Back at it!
 

So, I got out of commuting for several reasons, but now that I'm settled in my new job, and my boss and manager are supportive of my goals, I've been biking again. I did the whole trip 3 times last year, but I'm a wee bit fatter than I was when I switched from a triple to a double a few years back, and I found the hill at the end (over 11% grade for a bit) was killing my knee. I have since switched to a compact double, and have been parking and pedaling. My distances are below-

Normal route, 19.8 miles each way
Shorter route with a little "big road" riding (two lanes going each way, semi divided, but still has stop lights, etc, so not technically a highway) 16 miles each way.
Park and ride option 2- 11.9 miles each way
Park and ride option 1- 6 miles each way.

So last year I started at the 19.8 each way, and it was killing me, combine that with the apprehension about the hill with the wrong gearing, and I basically created a cop out. Now that I'm back to it, I'm really enjoying it. I've only had 3 trips so far this year, but that's been in a little over 2 weeks, so I'm def on the right track. I'd like to build up to doing the whole ride for a week by the end of summer. I think it's doable, feel great today did the 11.9 in, and since my daughter needs the car from where I parked it, I'll be getting the 19ish on the way home, depending on what route I randomly pick.

Loving being back to it! Just wanted to share!

Joe

It's a rough road being that long. Since last year my commute is 26 miles. Most days it's OK, some days it kicks my butt. Yesterday was one of the latter. I was out of steam with 10 miles left to go. I always make it but sometimes it's rough.

As a side note it's interesting that you say your boss and manager are "supportive of my goals" - I know what you mean but it's kind of interesting that work would care how you get there. It does require some accommodation for that long a ride though. Happily after a few months of me riding without showers, they put in a gym and showers at work.

Some kind of pedal-assist eBike might be ideal for your situation. Make short work out of that hill. That's for sure.

go, Go, GO!

Well, I meant that recently when bike to work day was coming up, my boss stopped over and asked "So, you know bike to work day is this week, are you planning on doing that?" I said I wasn't sure (Allergies were kicking my ass that day), he said "Well, if you do, best of luck with it, and have a safe trip. I think it's awesome". That's always a cool thing to hear.

Joe

Thanks for the words of encouragement. If the weather holds out I plan to do my first full commute tomorrow. We will see....

Joe

So, ride in was 20.1 miles, took the longer less traveled route, as opposed to a little stretch of a busier road. Felt great coming in, now to see what the ride home brings. :)

Joe