Box up a bike for a lot less money

SPENDING $204 for a bike box? And $25 more to learn how to remove the handlebar, seat post and pedals [“With a Good Bike Box, You Can See the World,” Sept. 17]? I’m sorry to tell author David Colker that he has become some bicycle shop salesman’s golden goose.

Cycling is a great way to see the world. I’ve taken my beat-up bike to France, Italy and New Zealand. But please don’t turn off people to the idea by making them think they have to throw their money away.

Want to avoid the hassle of renting a bike in another country? Just go to your local bike shop and ask them for an empty box. They’re free. Don’t know how to remove the handlebar, seat post and pedals? If you can’t figure it out (the pedals have the only tricky threading), just ask any seasoned cyclist. Repeat procedure when ready to return.

ROY MACLEAN

Santa Monica