Originally Posted by Camel
Check with your airline, as it may be possible to include the bike (even boxed) in your checked baggage allowance.
There is a website specific to travel with bikes as well. Travel with bikes or something. Google.
I've gone on two European tours in the past 3 years, and haven't paid any extra for my bike. I didn't box it either without any problems, although this is up to the airline policy-as well as how you feel about baggage handlers.
But don't hold your breath. All of the US carriers now charge for international flights (changed as recently as this year). They need to recoup every penny in this hard times.
While policy states that they are to charge, I understand you might not always get charged. I guess it depends on how busy they are and how generous the gate agent is feeling that day.