Any time-saving hints for a new commuter?
Originally Posted by
johngwheeler
I've started to commute when the weather is fair, but find there is a considerable time overhead compared to my usual routine using public transport.
I find that I spend quite of lot of time preparing the stuff that I need to take on the bike, and transferring items from my normal backpack to the bike panniers. I don't commute by bike every day, so need to change bags.
Originally Posted by
10Wheels
Commuting or Touring
What worked for me was to get it all readythe night before the ride.
Takes some time to get into a routine.
That should make it faster.
Originally Posted by
johngwheeler
Yes, I think it's the mix on bike and non-bike commuting that interrupts the routine, especially with different bags.
Originally Posted by
BobbyG
+1 on everything (especially the extra difficulty dialling back into the routine after a week off).
So true, about re-establishing the routine, even for me after one day not commuting. By way of preparation the night before, especially during the cold weather months or rainy days, dressing is very time-consuming. When I arrive home or at the workplace, I lay out all my clothes in the order I take them off. Furthermore, I usually dress in segments, particularly not to overheat indoors. So I make distinct piles for:- headgear and gloves
- torso
- legs and feet
I check the temperature in the morning to decide what to wear, and I’ll probably wear at least what I wore the night before. Otherwise, in my pannier bags on my aluminum bike I keep on one side all the various layers I may need throughout the winter, and on the opposite side, all my wet weather gear so all be with me for later in the day as the conditions may change.
I described another practice in this thread,"Bicycling or not, what items do you take with you that you never leave home without?" These are not only the standard items like wallet and keys, but also items I always like to carry all the time.
Originally Posted by
powerhouse
Whether you are on a bicycle ride or not, what items do you always bring with you or
'never leave home without?..
Originally Posted by
lostarchitect
…It's probably more interesting to ask what non-standard things do people always have with them…
Originally Posted by
Jim from Boston
...I have a flat mesh black bag, about 8 x 6 x 3 inches I call my "clutch bag" with some of my non-standard items I take everywhere, including bike rides:…
Also, for cycling or otherwise, I wear a backpack with space for lightweight extra clothes for temperature variations, to put on or remove ([the clutch bag goes into the backpack] when I ride my carbon fiber bike.... or into the backpack when not riding).
Originally Posted by
PaulH
Ride more slowly, so you don't have to change or shower. Remember, the purpose of a bike is to save energy, compared to walking or running. It is a convenience machine.
I don't get this prep stuff. Throw on a coat, hop on the bike, and go. No need to check the weather, because you are going there anyway. I started riding towork because it was EASIER than driving…
To each his own, but personally I ride 14 or more miles one-way to work all year round to ride fast for exercise and work up a sweat. Preparation is key, not only to save time but to be comfortable and enjoy more.
Last edited by Jim from Boston; 03-15-17 at 03:37 PM.