Hello all,

In the spring, I will be starting a new commute, in the Naples, Italy area. I was wondering if you guys had some advice on how to prepare for this commute.

I currently ride 3mi (4.8km) one way, on a BSO. Its pretty much a straight shot, with some hills (150ft total climb, 3% grade, 17% max grade, according to veloroutes.org) I get between 12 and 15 mph... Sometimes I go the long way to avoid intersections.

My only issues thus far is headwinds, and simply not being warmed up.

My new commute is 16mi (26km) through some italian cities/villages. Completely different situation than I've ever been in. I'd like to commute via bike, since the commute via car ends up being 45 minutes one way, plus a toll charge each way, each day.

Any recommendations on how to prepare for this commute now, so I'll be able to do it when I get there?

Note: If I end up doing this commute, I will replace my BSO with something a little more proper.

i did similar miles for about 5 years, my only advice is that for the first month your going to feel very tired, but, stick with it.
get up in the morning atleast a hour before you leave to to fully wake up, allways get 8 hours sleep.
make sure your carrying a good set of tools [a chain tool is a must] and two spare tubes

Find a comfortable, functional bike that you enjoy riding... that's priority #1. A good bike specific multi-tool and a Gerber multi-tool is what I pack and both have served me well... I don't ever recall needing anything else to get by in an emergency. Some spare tubes, an air-pump, a patch kit, a few links of chain, a small sample of assorted sized nuts/bolts, a couple of hose clamps, maybe some nylon ties (I keep SS safety wire in my bag... never know when something needs to be wired down like a loose fender with a broken mount). I keep my tools and spares strapped in a waterproof bag under my rear rack at all times.