Bike Commuting Thesis: Survey
 

Hi folks,

I posted about three weeks ago in regards to finding Boston-specific commuters to interview for my senior thesis design project. While this did help me a lot (thanks to all who responded), I have some more general questions that are not area-specific, and more about equipment. Now I have developed this series of questions to be asked in an oral interview, so it is quite lengthy (takes a lot less time to do orally). Since it is quite lengthy I understand most won't want to take the time to fill it all out, so I would love for people to fill out whatever they want, as any information will help me (or if you are REALLY bored at work you could do them all!). Thanks!

-Ryan

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?

2) How often do you commute by bike?

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?

4) How far is your commute?

5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?

8) Approximately how much was it?

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?

12) How long have you been riding a bike?

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?

23) Was the bike locked properly?

24) Was the lock cut/broken?

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?

Good for environment, good for my health, cheaper than driving.

2) How often do you commute by bike?

Every single day

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?

Roger that

4) How far is your commute?

Just went from 15.5 miles to 18 miles (guesstimate).

5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?

We own a car, it is my wife's. I rarely drive it. If I need to get home REALLY quick then I'll take it. Once in a blue moon. For instance, I have to help friends move tomorrow, and they live 35 miles from me. I'm alone with the kiddo, so I'll drive up there to decrease the suffering on both the kiddo and myself ;)

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?

Most definitely.

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?

Surly Crosscheck set up Single Speed with flat bars and a rack. I also use a '91 Cannondale road bike occasionally.

8) Approximately how much was it?

$600 used.

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?

The Crosscheck because of the geometry and material. I like the feel of steel, I like the way the cyclocross geometry handles and my position on it. I also picked the Crosscheck because it has fender and rack eyelets, and horizontal drops on the rear wheel for easy single speed, fixed gear or internally geared hub setup. I ride a singlespeed because it's very flat where I live, and I like the low hassle of the system. I have no need for additional gearing.

I ride my road bike when I want to take the long route after work and I don't have much to carry. Occasionally when I have to travel to hillier places I use it combined with the trailer because it has more gear options. It's a fun bike to ride because it's so responsive and quick.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?

Yes.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?

I just sold my mountain bike (I love to ride singletrack) but I ride both my Surly and my Cannondale for recreational riding.

12) How long have you been riding a bike?

As far back as I can remember! Bikes were the way to get around for kids under 16, and everyone had one and went everywhere on it. I got into MTB racing when I was 14, and did some track racing at about age 15. I rode for pleasure up to college, when I took up riding for commuting as well.

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?

Rack, panniers and fenders. I also value these things for touring, but they are mainly there to ease my commuting burden! Similarly for my headlight.

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)

Oh yes. I'm piecing together a dynohub build and a flip-flop, single speed specific wheel for my commuter bike. I'm also purchasing a Wald 8095 bar. Appropriate commuting clothing is always something I am interested in.

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?

Every few days I wipe the chain down and re-lube. Every weekend I do the brake cables and brake pivots, too, and any minor adjustments. Once a year or year and a half I like to re-pack all my bearings like headset and hubs. Bottom bracket is replaced as needed. At the 1 or 1.5 year mark I also like to make sure my bolts and screws aren't corroded, replace those if need be and grease all of them again for weather protection. I replace cables as need be, and pads as need be, and chains as need be.

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?

Yes.

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?

My panniers hold my allens, my phillips head, my tire levers, patch kit, extra tube, chain tool and extra chain links.

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?

cycling clothes

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?

Yes.

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?

Extra shoes and belt. I carry the day's clothes with me.

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?

9 hours.

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?

No.

23) Was the bike locked properly?

N/A

24) Was the lock cut/broken?

N/A

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?

I actually am satisfied, mostly. I feel like there are enough companies that recognize the profits are worth it to be in the commuter market, even if only somewhat, that they produce products for us. Realistically we're just people who ride our bikes twice a day, every day, often at distances a little less than your typical recreational roadie or long-distance rider. There are plenty of products that fit that specific need, and it is a competitive market so the products are always improving.

However, it is a niche market, so it can be tough to get hands on the appropriate parts. I often find myself asking if I should wait 5 days for the $5 + shipping BMX chain that is really the best deal or if I should just go get the $20 SRAM chain today and get it over with. More often than not I spring for the immediate relief so I can keep riding.

It's like foreign autos in America...it can be incredibly hard to get the parts you need immediately while the American autos can be fixed in 10 minutes at any shop. I wish there were shops that had more to offer me...I don't need a $100 stem or a $80 chain or a $60 seatpost.


26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?

Lots is comfort. People like getting into warm/cool cars depending on the season and not having to work to get home. They are impatient and like getting places as quickly as possible. It's really their own attitude that keeps them from doing it.

Everything they need is available.

I do think cost is somewhat preventative. They realize the long-term costs are good, but the startup is discouraging. Spending $500 on a bike (minimum) and then a couple hundred more to outfit it appropriately (lighting, fenders, rack, panniers, clothing, helmet, tools, etc...) is daunting. Credit cards and other sources of financing put it into the realm of automobiles in terms of startup, but nobody is going to get rid of their car on day 1. So, then they have dual costs until they work out the bugs and some return is realized.

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
I started becasue I needed to lose some weight but I lacked the time to go to the gym to work out.

2) How often do you commute by bike?
I typically ride 5 days a week most weeks.

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
Usually. About the only weather I avoid is severe thunderstorms becasue of the lightning and very windy days 25 mph + winds I think that is dangerous to ride in.

4) How far is your commute?
15 miles each way

5) Do you drive a car?
Yes
If so, how often?
Before I started commuting every day. Now maybe once every 2 weeks.

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
Yes

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
I have a road bike and a mountain bike that I use

8) Approximately how much was it?
Road bike 600 mountain bike 800

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
I find that the road bike is faster for me to ride on the roads. I use my mountian bike for snowy days.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Yes, I ride with my family for recreation and running errands.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
My mountain bike. It is better built to hop curbs and ride the single track that is close to where I live.

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
I rode as a kid up until the end of highschool. I started riding again 2 years ago to commute.

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
Lights, Rack, Panniers, and a trunk

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
So far I am happy with what is available to me.

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
I give my bike a weelky cleaning and overall check up.

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Yes, Tube, Patches, multi tool tire pump.

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
I carry my work clothes and my lunch.
How do you carry it?
Put in the trunk or panniers

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
I prefer to ride in cycling clothes.

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
Yes

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
Yes

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
I am able to park my bike in my cubicle

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
No

23) Was the bike locked properly?
N/A

24) Was the lock cut/broken?
N/A

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
For the most part I am happy with what is out there.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
Distance, break downs, possible assults, poor route ie not comfortable riding around lots of cars or rude drivers. percieved extra time it may take to ride to work.

1) What motivates you to commute by bike? fitness and fun

2) How often do you commute by bike? 5 to 6 days a week

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather? no, I won't ride if there's either hail or extremely high winds

4) How far is your commute? about 16km each way

5) Do you drive a car? no, never bothered to learn
If so, how often? n/a

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips? I don't drive but the answer is probably yes as most daily/weekly tasks can be done by bike, if not, then I'll ask for help/hire a vehicle and driver

7) What kind of bike do you commute with? cyclocross with disc brakes - rim brakes suck!

8) Approximately how much was it? expensive

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do? it's extremely versatile (useful for commuting, touring, cyclocross, training, racing, off road, etc), it doesn't have the multiple disadvantages of rim brakes, it's fast handling and, with the right tyres, makes the ride a real pleasure

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting? yes

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding? full suspension mountain bike with disc brakes, rigid single sped mountain bike with disc brakes, cyclocross bike with disc brakes, fixed gear bike with disc brakes

12) How long have you been riding a bike? since I was about 4 years old (almost 30 years)

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically? large backpack, lights, reflective ankle/arm/helmet straps, lock

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist) full mudguards that never get in the way and never rattle but only when it's really wet

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike? weekly to bi-weekly, clean and basic check up

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs? 2 spare tubes, 3 tyre levers, full frame fit pump (no crap mini pumps), saddle bag, leatherman, chain tool, bike specific multitool, mobile phone, I.D., cash

17) What do you carry with you on your commute? 2 spare tubes, 3 tyre levers, full frame fit pump (no crap mini pumps), saddle bag, leatherman, chain tool, bike specific multitool, mobile phone, cash, backpack, work clothes (if not already left at work), work shoes, gym clothes and shoes, shower kit and toiletries, reflective straps, lights, lock

How do you carry it? backpack (lowe alpine contour mountain 45 - to be replaced by a tad gear patrol pack)

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes? cycling clothes

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work? no, carry them with me

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work? dry cleaned clothes (2-3 trousers, 5 shirts) but not shoes

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day? 12 hours but never on the street

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen? yes, from an outdoor detached garage at home not work

23) Was the bike locked properly? no, but was in a locked garage

24) Was the lock cut/broken? n/a

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters? The commuter market is in a very good, diverse and growing state. Yes, I'm satisfied. Any cycle can be used and there are many styles of commuting from people in full cycling gear on road racing bikes, people in shorts and t-shirts on mounatin bikes, even some with full face/full body armor on full suspension and, finally, people in work clothes who ride sit up and beg bikes 500metres

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting? A program called "The woman who stops traffic" (http://www.channel4.com/lifestyle/gr...stops_traffic/) came across the comment that "if there was less traffic I'd drive less" most often.

It seems to come down to fear, prejudice and social stigma (which is quite funny as the wealthier you are the more likely you are to cycle and understand the health benefits, at least in the UK). The "woman who stops traffic" program is available free here (http://www.channel4.com/4od/index.html) if you can find a UK proxy or UK computer.

People not commuting by bicycle has absolutely nothing to do with:
- bicycle lanes (which are a complete waste of public money and dangerous as well - cf. door prize, hooking, multiple crushing fatalities at junctions, etc.)
- public transport availability (although banning all bicycles from trains/buses can have a negative impact)
- traffic density (as demonstrated by beijing, paris, london and new york)
- clothing/fashion/equipment (as demonstrated by the same cities)
- subsidies and fines (it took bombings on public transport to get a rapid increase of people on bicycles in london inspite of high public transport costs, congestion charges for cars and some companies offering government subsidies for bicycle purchase intended for commuting)

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
Too lazy to drive, only way to get exercise, save wear and tear on car.

2) How often do you commute by bike?
Every workday

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
Of course. I'm not going to drive my car in salt spray, for example.

4) How far is your commute?
10 miles

5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?
Every weekend.

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
Yes

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
German Kettler commuter bike

8) Approximately how much was it?
About $1,200

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
It is the most convenient type of bike to use.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Errands.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
Same bike.

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
About 50 years

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
The bike came with a bottle dynamo; I converted to a hub dynamo.

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
I don't like accessories. I think everything should be built in, as on a modern car.

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
I take it to the shop about four times per year.

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
No.

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?
Rain gear and a U-lock on the rack.

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Work clothes.

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
No.

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
No.

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
Never.

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
No.

23) Was the bike locked properly?
NA

24) Was the lock cut/broken?
NA

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
It used to be terrible. You had to import bikes from Germany or Holland. Now, it's gotten much better.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
Insufficient road congestion, too many parking spaces, lack of suitable bikes with fenders, chainguard, lights, etc.

Paul

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
I've always liked human-powered transportation. Before I started riding, I commuted by skateboard for over 15 years.
2) How often do you commute by bike?
Three days a week.
3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
Yes
4) How far is your commute?
45-50 miles, round-trip
5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?
Yes. Twice a week.
6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
Yes
7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
1983 Austro-Diamler Mixte, road bike
8) Approximately how much was it?
$35 at a flea market
9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
I'm more comfortable on a road bike than a MTB
10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Yes
11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
Beach cruiser — riding with my kids around the neighborhood and local errands.
Specialized MTB - geocaching and camping.
Customized road bike with baskets and a home-built trailer - trips to the grocery store.
12) How long have you been riding a bike?
Three years
13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
Home-made panniers, two headlights, three taillights, speedometer w/temperature
14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
An affordable touring bike.
15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
At least once a week. Sometimes more often.
16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Yes
17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?
Sometimes lunch. Sometimes clothing. Always coffee and extra water.
18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Cycling clothes.
19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
Yes
20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
Yes
21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
Never. It's parked next to my desk.
22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
No.
23) Was the bike locked properly?

24) Was the lock cut/broken?

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
Not exactly. Bike manufacturers seem to think that all commuters want a heavy, upright rig for commuting. Most road frames are not built to accommodate panniers.
26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
Laziness and lack of confidence. People regularly tell me about how they "would" commute by bike, "but..."

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
I enjoy cycling
2) How often do you commute by bike?
2-4 days per week
3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
No - drivers get very sketchy in heavy rain
4) How far is your commute?
1.5 miles, one way
5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?
Yes, as often as needed (not a philosophical/political issue for me)
6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
Yes - I limit driving by biking when possible
7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
1974 Schwinn Speedster 3 speed
8) Approximately how much was it?
$100 from Craigslist
9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
Easy to maintain, semi-bulletproof, comfortable, perfect city commuter
10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Yup
11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
1976 Raleigh Super Course 10 speed, soon will have a 2004 Surly LHT
12) How long have you been riding a bike?
Regularly (commuting) for about 6 years
13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
Not much, bike has installed hub-generator powered lighting
14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
Nope
15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
Tires get air when needed
16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Yup - pump, patch kit
17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?
Some tools, stuff listed above, work stuff. Tools and repair stuff in handlebar bag, work stuff either in basket or strapped to rear rack
18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Work clothes (slacks, shirt, tie)
19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
In the summer (deodorant)
20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
In the summer, during rain
21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
8 hours (sort of) locked up in building garage
22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
Yes
23) Was the bike locked properly?
No - left in locked pick up truck under camper shell over night
24) Was the lock cut/broken?
No - rear of shell was pried open but no damage was done
25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
There is sufficient products if people focused on utility rather than other issues
26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
Perception

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
It's fun exercise, and saves $.

2) How often do you commute by bike?
Except in winter 3-5 days/week

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
Not in snow or ice.

4) How far is your commute?
3 miles one way

5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?
The times I"m not biking.


6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
I don't understand this question.

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
Cruiser - 8 speed


8) Approximately how much was it?
$500


9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
It's fun. I feel safe on it.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Yes.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
Same one.

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
10 months

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
Paniers

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
No

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
Check over monthly

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Yes

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?
Water, Tools, Poncho, Computer, Phone

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Work clothes

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
Yes

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
Clothes for emergencies

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
10 hours

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
No

23) Was the bike locked properly?

24) Was the lock cut/broken?

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?

Exercise, fun, saving money on gas, an excuse to purchase more cycling gear, and little bit in helping the environment.

3 days a week. I have a few training rides and the occasional group ride that I need to recover from.

Most weather unless I am not feeling up to it or I feel that my safety will be compromised.

56 miles RT in summer. 20 miles RT in winter.

Yes, my expensive bike rack.

Once a week in summer. Every other day in winter.


Yes

A fixed gear road bike.

$600 ish

Better workout. Less maintenance. Hopefully, less likely to be stolen. You can not stop pedaling. No freehub.

Yes

The same bike plus a mountain bike and a CF racing bike.

Since I was four. For commuting three year or so.

Too many to list. Bike computer, messenger bag, lights, tools, pumps, etc

Does anything made by assos count? I do not have much of an imagination. Maybe an airzound.

Just about every week I am working on one of my bikes.

Yes

Pump, tire irons, multi tool, patch kit, and a spare tube. In my messenger bag or saddle bag.

Whatever I feel like but mostly cycling clothes.

Yes

Yes

0 hours

As a kid and a teenager, yes.

No

n/a

I am some odd form of an aspiring long distance rider \ roadie. What I need is in the market in some form or the other.

Motorists and traffic. Mainly the fear of being hit and injured or killed. Plus, most members of society are sheep. We do what everyone else does simply for the fact that everyone else does it. It takes work to think outside of the box.

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
Forces me to ride my bike which I love to do but having a purpose in doing it makes it alot easier to stay motivated.
2) How often do you commute by bike?
Three days a week

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
No. I lately have avoided days with extreme lightning storms.

4) How far is your commute?
If I cut it short 42 miles
5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?
Yes. Twice a week
6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
Yes

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
Early 90s Merlin Road Bike

8) Approximately how much was it?
900
9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
Comfort

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Yes
11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
For heavy shopping I'll ride a Touring bike with an Xtracycle on it
12) How long have you been riding a bike?
For transportation on and off for over 20 years

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
None. If it I use it on my commute I bring it everytime I ride

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
No. I've spent far too much already
15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
Minimal maintenance at least weekly

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Yes

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?
Clothes for work, clothes for the ride home
Backpack
18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Cycling Clothes
19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
Yes
20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
Yes
21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
At least 10 hours in an underground parking lot.
22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
No
23) Was the bike locked properly?
N/A
24) Was the lock cut/broken?
N/A
25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
There seems to only be cheap throwaway and way expensive long lasting accessories. It is hard to find something in the middle.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
Status and fear of ridicule. If they get past that fear of traffic, lost time to bicycle commuting, bad weather, breakdown.

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
I've been bicycle commuting all my life since 2nd grade. Going to work by car feels bizarre, kind of like I don't exist.

2) How often do you commute by bike?
Every day.

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
Ice on hills I walk around, tornados and hurricanes I avoid.

4) How far is your commute?
3 miles now each way. In the past it's been as long as 17 each way.

5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?
Yes, when I travel on business, or take long trips.

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
No. I do my local chores and trips by bike.

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
17 year old Specialized Hard Rock modified with fenders, racks, lights, street tires.
I've commuted on a number of bikes including a Bianchi Eros and my favorite American Eagle/Nishiki 10 speed that is 35 years old.

8) Approximately how much was it?
The Hard Rock was free, but I had to pay for the fenders, tires etc. I swapped a load of wood for the American Eagle/Nishiki.

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
The Nishiki was great for California, the Hard Rock is good because west Little Rock is nothing but hills and the streets are not well paved, so a mountain bike is a good choice.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Yes, I do all my errands and shopping as well as recreational riding.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
American Eagle/Nishiki, Giant Stiletto Chopper for parades, Bacchetta Giro 20 recumbent.

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
48 years

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
Lights, Racks, Fenders

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
It is the infrastructure that needs to be improved, not the accessories

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
Check it constantly as I ride. Perform maintenance as needed.

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Pump, tire irons, patch kit.

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?
It varies. Depending on the weather and what is happening at work. In my pack.

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Casual Work clothes, keep dressy work clothes in file cabinet

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
Toothpaste, mouthwash and comb.

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
Yes.

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
Technically all day. But there are two people in the office total.

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
Several times, but not at work.

23) Was the bike locked properly?
As a kid, no. As an adult yes, with the exception of the time that it was stolen by two gangs simultaneously while I was riding it.

24) Was the lock cut/broken?
The chain was cut.

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
I'm not satisfied. Commuter bikes should vary specifically to match the commute, which changes with each person and in time with each person and each job. The real problems are not so much with the bike but with the infrastructure or complete lack thereof.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
Laziness, fear of traffic, perceived time to ride, dislike of exercise, no place to change clothes, weather, need to run errands after work, distance between work and home, need to arrive at work dressed to the nines with makeup perfectly done, poor health, they have a lot invested in the car and need to cost justify it. Lots of other reasons that don't spring to mind at the moment.

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
My fitness and not having to drive

2) How often do you commute by bike?
5 days a week

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
Yes

4) How far is your commute?
14.5 miles

5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?
Yes, twice a week on weekends

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
No

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
Road bikes

8) Approximately how much was it?
$150, $699, $2300

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
Commute is all paved roads and I want the speed road bikes can give

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Yes

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
Road bike

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
Commuting 1 year, riding a bike since I was 12(25 yrs ago)

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
Headlight, tail light, back pack, and larger seat bag

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
N/A

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
Once a week lube and clean the chain
Once a day check and air the tires

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Yes

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?
Frame pump, tube, patch kit, levers, multi-tool in the seat bag

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Cycling clothes

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
Yes

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
Yes

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
8 hours

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
Yes when I was kid

23) Was the bike locked properly?
Not locked at all

24) Was the lock cut/broken?
N/A

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
Yes

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
Time, the weather, fear of traffic, fear of pain, and/or lack of will to try

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
Parking is expensive; gas is expensive; I need the exercise; I like the fresh air

2) How often do you commute by bike?
Usually 5 days/week. I will make the occasional exception for various reasons, most having to do with timing.

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
Of course. OTOH, I live in Seattle, so "weather" pretty much just means rain. I only have to deal with ice or snow a couple of times a year at most.

4) How far is your commute?
Just over 14 miles each way. One big hill (2.5 miles) and 3 bridges/overpasses.

5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?
I have a full-sized van that gets driven mostly on weekends to go get groceries or other shopping.

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
Sometimes.

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
2006 Bacchetta Giro 20 (Short wheel base recumbent)

8) Approximately how much was it?
I paid $1,000 for the bike used. I've invested an additional $600 setting it up for serious commuting.

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
It's much more comfortable than the diamond frame (Giant Sedona) I was riding, and is much faster.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Of course. I do lots of pleasure riding in the summer. I'll do at least 1 and possibly 2 or 3 unsupported centuries this summer.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
I ride the same bike.

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
As an adult regular commuter? For about 2.5 years.

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
- Fenders
- Aero Trunk

Not asked, but these are accessories I would have on the bike anyway:
- Cycloputer with cadence
- Kickstand
- Power Grips
- Lots of lights (headlight, helmet-mounted headlight, helmet-mounted taillight, superblinkie taillight)
- bell
- AirZounds
- mirrors (one on each side of the bike and one helmet mounted)

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
- Rocket luncher
- Recoilless rifle
- NO2 boost

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
Weekly. I clean and lube the chain, check the air, rinse it off.

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Yes. My Aero Trunk is large enough that I can carry my entire bike toolkit with me. I can do everything from changing a tire to replacing a bottom bracket with that kit.

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?
- Food for the day
- Clothes for the day
- Phone
- PDA
- Towel
- Shampoo, soap, washcloth
- Extra socks
- Other weather-required items (i.e. this morning they said there was a chance of rain, so I've got my rain gear in the trunk)
- Workout clothes on Monday, Wednesday, Friday so I can do my upper-body strength workout at lunch
- Tools, tubes, etc.
- Whatever book I'm reading

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Depends on your definition of cycling clothes. This morning I was in a SmartWool base layer covered by sweats. I don't commute in my work clothes.

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
No

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
No

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
Not at all. I park it in the office area.

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
No

23) Was the bike locked properly?
N/A

24) Was the lock cut/broken?
N/A

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
Pretty much so. I think that there are lots of inferior products on the market, though. It's hard to find some things that will last more than 1 season.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
Everyone makes their own excuse, but they really boil down to the fact that they don't consider it worth the effort. Some will cite time constraints, others cost, and still others the "danger." Bunk. It's an investment in your own body's health, so you just have to decide it's worth it to you.

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
$, time, fitness, fun, way better than coffee (I don't drink coffee).
Note: not necessarily in that order.

2) How often do you commute by bike?
As often as possible. Almost every day during the spring, summer, and fall; less frequently during the winter (1-5 times a week).

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
See above. I'm hoping to in the near future but I'd need a snow/ice bike. For now snow, ice and heavy rain are about all that keeps me off the bike.

4) How far is your commute?
Too short at 2 miles.

5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?
I do. Once or twice a week. I have business that I have to take care of on a monthly basis that is 80 miles away. Otherwise I'll drive when going places that are too far to bike.

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
Yes. I do some grocery shopping and other errands on the bike. Hoping to go car free in the next year or two (Big Dummy!).

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
IRO Mark V, single speed. So simple.

8) Approximately how much was it?
Built myself from parts for the most part. Bike actually started out about 10 years ago as a complete junker late 80's or early 90's giant quasar road bike that I cobbled together from parts that I found around the shop I was working at, at the time. Broken a few frames and parts and made upgrades over the years, retail value probably around $1000-$1500 US.

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
Fast and simple. I was working at a shop when I built it up and I like not having to spend so much time working on my bike. I started upgrading when I got a decent job at a place that has secure bike parking.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Yes. Sometimes I ride for fun, and just for general transportation. I'll be buying a touring bike in the very near future which I plan on doing touring on and possibly commuting. I also have a full suspension mountain bike that I haven't ridden in a while (although I'd like to start up again).

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
See above.

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
Learned how to ride at age 6 (so 22 years) took a break in there when I had some knee problems in my early teens but otherwise I don't think I've gone a summer without getting on a bike at least once.

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
Commuting specifically? Pant clips. If i wasn't commuting I'd normally just wear shorts or bike pants.
Things I have on my bike at almost all times:
Full fenders
Lights (rear blinky, front LED, battery pack LED (for situations where I need to see).

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
A rack, but it's a little hard to mount on my current bike as it doesn't have braze-ons.

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
Once a week I lube the chain air tires when they need it. Otherwise whenever I notice it needs something.


16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Tube, patch kit, allen wrenches, short adjustable wrench, pump, mini chain tool, and tire levers.

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?
Change of shirt, sometimes shoes, sometimes, lunch, whatever else happens to be in my bag.
Chrome backpack, medium size.

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Work pants, cycling jacket and shirt.

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
Nope.

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
Work shoes.

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
8.5-9 hours.

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
No (crosses fingers).

23) Was the bike locked properly?
n/a

24) Was the lock cut/broken?
n/a

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
I think the market for commuter items has gotten a lot better in the last few years although I think it could get better still.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
Fear of an accident is one of the big ones. Cars are mean.
Some people probably just think they can't.
General misconceptions about cycling and a lack of desire to ride a bike in the first place (although these people probably don't fit into the category of "potential commuters").
Length of commute. I think most people who have a commute over about 10 miles probably wouldn't consider riding a bike.

Good luck with the thesis!

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
With a baby, money and free time are limited. This is a hobby I can maintain, and my substitute for a gym membership. My commute time on the bike is almost the same as on the subway, so this is total no loss fun/exercise time; that is, it does not take away from any more important commitments.

2) How often do you commute by bike?
Average 3 days a week in warmer weather, 1 day a week in Winter.

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
No, but I'll take "bad" weather as a challenge some days, and ride just because.

4) How far is your commute?
11 miles one way

5) Do you drive a car? -yes
If so, how often? -Never to work; the subway is my other method of transportation. I do have a car, which I drive for trips to Target, or to get out of town.

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
Rarely. I have done some grocery shopping by bike, but this is in place of walking, rather than driving.

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
A Schwinn Mesa mountain bike, converted to a serious commuter piece-by-piece.

8) Approximately how much was it?
$230 for the bike + much more in upgrades and accessories.

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
Initially, I began converting it from a mountain bike to be my alternate, sturdier commuter, to handle rough weather and roads in place of an the road bike I had bought specifically for the commute (for fear of theft of a better bike). After so many refinements though, it is my every day commuter, and it's ideal for my use. It can haul as much as I would need it to, and it can handle the rough streets I ride over.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Yes, quick rides on the weekends for fun.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
My commuter or my road bike.

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
Since I was 4 or 5. Riding to work? One year this April.

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
Lights, bell, rack, panniers, pump.

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
I need to stop buying bike accessories!

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
About once a week I'll clean the drive train and lube the chain, depending on the weather. The derailers and brakes get adjusted more or less monthly.

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Spare tube, patch kit, tire levers, pump, chain tool, multi-tool, and zip ties.

17) What do you carry with you on your commute? - Repair kit, work clothes, wallet, etc.
How do you carry it? - Everything in the pannier.

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
"Cycling" clothes, but for me this does not mean cycling-specific clothes. Just gym shorts, t-shirts, etc. The exception is SPD shoes.

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
Deodorant and hair gel.

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
I keep shoes and a belt at work all the time. I usually have pants and spare socks as well.

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
9 hours.

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
No.

23) Was the bike locked properly?
n/a

24) Was the lock cut/broken?
n/a

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
I am excited that it has grown so much since I started commuting by bike, in such a short time - Or is it just my awareness of the market? - Either way, it's looking up.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
Fear of bike theft is a big one. In big city apartment living, a place to keep a bike at home is also an issue. But that's only if they get past the fear of changing clothes and being sweaty at work.

Good luck!

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
Exercise, I love to ride, 18 miles along the beach is beautiful.

2) How often do you commute by bike?
Once or twice a week.

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
Nope. I skip the few rainy days.

4) How far is your commute?
25 miles each way. 9 of it each way along the beach. I love that.

5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?
I have a giant truck, the type you guys hate, but I don't drive it to work unless it's raining. I ride my motorcycle most of the time.

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
Sometimes, but not during the commute

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
2007 Motobecane Immortal Spirit I built up. It's a cf road bike, not a commuter specific ride.

8) Approximately how much was it?
$2400 with DA and Mavic Ksyriums

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
It's 50 miles round trip and I want to cover that with some speed. Buying a commuter bike didn't seem as practical as buying a road bike for what I wanted. Habit also.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
I ride for fun and exercise now. I spent eight years racing as a Cat 2 and three years as a messenger in both NYC and LA.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
I ride the same bike. I also ride the fixxie a lot and mountain bike occasionally.

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
Six months as a commuter, but I have been riding seriously since middle school. I think that makes almost 40 years.

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
- Denotte lights, front and rear
- Messenger bag

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
- Third leg
- computer
- small tactical nukes for those special drivers

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
As needed

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
- Multi tool
- 2-3 tubes and tire levers
- 2-3 CO2 cartridges
- micro pump

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?
- Food for the day, cause I like to eat
- Clothes for the day, cause I can't wear the kit at school
- Computer it does the work
- cell phone for work and emergencies
- any necessary work because I have to
- repair gear goes in a seat bag, everything else goes in the messenger bag

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
I ride in full kit.

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
No

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
Sometimes

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
Never, I keep it next to my desk.

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
Once long ago. But they left it at the other end of the bike rack when they realized it was a fixxie.

23) Was the bike locked properly?
Yes

24) Was the lock cut/broken?
They cut the lock.

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
There is a huge variety of products out there. I was surprised to find them all as I read through this forum.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
- Distance, at least in So Cal.
- traffic
- bad attitude of drivers towards cyclists
- smell factor due to lack of facilities to clean and change clothes.
- time factor

1) What motivates you to commute by bike? - Concern for others about Peak Oil and auto dependence among those I know

2) How often do you commute by bike? 3 times a week on average

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather? No, winds of 20mph or more and I don't bother.

4) How far is your commute? 7 miles

5) Do you drive a car? When needed
If so, how often? Varies wildly. On a good week, once (because I need to drive my grandmother to the store etc). Weather and other emergencies drive this number up; right now I am not bike commuting because my hand is recovering from a serious injury, and I cannot ride any significant distance without either a comfort bike/semirecumbent/crankforward, a recumbent, or attempting my commute on my unicycle. I haven't braved the hill on my unicycle yet, and I don't yet have either of the other two yet.

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips? Yes, when my hand is not injured, I do not normally need a car for any of my normal chores. I do carpool to another city 50 miles each way to visit my brother and his kids once a week; my stepmother is forced to make that commute by car (is helping mer work with the bus company here on new schedules) and is happy to have someone to carpool with.

7) What kind of bike do you commute with? A Schwinn steel non-suspension mountain bike with an extracycle

8) Approximately how much was it? A gift from my father

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do? I liked it more than the other gift bikes available to me

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting? Chores, general transport.. For fun, I ride a unicycle.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding? Unicycle (for recreation and exercize)

12) How long have you been riding a bike? Six months, not counting childhood riding

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically? Headlights, taillights, high visibility vest, mirror

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist) Streamlining/windshell, to deal with headwinds.

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike? Daily chain wipedown, otherwise? take it into the shop every few months.

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs? Yes; allen wrenches, spare tube, pump, pedal wrench.

17) What do you carry with you on your commute? Supplies, lunch
How do you carry it? Extracycle panniers

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes? Neither; Black warm cycling tights, insulated poly undergarment, polypro wicking shirt (not cycling-specific), jacket, polarfleece hat, normal shoes; heavy socks. Non-cycling-specific cold-weather clothes.

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work? Not being female, i'm not sure what you're asking here..? Presumably no?

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work? Yes

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day? 8 hours

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen? No

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?

Bikes aren't really designed for commuters. They work, but they could be much better; i'd much rather ride something like a crank-forward with Xtracycle-style panniers and DOT-approved lights and reflectors, maybe with a 7-speed internal hub and another internal gearing hub in the crank housing, to allow for a chain cover to protect my pantleg while giving me the huge gear range I need for dealing with terrain that is in no way flat.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?

Inability to visualize it as a practical option. In an online conference given by Brent Zenobia at Portland State U 's CTS on Jan 18, he spoke of people dismissing and being prejudiced against a transportation method if they were unable to justify it as a practical transport method because of their perceptions of its limitations making it indefensible; bicycling is not perceived as practical because its limitations and abilities are not well understood, and the rarity of biking makes it perceived as an anomaly.

Furthermore, bikes that are available are poorly designed for the new user; when I speak to others I know, complaints about saddles and wrist pain are top on the list of reasons to not ride, even beating out cold weather in midwinter in Alaska in many cases! If I could give someone a recumbent or semirecumbent with a comfortable seat, I could have gotten more than one person to try switching from cars to ride bikes in -10f weather, but I do not know if I will be able to convince them to ride in 70f sunny clear weather on a standard bike.

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
Health,save money,help the planet

2) How often do you commute by bike?
Every day

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
Yes.

4) How far is your commute?
36kms one-way

5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?
No

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
Yes

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
I ride Raleigh and CCM 3 and 5speeds in hte summer and a generic x-mart mtn bike for the winter.

8) Approximately how much was it?
They were all free

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
They are more comfortable to ride.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Yes,I ride everywhere

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
Same .

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
43 years

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
Light,bell.

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
N/A

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
With the 3 and 5speeds i do neccesary work in the spring.For the winter bike,I clean and oil the chaim,derailleurs,and cables every day.

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Yes

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?
I carry tube patch kit,air pump,adjustable wrench,and a small phillips and robertson screwdrivers in a small back-pack.
18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Work clothes.

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
No.

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
For emergencies.In case I get soaked or have a spill and rip something(clothing)

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
Sits in the loading bay for the day.

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
Yes

23) Was the bike locked properly?
Yes

24) Was the lock cut/broken?
Lock was cut with bolt cutters.

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
I don't go in for all the accessories people think they need to commute.People like to accessorize.It makes them feel like they are a hard-core biker.You gotta "look the part" or people won't take you seriously.All you really need is a bike and the want to ride it.It doesn't have to be a high-dollar alum-titanium road rocket.It can be whatever bike you want(I prefer the old Raleigh and CCM 3speeds for the more relaxed seating position).You don't have to wear the "super hero" garb.(I know riders that have spent more on their fancy goggles,helmet,and lycra than I've spent on the bike I'm riding AND they're not signifiganmtly faster than I am).It's not the accessories,it's the motor you gotta pay attention to

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
Mostly what I've said above.People feel they have to spend $1000 or better to get into the sport seriously.And to be honest,not everyone feels that comfortable about their body to put on Lycra.
That and people are just too complacent about the use of their automobile.I figure if you don't have to transport bulky stuff,and distance is under 50km,there IS NO EXCUSE for not considering using the bike.People are lazy and need to get off their FAT LAZY A#$ES.

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
Make car last longer. Enjoy the fresh air, and feel more connection to the weather and nature. Exersize.

2) How often do you commute by bike?
Work days - 4 days a week.

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
Yup

4) How far is your commute?
2.25 miles

5) Do you drive a car? If so, how often?
Yup. 3 days a week, on my days off.

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
I do chores on my days off, when I'm driving.

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
"Flat bar road bike"

8) Approximately how much was it?
$350

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
Ease of control and efficiency.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Rarely, at this time. Much more in previous years.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
"Mountain" bike and "touring" bike

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
Since 1976, off and on. Continuously since 1994.

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
Lights, rear view mirror, reflectors. Side baskets.

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
More lights, more mirrors, more reflectors. Better side and rack baskets.

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
Lubricate chain every month or two. New rear tire yearly. New chain and cassette every 2-3 years. New wheel every 2-3 years.

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Common tire repair kit. Brake adjustment tools.

17) What do you carry with you on your commute? How do you carry it?
Books, clothes, food, etc. Side baskets.

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Athletic clothes

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
Yup

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
12-16 hours. (indoors)

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
Not from work. (I've always worked on university campuses, and usually take it indoors.)

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?

No, but it's natural because we're a minority. The gearing is far too high on most bikes (racing gears) for commuting, most have no dirt and water resistance, and fenders and plenty of mounting points for accessories should be standard.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?

Convenience and time, mostly. Professional image, secondly. Cleanliness, security and safety, as well.

Best wishes on your survey. We need better equipment that can hold up longer. Bike frames should have Hi-vis paint/stuff put on at the factory. Helmets should have 360 degree vis. Pants same. Maybe that's too much to ask.

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
Faster and more flexible than the bus or walking.

2) How often do you commute by bike?
Every work day.

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
Yes.

4) How far is your commute?
All the way. :) Multiple locations from 1.5 to 4.5 miles each way, and up to 20 miles more if I decide to take the long way.

5) Do you drive a car?
No. Don't own a car.

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
It replaces them entirely.

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
2006 Trek Portland road bike

8) Approximately how much was it?
$1,650 list, plus $500 in lights, $300 in rack, fenders, cyclometer and upgrades, another $400 for the winter wheelset and studded snow tires.

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
I prefer road bikes. They go fast. Easily.

10) Do you ride a bike other than for commuting?
Yes.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
Y2K Trek 1000 road bike, sometimes the Portland

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
Two years.

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
Although I use it for other rides too, the only thing I bought specifically for commuting was a trunk bag. All other accessories are used for all rides.

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
Can't think of any.

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
As required. Can be daily in the winter, weekly in the nice weather.

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Pump, tube, patch kit, tire levers, multi tool with chain tool, “missing link”, $20 for cab, bus or phone

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
Lunch, snacks, work clothes, anything required for errands going to or from (library books, etc)

How do you carry it?
Usually in the trunk bag, or in the grocery panniers if I'm planning to grocery shop on the way home.

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Depends on which location and which season. In the summer, always cycling clothes. In the winter, work clothes to the two closest locations, cycling clothes to the furthest. Spring and fall, whatever works.

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work?
No.

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
Keep my shoes there, and in the summer keep my pants there too.

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
Hardly ever. It's indoors in a staff workroom at two locations, locked just outside the door in full view of the receptionist at the third.

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
Only from my own basement.

23) Was the bike locked properly?
It was in a locked room in a locked basement, but no, the bike itself wasn't locked.

24) Was the lock cut/broken?
The door was broken in.

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
There seems to be something for everyone, and there's nothing else that I need.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
Inertia, air conditioning, inappropriate hairstyles and clothing, social conditioning/peer pressure, poor lifestyle choices (working too far from home).

1) What motivates you to commute by bike?
Driving my car puts me in a bad mood.

2) How often do you commute by bike?
I aimed for 80% commuting last year and did 83%. This year I'm aiming for 85%.

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather?
Temps don't matter. Wind/rain don't matter. I don't currently do ice/snow. Commuter with wider tires will mean I only don't do ice. Lightning/hail will stop me, but I usually wait out the storm and then just get wet.

4) How far is your commute?
10 miles.

5) Do you drive a car?
If so, how often?
Work related: As little as possible. Once every week or two
Other errands: usually I drive due to wearing cycling clothes, locking up the bike, shoes w/ cleats, etc., but I am changing over to more cycling.

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips?
Yes? not sure I understood the question

7) What kind of bike do you commute with?
1 of 2 geared road bikes now. Road geometry ss/fg commuter soon.

8) Approximately how much was it?
$1000 used and $3500 new.

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do?
That's what I use for my other riding.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting?
Yep, hence the answer to #9.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding?
Same.

12) How long have you been riding a bike?
6 years 'this time around' (after many years of not riding).

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically?
Very few. Lights when needed (1 tail, 2 or 3 head/helmet).

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)
Nope. I prefer minimalist approach.

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike?
As little as needed. I tend towards less-frequent but thorough cleaning/maintenance rather than regular quick cleaning.

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs?
Spare tube/CO2 and a multi-tool only.

17) What do you carry with you on your commute?
How do you carry it?
Most of my daily office needs (clothes, lunch, etc.) are kept at the office. I do carry a laptop in a briefcase a couple times a week. I may replace my briefcase with a laptop friendly backpack.

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes?
Cycling clothes, always. I often add training or group ride miles before or after my commute.

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at work?
Yes. No shower available, but I do keep liquid soap, washclothes, etc. under a sink in the men's room. I also keep first aid and other supplies.

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work?
About 2 weeks worth and I have access to coin-op washer/dryer thanks to apartments upstairs.

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day?
It is right behind my desk.

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen?
As pertains to this survey, no... But my primary bike was stolen back in college.

23) Was the bike locked properly?
No. It was next to a very large and scary looking dog, who was very much not scary.

24) Was the lock cut/broken?
n/a

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters?
I am in the market for a commuter specific bike to use instead of my road bikes. I was shocked and elated to find out how wide the range of choices are.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential commuters from commuting?
The only factor that keeps potential commuters from commuting is not giving it an honest, thorough try. Any other 'factors' are merely excuses.

1) I enjoy riding my bike, dont have much time to exercise, I love the feeling of being able to transport myself relatively quickly by my own power. More of a side effect of riding in general, but I feel more motivated to be productive when I have ridden. It also wakes me up for my 8am class.

2) All week.

3) Pretty much. I try to stay away from tornado-creating weather though.

4) About 5 miles each way.

5) I have been driving my roommate's car to work for various reasons, although that will end soon.

6) Yes, although when I move into my own place, it will be my only form of transportation, as I dont own a car.

7) '89 Trek 520

8) $500 on ebay about 2 years ago

9) I ride a road bike for the normal reasons: More hand positions, increased efficiency, etc. I bought a touring model because I want to tour when I have a bit more time/money.

10) Yes, I ride recreationally.

11) I just ride the 520, although I have been thinking about getting a mountain bike and doing some trail riding.

12) I've been commuting for 2 years or so, but I learned how to ride a bike very young.

13) I have Arkel's The Bug, a Topeak Road Morph pump, a 'be seen' head light and a blinkie, fenders, cable lock.

14) A better headlight would be nice.

15) I dont really have a set schedule, I just fix/adjust things as they come up. I've been neglecting my chain/cassette lately because I will be replacing them soon.

16) I usually have a patch kit, extra tube, or both.

17) Everything goes in my backpack/pannier. I have another bag that attaches to the top of the rack, but I dont feel comfortable leaving it on my bike while I'm at school. I usually use it when I'm going to friend's houses and need to bring something.

18) School clothes and cycling clothes are pretty much the same for me. I dont own any jerseys or tights.

19) No, I take a shower before leaving and wipe off in the bathroom if I get sweaty.

20) No.

21) It varies. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays it is locked up for about 4 hours. Tuesdays I ride between classes so its only locked up for about 1.5 hours for each of my two classes that day. Thursday its locked up for about 7-8 hours.

22) No, but when I was younger my parent's bikes were stolen.

23) They were stolen from a garage type area without a garage door. I dont think they were locked.

24) n/a

25) My main issue is finding things locally. With some things I like to be able to check them out first hand before purchasing, but that's just not possible around here.

26) Worried about riding in the road with cars, time factor, having to worry about getting sweaty and such.

...

1) What motivates you to commute by bike? Personal health + fitness. Don't have to set aside "special time" for recreation bike rides or other physical fitness routines. It's just how I get to work. I like it.

2) How often do you commute by bike? Every work day unless I feel lousy (couple of days a year?) or if conditions outside are too hazardous to ride (extreme winds, powerful storm, horrible air pollution or particle pollution from firestorms (maybe 5 to 8 days a year).

3) Do you commute no matter what the weather? See #2 above.

4) How far is your commute? Shortest possible route = 14 mi roundtrip. I often ride a longer more pleasant route that is approximately 30 miles round trip (about 1 hour each way). My year round average is about 25 miles roundtrip.

5) Do you drive a car? Yes.
If so, how often? Once or twice a week, mainly on weekends to get away from the suburban megalopolis or to get to a distant part of the megalopolis.

6)Does your cycling supplement normal driving chores/trips? I walk or bike ride instead of driving for many nearby shopping trips.

7) What kind of bike do you commute with? Rivendell Atlantis

8) Approximately how much was it? Approximately $1500 in 2002 dollars. Many parts were from my "parts bin" or purchased at less than retail cost from non-retail sources.

9) Why do you use the type of bike you do? Very strong, rugged and reliable. This is one of the most heavy duty road bikes available. It is not a lightweight flimsy machine. Almost maintenance free, just clean and lube the chain once every 500 miles or so.

10) Do you ride a bike other then for commuting? Errands, chores several times a month. Once or twice a month take a scenic recreational ride or mountain bike ride.

11) What kind of bike do you ride for your other riding? A 30 yr old classic italian road bike or a mountain bike.

12) How long have you been riding a bike? 40+ years.

13) What accessories do you use for commuting specifically? Two LED flashlights for front lights, three bright blinkie lights for rear, reflective triangle on back of seat bag, reflective tape on fender, reflective vest and leg bands, rear view mirror.

14) Are there any accessories you would like? (That exist or don't exist)

15) How often do you perform maintenance on your bike? Chain cleaning about once every 2 or 3 weeks or after the chain is exposed to a lot of rain. Rear tire every 3000 miles. New chain every 1800 miles. Brake shoes once or twice a year.

16) Do you carry any supplies with you for repairs? Tube, patches, tire boot, pump, multitool, chain tool, spoke wrench.

17) What do you carry with you on your commute? Clothes for the workday. Couple of pieces of fruit for snacks.
How do you carry it? Carradice Longflap saddleback.

18) Do you ride to work in your work clothes, or cycling clothes? Cycling shorts or cycling short liners and baggy shorts, Keen sandals, wool socks, knee or leg warmers, whatever layers needed of non-cycling shirts to keep warm or cool.

19) Do you keep hygienic supplies at at work? Olive oil soap in a locker in company locker / shower room.

20) Do you keep extra clothes and shoes at work? I keep a pair of black work shoes at my desk. Keep a jacket or sweater at work. Somedays I leave the same pair of pants for several days in my locker in the locker room.

21) How long is your bike unattended during a given work day? It is stored in a company provided fully enclosed bicycle locker assigned to me. Very safe. Been using it for 8 years.

22) Have you ever had a bike stolen? no

23) Was the bike locked properly?

24) Was the lock cut/broken?

25) How do you feel about the general state of the commuter market today, are you satisfied with the products offered for commuters? Yes.

26) What factors do you feel keep potential (bike) commuters from (bike) commuting? Time, commitments before or after work, comfort, vanity, weather, safety.