In a message dated 4/18/2005 9:29:34 PM Eastern Daylight Time, meicheng@comcast.net writes:
<< My question is directed to those of you taking bikes to the Cirque, or those of you who have travelled with bike luggage post-911. I've been told the TSA/security open and inspect most baggage and it cannot be locked. How do you take a bike in a bike case, and avoid having it opened and not securely closed? I would appreciate input from those of you who have airplaned with bike baggage. Perhaps I am too paranoid. I know shipping is always an option, but it doesn't seem like a great one. >>
Yes, you have to let them have access when taking along via air travel. Shipping it is really not a bad risk at all and the most logical option in my opinion. I operate the shop as you know and we get literally hundreds of parcels via UPS, FedEx and DHL, and I think handling is getting better and better. We sell maybe 1200 bikes a year and perhaps 50 -60 frames of some sort or another.. We have not had damage or lost claim in years!
Virtually every "mishap" has been due to improper packaging. So then the challenge is to get good at packing and go overboard to protect the bike...
Also when traveling with a bike, you have to get the bulky thing to & from the airport, sign a release waiver for damages that might occur and pay through the nose for oversize baggage. Versus shipping separately, in which case the bike is delivered to exactly where you want it, is insurable and traceable. And the cost is a third what the airlines will charge. The only minor down side is for affordable rates, it has to precede you about a week.
Dale Brown
Greensboro, NC USA