Thanks everyone for their replies. You've confirmed what I was thinking, that a first road bike (maybe not one of the fancy European ones) would be much cheaper in the US. I'm not getting the bike for commuting around campus, so I wouldn't be leaving it unattended. It is for riding, mainly for fitness. I already do quite a bit on stationary bikes at the gym, and I would like to take it a step further and go outside (I realize it will be a completely different experience). I guess I'll try taking it with me on my flight as well... Thanks again!