I used to commute to work/class by bike almost all the time in college. That was a few years ago, and I've been wanting a new bike for a while. I recently bought a Trek 7.1 FX for general duty.

Since then I've outfitted it with a taillight, headlight, lock, mirror and rack. In fact, here's a pic.



I don't have a computer, but I think the trip is 4-5 miles one way. I've been doing a decent amount of riding, so this is doable. I've also ridden that far pretty easily, just not to my office. About 70% will be on bike paths and the last 25% on roads.

I haven't scoped out a good locking location yet, so I'll have to find that tomorrow.

Good luck, you will do fine. My wife did her first commute today, about six miles on a similar bike and bike path route. It went well for her and she hasnt been riding hardly at all. If you find you like it, you might consider some fenders if you are in a rainy area. I used to hate the thought of them, but after commuting for 2 years now, I kinda like the look of them. lol.

Good luck - nice looking ride too. Make sure to post back and let us know how it went,

First ride to work completed successfully.



Here's my bike parked outside the Kansas Capitol, where I work.

It turned out to be easier than I thought. I was a little concerned about some of the busy roads near the Statehouse, but I found a route that worked really well.

Nice work, Stephen! Just wanted to mention that I also own the Trek 7.1 FX, which I use for semi-long distance riding. It's a really nice bike; like it a lot. Good luck with your future commutes.

Awesome!! Today was my first commute also and it was fun. I'll be making some adjustments but looking forward to the ride home

I have a Trek 7.3 FX, which I've used for commuting for the last year or so. My commute is a bit longer than yours (17+ miles each way, depending on the exact route I take).

Fenders are essential if you intend to commute regularly. Here in the northeast, it can rain pretty much any time. You'll be much more comfortable (and cleaner) on a bike with fenders. The Trek FX has lots of clearance for fenders. I recommend Planet Bike hardcore/freddy fenders with mudflaps.

I've recently acquired a Surly Cross Check, which is probably going to supplant the FX for most things, but the FX has served me well. If my commute were shorter, I might well have kept using it.