To me the biggest benefit of commuting is that it guaranties a set amount of base miles every week. That helps maintain my overall condition, especially over the winter, when otherwise I probably wouldn't be riding much if at all.

The other fringe benefits is eliminating some car ownership and operating costs, burning that many more calories allowing me to not fret over my diet.

hen the weather is nice, I'll make a ride of it going home, enjoying a loop of up to 40-50 miles or so. I used to try to fit in evening rides when I got home, but things got in the way, whereas building it onto the ride home is easy and I do it frequently.

Also, I try to keep the commute from being a chore by varying the route anf getting to know the people I meet daily. I think of these folks as part of my 6 mile by 100' community, and treasure it.