Elite's "Vaison" case is so spacious that you could even smuggle your mother-in-law to Mallorca in it if necessary. On one of the three flights we've taken with the bike case so far, we packed four helmets, five pairs of cycling shoes, a floor pump and tools in addition to the test bike. The only problem was that, when empty, the 14-kilogramme case was an imposition on the ground crew. In addition to the enormous capacity, which is also sufficient for very large frames, the case impresses with its extremely robust construction. The outer shell made of double-walled polyethylene plastic looks indestructible, while the hinges and latches make a stable impression. The interior is also well thought out: The contents can be secured against slipping with tensioning straps at numerous eyelets; the wheels and frame are kept at a distance by a sturdy partition wall. With the help of a mounting kit, the "Vaison" can also be attached to standard car roof racks. The only weak point: the handle, which turns the "Vaison" into an oversized trolley, is so sharp-edged that it is almost impossible to grip without a work glove. However, Elite has already recognised the problem and announced a more hand-friendly handle.
PLUSplenty of space, very robust
MINUS: heavy and expensive
Reference/Infotw Industrievertretungen, phone 02372/914900; www.elite-it.com
Price499 Euro
Weight14 kilos Dimensions: 120 x 80 x 34 centimetres
Photo: Daniel Simon
