Flying with Bikes

[Couch_Surfer]

So I'm flying to Denver Wednesday and trying to figure out how to get around the bike fee UAL will try and charge me. Any one managed to avoid it successfully - if so, what worked?

I'm considering breaking down my Hardtail, bubble wrapping it the frame/fork and wheels separately. Then splitting that stuff up into two hockey bags. UAL rules seems to let hockey gear go for free. Other then that, my limits seem to be < 62 inches and < 50 lbs - and definitely don't let them know its a bike...

[CraigH]

So I'm flying to Denver wednesday and trying to figure out how to get around the bike fee UAL will try and charge me. Any one managed to avoid it successfully - if so, what worked?


Yup, XC FS bike in the world's largest hard side suitcase. They are really hard to find. The issue is actually the wheels, almost every suitcase isn't tall enough.

The transportation/security people WILL definitley open any bags that contain bikes, and do a really crappy job of repacking.

[zahgurim]

Sounds like hockey bags are the way to go to avoid a hefty surcharge.

I've thought about buying a chello case, too. Big enough, and provides a bit of protection as it's a hardcase.

[Couch_Surfer]

Sounds like hockey bags are the way to go to avoid a hefty surcharge.

I've thought about buying a chello case, too. Big enough, and provides a bit of protection as it's a hardcase.

A cello case - that's devious.

http://images.finecases.com/products/B0051/images/cacl11.jpg

[Couch_Surfer]

Yup, XC FS bike in the world's largest hard side suitcase. They are really hard to find. The issue is actually the wheels, almost every suitcase isn't tall enough.

The transportation/security people WILL definitley open any bags that contain bikes, and do a really crappy job of repacking.

Thanks - will check the measurements tonight on a suitcase I have that might fit the bill.

[CraigH]

A hard case like S&S Couplings sells would be the hot ticket. Lots of $$$$ though.
http://www.sandsmachine.com/ac_hard.htm

BTW, to get a frame in a suit case it has to be a FS frame so you can break it in to front & rear triangles. A HT will be to long.

[Couch_Surfer]

A hard case like S&S Couplings sells would be the hot ticket. Lots of $$$$ though.
http://www.sandsmachine.com/ac_hard.htm

BTW, to get a frame in a suit case it has to be a FS frame so you can break it in to front & rear triangles. A HT will be to long.

Good looking case - and at ~17 lbs, you still have some wiggle room to keep the total weight < 50 lbs.

Good point on having to break down the FS into front / rear triangle. That's why I was thinking hockey gear bag. Pretty sure I have another suitcase that will fit the two wheels. I'm hoping that a bubble taped frame/fork can get in the hockey bag (and if it were to get damaged, then I'd have a solid reason for justifying a Chromag purchase to my wife)

[yellowdogx]

...if it were to get damaged...)

Its when not if. I've worked at the airport for around 10 years now, I dont think I would trust the baggage monkeys with my bike....

[CraigH]

Prepare to get this notice put in your bag.

http://www.theshtat.com/blog/images/tsa.jpg

[yellowdogx]

And fill out one of these:

http://www.united.com/ual/asset/UPS1747_ppq.pdf

[Couch_Surfer]

And fill out one of these:

http://www.united.com/ual/asset/UPS1747_ppq.pdf

link dead?

[CraigH]

link dead?

Worked for me. It is a lost baggage claim form.

[Couch_Surfer]

I guessed as much - thanks

[fitchy]

doesnt dakine or marzocchi have a bike bag now. i saw it on here a little while ago i think

[Couch_Surfer]

doesnt dakine or marzocchi have a bike bag now. i saw it on here a little while ago i think

Dakine does - but then you are telling the airline you are bringing a bike. At which point they will then charge you a lovely 85USD (at least - that's UAL's plan)...
Plus the Dakine bag is heavy, and if you stray over the 50 pound limit you are assessed a further overweight charge.

I'm looking for alternatives.

I fit the frame, fork and wheels in a hockey gear bag - with bike box cardboard surrounding it. Tomorrow we see if we can add bubble tape and get it to a level of acceptable risk for this journey.

[Luudwig]

Dakine does - but then you are telling the airline you are bringing a bike. At which point they will then charge you a lovely 85USD (at least - that's UAL's plan)...
Plus the Dakine bag is heavy, and if you stray over the 50 pound limit you are assessed a further overweight charge.

I'm looking for alternatives.

I fit the frame, fork and wheels in a hockey gear bag - with bike box cardboard surrounding it. Tomorrow we see if we can add bubble tape and get it to a level of acceptable risk for this journey.

Just got back from Moab/Gooseberry and used the Dakine Bag. Worked great. No damage. Was charged 50U$ by airline. Even managed to fit the bag into the back seat of a midsize rental car.