Hi there, I recently ressurected my old Specialized Rockhopper and started tooling around on it a bit on the bikepaths here in Vermont, when I was struck with the idea of maybe using it to commute to work. I live 12 miles from my job, but there is a REALLY, REALLY big hill in the beginning of my ride on the way in, so I didn't think that I could do it. I found this forum about a week ago, and have been lurking since then, when I found a suggestion to bring my bike with me to work on a Friday morning and ride it home after work, and then ride back into town to get my car on Saturday as a "test run" for commuting. Well, lo and behold, it worked!!! I am so glad to have found this forum!! I am now an official commuter, and am very excited to be less dependent on my car, as well as looking forward to saving a bit of cash on fuel and repairs for it.

After reading many of the posts here, I am realizing just how non-commuter friendly my bike is. I now want fenders, a rack, panniers, a bike computer, new handlebars, and padded gloves. I guess it will all come with time, and for now, I can read all of your posts and dream of what will eventually be!

Thanks for the great forum! Kim

We need pictures of 'REALLY, REALLY' big hills.

Dave

I will try to get that on here! Picture riding up for a little over a mile with a grade that makes you think you are going to tip backwards. Ok, so maybe it's not that steep, but when I come down it, my glasses get smushed into my face, and I have a tendency to get a little scared at my speed. I don't have a bike computer, so I don't know how fast I go coming down, but I bet it is at least 40mph. Very steep, but then again, maybe I am just a wuss! ;-)

mmmmm.....vermont....mmmm....

Hi Kim! Congratulations on deciding to commute. We just got back from a Vermont vacation and I don't think you are exaggerating about those hills

My son actually dragged me up Killington peak and we mtn. biked down several times - now that was hilly!

You have a gorgeous state in which to ride!

I am glad you enjoyed your vacation! I feel like I don't ever have to leave for a vacation in the summertime because Vermont offers so much in the way of outdoor recreation. I am also a kayaker and there are so many rivers and ponds, and also Lake Champlain here that I can get my paddling "fix" at a different spot every time I go out.

I actually went into town today for a fun ride and took my regular commute way, and the hill didn't seem quite so big as the last time, so I am betting that it will get better with time. I did a 50 mile ride today, and on the ride back, going down that same hill was the biggest rush! I definitely enjoy that thing a lot more going down!