I lightly modified my Diamondback X-Link FS/XC rig for commuting, with the addition of a set of Michelin Transworld X's with reflector sidewalls, an Easton Monkeylite CF riser bar, Hayes HMX-1 discs and a new set of disc wheels. Parts on the way include an OldManMountain Sherpa rear rack, a Nightrider light set-up and some reflective tape added to the fork legs and rear suspension linkage bars. After I install my rack, I'll add some fenders.

It's heavy at 29 pounds, but it's tough as nails and geared so low that I can almost climb walls with it. It rolls over the roughest roads with nary a hiccup, and if I have to go off onto the grass because of no shoulder on the road, it's all good. I lose a little bit of pedal effort to the rear shock on big hills, but I plan to replace the el-cheapo coil-over shock with a quality lock-out air shock from Fox, Rockshox or Cane Creek (Ain't decided yet), which will reduce weight and give me the capability to lock it out on big climbs.

Two added bonuses from the weight: It's more of a workout to ride, and it bombs the downsides of hills at amazing speeds.

My goal is to eventually get this rig set up so that I can ride safely in the dark, which will enable me to start making my commute a round trip every day. I am currently riding three days a week from work to home, a one-way trip of exactly 18 miles from my office door to my apartment. Once I get used to riding again, I will commute five days a week there and back, and save a pile of cash on gas every week. Right now I'm spending anywhere from $40.00 to $80.00 a week getting back and forth to work, and that's money that can go into my bike!