1. There is a big differance with riding a 40+ mile ride with no additional weight than commuting to/from school/work with loaded saddle bags, panniers or a back pack.

2. There is a big differance with riding a 40+ mile ride after a full nights sleep than with commuting to/from school/work after only a few hours sleep. Remember you still have to haul the loaded saddle bags, panniers or a back pack.

3. There is a big differance with riding a 40+ mile ride after being fully rested for it than commuting home after a long tireing day or school/work. Remember you still have to haul the loaded loaded saddle bags, panniers or a back pack.

I was the same way you are when I started commuting back when I was in college. I found out the hard way just how humbling it was and how much commuting kicked my ass at first. It is a lot differant then jsut going out and pounding out a 40 mile bike ride.

I am not trying to discourage you jsut giving you advice on what my experience was like when I first started commuting.