Subject: RE: racing out of state So, in light of all that I am left wondering why you decided not to rent. For me, for "just for fun" races, I rent. I haven't done this myself, but if I were considering a half iron or longer then it's worth the money to ship and I would pay for the premium service. Or, you could buy an inexpensive roadie at Target or Wal-mart and donate it when done. That might cost your $200, just a thought. If you bought through Wal-mart.com have it shipped to the local store for pick-up. That aside... I read a lot of blogs written by triathletes about this and have heard many experiences. I would find out what the airline fee is for taking the bike on as luggage. Ideally you box the bike in a manner that doesn't appear to be a bike and it goes as oversize luggage. Call it "sporting equipment" or something else entirely. Maybe equipment for work. Some airlines charge a premium for bikes, like $250 each way. Some do not, and then taking it on the plane is really the best deal. You can borrow a bike box. I'd ask around, and the Twin Cities Tri Club used to lend boxes to members. Might be worth the membership fee? The downside is it looks like a bike in a box, so you only use this on the nice affordable airlines. Those are my thoughts. Good luck! |