i had to pay $50 for a bmx bike to be shipped to me via usps. it weighed 40 lbs (a lot more than a fixie!) and was right at the maximum size limit. i didn't mind, since i saved more than that by not buying on the local (euro) economy. i think the seller actually ate some of the shipping costs. i always look at prices as "out the door" or total delivered price, not the actual sale price. it's about perspective.