Originally Posted by
TouringMN
How do you experienced commuters deal with the rain?
If the temperatures are above 33F, I just ride. It's actually rather fun, especially when it rains really hard. My commute is 10.5 mi. each way and I ride regardless of the weather. If it rains here, it generally will rain for the whole ride (and often the whole day).
What do you wear or take with you to accommodate the rain?
As for clothing, I wear a rain jacket and my regular baggy shorts. If the temperatures are below 45F, I'll add rain pants, knit wool gloves, a fleece vest and a beanie under my helmet.
One thing that I don't think can be overrated is having fenders. I think it is a shame that most bikes don't include fenders but I guess that's what happens when bikes are sold as toys instead of tools. SKS fenders are great - not those lame little things that hang off your seat post but real fenders that cover most of the wheels. Adding a little mud flap at the bottom of the front fender can make a big difference in how dry your feet stay.
Another thing to consider is your visibility. Get a rain jacket that is a bright color. Cycling rain jackets often come in what I call "obnoxious yellow" and I would recommend using something like that. Remember that most people become idiots once they get behind the wheel. You're competing for their attention with the windshield wipers, stereo settings, cell phones and spilling coffee so you need to make sure that they can't miss your presence on the road. A bright flashing LED tail light might not be a bad addition as well.
Do you carry a laptop with you? I have what is claimed to be a watertight pannier system, but that accountability is high.
I don't often carry a laptop but occasionally I do bring stuff along that has to stay dry. I use a Timbuk2 messenger bag which is fully waterproof. I prefer it to panniers in the rain since panniers are down low near and get bathed in road spray even if you do have fenders. If there's anything I'm concerned about getting wet, I'll wrap it in a plastic grocery bag for extra insurance. I've never found any moisture inside my bag but with something like a laptop I'd wrap it anyways.
My commute is 3 miles to the bus stop; a 30 min bus ride; and then another 45 minute bike ride. Sounds ludicrous to make that a standard plan. Despite the rising gas prices.
As long as you have the option of changing clothes at work it sounds very reasonable. I'd much rather do that than spend that time sitting in a car.