Been using my bike to get around the city and run errands for years now, but finally decided to start commuting by bike at least a few days a week. I work at National Institutes of Health and they are really great to bike commuters. Showers and lockers available, lots of places to lock bikes, and an active bike commuter organization.

I did a couple weeks on my 'commuter bike' (Bianchi Milano) and decided I needed something faster. Great bike for short trips in the city but 30 miles round trip was too much. I've been riding at least 3 days a week on my new Jamis Coda Comp a month now and love it. Someone from the bike commuter group suggested a route that takes me past the Capitol, down the National Mall to the Lincoln Memorial, and then down the Potomac to a bike path that goes almost the whole way. I get to feel like a tourist and check out all of DC's great spots on my way too and from work. Too cool. Definitely beats the Metro and it's unreliable service (though Metro does beat driving - sticking nails in your eyes beats driving in DC). Been easy so far, minus a broken spoke, but we'll see how I do as winter approaches.

Welcome to the forums. On my two visits to DC, I thought what a great place it would be to ride, esp. in the spring when the trees are blooming.

I envy you and your commute. My mornnig ride consists of a mile or so followng the boys to school, then back home to hang up the bike and get in the car to drive to work.

Hi rnrickgus, your ride sounds lovely--I can just imagine the spring version with all the flowers blooming--so cool!

Welcome to BF, and feel free to PM me with any questions !

East Hill
Forum Moderator

Welcome to the forums! Drop by the commuting forum if you haven't already.

Hello there!

You will enjoy Bike DC, in two weeks! Just register on WABA. As always-come on out to our monthly NIHBCC meetings-next one is Thursday evening (9/25), September car free week! Go to Lilit Cafe on Old Georgetown Road at 6PM-we love to see new folks!

Hope to see you there!

Great commute! I had a similar commute when I lived in Maryland and worked in Alexandria. And in spring it's fabulous (but slower because of the tourists). I love my Jamis Coda Comp, too.

Thanks for the warm welcome. I'll try to be there next week. I'm on the list serve but it would be great to meet other bike commuters in the real world.