'Housse' Bags

[SamSpokes]

Has anyone ever used one? I'm thinking of buying one of these:

http://www.cyclehoussebags.co.uk/index.html

Handy if you use the train.

[adventurepdx]

Hmmm...looks interesting. Haven't seen this one before.

But let me ask a question: Are you planing on using this in Europe, or in the US? If for the US, I can see it being problematic for using Amtrak. They are specific about what kind of bikes can be carried on a train, namely true folding bikes that fit a specified dimension while folded. Now that's not to say that you maybe could get away with it, as people have brought bulky bags as carryons so maybe the train crew wouldn't notice. But they have become more anal about bag size over the past few years.

And that bag ain't cheap. Looks like nearly $120 USD, not including shipping from the UK. May pan out if you use it extensively, but it only costs $25 ($15 for box plus $10 service fee) to box a bike and check it on Amtrak (when checked baggage service is provided.)

[SamSpokes]

I am planning on using it in both. I believe it fits the rules for Europe and provides a saving. With regard to the states their is a good bike in a box alternative but only for 8 of the 35 Amtrak routes.

[adventurepdx]

I am planning on using it in both. I believe it fits the rules for Europe and provides a saving. With regard to the states their is a good bike in a box alternative but only for 8 of the 35 Amtrak routes.

There are more than 8 Amtrak routes that have boxed bike service. And there are trains that allow "roll-on" bike service, like Cascades here in the NW.

Before deciding to use the bag on Amtrak, I would advise checking out their bicycle policy page:
http://www.amtrak.com/bring-your-bicycle-onboard
To note, they allow folding bikes as carryon baggage, but: "Regular bikes of any size, with or without wheels, are not considered folding bikes, and may not be stored as folding bikes aboard trains."