Here's my commute... over a bridge, etc. 16-17 miles depending on my route. I rock the 198X univega touring bike. Granted, I put fenders and racks on it, but sometimes if I'm feisty, I'll take the modern roadie with a messenger bag. I have had the luxury of a shower at work for the last three places I've worked. 16-17 miles in 85 degrees and 80% humidity = no way am I riding in my work clothes. I was pouring sweat this morning and it was 65 out.
I dont think I can opt for riding in my work clothes. It would be nasty. What type of luggage do you guys use to put in a dress shirt or pants without it getting wrinkled? How do you fold it?
Would you recommend me get a rack and panniers? Which ones and where?
how do you guys clean up after you get to work if you have no showers. after a 13.5 mile ride with hectic traffic and quite some elevation I think I'll definitely break a sweat even at the current temperatures of 40F.
Khakis and a polo today, granted - a dri-fit golf polo, I just folded up the pants, and put a light roll on them, then rolled the shirt up. Clothes in one bag, shoes in the other. I have a rack from a LBS, and bags from Nashbar. Everything works fine. Is there a gym near your office (or a truck stop lol)? You can always go in extra early, cool down, do a towel wash in the bathroom, and then change into your work clothes.