qw1a

I commute daily but it's only a short urban commute (some 2-3 miles *) but on the way back I try to do a loop in the Central Park (6.5 miles). So far I have been doing it rain or ****e (oops, meant rain or shine), going "there" at around 7:30 in the morning and returning back around 8-9 at night. The general MO has been that I ride there in my office garb (business casual) and on the way back I chage to something more comfortable. My clothing, lunch (yogurt and fruit) go into my backpack. So far I had no problems except I have dropped my Blackberry once (fatal) and got a bunch of printouts wet while returning in the rain.

(a) Anything special that you people do for commuting in the rain?
(b) Is there a bike-friendly set of goretex jackets-pants that actually will keep you dry?
(c) Does anyone use a waterproof backpack? What kind?
(d) How do you handle wallet/keys/cellphone during your ride?
(e) Any off-hand ideas for urban commuting are welcome as well.

bikeutah

First, welcome to the forums and commuting, qw1a!

I will do my best to answer some of your questions, though the ones about the rain are out, since I live in the SW. Also, the ride through Central Park must be real nice at that time of day.

Many of the backpacks/panniers on the market are designed to withstand some bad weather. Here are a couple of links for suggestions - Arkel Urban Series, Carradice Bike Bureau, and Lone Peak.

I simply put them in my panniers while I am riding.

Not sure what you are looking for here, but a lesson I learned from experience, is that the route I would take to work in my car is not the best route to take as a commuter (traffic, intersections, etc). Look ahead, so you can prepare for vehicles, potholes, glass and the like. Beware the cager! Although, you might think they are looking at, many times they are looking through you and don't even know you are there.

Hope this helps, enjoy your rides!