I didn't check this thread out yet, because I am a mech geek and focused mostly on bikes and builds and racks and such. BUT THIS IS GREAT!

I am a lucky fool and live only 4 miles from my shop. But I do live in a tiny mountain town, so the roads and weather can be challenging. Like we get six months of snow. As a new bike commuter I am looking forward to tackling the challenges that will present.

Also I am a woefully sporadic bicycle commuter. We have 2 daughters and we drive them to school (bad!). School bus only makes to within a mile of our house and at 6:30 AM! We would have to get the girls up at 5:45 to make that. Not happening.

Back on track: I only ride to or from the shop 3-5 times a week. But every ride helps! Last night I rode home on one of the bikes from our shop floor. An Electra Townie 700c 21 speed. It has been sitting for five months, so I wanted to ride it, get a feel for it and see if installing some accessories on it might make it look more appealing.

Ride report: The frame geometry is designed for leisurely riding, sitting back and spinning easy. Not meant to hammer. I like to hammer. I like to stand up and give 'er hell. The 48x14 top end and 700c wheels reward getting after it, though. It is a great compromise between leisure and speed.