I generally avoid checking bags, but if you need to carry liquids, tools, or a bicycle you generally have to check it. I did know a guy many years ago who managed to take apart a track bike (no cables to deal with) and carry the frame on in a suit bag and check the wheels.

The rare cases when I've checked things on AS, including a bicycle, they've easily beat the 20 minutes. I set my timer when they open the door, and I think I've been in F on many of those flights.