Why do Wheel Bags have Skewer Pockets?

[sathomasga]

All wheel bags seem to have a small inside pocket that's advertised as a place to store skewers. I've been wondering why anyone would remove the skewers from a wheel before storing or transporting it. Why not just stick the wheel in the bag with skewers attached? Is something more susceptible to damage that way? Or is the idea that you'd store extra skewers in the bag?

Stephen

 

[daveornee]

Originally posted by sathomasga
All wheel bags seem to have a small inside pocket that's advertised as a place to store skewers. I've been wondering why anyone would remove the skewers from a wheel before storing or transporting it. Why not just stick the wheel in the bag with skewers attached? Is something more susceptible to damage that way? Or is the idea that you'd store extra skewers in the bag?

Stephen

The extra width of the skewers in their "riding position" makes damage to the wheel bag and/or to the ends of the skewers makes this a good idea. When wheels are shippped in boxes from their manufacturers, they are shipped with skewers removed and plastic protectors covering axle ends. This makes the package more compact and less vunerable to transport damage.
Of course, they are your bags and your wheels, you can do as you wish, but the option and convience is there ... should you wish to take advantage of it.