Originally Posted by AstroEng

I actually just got back from a business trip in Dayton. Having seen the streets (and a few people commuting down them), the marked bike routes were nicer than I thought. They were wide residential streets and (most importantly) had few stop signs. The Dayton area seems to have a lot less major streets (6 lanes or more) and more 2/3 lane roads with 30/35 mph speed limits. I did see a number of people commuting in the traffic lane on streets that would be vary dangerous to attempt something similar here. Perhaps the drivers are more accommodating?

In the little time I was in town, I got the feeling that downtown Kettering might be a good fit. It had enough services (rec centers, libraries, grocery stores) that it felt a little more walkable/bikeable/urban than Beavercreek. Oakwood was pretty, but other than very high end shopping, didn't look like as much of a walkable/bikeable community. I also found the bus route that goes up 48 and connects to an Area B express bus, so it'd be a nice backup.

Hibonite - How long does the 13 mile trip take you? My current ride is 8.5 miles through town and takes me about 35-40 min... Do you bike year round? I do it here, but obviously it's a bit easier in Albuquerque. We get just as cold, but far less snow.

Again, thanks to everyone for their feedback. I did get to use some of it and explore the bike gate, bike routes, and other parts of the city.