I rode to the polls with my wife and two kids. There were several bikes locked up outside. The line was about an hour long. Thank goodness for the unusually pleasant weather for this time of year.

Yes, I was in my spandex shorts and had on a brightly colored jacket. It's a running jacket but has a long cut back and rear pocket like a cycling jacket. It also has reflective stripes. I don't wear it for the "Hey, look at Me" effect. More for the "Hey! I'm here. Don't run move over" effect.

As we walked to the end of the line, I passed many neighbors who are by now quite used to seeing me in spandex. The kids were able to play with some neighbor kids outside as we waited. It went fairly quick. It was also an educational experience for my eight year old. He's been into politics ever since he got to be George Washington in his class play.

We rode to the polling place for the same reason I ride to work and other places. It wasn't to make any political statement. It's just a practical, economical, and healthy way to get places that are relatively close.

My clothing choice was made based on what would keep me comfortable and safe on my ride. No one remarked on it, nor would I expect them to. If they somehow thought less of me because of my spandex shorts that is their problem.

After voting, my wife and kids rode home and I rode into work. If I were only going to the polls and then back home, I would have skipped the spandex.

Note: Last Friday I rode into work dressed as Paul Stanley of Kiss complete with electric guitar. Unbeknownst to me, a coworker, who also bicycle commutes came dressed as Alice Cooper. On the way home we rode together for a short ways on a busy downtown avenue. On that occasion we were definitely trying to draw attention to ourselves