Symtex

Of living a more healthy life, I finally got the audacity to follow up on my new year resolution and purchased a Specialized Globe City 6.1 to commute to work everyday.

I got around 5km one way to go. In vancouver, there is quite a few bike trail that follow the skytrain. I am fortunate enough to live and work very close of the skytrain track. I will not have to share the road with the crazy car driver. Our office is equip with a locked cage in the parking garage for commuters.

I am looking forward to share my experience with fellow commuters. My bike will be ready on tuesday. I might be able to give it a spin on wednesday if the weather permits it.

Alfster 

Congrats. You're gonna love it! Just make sure you invest in a good rain jacket. You'll need it in Vancouver.

cyclefreaksix

Congratulations! We'll be expecting a first commute report and of course bike pics as well. Enjoy!!

j3ns

Congratulations on your better lifestyle and new bike!
BEWARE: Commuting by bike is highly addictive.

p.s. welcome to the forums!

Symtex

I got the bike yesterday and I was able to take it for a spin today. I did 5.4 km in total. I ran quickly out of breath and my legs was burning. I am so much out of shape. For my defense, half the run was uphill with 15 km/h wind in my face. I have to build on my stamina and cardio before I can commute to work daily. I am planning on doing some more this weekend

Pic will follow soon.

AngryScientist 

i would just jump into commuting. if it was your resolution to get more healthy, just start riding to work, ordinarily i would say train a little before diving into a commute, but 5k is like 3 miles, that certainly wont kill you. congratulations on making a good decision and welcome to the forum!

I_bRAD

Keep at it! Pretty soon (if you keep at it, much sooner than you think!) 5kms and you'll barely be getting started.

thdave

I agree with Angry. Pedal easy, walk bike up hills, be safe--for week one. Ramp it up the next week, and I'm sure you'll be ready to ride the whole way at a reasonable clip the third week.

ItsJustMe

5km would be a great commute; short enough that it's easily doable without shower facilities, and also short enough that there probably isn't even any significant difference in the time it takes bike vs car.

Have fun, and ask here if you have any questions, this place is a great resource.

Symtex

Thanks for the encouragement. I think you are right, I need to pace myself a little. According to the GPS data, on the way back, : I did 2.8km in 14:35 min. Elevation 430 to 400 feet. I was looking at my cateye while I was riding and my average speed would be around 16-22km/h.

The hardest part is the ride in the morning. it's 400 feet to 450 elevation on 5km. (thanks google earth). So an overage of 10 feet elevation per km. That means that way back home should be a breeze.