Russ and I had a conversation about the few bike commuters we see out on the road this time of year in all weather conditions. We are amazed and impressed by these commuters. So the newest poll asked the question, "Do you bike commute?" We are curious how many always commute. Even it you occasionally commute, our hats are off to you!
~Dana
3 comments:
Several years ago I commuted to Falmouth on my bike (through three winters) and on average only missed one or two return trips a year. I had the luxury of traveling at off peak hours (going at mid-day and retuning at night) and had a place to clean my bike at work.
Now I travel at drive time and the trip is short enough that it is an easy walk, if I chose not to ride. Which I tend to do more than I would like. And though It probably sounds like a cop out, having no place to easily clean my bike makes it easy to beg off when the weather is not being my friend.
Not sure if I would call what I do commuting but I have made it two years now without an automobile. I live on the peninsula within 5 miles of my just about everything I need. This distance allows me to wear regular street clothes to and from work.
The key to commuting is the right equipment. #1 Buy a beater. #2 you must have full fenders. There is nothing more unpleasant than getting wet. You will not believe the difference these will make. #3 Rain Jacket and pants. It will much easier to get out the door when you know you will be comfortable in even the most unpleasant conditions.
Like any kind of exercise the biggest challenge is getting out the door. The days that I have dreaded the most have ultimately been quite pleasant. The more you commute the fewer excuses you find not to get out and ride. The bicycle is capable of amazing things. It's only limits are those we put on it with our minds.
I commute to work most days, although the past few weeks have reduced my ratio. It's not much to brag about though... my new job on Fore Street is only 2 miles from home. (I can definitely get to work faster by bike than by car, considering that I park the car a half-mile away on Commercial St to avoid parking fees.)
I commuted this morning at a temp of 6 or 9 degrees, depending on which thermometer you believe. (Those thermometers don't work well in the extreme cold. :-) A new record low temp for me. It was no problem for only 2 miles, but I learned that you can get a mild brain-freeze headache if your forehead is exposed.
I agree with "anonymous" that fenders are a must.
Bryan
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