Well I have to wear a backpack and my office has a shower. I assume just bring an extra set of clothes? I would think a extra shirt is needed but how about shorts/pants?

You can wear shorts, pants, whatever. People go from skinny jeans to cargo shorts to spandex; wear what you're comfortable with. It's not like there's rules for this stuff when it comes to commuting. Just make sure what you wear is comfortable to ride in and won't snag in the chain. Also, if you're concerned about wind resistance, don't wear baggy clothes.

I was just referring to the fact that all Big shot bikes are is a pair of Deep V's, so if thats what you are after, sell the stock kilo wheelset and use that money to buy a pair of deep v's and you will have a more solid/lighter bike.

Also when it comes to commuting, I'd say wear anything but spandex. I see plenty of people biking in a suit and tie if that's what you are worried about.

Is sweating not an issue especially with a backpack?

5 miles in temps reaching 100 where I am is certainly something. I usually wear work clothes i.e. jeans but lately I'm wearing lightweight nylon hiking shorts and under armor type moisture wicking shirt and then changing when I get to work.

Depends on where you work, I work in a rather manual intensive job so if I show up sweaty no one really even bats an eye. If you had an office job, I could see bringing a spare T-shirt or something so you can mellow out then change into a nice shirt.

If it's hot where you live then your back will be sweaty. I used to use a backpack but now I use a rack with top bag/panniers and it's much more comfortable.

Is there something specific I can get to attach to the Kilo or are they universal? I live in DC.

Kilo TT has rack braze ons so you should not have a problem installing any rack you choose. I am using this combo:

http://www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product...2_519792_-1___

http://banjobrothers.com/products/cu...p-pannier-bag/

Works for me but there are a lot of options to choose from in racks and bags/panniers. I lived in D.C./NOVA for a year and the summer was brutal especially with the humidity so you will sweat with a back pack on but there's also the aesthetics because some people think racks and stuff don't look cool. I'm 95% car free so I like to be able to run errands and get groceries etc on my bike.

Well, I meant distance wise it's not a big deal. He seemed to be wondering whether the Kilo TT could handle 4.5 miles - which is actually ridiculous now that I think about it (no offense OP).

Bring a complete change of clothes down to uderwear and socks. Roll the clothes for transit. Having a shower at your disposal is awesome. For commuting the only item that really matters for comfort for me is some boxer briefs that are somewhat athletic. Regular boxers bunch and are no fun to ride in. Don't worry about how you look yet, just wear something comfortable. I have a couple subtle looking, not very tight jerseys (Twin Six, Swobo) that I wear now because jersey pockets and a front zipper are super useful but used to just wear cotton t-shirts.

If your office has a shower, you probably have a desk or locker?

I just make a point to bring a week's worth of clothes one morning so I don't have to bring a backpack every day.

+1 I commute casual every day. If it's hot, I wear just an undershirt and carry my shirt in my bag.

Thanks for all the responses. I'll be sure to ask you guys again when I'm looking to upgrade components.

4.5 miles? Shower, leave the house an hour or an hour and a half early, ride easy to work, cool off. Giving yourself some time and now riding too hard will keep you from getting gross while showering before will help keep you from getting smelly.

fixed.

+1

My Kilo became a dedicated commuter bike after getting the Big Block. I'm using Topeak's solution, which uses an integrated trunk/pannier bag that slides onto a seatpost rack.

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=326250

It's perfect for lightweight commuting. I can fit a couple changes of clothes, small towel, snacks, raingear, toolkit and U-lock. If you have to lockup outside, the bag slides off the rack in two seconds. It even comes with a shoulder strap.

http://topeak.com/products/Bags/RXTrunkBagDXP

http://topeak.com/products/Racks/RXB...de_frameV-Type

btw you'll probably want to get some beefier tires, those 23c Kendas are no fun on rough streets. I'm rocking some Panaracer RiBMo's 28c, they're comfy and bulletproof.

Overall, this bike is a joy to ride to/from work.

Anyone have any suggestions for the following:

1. starter tools kit (assembly and maintenance)
2. helmet (flak or regular?)
3. night light (saw a thread for that but would like suggestions from you guys)
4. handle tape? (is the handle bar cover good?)
5. lock (thinking kryptonite u lock)
6. splash guards?
7. protectors? from scratches when locking
8. rear reflectors?
9. lubricant?

Can I fit a laptop in that?

Maybe an iPad, the panniers are about 7"x8"x3". Probably a good idea to have a dedicated bag for your laptop.

Toolkit: cheap multitool
Helmet: if you want one. I like skate-style, but they don't vent well.
Light: NiteRider MiNewt 600
Tape: wait 'til you want to change color or the old stuff starts falling off.
Lock: if you don't go with a U lock, go with one of those big-ass chains
Fenders: how often will you ride in the rain or on wet streets? Be honest with yourself...
Protectors: dork away, my friend. Old inntertubes and zip-ties work great.
Rear reflector: Yes. And a blinky red light if you are going to be out using that headlight.
Lubricant: Chain lube from a bike shop or general purpose light oil (Liquid Wrench, Marvel Mystery Oil, 3-in-1 -- NOT WD-40!!!)

Those are great little lights, but I don't like the fact that they only charge via USB. I'd at least like the option to charge via wall plug. I have an old Light & Motion system with a helmet mount tethered to a remote battery that can handle anything, but is inconvenient due to the remote battery. For city riding I'm fine with a Planet Bike Bike 2W 139 lumen AAA alkaline battery powered LED light on my handlebar. The batteries are cheap and last me a couple of months.

I looked at the NiteRider MiNewt 600, pretty damn expensive =(


Will I need to lube the parts when I first assemble the kilo?

Just to to Target or Walmart and buy the brightest one they have for $20 or less.

Should I get a regular pump or a hand held one that I can bring with me?