Originally Posted by
rorban
I really appreciate the replies. Chances are the buses won't be running by the time I plan on arriving at work, however, that may be a viable option for the afternoon ride home. The driving/riding one way sounds feasible but then there is the crime to contend with in the area that I work. Perhaps trying to do it just a few days a week at first might help me acclimate? I won't have much to carry with me either so maybe that will help a bit too.
Driving partway is how I got started with my commute. Started with a mtn bike with 2 inch wheels. I'd drive 6 miles in and bike the 5 miles left to work. Did this for about 2 weeks then changed the 6 car - 5 bike to 4 car - 7 bike. After 2 weeks of this the 7 miles of riding just feels too short. The following week I've started riding from my place to work.
It'll take time but that is what you want to do anyway. The worst thing you can do is to over work your body and the next thing you know you don't wan't to ride to work at all.