Originally Posted by
allan_dunlop
I agree with everything pj7 says, except that changing the tires isn't necessary for a 6-mile return trip--especially if you want to be in shape for riding off-road.
For the longest time, I rode my hardtail mountain bike (that I used on some of the wildest trails on the west coast) as my daily commuter--12 to 30 miles a day. I actually liked having the knobbies on, as they acted like ankle weights.
Trying to get any exercise on a 12-mile ride is like trying to get protein from a Power Bar. You can do it, but it takes more work than what they state on the label.
If it feels tough right now, keep riding and see how you feel in a week or two. Chances are you'll find the commute much easier then, and won't be tempted to turn your MTB into a road-only ride. Many people have lost the enjoyment of mountain biking by citifying a great off-road bike.
Allan
(In case you're wondering, I know how much easier a roadworthy bike can be. I have a new Felt commuter bike and a road bike I brought back from France, as well as the mountain bike and a trials bike. When I ride the road/commuter bike on short trips, I feel like I haven't got off the couch yet...)
Well said. I've never run slicks on a mountain bike and I use mine to commute all the time. I see lots of people who have taken a great dual suspension mountain bike and 'citified' it with slicks...total goofiness!
However, I do disagree with your statement about not being able to get exercise on a 12 mile ride. 12 miles is going to take 40 to 50 minutes depending on your speed. That's not the same as riding a century but it's still within the recommended guidelines of 30 minutes per day.
m1ke101: There's been lots of good info here about commuting with your bike. I'd suggest a
Delta DiscRack over a seat post rack for stability. I realize that the picture isn't your bike necessarily but I'd suggest that you raise your saddle and level it for a 12 mile commute (as well as get some bike shorts with pad
) if your bike is set up like that one. If you grind out 12 miles on a bike set up like that one, you'll need knee replacement in 10 years and you'll not need a vasectomy in the future
