If you can avoid the fees by using your bike as your allowable luggage item, it could save you hundreds of dollars. We at d2k are committed to providing you with the best information available on transportation services available during your time in Los Angeles. If you are new to the area it is best to arm yourself with a detailed city map. LA not only has a very complex system of roads and highways, it is extremely large in area. Everyone knows LA is famous for traffic jams, so if you are new to the area it might be easiest to take mass transit if you cannot carpool with friends or rent a car.
LA also has more than one mass transit system.
The following links will help you plan your trip downtown from anywhere in Southern California. If you are staying with friends anywhere in Southern California the metrolink trip planner will give you both fare estimates, schedules , and directions on how to get to your destination. If your trip will be within LA county go to the MTA trip planner. If you are staying in the Santa Monica area, the Big Blue Bus , is your best bet for travel within the area. They have an easy to use online form.