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So you are traveling to a triathlon and you need to get your bike to the event in once piece and on time. Here are some shipping/transportation options for you.
Option 1. Take your bike on the airplane
If you are planning on taking your bike on the plane with you here is a tip to save you some money. For a $60 membership fee you can join USA cycling. With this membership you get two one way bike vouchers on United Airlines (a value of $80 each way). Plus you get either a 5 or 10% discount on your United Airlines plane ticket (if you order your ticket through the 1*800 number). Additional benefits include insurance, rental car discounts etc. Membership benefits and fees change so go to USA cycling to determine their current benefits. I was told by United that they are going to start enforcing (sometime soon or in 2007) a 50lb bike box limit. When you use your bike box voucher, make sure you have your USA Cycling membership number with you.
My last trip traveling with a bike box I flew Frontier Airlines. For $50 each way I was able to substitute my bike box for a piece of checked luggaged, it worked out pretty well.
Click on this link to TriGeaReview to read an article about a bike case recommendation.
Option 2. Bike specialty transportation.
Tri Bike Transport will take your bike from the drop off bike shop to your Ironman race. It is probably not the cheapest option, however you don’t have to wreck your pricey bike fit by disassembling your bike since they will transport you bike intact. Check out their website for more information.
Option 3. Ground Shipping
You can ship your bike via UPS, FEDEX, or DHL. This option requires some sort of box or container to put your bike in. You will also need to plan on disassembly and then reassembly of your bike. Make sure that you leave lots of time to get your bike to its destination. Your best bet is to ship it to a bike shop a number of days before the race. That way they can assemble the bike for you. Shipping it to a bike shop will give you the additional knowledge that your bike has arrived at its destination safe and sound. Remember insurance for your bike.
Links to airline bike policy information
Frontier
United
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