I commute 26 miles one way. But, and its a big but, only do it twice are three times a week. I have three kids that need to spend my money in cheerleading, volleyball, softball, ect. And to do that, they need to be places an hour after I get off of work. I ain't that fast!

My commute is by a state route. Nice and steady with a low uphill grade for the first ten miles. I hit the second town and pick up another rider. I usually have time for a quick snack and water/G2. Then its time to finish. The last 15 miles or so is pretty hilly. I can do the ride in two hours, with my older buddy, or in about 1.5 hours by myself. I towel off and change at my work.

I'm on my GT Nomad Fitness. Its doable, like anything else. I just put a yearend leftover (twice, its a 2006) Schwinn World Class in layaway! Nice touring bike, lighweight with carbon on it and 28 hill climbing gears. I except to cut my ride down by 25-30%. Might not be alot on the hilly last part, but the steady incline of the first part will be shorter. And the ride home, sweet!

I'm 38 years old and at 285, last dr check up. You can do this. But its going to wear you out the first week or so. I would definitely only do it twice or three times the first few weeks.

Don't except to do alot of riding after your commute! At least not at first. Once you get your "sea legs", you will be surprise at the miles you can cover on a bike. I'm still amazed at what I can do and others, getting surprised weekly.

I would do the road bike. Its why you bought the damn thing! I have a buddy that will not take his $1500 Sporting Clays 12ga out hunting. Just too scared its going to get scratched up or dinged. He used an old beater, misses twice as many shots and doesn't have the fun he would will a properly fitted weapon. Things happen to material things, but hey you can lock your bike up, put an alarm on it, or what ever. Get out and ride it. Don't make a safe queen out of it.

Jerry