Aerocomfort was a winner, but this new design goes one better.It is worth noting that the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 Bike Bag still comes with a great TSA-approved combination lock and removable carry straps for easy handling. It will accommodate road bikes up to 62 cm in frame height, and handlebars up to 48 cm wide. Also despite the added protection, the bag is now lighter, at less than 8 kilograms.
More usable, lighter and more protective. There is a good reason that the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 Bike Bag is the bag of choice of dozens of professional cycling teams.
Shop the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 Road TSA Bike Bag here
