Bike to work

When I lived in Chicago this was easy as my commute was a mere 3 miles each way. I was able to keep this up after moving to California as I made sure I found an apartment within 5 miles of my office.

However, I now traded the proximity to work for living at the beach. Now I am about 15-20 miles away from work, so it’s definitely doable. The only real concern I have at this point is riding home in the dark (it’s dark by 5 o’clock now), and also smelling like bum all day since I won’t be able to shower after my morning commute! So first step is to buy some reflective gear and lighting system, and then figure out how not to smell :)

I rode my bike to work on Tuesday. I was a little sweatier than I’d expected on arrival, but it was okay. Next time I should either take it easy, or maybe change my shirt on arrival. I should also get some panniers or something because my backpack made my back a bit sweaty. I also think I’m going to need some cycling shorts for the ride home; I don’t want to risk getting saddle sores.

It took about thirty minutes to get there and about fifty minutes to get home (uphill).

It was frosty this morning, but I put on plenty o layers and took my bike to work anyway. Nothing like a brisk headwind to put the color of health in the ol’ cheeks (who needs makeup?? Not me!). :-)

Now I am pilfering through my enormous backpack to find my thermos… coffee sounds like just the thing. Here’s a toast to Not Looking Like I’m As Deskbound As I Actually Am!

grin

The bad news is: it is the rainy season.
The good news is: that’s why they make sweet rain gear.
More good news: I don’t live very far from where I work, so I officially have no excuses.

Bike Helmet… check!
Snack… check!
Thermos… check!
Lock & Key… check!

Note to self: bring deodorant to stash at work; co-workers will be thankful.

I got my bike; I’ve been riding it some shorter distances; I’m about ready to ride to work.

The ride in is mostly downhill, so fortunately I won’t arrive to work all sweaty, at least, no more sweaty than I do riding my scooter in the hot sun. Although that means the trip back is uphill, but at least I can shower on arrival. It’s really not too bad, though, just a steep hill near the start and one at the end.

First, though, I think I want to get some appropriate clothes: some cycling shorts, and either cycling jerseys or some moisture-wicking t-shirts.

I think I’m going to try a practice run tomorrow. I’m meeting some co-workers at work to take a trip out of town tomorrow, so I think I’ll cycle there and back.

I’d also like a better helmet. So far I’ve been using one of my scooter helmets.

It’ll be really nice to not have to stop for gas every week. My tank feels so small; I don’t keep a close enough eye on the gas gauge. I’m always taken by surprise when I see an almost empty tank. Yesterday I ran out of gas, but just happened to be in front of the gas station. I’m looking forward to the savings on gas and maintenance costs.

There’s no way I can do this in my present situation. Maybe if I live less than 15 miles from my next job, and I don’t live in Texas where it’s hotter n’ hell.

I rode to work all week (except Tuesday). 5 days of riding was crazy, but I would like to keep it up. It sucks having to get up so early and then getting to work all sweaty, but it will be worth it in the long run.

Just remember: cycle defensively, obey traffic laws (we have to earn the respect of drivers, alas) and make yourself visible: lights, arm signals, bells, reflective clothing, the works. And wear a helmet; I’ve been in two accidents where I was very grateful to have mine. Let’s just say that your head looks a lot better with your brains inside your skull.

And keep your tires inflated! I wasted a lot of energy one month by biking with under-inflated tires. Get a good pump with a pressure gauge.

Rode to work again today. Very nice this morning (about 60 degrees), high is only mid-70’s today. It was tough because I had to bring dress shoes today, but the bike rack came in handy again! I would like to try and ride again tomorrow and Friday, but the highs for those days are looking like mid-80’s. Oh well, a little sweat never hurt anyone, right?

It was about 80 degrees out, but the new water bottle holder helped. I’m so glad I bought a rack for my stuff instead of a backpack! Looks good the rest of the week, so hopefully I can get a few rides in!