Great thread and great advice by all!

I have a 14 mile commute each way on rural highways. I started commuting a few days per week this past spring.

This may draw flames, but I have a method that reduces the stress/commitment of bike commuting. I haul the bike to work on Monday with clothes, meal replacement shakes, etc. Then I ride home in the evening and back the next morning. If it is raining or I must work late, I can drive home. Plus, I have a vehicle at work if something pops up that requires travel to another facility. No worries about getting stuck at work, and I ride unencumbered (except for my Camelback).

I totally respect the folks who have the commitment to bike commute full time. However, I don't feel like my work & family situations allow me to spend an extra 10 hours per week commuting. This solution saves some gas and provides a good workout a few times per week. It might be a good way for new commuters or those without public transport to test the waters.