Outstanding ride! Here in Alabama the weather is getting really nice. I decided to take the Surly CrossCheck into work today. 7.5 miles one way paralleling a US Hwy. Not much traffic, a few short steeps. The Ortliebs on the back with a change of clothes, baby wipes, and other assorted necessities. It was a good ride and I have a goal of three times a week to start. People at work think I am a nut! 13 years ago I weighed 431lbs and smoked three packs a day. Over the years I have lost down to 260lbs by riding bikes. I quit smoking and while I was diagnosed as a diabetic those many years ago, today I do not even have to take any meds for it. I started my commuting to get my legs prepared for long distance touring. I read this forum a lot for inspiration and hopefully, at some point I can inspire someone to do what I am doing.