Travel with a MTB logistics---Vancouver to KL and return

Last year, I traveled to Malaysia, where my take-off point was Vancouver, Canada. With help, I packed my Brodie into a bike box. But here's what I've noted from that experience.

1. Before traveling, call ahead to the ground staff and enquire on their airline policy with respect to traveling with a bike. It varies at the top level, even on the website (http://www.ibike.org/encouragement/travel/bagregs.htm) to the ground staff. I flew on China Airlines, w/ an overnight in Taipei. Checked in 2 pieces of luggage thru' to Malaysia, i.e., my gear and my bike---no charge. The max. weight for each has to be 70lbs. If you have another piece to check in---then prepare to pay CA $160.00.

2. Prior to departure, I was also informed by my travel agent that there may be a surcharge on the bike box if the total length of the bike box exceeded 63 in. (width + length). Something to do with Union regulations... Fortunately, the China Airlines ground staff was not too particular despite the total length of my box = 86 inches (53X33), and no surcharge paid.

3. Pack a roll of Duct tape. One never knows how handy the tape can become. I used mine to retape my bike box on my leg home from Malaysia.

4. Remember to keep all the nuts and bolts in a zip-lock and tape it securely to the inside of the box.