Originally Posted by
Lamabb
I want to start commuting to college by bicycle, but I have a few questions. I recently purchased a surly Long haul trucker for touring and commuting and I would love it not to have it stolen or damaged.
When you arrive at class, where do you put your bike and how do you protect it?
I also have a nice bike that I care about. My college has a bike rack right by the main gate that I chain it up to. There's a guard shack right near it and at least until 1pm, there's campus police who stand outside checking everyone's ID. Most other people who ride just use a cable lock to secure theirs up, but I use a cable lock and a U-lock.
Originally Posted by
Lamabb
Also, how do you carry your books? panniers?
I personally use a backpack for my books and also have a lunch bag for my lunch. I strap them down using a bungee cord net to the rear rack on my bike.
Originally Posted by
Lamabb
It's going to be a 25 mile commute, so that's 50 miles both ways, which would be great if 20 of those miles weren't a giant hill.
If any school commuters could give me any tips, it would be greatly appreciated.
Your commute is a bit longer than mine. Mine is 18.9 miles one-way and it takes me 1 hr 15 mins on a good day. My ride in is rolling hills, but mainly downhill. I always give myself extra time in case of a flat, break a chain, or something like that. I usually get to campus about 30 mins before class, which gives me time to change, have a snack, and get on the internet for a bit or study if need be.
I would recommend doing the route once (if you haven't all ready) to get an idea of how long it's going to take. If you don't have a rear rack, it would be good to get one. My bag filled with books last semester could weight as much as 20 lbs. Also, if you don't have fenders, get some. They make a big difference if there's rain in the forecast. Get a good U-lock and cable lock for securing your bike if you don't already have them. Of course, make sure you carry spare inner tubes, chain link and tools that you might need.
This is the elevation profile for my commute to school: