youngbull - I took a bee to the eyeball last week while riding at about 20mph. It hurt like crazy and reminded me that eye protection is super important. You never know what a car is going to kick up.

rhm - you are correct, I am new to commuting which is why I'm coming here, to the bran trust for insight.

And I definitely blame my tires because they are not exactly grippy.

Thank you fall for the tips!

ShortLegCyclist - can I PM you about your Rodriguez? That's my dream bike.