Scooby214

My first commute to work was Martin Luther King Day 2011. It was a trial ride on a day off, with backpack loaded, route planned, and butterflies in the stomach. I had only been cycling for a few months, and was riding side streets for the most part. I hadn't done any significant riding in traffic, but I was able to plan out a route that had me riding through quiet neighborhoods and kept me off the major arteries. I did have to cross a couple of busy streets, including a 6-lane highway, but with stoplight protection.

I quickly discovered that my 13.5 mile ride to work was easier than my 13.5 mile ride home, due to traffic patterns and changes in elevation. I also discovered that a bungee cord was of little help in keeping a backpack secure to the cheap Nashbar LDT rack I had at the time. Come to find out later that my wife was scared for my life, in spite of my well planned route. My goal at the beginning was to ride the bike to work once a week, but I quickly became addicted to the ride.

Fast forward to Martin Luther King Day 2012. I rode just under 3,500 miles last year, with commuting making up the overwhelming majority of the miles. My goal now is to do the commute three days per week, and every day when I don't have to take my daughter to school. I find myself looking forward to my daughter's school holidays, because it means I can leave the car at home. I used to plan my commuting days by the wind forecast, as Okla. City has many windy days. I now have figured out how to pace myself so that the wind doesn't keep me off the bike.

I've invested small amounts from time to time in the bike and equipment, especially lighting. I still ride in street clothes (except when it is too warm). I've discovered that my cheap Wal-Mart raincoat and pants set works pretty well when riding in the rain. I have also found that my winter riding is easiest if I feel just a little too cold when I start my morning ride. Otherwise, I find myself needing to shed layers before too long.

I feel better today than I have ever in my short adult life (38 years old). My coworkers no longer tell me that I'm crazy and my wife says she is no longer scared, at least not usually scared. I'm already looking forward to my second year of cycling to work!

Medic Zero

Congratulations!

1nterceptor

Good job!

Rapidoyfurioso

congratulations bro¡

a1penguin

Congrats! Sounds like you have the cold weather figured out. I hate the first 2-3 miles on my cold ride home. The exercise will pay of decades down the road. You are investing in your future.