I just started commuting "one-way". On M and W, I drive to work with my bike and ride home. On T and Th, I ride to work and drive home. My commute is 18 miles one-way. This is an experiment to see if I want to spend the money on a touring bike and gear (rack, panniers, etc.) for the commute. Right now I'm using my mountain bike (stumpjumper) and a backpack.

Anyhow, on to the commute. This mornings ride was about 60 F and sunny (really nice ride). My commute is rolling; however, it is definately downhill from home to work. Luckily, the entire distance is in a bike lane on roads that are in very good shape for the most part. There is a short stretch of bike path by the "river". It's a good mix of 2-land and 4-lane roads with a bit of 6-lane thrown in for good measure.

I really enjoy the ride into work...it's the ride home that I don't like as much. I average about 18-19 mph on the way in and about 14-15 on the way home. Yesterday was about 88 F on the way home and I'm dreading when it starts to creep up over 100 F.

Thanks for all the help on the forums...this is a GREAT site. I'll probably be asking for help in making a commuting bike decision in the next month or so.