The Masi I recently acquired was shipped UPS from Wisconsin, in a previously-used Schwinn bike box. The box arrived with all but two of the tape straps securing the top of the box broken, a 24" gash in the side of the box, and a punch-out the size of your foot at one of the grab-handle openings. The hole was big enough to let one of the loose tubulers that was thrown in at the end escape somewhere in route. Fortunately (miraculously?) the bike was undamaged. A real testament to the packing job done by the seller. I've shipped (and been sent) many bikes, frames and wheels UPS, and have somehow managed to get by with very few problems. However, the quality has definitely deteriorated. The condition of the last few boxes I've received indicate that they have had very rough passage, but I've somehow escaped with no damage.....so far. From what I've been hearing and seeing, I'm afraid my odds are diminishing! Alas, I've heard some horror stories about FedEx as well. What's a poor bike junkie to do?
Wayne Bingham
Falls Church VA