This question posed is quite timely for me since I have a concern about the 62" linear size limit as well.

I routinely travel with large duffels because of my hobby/pastime and usually have an overseas trip each year. I fly "show-kites" which are bulky bundles of ripstop fabric.

My duffels are 39" long and 20" in diameter. By seeing them they are large but I've seen hockey bags bigger. I am conscientious about keeping the weight below 50lbs which appears to be the greater concern at check-in in the past.

Photo link - see middle black bags.
Photo link - row of the same duffels.

I've been waived through before with AC and other US airlines.

My flight next month to Paris has me worried since the charge for oversize baggage has gone from $35 (before August 2007) to now $50 for domestic and to a whopping $120 charge for international flights.

So, are the check-in agents instructed to pursue this as an active revenue stream now? Will they be bringing out tape measures?