Made the first bike commute
 

On Wed. Basically this was my first time on a bike in 10+ years, haven't ridden since early college years. The commute was about 7 miles each way, and was pretty nice. In the morning I over layered, and was pretty warm when I got to work. Lesson learned, don't need that much :)

The way home was around 80 degrees, was only in a T-shirt and shorts and it was good. I do need to get a rack and some panniers. I think I would have been a lot more comfortable if I didn't have a back pack on.

I'm glad I started, got a workout and to and from work at the same time. I plan to commute 2-4 times a week up until it gets really hot in the summer. I used to ride a motorcycle, and above 110 it was pretty bad. We'll see how the summer goes.

matt

Congrats! I can't imagine 110 but I've found that on a bike, temperature variations aren't as noticeable as when I'm walking or driving. Whether it's 20 degrees or 90, I'm always "warmish".

Congratulations, keep up the good work! 7 miles is a great bicycle commute distance. Mine is 6 miles, and it's perfect for me.

I have Ortlieb backroller classic panniers and LOVE them, but they are expensive. Will work with any rack. There are lots of good options for racks and bags, though... find what you like and ride!

Yep it wasnt' too bad. Almost the entire ride is not on main roads either, which is nice. I am a little saddle sore from the first ride though. I'm sure it is something that you get used to after more riding.

It is something you get used to, rather your tissue toughens a bit to it, but also take care to have a proper bike fit, saddle, and shorts. I've had several saddles that I simply could not get comfortable on. And $50-100 is a small token to pay for comfort in that delicate area.

My trick to sticking to my commute is putting out all my commuting clothes and gear the night before. I hope it works out well for you.

congrats on the first commute.

if you want to pamper yourself when you get home consider may favorite, a 20 minute (minimum) hot soak in the tub with plenty of epsom salt (rish with muscle relaxing magnesium) adn some eucalyptus oil bath soap. a glass of wine (or protein shake) with the soak makes for a very relaxing and therapeutic recovery plan. great for preventing (or treating) saddles sores too

For me, in just 2 days, the soreness is gone.

It's because canadians are tougher. :rolleyes: