Hello,
This is a question directed at commuters who have to leave their bike outside. ( but anyone can answer)

After a long time i have decided that i will be commuting by bike. However i have two major problems that most of you have already answered but mine are special.

-1-/Like most or some commuters have to think about is weather and theft. The answer to both is buy a beater. I dont know if any of you commuters feel it but i cant ride beaters anymore, when i got my hardrock my body just switched modes. Riding a beater will drive me insane. How do you handle riding a beater?\

-2-/Another problem we face is being able to get a dependable route. I have thourougly examined the area of my route of 5miles and not found one sidewalk. It runs along 2 of the busiest streets in the city. Between the fence and the road is about 2 feet space. ( weeds and shrubbery ) What should i do?\

thanks

madman