Ben:
Declare the bike as a Kinetic sculpture- you can insure it for a lot of money, and you aren't lying if you are caught. Another trick is to write BABYCRIB all over the outside of the box. I have used both in various times, but this is before 9-11 and the security paranoia culture that we now live in. You may be hit with OS, but not an additional bike charge. You could probably even declare it a surfboard or a set of golf clubs and avoid the charge and still insure itfor ful value. On International flights, the rules are relaxed and bike/OS charges may not apply.
Tom Martin
Oakland CA
> Hey Cool Cats,
>
> So, United Airlines wont let me take all my bike basement & parts
> .......
> so i gotta sell the following:
>
> Vittoria Shoes $75 - clip/strap AND look et al - cool, classic
>
> Baggins Adam & Hobo -I won't seperate them - $200
>
> Sugino drillium 42/52 chainrings - 144bcd $30
>
> Nitto technomic deluxe - 10cm - 26.0mm $30
>
> Sugino 52T 110bcd - $10
>
> Sugino 36T 110bcd - $25
>
> REG Italy - handlebar mount cage - $40
>
> Rivat toe cleats - $10
>
> Suntour (FUJI) VX derailleur & shifter set - $35
>
> Michelin Hi-Lite service course clincher tires (1 x pair) - $35
>
> and some other post cut-off period stuff .... all pictures, condition
> of items, particulars & details are on the below page
>
> http://homepage.mac.com/
>
> now the tough part .... i gotta sell all this promptly. sorry 48 states
> only as i will be shipping it all with usps priority mail, that way its
> with you before I fly off and I dont have to wonder if everything was
> received and if all buyers are happy. Paypal only - i'll forward my
> mates paypal account. Minimum purchase of $25 - i don't wanna get on
> with that 3% malarky but im gonna feel embarrased asking my mate to
> check on a $10 payment for 1 item and such. preference goes to whoever
> buys most or multiples.
>
> Whatever happens my email will be constant. I will ship the stuff
> tomorrow so act quick - preference goes to my buddies here that ive
> dealt with before. any new yorkers are most welcome - im downtown
> manhattan and brooklyn in my wheelings and dealings.
>
> all proceeds go to me having Mai Tai's on Bondi beach whilst thinking
> fondly of those who contributed.
>
> ciao,
>
> Ben Kamen
> NYC (6 days and counting)
>
> p.s. anyone know how to get around the $80 bike fee in addition to
> excess baggage charges ????? any secret handshake, or subtle winks or
> passwords???