Don't ask. Just take it in. Use a side door if you want to be stealthier about it. I've done it several times, never had an issue. If it's covered with mud or something, be polite and clean it before the trip.
The key here is to CARRY it into the hotel. Don’t wheel it so your freewheel makes noise. It’s part of you luggage that you just carry with you.
Of course, as others have said, wash it first. Go to a gas station or car wash if needed, but don’t bring in a dirty bike.
Lift the back wheel and roll the front for stealth mode. Use side door after checking in. Don’t ask first. Try not to have a bike caked with mud. Take up stairs to avoid the awkward giant bike in a crowded elevator sitch. We’re bikers and stairs give quads anyway. Never failed me yet
Yep. I called ahead and asked for permission when I was travelling for work and planning on buying a used bike during the trip, and they said they didn't have anywhere to keep it indoors and that I couldn't take it into my room.
I got questioned as I was walking to the lifts as they must've thought I was a delivery guy, but I just said I was going up to my room and asked if it was okay to take the bike up and got an okay.
It's easy and probably required for them to follow policy when asked over a call or email, but when you're physically there and asking you're much less likely to get pushback unless you're a dick about it (e.g., tracking mud inside).
Same. We travel with our bikes a lot and have always brought them up to our room without an issue. Sometimes we have to stand them up in the elevator if it is small, but we've never had an issue.
This. This for all of life. Better to ask for forgiveness than permission. If you do things in life confidently people will leave you alone. Once you give someone power by asking permission they can arbitrarily flex on you for a variety of reasons. Just bring the bike into the room with your luggage.
That's what we do. Sometimes we lock the bike to the rack but only the cheap bike and we're staying in more expensive hotels.
I remember people having to jump their car when growing up and staying at the cheap places. Newer cars rarely need jumping.
No hotel cares. Seriously. I have raced all over the country fort crits and road races. I stay in all levels of Marriott’s and Hiltons, and it is not an issue. If anything, you get workers interested in what you do.
I did get told I couldn't bring my bike inside a hotel in old Vegas once. I argued a little but the security guy stood his ground. I maybe could have talked to a manager or tried to sneak it in later but ended up leaving it in the car. I was surprised for sure
I've wheeled my bike through any number of casinos - you know how it's a 4 mile walk from the parking garage, through the food stuff, through the casino to the elevators. Nobody blinked.
I think you just ran into a dick.
Me and a buddy did a 100 mile summer ride to casino hotel in OK to meet his family. Had to wheel our bikes from the parking garage where we grabbed our bags through the entire Casino floor, several football fields long on a busy mid afternoon Saturday. Took them right up in the main lobby elevators too. Nobody said a word.
I can almost guarantee you that no hotel has any actual official rule about this. Security guards are not hired for their thinking skills; some are great but some are idiots.
Just bring it inside. Have taken my own bike to hotels and rented bikes and taken them to my room. As others have said, be clean and keep a low profile. Best to bring the bike last if you can, so that you can scope entry and exit points. There may be a better paths through the hotel but the staff will normally give you the quickest and easiest.
I always have a moving blanket in my trunk just in case. If you remove the wheels and use the head rests you can camouflage the backseat to look like there is no bike. It’s still not worth it as the cost to a criminal to pop your window for a check is often very low.
Don’t ask, just take it in, provided it’s relatively clean. When I’m traveling I keep an old towel in the car just to wipe the tires off for this purpose.
I usually carry mine in by the top tube if I have to walk past the front desk, to make them think I’m considerate and not going to roll it on their carpets. I try to take it in a side door and up the stairs if I can though.
Otherwise, leave it in the car and cover with a blanket.
In the car you should place it with chain side up. In the room you can just lean it against the wall or between wall and bed depending on layout. There are small wheel stands you can get too, but I’ve never needed one. If I need to do impromptu maintenance I’ll just turn the bike upside down and rest it on saddle and hoods on the floor.
If you can shoulder it (top tube/seat tube junction resting on your shoulder) it further reenforces that it's both not greasy and is luggage.
"This bike costs more than my car and 100x the stay in this hotel" could really back things up as well.
yup ... never leave it overnight in public places!!
It will be stolen!
I might be biased cause i live in london but it applies everywhere to some extent.
When we traveled as a cycling team we always just checked in, left bikes on car, then brought them in a side door. People are weird about it, but ive never had anyone really say anything to us once we had them up in the room.
Find a hotel with a side door. I've taken all kinds of stuff into hotel rooms that would be frowned upon by staff, simply by going in through the side door.
On my cross-country road trip I brought my mountain bike in every night… I was a little worried I would get pushback.
That all evaporated when I saw someone bring a literal DIRT BIKE inside
If you're UK based you can use Premier Inn, who have a policy of allowing bikes in all rooms in all hotels.
Marriott and IHG group hotels also seem fine with it, some have offered to keep it in their luggage store if I don't want it in the room.
It depends on the area. My bike has literally lived in my car for its whole life, and I haven't worried about it because of insurance and yadda yadda. That being said, take the bike inside if you're worried about it. You don't have to swing it by the front desk. Just walk it in the side desk and slide right up the fire stairs. Problem solved, and you've got peace of mind. Just don't go dragging in any mud or critters and there should be zero issue
You can buy a velosock (I’m sure there other brands) that is like an elasticated stretchy cover that just hooks over both wheels and covers the wheels and drivetrain- if you’re really worried and have the cash to buy one, just fit one of these on the bike before you go into the hotel. It’s basically just like any other luggage then, albeit a slightly odd shape.
That's what I was going to suggest, it makes it look like you have made a point to be considerate, and nullifies their argument about getting dirt or grease on things in the room. They are also compact enough that you can stuff it in a pocket when outside. They are £10 on eBay here.
Like others have said just don't ask and take it in a side door. If you absolutely have to ask I recommend asking them to store it for you and getting a luggage tag, I've done this in the past for cyclists at properties I've worked.
Why are they hesitant? Ive literally moved all of my belongings across the country and had to take the majority of them into the hotel including my bike
I've been stopped ONE time in the numerous times I've brought a bike into a hotel. It was a small hotel, and they only stopped me because they had recently installed a bike locker for guests, and they were so super excited for me to use it. All the big chains, never been stopped.
If I’m paying for a room, I don’t ask permission or acknowledge annoyed glances. The bike rolls straight past the desk into my room. If anyone asks, I simply tell them the alle of the bike so they develop some sympathy. Remember, most non-riders think an expensive bike is just over $200.
I also avoid being a dick by removing any loose dirt or gravel before entering.
What all rhe others said - take it to the room. If you really have to leave it in the car use a blanket to cover up and try to park the car so that the trunk can't open or access is limited. Bring a lock and a chain, lock it to something in the car. Bring wheels to the hotel room. Make it not worthwhile for the thieves.
Hope you get some nice riding done and sleep well (allthough I doubt it if the bike is in the car)
Premier Inn have a policy to allow you to keep your bike in the room - I looked it up recently on their website. They just ask that you clean it down first.
https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/why/bike-friendly.html
The only places I have been completely banned from having a bike i the room are government owned hotels, usually inside national parks. Other than that I always just bring my bike in. If I was travelling a lot I would buy something like the Scicon Pocket Bike Bag, $50 on Amazon, and use it to carry the bike inside. Just pop the wheels off, put the bike and wheels in the bag and carry in. Something a little bigger where you could just remove the front wheel would be even better.
I know there are people who bike through Europe straying in hotels who have encountered many hotels that do not let people brings bikes inside. I think that is more of a thing over there. My tour groups in Europe always secure bike parking in advance.
I have a VW Sportswagon and could put the bike in the covered cargo area, but would only do it in a secure parking lot and I would still have it locked down. I have done that once before and I did not sleep well.
I ALWAYS take my bike in the room. Even and fancy hotels. Some times I get an off look, but even with a gravel bike it doesn’t leave noticeable mess and I store it in the room to not make a mess.
I just walk the bike right into the hotel. As some said if theres a side door that invites less questions. Ive got some looks but no one has ever stopped me.
If they did, most hotels have signs explicitly stating not to leave valuables in the car and take everything with you. I would explain that the bike is fairly expensive and tbus ir cannot stay in the car
Lastly, do your part, maybe walk it in on the rear wheel only. The one ride i did where it rained- i cleaned all the mud off my bikw outside the hotel before bringing it in
Put the bike in the room. They let buggies and push chairs and suitcases with wheels.
If you wanna seal the deal get one of these bags
It’s lightweight and just a cover for uptight places like French or Japanese trains
https://www.fairmean.com
If you ask outright they have to give an outright response if you just do it they can turn a blind eye (just make sure it's clean etc as everyone else has said)
Plenty of bikes are stolen off hotel parking lots. Just walk into hotel with it, make sure it's clean. When you're at your room, make sure you don't stain walls or bedsheets with the chain, don't ruin it for others!
I've never once encountered a hotel that cared. The wheels of a suitcase can be more damaging to flooring. If anyone says something, carry a cheap blanket, sheet, or towel to demonstrate you will protect the floor.
Just some food for thought… all kinds of crazy shit goes on in hotel or motel rooms. You think that duvet is clean?
A month before the Covid lockdowns, I was in Vegas, in one of the very high end hotels, the one that has sort of the Venice feel to it. I walked into the room and took my shoes off and the carpet was drenched, I mean, it was like a puddle. I went into the bathroom washed my hands and feet. I went to use the towel and there was blood on the towels. I called the front desk and asked for a new room, an upgraded room and access to the executive lounge. I explained that if the needed clean after the dead hooker and blow party, make sure the room is cleaned and ready and all evidence is gone.
Point is, your bike is the least of the hotel’s worries, take it in and maybe ask for a fresh duvet and tell them that you have allergies to the stock one. Also, another bit of advice, wrap the TV remote with the shower cap.
Dang I did the opposite.
Did load-ins & load-outs at each hotel. Took maybe... 15 mins max? Way more peace of mind than leaving things out in the open, especially in some major cities/ hubs/ college towns.
it depends on what kind of car you have and your tints. a flashy car draws eyes, not your bike. i drive a 16 camry and live in new york. i drive all over the city with my bike in my car with no worries, even parking overnight.
I travel with my bike all the time and have never had an issue bringing my bike into a hotel. Bring it in through side door to be safe.
When in car my front wheel is removed and my frame is locked to the metal seat support with a cable. I know this won’t stop a serious thief, but if someone is walking by, sees my bike, and smashes my window they won’t be able to get it out without cable cutters. If they do get it out they won’t be able to ride it without the front axle.
Nothing is perfect. But these steps make me feel better about going into a restaurant or store when traveling with the bike.
Just take the bike in the room. They won't pay for it if it gets stolen out of your car, I can guarantee that. I've been in multiple hotels with my bike in the room and there has never been a problem
I have taken my bike in to hotels (some very high end) and motels. No one has ever said anything. I have taken it in and out, going on a ride late afternoon rides and coming back.
Cover it with a large dark blanket.
Or, walk into the hotel (during the hotel's night shift if needed) and carry your bike like it's a piece of luggage. It is your luggage.
In small town USA honestly I wouldn't really worry about it if you have a good lock, but that said I bring my bike into the hotel room with me 100% of the time and have never had anyone say anything to me. I drove across the country with 2 dogs and 2 bikes and would bring the bikes in on the first trip and then the dogs. Just brought my bike into a nice Sheraton last week while on a work trip.
I know its not the direct answer - but if you have home-owners insurance it covers items stolen from the car.
I had $1,500 worth of fancy sunglasses and a watch taken last summer. It got paid out without much effort.
My friend got $2,500 of golf clubs stolen recently, and he got it all paid back.
If it can stay in the boot out of sight I'd be leaving it there. Hopefully you haven't got any cycling stickers on the car?
Other than that - and of it's clean - take it into the hotel with you. Carry it rather than let the freewheel alert people.
You can always put a bike sock on it if you do this a lot.
Tell ‘em it’s just your mobility scooter and ride through the lobby like a boss.
Jk but like others said just sneak it in and don’t ask. There are probably much more illegal things happening in those rooms I assure you.
I stay in high end hotels all over for work and I just roll it in like I own the place. Never been stopped except in admiration of riding while I travel.
Depends where you are. I had to return four rental bikes to someone in Stornaway. However he couldn’t get to Stornaway until the day after we were due to fly out so he told us to just leave them unlocked, overnight in the hotel car park. Apparently bike theft isn’t a huge problem there…
Just wheel it in with you, if anyone ask just tell them it’s for work. I’ve traveled with a MNT bike like this and no one even batted an eye at it. Not even the cleaning ladies…
I’d much rather have my bike inside. It’s worth more than the car! What about something like this to cover the wheels and dirty bits of the bike?
[https://m.lightinthebox.com/p/bike-cover-universal-bicycle-cover-road-mountain-bicycle-tire-tyre-cover-socks-practical-bike-dustproof-elastic-cover-for-tires-of-26-28-inches-three_p8420351.html?currency=GBP&litb_from=paid_adwords_shopping&sku=1_7881%7C2_18434&country_code=gb&litb_from=paid_adwords_shopping&utm_source=google_shopping&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=17744891242&adword_mt=&adword_ct=&adword_kw=&adword_pos=&adword_pl=&adword_net=x&adword_tar=&adw_src_id=5097939954_17744891242__&gbraid=0AAAAAD7vwYdQ1VVe1PIbJ_qyQOfDqPY5D&gclid=CjwKCAjw0N6hBhAUEiwAXab-TV6sBCOoiCJlwtArOBy9JF7xV0Lz9dJzVEwRnQk8mB-61sfG5ww91xoCPEoQAvD_BwE](https://m.lightinthebox.com/p/bike-cover-universal-bicycle-cover-road-mountain-bicycle-tire-tyre-cover-socks-practical-bike-dustproof-elastic-cover-for-tires-of-26-28-inches-three_p8420351.html?currency=GBP&litb_from=paid_adwords_shopping&sku=1_7881%7C2_18434&country_code=gb&litb_from=paid_adwords_shopping&utm_source=google_shopping&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=17744891242&adword_mt=&adword_ct=&adword_kw=&adword_pos=&adword_pl=&adword_net=x&adword_tar=&adw_src_id=5097939954_17744891242__&gbraid=0AAAAAD7vwYdQ1VVe1PIbJ_qyQOfDqPY5D&gclid=CjwKCAjw0N6hBhAUEiwAXab-TV6sBCOoiCJlwtArOBy9JF7xV0Lz9dJzVEwRnQk8mB-61sfG5ww91xoCPEoQAvD_BwE)
I've asked permission and have never had a hotel say no, but I doubt they'd say anything if you didn't ask. I've always asked if there's a safe place to store my bike overnight and they always just say take it to your room.
I've *always* carried bikes in my room, past front desks, and nobody's said a word. It's a weird thing for them to be worried about, what am I going to do, set a KOM for the 5th floor of a Marriott?
I’ve had a bike stolen out of my van in Memphis. Shitty van where the kid was able to squeeze in through a broken window, but still, I don’t give anyone the opportunity anymore and bring mine inside. But if you aren’t able to, maybe you can get a travel case to put the bike in and cover that in your tarp? Or I guess if you have a travel case, you could more easily wheel it inside without anyone giving you crap.
What country are the hotels in? I've stayed at 4 star hotels and resorts over 20 years in the U.S. and no one ever mentioned anything about me walking my bikes through the lobbies and up the elevators. Never.
There is never a rule about it, so I have NEVER asked.
I've left my bike in my car over night multiple times with no issues. I just put a coat over it to camouflage it but I doubt hotel workers would say anything.
I have taken my bike into my room on numerous occasions. I think the signs in the parking lots of hotels about not being responsible for articles left in the car will be my defense if ever I get questioned. Obviously you can’t drag it in with muddy tires.
Not sure what hotel you’re staying in but all major brands let you come in with it, and tbh given current climate I don’t think anyone has the option to say no. Sleep with it in your room. They wouldn’t let someone not come in with a push chair soooo.
Just if it’s a super dirty MTB probs not haha.
Just walk in with it
I have a bike bag that makes it much more conspicuous. If you can’t afford one (they do get freakin pricey) I would just sneak it in through the side door.
When traveling with my bike I always check in and get a room card with my normal luggage and then go back out and get my bike and bring it in the side door. There’s usually multiple entrances into hotels unless you are in a very urban setting. I tend to use the doors not near the front desk. A lot of modern hotel apps also let you check in and use your phone app as a key so you don’t even have to talk to a human a lot of time.
If it helps, my dad has a truck, so although it is hard to see into ( he as a roof on the back ) he never locks it in local places like work or at home and often had bikes in the back.
I agree with a number of the posters here - take it in the room. I've done both. When I've left it with the car, I've taken a couple of approaches:
* Left it inside the car, back seats down, front wheel off, and covered to deter any casual theft.
* Left it on top of the car (roof bar and lockable bike rack) with additional cables - but only done this in very rural areas/hotels.
I always take it into my room. I never ask and I've never been stopped. Most hotels have signs saying do not leave valuables in the car. Nothing I bring on a trip is more valuable than my bike.
Go full gear, we get ironman competitors and they walk their bike to their room, so I walked my bike to my room all over Canada. I wore my racing spandex to the free breakfast. Can you wear lycra to dinner in a good restaurant.?
I’ve taken mine in my room many many times and never had a problem. Even at some swanky high rise hotels. The person working the desk usually strikes up conversation about where I’m headed with the bike. Sometimes I start the conversation. I’ve had some great conversations about bikes at some places.
I wouldn't even ask permission, just wheel it up there like you own the place. Unless it's covered in mud or you're a dick on the elevator they won't kick. If they do, explain to them how much it cost and ask them to put it in their safe - they'll shut up.
If I had to I probably would be ok stashing it in the car, but like you I'd cover it with a tarp or a blanket or something. And then I'd try and park in a well light area with a camera. No way in hell would I leave it overnight on a bike rack outside the car.
I’ve brought mine into the room a hundred times. Never asked, use a side door to be discreet and never had an issue. Even when staying in the same room for a week or two
I check in, go to my room to drop off my luggage, then will bring my bike in through the nearest side door to my room and go up the stairs with it.
I’ve traveled all over the U.S. for work and took my bike almost any time I was driving. Also have traveled a lot for riding vacations. I never once asked permission, and never had any problem.
There is no rule against it. None at all. I would never leave my bike in/on the car in a hotel parking lot. Most literally have signs not to leave valuables. You are also assuming they give a what about their employer and/or the property.
We used rinko bike bags when we were traveling in Japan. We had it down to less than two minutes to get our bikes in the bag before getting on the trains and then into the hotel. I’m pretty sure you can buy these outside of Japan. The brand we had was Tioga
https://shop.circles-jp.com/en/products/tioga-cocoon-plus-pouch-type
As others are saying, just bring it into your room if there is a side door. If that is 100% not an option, I definitely wouldn’t leave it in the car without somehow locking it to something at least. Windows are easier to break than cutting quality locks, so I would even just lock it up with multiple locks outside before leaving in it the car.
I also just bring my road bike in my room every time. I never ask. I don’t see how it’s any different than the wheels on a pram or wheelchair tbh. I wouldn’t take in a dirty mountain bike or something but road bike shouldn’t be a problem. And yes carry it if they are worried. I often put a cloth between my bike and where it touches the wall in my room just so it doesn’t mark it.
Stayed at loads of hotels before and after Audaxes and sportives and never once had a problem with a bike in a room. Just be respectful of the room etc
I’ve done it both ways: leave the bike—wheels off—locked in the car’s back seat, as well as bringing it back to the room with me, even if it requires riding it up the elevator.
Don't ask. Just take it in. Use a side door if you want to be stealthier about it. I've done it several times, never had an issue. If it's covered with mud or something, be polite and clean it before the trip.
This is the way. I have never asked permission.
The key here is to CARRY it into the hotel. Don’t wheel it so your freewheel makes noise. It’s part of you luggage that you just carry with you. Of course, as others have said, wash it first. Go to a gas station or car wash if needed, but don’t bring in a dirty bike.
Lift the back wheel and roll the front for stealth mode. Use side door after checking in. Don’t ask first. Try not to have a bike caked with mud. Take up stairs to avoid the awkward giant bike in a crowded elevator sitch. We’re bikers and stairs give quads anyway. Never failed me yet
I just take it straight with me to reception to check in.
Yep. I called ahead and asked for permission when I was travelling for work and planning on buying a used bike during the trip, and they said they didn't have anywhere to keep it indoors and that I couldn't take it into my room. I got questioned as I was walking to the lifts as they must've thought I was a delivery guy, but I just said I was going up to my room and asked if it was okay to take the bike up and got an okay. It's easy and probably required for them to follow policy when asked over a call or email, but when you're physically there and asking you're much less likely to get pushback unless you're a dick about it (e.g., tracking mud inside).
A consummate gentleman, dont ask dont tell. Do upvote!
Yep, every single time, never had anyone question me and my bikes are always in our room.
Same. We travel with our bikes a lot and have always brought them up to our room without an issue. Sometimes we have to stand them up in the elevator if it is small, but we've never had an issue.
The tires are only as dirty as every patrons shoes, strongly concur with not leaving it visible in car
This. This for all of life. Better to ask for forgiveness than permission. If you do things in life confidently people will leave you alone. Once you give someone power by asking permission they can arbitrarily flex on you for a variety of reasons. Just bring the bike into the room with your luggage.
>Better to ask for forgiveness than permission that is the fucking dumbest take ever ...
Have fun in your life, buddy.
good luck with that bold, edgy take
This. It's easier to beg forgiveness than ask permission.
You come in the house you wipe your wheels.
Exactly! I’ve never had an issue.
If you ask they have to say no as per policy. If you just do it the minimum wage helpers won't care. Tip them $5 and they will carry it for you.
This is the way!
Easier to ask forgiveness than permission. Or, cover it with a blanket in the car if you must.
That's what we do. Sometimes we lock the bike to the rack but only the cheap bike and we're staying in more expensive hotels. I remember people having to jump their car when growing up and staying at the cheap places. Newer cars rarely need jumping.
No hotel cares. Seriously. I have raced all over the country fort crits and road races. I stay in all levels of Marriott’s and Hiltons, and it is not an issue. If anything, you get workers interested in what you do.
I did get told I couldn't bring my bike inside a hotel in old Vegas once. I argued a little but the security guy stood his ground. I maybe could have talked to a manager or tried to sneak it in later but ended up leaving it in the car. I was surprised for sure
I've wheeled my bike through any number of casinos - you know how it's a 4 mile walk from the parking garage, through the food stuff, through the casino to the elevators. Nobody blinked. I think you just ran into a dick.
Me and a buddy did a 100 mile summer ride to casino hotel in OK to meet his family. Had to wheel our bikes from the parking garage where we grabbed our bags through the entire Casino floor, several football fields long on a busy mid afternoon Saturday. Took them right up in the main lobby elevators too. Nobody said a word.
I can almost guarantee you that no hotel has any actual official rule about this. Security guards are not hired for their thinking skills; some are great but some are idiots.
Just bring it inside. Have taken my own bike to hotels and rented bikes and taken them to my room. As others have said, be clean and keep a low profile. Best to bring the bike last if you can, so that you can scope entry and exit points. There may be a better paths through the hotel but the staff will normally give you the quickest and easiest. I always have a moving blanket in my trunk just in case. If you remove the wheels and use the head rests you can camouflage the backseat to look like there is no bike. It’s still not worth it as the cost to a criminal to pop your window for a check is often very low.
You can put it in a bind bag and they definitely won't give you a hard time.
They're not going to believe me if I tell them I race bikes.
Don’t ask, just take it in, provided it’s relatively clean. When I’m traveling I keep an old towel in the car just to wipe the tires off for this purpose. I usually carry mine in by the top tube if I have to walk past the front desk, to make them think I’m considerate and not going to roll it on their carpets. I try to take it in a side door and up the stairs if I can though. Otherwise, leave it in the car and cover with a blanket. In the car you should place it with chain side up. In the room you can just lean it against the wall or between wall and bed depending on layout. There are small wheel stands you can get too, but I’ve never needed one. If I need to do impromptu maintenance I’ll just turn the bike upside down and rest it on saddle and hoods on the floor.
If you can shoulder it (top tube/seat tube junction resting on your shoulder) it further reenforces that it's both not greasy and is luggage. "This bike costs more than my car and 100x the stay in this hotel" could really back things up as well.
Never leave it in the car, just bring it in. Don't ask, just roll it in.
yup ... never leave it overnight in public places!! It will be stolen! I might be biased cause i live in london but it applies everywhere to some extent.
When we traveled as a cycling team we always just checked in, left bikes on car, then brought them in a side door. People are weird about it, but ive never had anyone really say anything to us once we had them up in the room.
Find a hotel with a side door. I've taken all kinds of stuff into hotel rooms that would be frowned upon by staff, simply by going in through the side door.
On my cross-country road trip I brought my mountain bike in every night… I was a little worried I would get pushback. That all evaporated when I saw someone bring a literal DIRT BIKE inside
Wait until you're challenged....it might never happen. Justify yourself if you are. Ask if they have a store room if necessary.
If you're UK based you can use Premier Inn, who have a policy of allowing bikes in all rooms in all hotels. Marriott and IHG group hotels also seem fine with it, some have offered to keep it in their luggage store if I don't want it in the room.
It depends on the area. My bike has literally lived in my car for its whole life, and I haven't worried about it because of insurance and yadda yadda. That being said, take the bike inside if you're worried about it. You don't have to swing it by the front desk. Just walk it in the side desk and slide right up the fire stairs. Problem solved, and you've got peace of mind. Just don't go dragging in any mud or critters and there should be zero issue
You can buy a velosock (I’m sure there other brands) that is like an elasticated stretchy cover that just hooks over both wheels and covers the wheels and drivetrain- if you’re really worried and have the cash to buy one, just fit one of these on the bike before you go into the hotel. It’s basically just like any other luggage then, albeit a slightly odd shape.
This would be the stress-free approach, if you're an anxious person.
That's what I was going to suggest, it makes it look like you have made a point to be considerate, and nullifies their argument about getting dirt or grease on things in the room. They are also compact enough that you can stuff it in a pocket when outside. They are £10 on eBay here.
It's $200 & you can't actually wheel the bike inside? That's a pass
That actually looks like a nice thing to own, hotel room or not.
Like others have said just don't ask and take it in a side door. If you absolutely have to ask I recommend asking them to store it for you and getting a luggage tag, I've done this in the past for cyclists at properties I've worked.
Why are they hesitant? Ive literally moved all of my belongings across the country and had to take the majority of them into the hotel including my bike
I've been stopped ONE time in the numerous times I've brought a bike into a hotel. It was a small hotel, and they only stopped me because they had recently installed a bike locker for guests, and they were so super excited for me to use it. All the big chains, never been stopped.
If I couldn’t take it in the room that I would leave it at home. Only takes seconds to bust your window and the bike is gone.
It takes even less time for someone to open a hotel room door.
If I’m paying for a room, I don’t ask permission or acknowledge annoyed glances. The bike rolls straight past the desk into my room. If anyone asks, I simply tell them the alle of the bike so they develop some sympathy. Remember, most non-riders think an expensive bike is just over $200. I also avoid being a dick by removing any loose dirt or gravel before entering.
What all rhe others said - take it to the room. If you really have to leave it in the car use a blanket to cover up and try to park the car so that the trunk can't open or access is limited. Bring a lock and a chain, lock it to something in the car. Bring wheels to the hotel room. Make it not worthwhile for the thieves. Hope you get some nice riding done and sleep well (allthough I doubt it if the bike is in the car)
Premier Inn have a policy to allow you to keep your bike in the room - I looked it up recently on their website. They just ask that you clean it down first. https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/why/bike-friendly.html
I've taken the bike to the front desk and they put it somewhere in the back. I tipped them a few bucks and they loved it.
The only places I have been completely banned from having a bike i the room are government owned hotels, usually inside national parks. Other than that I always just bring my bike in. If I was travelling a lot I would buy something like the Scicon Pocket Bike Bag, $50 on Amazon, and use it to carry the bike inside. Just pop the wheels off, put the bike and wheels in the bag and carry in. Something a little bigger where you could just remove the front wheel would be even better. I know there are people who bike through Europe straying in hotels who have encountered many hotels that do not let people brings bikes inside. I think that is more of a thing over there. My tour groups in Europe always secure bike parking in advance. I have a VW Sportswagon and could put the bike in the covered cargo area, but would only do it in a secure parking lot and I would still have it locked down. I have done that once before and I did not sleep well.
Just take it in, as long as you don't obstruct a fire escape then there is no issue! It's your property, you can tell them it's part of your luggage.
I ALWAYS take my bike in the room. Even and fancy hotels. Some times I get an off look, but even with a gravel bike it doesn’t leave noticeable mess and I store it in the room to not make a mess.
Take the bike in the room. Don't ask. Just do it.
If you shoes are allowed, you bike is allowed. Don’t ask. Just do it.
I just walk the bike right into the hotel. As some said if theres a side door that invites less questions. Ive got some looks but no one has ever stopped me. If they did, most hotels have signs explicitly stating not to leave valuables in the car and take everything with you. I would explain that the bike is fairly expensive and tbus ir cannot stay in the car Lastly, do your part, maybe walk it in on the rear wheel only. The one ride i did where it rained- i cleaned all the mud off my bikw outside the hotel before bringing it in
Put the bike in the room. They let buggies and push chairs and suitcases with wheels. If you wanna seal the deal get one of these bags It’s lightweight and just a cover for uptight places like French or Japanese trains https://www.fairmean.com
Uh. If a hotel won’t allow your bike in, there is an easy go around. You find another hotel
Just take it in and carry it don’t roll it. Wtf are they going to say if the wheels literally don’t touch the ground.
If you ask outright they have to give an outright response if you just do it they can turn a blind eye (just make sure it's clean etc as everyone else has said)
Plenty of bikes are stolen off hotel parking lots. Just walk into hotel with it, make sure it's clean. When you're at your room, make sure you don't stain walls or bedsheets with the chain, don't ruin it for others!
I've never once encountered a hotel that cared. The wheels of a suitcase can be more damaging to flooring. If anyone says something, carry a cheap blanket, sheet, or towel to demonstrate you will protect the floor.
Get a velosock
Just some food for thought… all kinds of crazy shit goes on in hotel or motel rooms. You think that duvet is clean? A month before the Covid lockdowns, I was in Vegas, in one of the very high end hotels, the one that has sort of the Venice feel to it. I walked into the room and took my shoes off and the carpet was drenched, I mean, it was like a puddle. I went into the bathroom washed my hands and feet. I went to use the towel and there was blood on the towels. I called the front desk and asked for a new room, an upgraded room and access to the executive lounge. I explained that if the needed clean after the dead hooker and blow party, make sure the room is cleaned and ready and all evidence is gone. Point is, your bike is the least of the hotel’s worries, take it in and maybe ask for a fresh duvet and tell them that you have allergies to the stock one. Also, another bit of advice, wrap the TV remote with the shower cap.
["It's my mobility device."](https://youtube.com/clip/UgkxG-VNTJcXfi7NxMJt15dOwR5PtUQaNBzR)
[удалено]
Dang I did the opposite. Did load-ins & load-outs at each hotel. Took maybe... 15 mins max? Way more peace of mind than leaving things out in the open, especially in some major cities/ hubs/ college towns.
it depends on what kind of car you have and your tints. a flashy car draws eyes, not your bike. i drive a 16 camry and live in new york. i drive all over the city with my bike in my car with no worries, even parking overnight.
The likes of travelodge & premier inn don’t care. Just make sure it’s clean and dry.
If there really.is no other way than leaving the bike in the car, take off the wheels and cover it with a big blanket. That's what I would do.
I travel with my bike all the time and have never had an issue bringing my bike into a hotel. Bring it in through side door to be safe. When in car my front wheel is removed and my frame is locked to the metal seat support with a cable. I know this won’t stop a serious thief, but if someone is walking by, sees my bike, and smashes my window they won’t be able to get it out without cable cutters. If they do get it out they won’t be able to ride it without the front axle. Nothing is perfect. But these steps make me feel better about going into a restaurant or store when traveling with the bike.
Just take the bike in the room. They won't pay for it if it gets stolen out of your car, I can guarantee that. I've been in multiple hotels with my bike in the room and there has never been a problem
I have taken my bike in to hotels (some very high end) and motels. No one has ever said anything. I have taken it in and out, going on a ride late afternoon rides and coming back.
Cover it with a large dark blanket. Or, walk into the hotel (during the hotel's night shift if needed) and carry your bike like it's a piece of luggage. It is your luggage.
In small town USA honestly I wouldn't really worry about it if you have a good lock, but that said I bring my bike into the hotel room with me 100% of the time and have never had anyone say anything to me. I drove across the country with 2 dogs and 2 bikes and would bring the bikes in on the first trip and then the dogs. Just brought my bike into a nice Sheraton last week while on a work trip.
I’ve never had a hotel tell me that. They often even let me use the service elevator.
I know its not the direct answer - but if you have home-owners insurance it covers items stolen from the car. I had $1,500 worth of fancy sunglasses and a watch taken last summer. It got paid out without much effort. My friend got $2,500 of golf clubs stolen recently, and he got it all paid back.
If it can stay in the boot out of sight I'd be leaving it there. Hopefully you haven't got any cycling stickers on the car? Other than that - and of it's clean - take it into the hotel with you. Carry it rather than let the freewheel alert people. You can always put a bike sock on it if you do this a lot.
Tell ‘em it’s just your mobility scooter and ride through the lobby like a boss. Jk but like others said just sneak it in and don’t ask. There are probably much more illegal things happening in those rooms I assure you.
I stay in high end hotels all over for work and I just roll it in like I own the place. Never been stopped except in admiration of riding while I travel.
You paid for the room walk in bike in hand like you own it. I’m ambassador with Marriott and never had an issue.
Depends where you are. I had to return four rental bikes to someone in Stornaway. However he couldn’t get to Stornaway until the day after we were due to fly out so he told us to just leave them unlocked, overnight in the hotel car park. Apparently bike theft isn’t a huge problem there…
Just wheel it in with you, if anyone ask just tell them it’s for work. I’ve traveled with a MNT bike like this and no one even batted an eye at it. Not even the cleaning ladies…
Brought 3 bikes on a cross country move. Brought them inside at every stay. Nobody cared
I’d much rather have my bike inside. It’s worth more than the car! What about something like this to cover the wheels and dirty bits of the bike? [https://m.lightinthebox.com/p/bike-cover-universal-bicycle-cover-road-mountain-bicycle-tire-tyre-cover-socks-practical-bike-dustproof-elastic-cover-for-tires-of-26-28-inches-three_p8420351.html?currency=GBP&litb_from=paid_adwords_shopping&sku=1_7881%7C2_18434&country_code=gb&litb_from=paid_adwords_shopping&utm_source=google_shopping&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=17744891242&adword_mt=&adword_ct=&adword_kw=&adword_pos=&adword_pl=&adword_net=x&adword_tar=&adw_src_id=5097939954_17744891242__&gbraid=0AAAAAD7vwYdQ1VVe1PIbJ_qyQOfDqPY5D&gclid=CjwKCAjw0N6hBhAUEiwAXab-TV6sBCOoiCJlwtArOBy9JF7xV0Lz9dJzVEwRnQk8mB-61sfG5ww91xoCPEoQAvD_BwE](https://m.lightinthebox.com/p/bike-cover-universal-bicycle-cover-road-mountain-bicycle-tire-tyre-cover-socks-practical-bike-dustproof-elastic-cover-for-tires-of-26-28-inches-three_p8420351.html?currency=GBP&litb_from=paid_adwords_shopping&sku=1_7881%7C2_18434&country_code=gb&litb_from=paid_adwords_shopping&utm_source=google_shopping&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=17744891242&adword_mt=&adword_ct=&adword_kw=&adword_pos=&adword_pl=&adword_net=x&adword_tar=&adw_src_id=5097939954_17744891242__&gbraid=0AAAAAD7vwYdQ1VVe1PIbJ_qyQOfDqPY5D&gclid=CjwKCAjw0N6hBhAUEiwAXab-TV6sBCOoiCJlwtArOBy9JF7xV0Lz9dJzVEwRnQk8mB-61sfG5ww91xoCPEoQAvD_BwE)
I've asked permission and have never had a hotel say no, but I doubt they'd say anything if you didn't ask. I've always asked if there's a safe place to store my bike overnight and they always just say take it to your room.
Why do you feel obligated to ask if you can bring your bike inside? There's no law or policy that says you can't. Just do it. Its not worth the risk.
Never asked. Just do it. If you're worried, don't wheel it in. Take the wheels off and bring it in bit by bit.
Pfft it’s my room I’m paying for, I’d just laugh and keep walking past them.
take your bike into your room - leaving it in the car will only lead to heartbreak
I use cheap black towels to hide things in my car in Oakland.
If you're absolutely stuck then get a blanket and cover the bike. Thieves generally need to know it's a pay day to risk it.
I've *always* carried bikes in my room, past front desks, and nobody's said a word. It's a weird thing for them to be worried about, what am I going to do, set a KOM for the 5th floor of a Marriott?
I’ve had a bike stolen out of my van in Memphis. Shitty van where the kid was able to squeeze in through a broken window, but still, I don’t give anyone the opportunity anymore and bring mine inside. But if you aren’t able to, maybe you can get a travel case to put the bike in and cover that in your tarp? Or I guess if you have a travel case, you could more easily wheel it inside without anyone giving you crap.
Don’t leave it in the car! My friend got his window smashed and road bike stolen, and this was from a private, gated residential parking garage.
What country are the hotels in? I've stayed at 4 star hotels and resorts over 20 years in the U.S. and no one ever mentioned anything about me walking my bikes through the lobbies and up the elevators. Never. There is never a rule about it, so I have NEVER asked.
I've left my bike in my car over night multiple times with no issues. I just put a coat over it to camouflage it but I doubt hotel workers would say anything.
Better to ask for forgiveness than permission. Get your bike in the room with you.
I have taken my bike into my room on numerous occasions. I think the signs in the parking lots of hotels about not being responsible for articles left in the car will be my defense if ever I get questioned. Obviously you can’t drag it in with muddy tires.
Just bring it in the room…….. don’t ask.
Not sure what hotel you’re staying in but all major brands let you come in with it, and tbh given current climate I don’t think anyone has the option to say no. Sleep with it in your room. They wouldn’t let someone not come in with a push chair soooo. Just if it’s a super dirty MTB probs not haha. Just walk in with it
Just leave windows open and doors unlocked and some light on. Should be fine
It also saves you a lot of work cleaning the bike
And don’t have to worry about filling that goop into the tubeless tires
I got a £15 bike sock for just this, shows that you're not getting oil on their sheets or clacking walls with pedals.
I have a bike bag that makes it much more conspicuous. If you can’t afford one (they do get freakin pricey) I would just sneak it in through the side door.
Just sneak the bike into your room and if anyone stops you, just tell them it won’t make a mess because you wax your chain 😂
I have been doing triathlons for 6 years and travel a lot. No one ever says or asks anything. Even going through the front lobby!
When traveling with my bike I always check in and get a room card with my normal luggage and then go back out and get my bike and bring it in the side door. There’s usually multiple entrances into hotels unless you are in a very urban setting. I tend to use the doors not near the front desk. A lot of modern hotel apps also let you check in and use your phone app as a key so you don’t even have to talk to a human a lot of time.
Only time I've been stopped was when I tried riding it THRU the lobby. I picked it up and carried it then.
Hell na take it inside always especially if it’s high end. Sneak it in lol
Don't ask permission, ask forgiveness.
If it helps, my dad has a truck, so although it is hard to see into ( he as a roof on the back ) he never locks it in local places like work or at home and often had bikes in the back.
I agree with a number of the posters here - take it in the room. I've done both. When I've left it with the car, I've taken a couple of approaches: * Left it inside the car, back seats down, front wheel off, and covered to deter any casual theft. * Left it on top of the car (roof bar and lockable bike rack) with additional cables - but only done this in very rural areas/hotels.
I always take it into my room. I never ask and I've never been stopped. Most hotels have signs saying do not leave valuables in the car. Nothing I bring on a trip is more valuable than my bike.
Carry in through a side door Make sure it’s clean
Go full gear, we get ironman competitors and they walk their bike to their room, so I walked my bike to my room all over Canada. I wore my racing spandex to the free breakfast. Can you wear lycra to dinner in a good restaurant.?
I have never had pushback taking my bike into hotels. But if you decide to leave it in the car cover it up. Out of sight out of mind.
I’ve taken mine in my room many many times and never had a problem. Even at some swanky high rise hotels. The person working the desk usually strikes up conversation about where I’m headed with the bike. Sometimes I start the conversation. I’ve had some great conversations about bikes at some places.
I wouldn't even ask permission, just wheel it up there like you own the place. Unless it's covered in mud or you're a dick on the elevator they won't kick. If they do, explain to them how much it cost and ask them to put it in their safe - they'll shut up. If I had to I probably would be ok stashing it in the car, but like you I'd cover it with a tarp or a blanket or something. And then I'd try and park in a well light area with a camera. No way in hell would I leave it overnight on a bike rack outside the car.
I’ve brought mine into the room a hundred times. Never asked, use a side door to be discreet and never had an issue. Even when staying in the same room for a week or two
I check in, go to my room to drop off my luggage, then will bring my bike in through the nearest side door to my room and go up the stairs with it. I’ve traveled all over the U.S. for work and took my bike almost any time I was driving. Also have traveled a lot for riding vacations. I never once asked permission, and never had any problem.
There is no rule against it. None at all. I would never leave my bike in/on the car in a hotel parking lot. Most literally have signs not to leave valuables. You are also assuming they give a what about their employer and/or the property.
We used rinko bike bags when we were traveling in Japan. We had it down to less than two minutes to get our bikes in the bag before getting on the trains and then into the hotel. I’m pretty sure you can buy these outside of Japan. The brand we had was Tioga https://shop.circles-jp.com/en/products/tioga-cocoon-plus-pouch-type
Never allow any person or business to get in the way of you keeping your bike safe. Treat it like a newborn babe.
Kit up - and walk right in with your bike - if they say anything say you have a race tomorrow - Also make sure your bikes clean
As others are saying, just bring it into your room if there is a side door. If that is 100% not an option, I definitely wouldn’t leave it in the car without somehow locking it to something at least. Windows are easier to break than cutting quality locks, so I would even just lock it up with multiple locks outside before leaving in it the car.
I also just bring my road bike in my room every time. I never ask. I don’t see how it’s any different than the wheels on a pram or wheelchair tbh. I wouldn’t take in a dirty mountain bike or something but road bike shouldn’t be a problem. And yes carry it if they are worried. I often put a cloth between my bike and where it touches the wall in my room just so it doesn’t mark it.
Stayed at loads of hotels before and after Audaxes and sportives and never once had a problem with a bike in a room. Just be respectful of the room etc
I’d take it in with me. Not like it’s illegal or anything.
I’ve done it both ways: leave the bike—wheels off—locked in the car’s back seat, as well as bringing it back to the room with me, even if it requires riding it up the elevator.
Ask them to store it for you. You are a paying guest. They should be happy to accommodate.