Tip #4 - Travelling with your bike

In less than a month I'll be leaving for Arizona to race in the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo. I've been there a number of times with my bike (plus a few other events such as the World Solo Championships) so I'm starting to figure out how to fly properly with my bike.

First thing is to get a good case. A hard case, not the soft ones. I use the Trico Sports Iron Case. Be very careful how you pack your bike. Take off the wheels (obviously), cranks, fork, rear derailleur. Wrap the fork legs and frame in insulation (I use plumbers pipe insulation tubing) to protect everything from getting scratched. Make sure everything is snug in the case and can't move around. Those airport baggage handlers typically are not too careful .

Make sure you bring enough tools to put your bike back together. Don't put too much else in the case other than your bike and a couple sets of tires. Most airlines have a limit of 70lbs or they won't take it. One time I put my lights and batteries in the case....needless to say I had to crack it open in the middle of check-in and carry them on the plane as I was over the limit. The biggest drag travelling with your bike is the cost....usually $50-$70 each way. I've heard of all sorts of tips to avoid this....like saying there is artwork in the case, or just bicycle parts. I worry about lying in case they search the case and the contents are different. That would make one suspicious.

Strangely I've rarely been searched. The one time I thought for sure was travelling from the 2001 World Solo Championships in Idyllwild, California. This was only the week after 9/11 had happened and security seemed to be tight. When I was coming home and in the San Diego airport I saw security going through everything including suitcases, golf bags etc. I figured I would be searched for sure with such a huge case plus 2 full hockey bags of gear. To my surprise the person at check-in took my bags right away and put them on the luggage belt. I asked why my stuff didn't need to be searched and was told "you don't fit the profile". I didn't know there needed to be a profile. Pretty disappointing to say the least to see this arrogance so soon after that tragedy.

Anyway, be prepared for anything and give yourself extra time at the airport with all of the extra stuff you'll be carrying.