I went with some friends to an Independence day party in Chicago. After we returned, I was talking about cycling with my non-cycling friend, and about how he wanted to start, but had no time to do it, so I recommended that he try commuting. I told him I knew of a pretty good route for him which would only take him a few extra minutes every day. Since I tell this to pretty much everyone I know, I figured he wouldn't seriously consider it.

The conversation changed subjects, but later, more or less out of the blue, he asked me to show him the route right then and there. So we got our bikes out, and we did the 13 mile loop. It's almost completely flat. Most of the route is a well paved bike path. I wanted to break him in easy to cycling in traffic, and I think paths are a good place for beginners. He is in pretty reasonable cycling shape for someone who's just starting. I think we averaged 12 to 13mph for the loop. On the way back, we stopped at an LBS, and he picked up a helmet and some gloves, which he said signifies his commitment to start bike commuting.

Today will be his first day commuting. I'll have to ask him how he did. With any luck, I'll have a new riding partner soon.

Anyone else recruited any new commuters?