Originally Posted by
guilt by association
The particular folding bike I have has normal-sized wheels, so it tends to be obvious that it's a bike, even though it's not oversized luggage. I've never tried to talk it onto a UA flight, because I don't like the thought of having to choose between $350 RT in fees and finding a place to store my bike at SFO before a flight...
I'd consider buying a smaller folder if anyone reports reliable success with them. I really miss having a bike when travelling to the East Coast!
Bike Friday makes great folding bikes, though they're not cheap. I have friends with a Bike Friday tandem, which they've used all over the world. I don't recall how distinctive the case is, though.
Ultimately, the airlines should be pressured (by consumers) to accept bikes in normal-sized hard luggage without extra fees, though. It's just silly.