Originally Posted by
Hypno Toad
I admit I didn't see the point of
#3 at first, but now I totally get your point... why worry about a 'fast' commute if you waste a ton of time getting on/off the bike. That's one reason I love my Chrome Citizen for most commutes, fast/easy to pack, also it's very comfortable (I know this isn't true for every rider), and there's little aero penalty. I ride the city bike with panniers at least once a week to haul groceries to the office fridge, making the Chrome bag lighter for most commutes.
I noticed this effect on a recent Bike to Work day. I'd meet up with co-workers for the ride in. Let's just say they're not regular bike commuters. When we got to work, I'd rack my bike, change into work clothes, and be starting my work day. Meanwhile, they're still fumbling through an assortment of bags attached in complicated ways to their bikes.