How Was Your Commute Today? [Archive] - Page 6 - Women's Cycling Discussion Forums

laura*

02-04-2011, 08:58 PM

I was riding to the grocery store and waiting to make a left from a side street onto the main street. Right-of-way giver-uppers stopped in both directions even though there was a lot of traffic behind them. And then one of them honked at me! :mad:

The car on the far side was even indicating a left turn, seemingly for the side street where I was. This made it even more dangerous. Just who was giving up their right of way to whom?

Tri Girl

02-05-2011, 05:21 AM

if I walked to work yesterday?
I can't ride- the streets are barely passable for cars. I don't want to drive on it- it simply terrifies me to my core. The only other option is walking. So that's what I did. Put on my yak trax, got my hiking poles out, bundled up and walked the 3 miles to work. :D

cheater alert: I did, however, snag a ride home because it was snowing pretty good when I left work and after an 11 hour day I was exhausted!

azfiddle

02-05-2011, 07:26 AM

I am a wimp and won't even consider commuting (and then only about once a week) unless my morning start temps are 40 or above (and not too windy). But my DH has decided to go for the "perfect commute year" and so far is doing it. He has all kinds of wool sweaters, and gloves but rides in mountain bike shorts w/o any other leg coverings. No snow, but Tucson got hit with record-breaking cold temps this week (In the teens plus wind chill on Thurs and Friday). He was determined to ride. It was like pulling teeth to get him to wear sweat pants over his shorts on Weds at 30 degrees, and one more extra layer for the real cold on Thurs and Friday... He said he wasn't cold. (But I don't know if he would admit it if he was...

Melalvai

02-05-2011, 10:17 AM

Tri Girl, I count it as a commute if it's active transportation. Walk, bike, scooter, roller blade, skateboard, wheelchair, however you move!

I've been walking the past few days, and the roads seemed mostly clear yesterday, so today I biked. No problem. It was unbelievably warm, by comparison--almost up to freezing temperature! :D

redrhodie

02-08-2011, 08:27 AM

I also think that commute counts, Tri Girl.

The roads are still narrow because of snow banks, but I had plenty of room, even some shoulder most of the way. No one had any difficulty passing me, but a couple of kids in a car did slow down next to me on a road that was otherwise empty right then, and the boy said something out the window (which, as you know, you can never hear since sound doesn't carry that way). I kept my eyes on the road, ignoring him. No idea what he said, but he looked like a jerk. I felt sorry for the girl passenger, and wanted to tell her she could do better. They then slowed in front of me, probably wanting a reaction, which they didn't get. Ignoring them worked, and they sped off.

Evening commute was fun. It was twilight, and I used my new Bell Arella helmet with the attached Blackburn Flea lights. I seemed to get plenty of room by cars, so I think the tail light was effective, and I only used one (it has 3). It wasn't quite dark enough for the front light until I got home, but it lit up the driveway really well. It will definitely be enough light for my commute.

Tri Girl

02-08-2011, 03:56 PM

Evening commute was fun. It was twilight, and I used my new Bell Arella helmet with the attached Blackburn Flea lights. I seemed to get plenty of room by cars, so I think the tail light was effective, and I only used one (it has 3). It wasn't quite dark enough for the front light until I got home, but it lit up the driveway really well. It will definitely be enough light for my commute.

Very cool!! I need to check out that helmet!

I got to ride today. With the blizzard from last week finally melted enough to ride, and another 12" predicted for tonight, I thought I better jump on it! It was beautiful. I rode as slowly as possible to savor every moment of the clean pavement and the wind in my hair. I won't be riding outside again for at least 4 more days...:(

radacrider

02-09-2011, 08:04 PM

Beautiful day in Portland, OR, after morning fog the sun came out. Temps were in the 30's (super balmy compared to many, I know). I've been able to commute every work day so far (thunk, thunk, knockin' on wood).

I feel fortunate as lately I've had some hip and left leg issues due to a totally out of whack pelvis. I'm working with my chiro doc to get things back in line. Currently, still cannot sit for very long periods, actually cannot sit for short periods either as the muscle gets super tight and pinches my nerve messing with my leg.

She says I can still ride and I've been using the SUB with panniers to minimize any havoc with the low back/hip area.

I've joked with friends at work I just need to get a bike seat office chair, as I can sit on a bike seat without much negative impact on the hip -- which I think is because I'm not sitting directly on that muscle so it cannot pinch on my nerve.:D

Melalvai

02-11-2011, 04:59 PM

I've been looking forward to this promised "heat wave" for days. It's the only thing that's gotten me through the latest cold snap which had me riding in -4F, a new record for me. (Vaseline on my face, hiking boots, the rest of my clothes are good, except I still haven't got my hands quite right. Will try some new things next winter.)

Today the heat wave hit. It started off 14F, comparatively warm for early morning, and it got into the 30's, so I could ride home with most of my cold weather gear in my basket.

Tomorrow I hope I can just leave the cold weather gear at home.

WindingRoad

02-14-2011, 02:23 PM

My first commute of the new year! :D

redrhodie

02-14-2011, 02:24 PM

This morning's commute was a tuffy. I had a brutal headwind for the first 10 miles. I named it Jillian after the trainer on the Biggest Loser. I was in my easiest gear much of the way. Jillian was a byatch. Then, I decided to take the bike path, which would bypass some hills and be more sheltered, and the wind would be from the side. Good plan, but it was still chunky with ice, some were like speed bumps, about 4" high. I was a little scared going over those, but I did okay. The switchback was totally not plowed, so I had to back out to streets for a bit to bypass that section. It took me 15 minutes longer than usual for the 15 miles.

Luckily, the wind didn't shift during the day, and I had wicked tailwinds back. Big fast fun. I felt like I'd paid my dues for that.

blackhillsbiker

02-14-2011, 09:07 PM

I got to ride the roadie today. Only her 4th outing. :) We have a few more warm days forecast. I plan to treat each one as a gift, before we return to our regularly scheduled winter.

Deb

7rider

02-15-2011, 05:04 AM

Finally!

First commute since 25 January.
I thought - since I didn't have Noah to take care of in the morning :(, I'd be able to get out bright and early. But that didn't happen. It seemed like my whole system fell apart. And then the zipper on my winter jacket busted. I ended up with one delay after another, and I got out LATER than I normally would have. I still had to dodge ice, snow, and tree branches along my route. The latter, I stopped to heave down the hill and into the woods. That should do wonders for my bad back. :rolleyes: My chiropractor will be SO pleased.

kmehrzad

02-15-2011, 11:49 AM

Finally!

First commute since 25 January.
I thought - since I didn't have Noah to take care of in the morning :(, I'd be able to get out bright and early. But that didn't happen.

What happened to Noah???:(

Tri Girl

02-15-2011, 03:27 PM

yeah- that was not such a good ride home... :mad:

I was at a stop light, it turned green, I proceeded through the light when a car in the close lane was coming at me at warp speed and blatantly ran the RED LIGHT! He came within about 2 feet of taking me out. I fell, the bike got bruised, and I have some road rash. I'm glad I was wearing capris instead of shorts.
I jumped back on my bike so quickly and sped away that nobody had a chance to see if I was ok. I tried riding the rest of the way home, but had a mental breakdown and called the hubby crying to come get me.

Gonna have to try again tomorrow. Hopefully someone doesn't try to kill me tomorrow. :rolleyes:

Stupid drivers- pay attention!!!!

7rider

02-15-2011, 03:50 PM

What happened to Noah???:(

We had to put him down (http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showpost.php?p=557385&postcount=2303) on Sunday. :(

Blueberry

02-15-2011, 04:04 PM

Awww 7Rider - I'm so sorry:( You did the kindest thing - but I know that's not much comfort now:(

redrhodie

02-15-2011, 04:04 PM

pfunk12

02-15-2011, 06:18 PM

Big hugs to 7. So sad about Noah.

And TriGirl...I'm so glad that you're okay. That was way too close.

redrhodie

02-16-2011, 04:33 AM

No one had any difficulty passing me, but a couple of kids in a car did slow down next to me on a road that was otherwise empty right then, and the boy said something out the window (which, as you know, you can never hear since sound doesn't carry that way). I kept my eyes on the road, ignoring him. No idea what he said, but he looked like a jerk. I felt sorry for the girl passenger, and wanted to tell her she could do better. They then slowed in front of me, probably wanting a reaction, which they didn't get. Ignoring them worked, and they sped off.

This is funny...the other day I stopped in the shop, and my friend who works there told me he saw me last week on the road where this incident happened. In hindsight, I think it was him who yelled out the window, probably saying hi. So much for being a jerk! He's about as far from a jerk as can be. Shame on me for thinking the worst in people.

I'm going back to my old game of thinking that the things yelled out of windows (which can't be understood) are words of encouragement. Sometimes, it's true. Why not just assume the people are good?

Catrin

02-16-2011, 05:55 AM

I'm going back to my old game of thinking that the things yelled out of windows (which can't be understood) are words of encouragement. Sometimes, it's true. Why not just assume the people are good?

This is my approach - it is better for my blood pressure and nerves if I assume that shouted comments that I can't understand are good rather than bad :)

pfunk12

02-17-2011, 06:51 AM

When you're commuting to work at 6 a.m. and you almost yell, "On your left!" to a raccoon (because you thought it was a runner), you need more coffee before you get on the bike.

7rider

02-17-2011, 06:54 AM

When you're commuting to work at 6 a.m. and you almost yell, "On your left!" to a raccoon (because you thought it was a runner), you need more coffee before you get on the bike.

That would be a BIG raccoon!! :eek:

pfunk12

02-17-2011, 07:23 AM

I thought it was wearing reflective gear. Thus the reason why I thought it was a runner. But one of my nature-loving friends explained to me that "it must have been the tapetum lucidum, the reflective layer of tissue in the racoon's eyes that helps him or her see in the dark." Yes, that explains it. :p I still think I need more coffee before I get on the bike that early.

That would be a BIG raccoon!! :eek:

kmehrzad

02-17-2011, 08:18 AM

We had to put him down (http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showpost.php?p=557385&postcount=2303) on Sunday. :(

So sorry to hear that. Sending a hug your way.

Tri Girl

02-17-2011, 03:06 PM

much better commute today! I didn't almost get t-boned at the same intersection, AND I got in 22 miles. Gotta love 80 degrees in February. :D

Melalvai

02-17-2011, 05:43 PM

Today was the most amazing commute I can remember, a special moment I'll treasure for a long time: my daughter biked to school for the first time since her Nov. 3 wreck, and I accompanied her.

Fortunately I didn't notice until after we got home again that she wore the same shirt she wore that day, the t-shirt that had to be cut off of her, that I sewed up! To be fair she didn't select it on purpose. It was her favorite t-shirt before the wreck, because all her best friends had signed it, and it has even more meaning for her because it survived the wreck.

I rode next to her, or in front of her when there was traffic. I don't want to ride behind her (that was my position when the wreck happened). We took the longer way home, because I don't do the left turn into our driveway anymore, I go past it on another street and come back up and turn right.

She was really nervous until she got on the bike. The night before she wanted to change her mind about biking. She was hoping the fog would stick because I said we wouldn't bike if it was foggy. But by morning she was ok.

I met her at school so I could also ride home with her. I felt a little silly because she's 15, she can get home by herself, but I'm not comfortable letting her ride by herself (which is ridiculous because she wasn't by herself when she got hit) and she's not comfortable either. Anyway both trips were really great mom-daughter time.

She came out of school saying how hungry she was. She was super hungry on that last bike ride too. We stopped at the gas station for a (unhealthy) snack, and ate it in a nice little park. (We'll do better next time.)

4-day weekend because of inservice days, then it'll be kind of cold again, but she's looking forward to the next time she can bike to school.

Tri Girl

02-17-2011, 05:56 PM

yay, Melalvai! Glad to hear your DD rode again and it was successful! :)

HillSlugger

02-18-2011, 04:49 AM

I was going to rearrange my training plans so that I could take advantage of the nice weather and bike to work, but then I remembered I have a doctor's appointment to go to :(

Becky

02-18-2011, 05:01 AM

First work commute this year! It was 50 degrees this morning and is supposed to be 70 degrees for the ride home- how could I not ride? :D

There is some nasty road construction on my commute route- has 3 lanes down to 1. I like that particular road because 3 lanes leave plenty of room for everyone at 6am. I had no idea they were working on it until I had to sprint through it :/ If the weather stays nice, I'm going to have to find an alternate route....

out_spokin'

02-18-2011, 04:52 PM

Melalvai - just wanted to say that I am SO glad for you and your daughter!! If that's not the best excuse ever to eat crazy jalapeno doritos or whatEVER, I don't know what is. Way awesome for you both!!!!

Tri Girl

03-04-2011, 12:27 PM

Do you know what I saw this morning on my commute to work?

Wait for it...

I saw TWO other bicycles on the road. One passed me in my neighborhood headed to the lake for a speedy ride, and the other one was a female with a messenger bag obviously headed for work or school.

In the last year and a half, I have not see ONE other bike on the road during my morning commute, let alone TWO in one day.
It started my day off on a high note! WOO HOO!

It's the little things in life that make me smile... like seeing others out on their bikes nice and early. :D

7rider

03-04-2011, 05:19 PM

Back in January, my (empty) grocery pannier popped off my rack and landed in the road. (http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showpost.php?p=551834&postcount=1230) A black SUV ran over it, crushing the frame that went around the opening, giving it it's shape. Well, a 4' strip of aluminum and one pop-rivet gun later, and DH successfully repaired my bag and it was back in action. Today, I hit the grocery store across the street from my office at lunch and picked up a few things for the weekend.

At my locker, after work, I go to un-snap the strap that holds the pannier flat against the side of the rack and stuff the grocery bag inside. I went to move the strap back over the top to re-snap it at the top, to add some small measure of "security" to the contents within it. But noooooooo... the snap busted - when I un-snapped it, it didn't separate into two, but rather the snap ripped through the strap that held the pannier in place. So now I have a useless strap and a busted snap, so the pannier can't be secured and held flat when on the bike, unused. :mad: What a P.O.S. this pannier (http://www.rei.com/product/795714) is. I have just about had it with this stupid thing. All because I wanted a simple, flat bag to keep on the bike so I can do some shopping at lunch and keep thing simple. Grrrr.....:mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad:

redrhodie

03-05-2011, 05:27 AM

I had a great commute yesterday. I had tail winds both ways. The bike path is finally totally clear, but still empty of other people. Every street light was green the whole way. How cool is that?

Only bad, I dropped my bike when I was getting ready to load it into my car at the commuter lot. She's fine, no scratches or anything, but, like the scene in "A Christmas Story", I didn't say "fudge". ;)

I saw one other cyclist. That's normal for this time of year. Soon enough, they will be out in droves, but there's something special about a lonely road.

Melalvai

03-06-2011, 05:15 AM

laura*

03-10-2011, 12:12 AM

Today I had my first loooong bike commute where I needed to keep to a schedule.

Distance ridden: 35.47 miles
Ride time: 3:10:09
Average speed: 11.19 mph
Max speed: 33.44 mph

I rode on busy streets, deserted streets, wide streets, narrow streets, straight streets, twisty streets, bike paths, dirt trails, flat terrain, mountainous terrain, and even had to tilt my bike under a fallen tree. I also took the bike on two buses and two trams.

Right now I'm too numb to hurt. Tomorrow I'll probably hurt ... and feel real good. :D

redrhodie

03-10-2011, 04:27 AM

You know you have a head wind when you wonder if it would be easier to turn around and circumvent the globe to get home. :rolleyes: But getting there in the morning was a breeze!

Tri Girl

03-10-2011, 04:52 AM

today i had my first loooong bike commute where i needed to keep to a schedule.

Distance ridden: 35.47 miles
ride time: 3:10:09
average speed: 11.19 mph
max speed: 33.44 mph

i rode on busy streets, deserted streets, wide streets, narrow streets, straight streets, twisty streets, bike paths, dirt trails, flat terrain, mountainous terrain, and even had to tilt my bike under a fallen tree. I also took the bike on two buses and two trams.

Right now i'm too numb to hurt. Tomorrow i'll probably hurt ... And feel real good. :d

nice!!! :D:D:D

redrhodie

03-17-2011, 04:13 PM

What a gorgeous day! It was near 60º, and I wore no jacket for the first time this year. I stopped by the lbs in the morning to have them check the bar alignment of my Soma, and took my Eddy, which was already in the shop getting new bars, the rest of the way to work. OOooo, the new bars are nice!

Stopped by the shop again at night to drop off the Eddy, and pick up the Soma, but it turns out it has leprechauns living in the headset, so it wasn't ready. :rolleyes: They're making some kind of knocking in there. Not good at all. So, I rode the Eddy back to my car, and will pick up the other bike after the leprechauns have been evicted. I think I have to bring them cookies or something or they won't leave. :rolleyes:

I was nervous riding the Eddy back to my car. The roads are full of sand and lots of glass, and since the bike had been in the shop, and I wasn't planning on riding it today, I didn't have a tube with me. I felt like I was asking for it, but I guess I got lucky. Made it back, no problem. Luck of the Irish? Not really sure if I'm Irish, but I guess everyone is on St. Patrick's Day. Hope you all had good rides, and avoided the leprechauns. ;)

7rider

03-17-2011, 04:15 PM

Welp....The new grocery pannier works (except for the busted snap!). I loaded it up with a dozen bagels, bananas, cheese, and salad for my ride home today (with DH, on his racing bike...oh...I also had 2 quarts of hazelnut creamer in my pannier and new insulated shopping bags (http://www.crateandbarrel.com/outlet/home-accessories/insulated-grocery-bag/s670793) on order so I can keep cold stuff cold this summer - yay!!).

So...me on a heavy commuter with two equally heavy panniers on the back. DH on his lightweight ti bike. Yeah, not an equal fight. :rolleyes: It was a hard ride home...even tho' DH insists "I'm here to ride with you, so I'm going to ride WITH you...I don't have to go fast or anything."

Anyway....Spring has sprung in MD. Southern facing hills have daffodils IN BLOOM! Yeah. :D And the woods by our neighborhood had frogs croaking away. I don't think they were Spring peepers yet...they didn't sound right. Are there other frogs chirping at this time of year???

Yes, RedRhodie...What a great day (outside, anyway....).

HillSlugger

03-17-2011, 06:18 PM

I got out for my first commute of the year; low 40's in the AM and low 60's for the ride home. Very nice.

First commute using the Light and Motion helmet lights I bought on impulse back in December. Also very nice: small, powerful front light and a rear/side blinking light; much better light, feel, and balance than the converted handlebar light I was using.

Also, first ride since getting the bike tuned up (+new chain and cassette); so very nice to have good shifting and gears that don't slip and skip.

Becky

03-18-2011, 02:20 PM

What an awesome ride home today! DH and I rode from work to the bike shop to pick up a bunch of stuff that we'd ordered, and rode home with the whole mess. DH had a pair of fenders strapped to the top of his rack and panniers!

We did 25 miles for the day and I felt strong despite the beating from the wind :)

Melalvai

03-18-2011, 06:45 PM

I mention this here because sometimes I have these "deep thoughts" during my commute. (Probably not all that deep.) On my way home today I had this thought that humanity does NOT shine when the world is our oyster. When we have access to cheap resources we get greedy and do horrible things. Cheap oil & cheap bananas today, but it was cheap land when Europe was discovering Africa and the Americas and India and China.

The more we have the less we share. When we are struggling we are generous and compassionate.

This is probably a huge overgeneralization to the point of not being true at all but maybe it can help us value our struggles as we look for work and try to make ends meet.

7rider

03-19-2011, 06:09 AM

My deep thought yesterday during my ride home was:
"Sweet potatoes? Are those sweet potatoes? WHY is there a pile of sweet potatoes on the side of the road?????" :confused::confused:

Tri Girl

03-19-2011, 11:12 AM

My deep thought yesterday during my ride home was:
"Sweet potatoes? Are those sweet potatoes? WHY is there a pile of sweet potatoes on the side of the road?????" :confused::confused:

and you didn't stop to pick them up and put them in your panniers??:p

7rider

03-19-2011, 03:26 PM

and you didn't stop to pick them up and put them in your panniers??:p

LOL! :D Some did look pretty big...one could feed the 2 of us pretty well. But I think someone put them out for the deer (no idea why anyone would...but perhaps they did). It was a head-scratcher....

redrhodie

03-19-2011, 03:54 PM

Melalvai

03-20-2011, 01:34 PM

Okay commutes today. Stopped in the lbs twice, dialing in my fit. So close, but not quite there yet. It's funny, you solve one issue, and another pops up. It's kinda like whack a mole.
Whack a mole, I will have to tell my dad that one. He was telling me that his mountain bike style handlebar is fine, he never has wrist or arm problems. He has lots of other problems and I promised him that as he gets his other problems solved, he'll start having arm & handle problems!

pfunk12

03-21-2011, 05:52 AM

I decided to bike to work even though they are calling for rain and possible thunderstorms this afternoon. I figure - it's spring and that's what happens in spring. I don't really mind riding in warm rain but I'm not a fan of thunderstorms.

I was about 10 minutes from work and the sky started to light up. It took a little while till it dawned on me that it was lightning. Less than 5 minutes from work, I heard the first clap of thunder. Then it started to sprinkle and then...about 2 minutes from work - pouring rain and hail! :eek: Hail that was almost the size of golf balls. Ouch! :eek: I could see my building but was considering ducking into the fish market for cover. Instead, I started to sprint. I got to my building and the maintenance guy and security guard came out and asked, "Is that hail?" I wanted to say, "Yes, do you see the red marks on my face?" :p

redrhodie

03-21-2011, 06:00 AM

pfunk12

03-21-2011, 06:03 AM

True! :D

Good thing you had on a helmet!

divingbiker

03-21-2011, 08:58 AM

Pfunk, you're braver than I. I was ready to go, figuring I could handle thunder and lightning, but I got half a block from home and the hail started. I put the bike away, drove to the office in the pouring rain, and got ready for work in the bike locker room. Wimpy, I know.

pfunk12

03-21-2011, 09:20 AM

DB - Definitely not wimpy. I probably wouldn't have gotten on the bike if I knew there was going to be a hail storm. Fortunately, I was very close to work when it started. It wasn't fun being pelted by hail on my face and body!

Pfunk, you're braver than I. I was ready to go, figuring I could handle thunder and lightning, but I got half a block from home and the hail started. I put the bike away, drove to the office in the pouring rain, and got ready for work in the bike locker room. Wimpy, I know.

lph

03-21-2011, 10:53 AM

The more we have the less we share. When we are struggling we are generous and compassionate.

To a certain point, I think. Desperate people will also do desperate things in self-preservation. But I do think that a little struggle makes us feel vulnerable, we need other people's support and are more likely to offer support back. If you never experience really needing anything it's harder to imagine that someone else needs something more than you. And our capacity for wanting more is umlimited.

I was thinking something similar this weekend. We help run a local ski slope for kids and teenagers. The municipality pays the electricity and other bills, local parents work for free. Entrance is free for members and we charge a symbolic fee for a year's membership - less than half the price of a day ticket at a commercial ski slope. We loan out skis and snowboards and helmets for free. The slope is open 4 times a week, freshly groomed with professional equipment and big jumps. We lend out shovels so they can build their own jumps, help the newbies onto the lift, make sure no-one's squabbling in line or being mean, comfort the ones who hurt themselves, call parents if necessary.

Even then, we have parents coming in grumbling about not getting a discount if they have several children, or why can't we offer ski instruction as well, and can they try for free for just one day? It's amazing.

tulip

03-21-2011, 11:05 AM

I commuted to a meeting I had today. It's not far, about 2 miles, but there is a huge hill between my house and that meeting. I wore regular clothes and it was fine. Luckily, my meeting was after the morning's thunderstorm (no hail down here, though!)

malkin

03-21-2011, 04:12 PM

I needed to take 30 lbs of potatoes and a food processor to work today, so I drove my car.

We're making hash browns this week.
:)

tulip

03-21-2011, 04:29 PM

Ha! Divingbiker took a crock pot or two of chili to work one time. And she has a far commute. But that was with an Extracycle. I think you are forgiven for driving with 30-lbs of potatoes.

What kind of work do you do that requires that you bring 30-lbs of potatoes and a food processor?

redrhodie

03-23-2011, 03:52 PM

Tonight's commute was snowy! Well, it was really light, and I rode between the flakes. ;) Hardly even got wet.

Note to self, exposed skin on legs when it's snowing hurts. Wear long socks or leg warmers, even if you think it's not that cold out. Next time you do that, I'll dock ya! (anyone get the movie reference? hint, you know-for kids :D).

7rider

03-28-2011, 04:10 PM

I think I set a record today.
For my slowest ride all season. ;)
Today, I intended to do a "brick" - ride to/from work. Come home, throw on the sneakers and head out for a 2 mile run around the neighborhood. Perhaps my last chance to run before Friday's 5K and Sunday's 8K.
But as I started riding in this morning, my legs were telling me that they had other plans in mind. Like, the left hamstring was singing a lot...and the right quad - which I pulled at the gym last Wednesday - was singing in harmony. Coming home, I stayed in the small ring to try to spin-spin-spin-to-win, but the legs just had no power. No pepper. No umph. And that quad kept singing along - quite out of key I might add. :rolleyes:
Used the TENS on the leg this evening. Might do it one more time before I hit the sack. I may try my brick again tomorrow. We'll see what my legs say about the matter.

Catrin

03-28-2011, 04:13 PM

Good for you for listening to your legs! I learned about that the hard way last year... and I do hope that you are feeling better tomorrow.

jordanpattern

03-28-2011, 04:29 PM

I'm going to have done it twice by the time today is done with me!

I rode to work and promptly realized that I'd forgotten my laptop power cord at home. I worked for an hour and then hopped back on my bike to go get it. Now I'm back and almost ready to head home for the day. Luckily, it's gorgeous outside, and I've been missing my bike in all this rain!

7rider

03-29-2011, 06:10 PM

I've become quite comfortable with my tottering, slow rides home in the afternoon. I see what flowers are blooming and where. I listen for new birds back from their winter away and calling out to welcome spring and a mate.
With the return of afternoon light, I'm rarely in a rush to get home.
Today, waiting at a light, a young woman pulled up beside me. She was on an old yellow 3-speed of undetemined lineage. Asking where I worked (we were right outside my office) she immediately recognized me as the keeper of our agency's bike team mailing list and administrator of our commuter incentive program.
She was positively bubbling with enthusiasm at meeting me because we share some of the same ride home, and I had asked her about the details where our paths diverged. Now was her chance to show me the route! She talked non-stop and her legs spun the pedals on that old bike like an egg beater. She flew up the hill, glancing over her shoulder as this old geezer behind her stood on the pedals and huffed and puffed to get up the hill with her. A conversation was not going to happen until the joyous respite at a red light!
We flew through her neighborhood - again, her talking nonstop - and I was thankful my Garmin was locked onto satellites so I could see just where we went later!
It was pleasant to meet her - you'd never have such an opportunity in a car - but I was also glad when we parted ways so I could resume my comfortable slow, tottering ride home!

tangentgirl

03-30-2011, 09:21 AM

7rider, that's really cool!

Nice ride in this morning. The weather finally feels like spring. That makes me happy. There ya go.

pfunk12

03-30-2011, 09:39 AM

7 - Your post cracked me up. I can totally hear you telling your story.

My morning commute was a memorable one. It's Cherry Blossom time in D.C. so I have the luxury of riding by the Tidal Basin to and from work every day and seeing the amazing sight. It's obvious that the cold temps these past few days have kept the tourists away. And the forecast for rain today probably kept people inside. I remember last year cycling by at 6:45 a.m and there were literally hundreds of people waiting to take that perfect picture when the sun was rising. This morning there may have been about 15 people waiting where I ride by. When I was riding along the Potomac River this morning, the scene was breathtaking. The sun was rising and the sky was pink and orange. When I approached the cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin, I actually got off the bike to take it all in. Okay, I NEVER stop during my commute so this was HUGE. :D I felt so lucky to be able to witness something so beautiful. But then I had to go to work so the peace and calm ended. :(

blackhillsbiker

04-04-2011, 07:51 PM

Finally back on my bike. I've had fatigue issues, depression issues, parent health issues, and teenaged daughter angst/acting out issues. All of which have given me excuses not to ride. Kind of dumb, since riding helps me keep things in perspective. Anyhow, I had the LBS take off the winter tires on my commuter. I splurged on Continental Touring Plus tires (much nicer than the Conti Country Ride tires she came with). They smooth out the ride wonderfully. And the sun shone today. Some friends are getting together to ride after work tomorrow. I'm actually excited.

Starting to feel better about life,
Deb

radacrider

04-04-2011, 09:54 PM

Portland, OR continues to be primarily wet and today was no exception. At least the temps are warmer - upper 40's, low 50's, so basically, it is just wet. Had a great day today, I decided to use a single gear combo, 38 x 17, that was a ego booster and a nice way to see how much strength I've gained by bike commuting daily (12-15 miles depending on whether I am joined by my son riding to and from school).

Still, looking forward to hopefully some consecutive dry days.:cool:

out_spokin'

04-05-2011, 06:12 AM

@blackhillsbiker - Glad to hear things are looking up! I was wondering how you were doing after the winter challenge thread died down....

This morning's commute featured one of those "only if you're not driving a car" moments. For a long time (year?) I've usually passed a guy walking his dog on the MUT section of my ride. We always say or nod hello, he usually stops for a moment to be sure his dog stays close (much appreciated!) Today I didn't see him, but when I got to the major intersection/crossing, there he was, waving a sign for today's city elections. We had a short (full stoplight cycle) pleasant chat about his candidate and the stuff he thinks is important for the city. Then I was off to catch the bus...amazing what's possible when you're not sealed in a glass/metal/plastic pod! ;)

pfunk12

04-05-2011, 08:05 AM

I'm pretty sure I saw Dorothy and Toto during my commute this morning.

Glad to hear you are back on the bike, blackhillsbiker. :)

divingbiker

04-05-2011, 09:44 AM

I'm pretty sure I saw Dorothy and Toto during my commute this morning.

But wasn't that tailwind last night wonderful? I actually felt the wind pushing me along.

pfunk12

04-05-2011, 10:26 AM

I had a ferocious headwind along the Potomac and in Georgetown but yes, when I get a tailwind like that, I just want to yell, "Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!"

But wasn't that tailwind last night wonderful? I actually felt the wind pushing me along.

jordanpattern

04-05-2011, 12:09 PM

Man it was windy today in SF! I was waiting at a light, and I literally almost got blown off my bike! Plus, I had the wind blowing in my face as I tried to climb the hill leading up to my office, so I arrived even more gross and huffy puffy than usual. I anticipate fun times on the ride home, though!

7rider

04-05-2011, 12:16 PM

But wasn't that tailwind last night wonderful? I actually felt the wind pushing me along.

DB...you're out biking again!!!! Hooray! :D

(as for me...I woke up at 4:30 a.m. to the sound of torrential rain, blowing wind, and thunder, and was glad I planned to take the day off the bike and do my NTC circuits, instead!)

Biciclista

04-05-2011, 12:21 PM

great seeing all you commuters. I rode yesterday and got thoroughly wet. It is becoming routine to get rained on. (thanks, weather!) I didn't get overheated, but I'm still really slow after my hard saturday ride. KEEP riding ladies!

Tri Girl

04-05-2011, 04:01 PM

I woke up ready to go (even changed to new tires at 10 pm last night), but it was 30 degrees with a wind chill in the mid 20's with winds gusting at 30 mph. I was so mad that winter will not go away I drove instead. I commuted over the winter when temps were in the single digits, so I'm not a terrible weather weenie, I'm just sick of winter- and it will NOT go away...:mad:

I can't wait until it warms up and I can wear my work clothes on the bike to work. Can't WAIT!!!!:D

blackhillsbiker

04-05-2011, 08:15 PM

A small group of us went on a long ride after work today. The wind kicked up and it got cold, but it was a tailwind up the biggest hill :D It felt so good to be back on my bike. I don't know what I was thinking, not riding for so long.

Deb

redrhodie

04-06-2011, 03:48 PM

Woo hoo. Fun rides both ways. Mostly tail winds. Seems like we're all writing that! See, we love the wind. Thank you wind. :)

Very excited to have figured out (well, I'm cautiously optimistic) my numb foot issue that has been plaguing me after I stand on a climb. New insoles! I went to a running store, and the guy was great, and let me try out a whole bunch. I went with a graphite reinforced one that felt pretty cushy, and as soon as I put it in my shoe, I knew it was the one. Anyway, I feel like I had a total bike fit. Everything just felt right. Yay!

Biciclista

04-06-2011, 04:42 PM

very cold this morning, almost freezing.
Heard that there were hail storms during the day but my commute was sunny although cold and windy.. it was my second commute of the week.

malkin

04-07-2011, 04:36 AM

I'm so spoiled.

I'm taking a 2-day class at the U which is closer than my office, but I don't want to park my bike outside all day, so I'm walking.

7rider

04-07-2011, 06:36 AM

Saw Older Guy on the Old Schwinn* today. Haven't seen him in a long time. In typical fashion, he dusted me. :rolleyes:

* Yes, I have invented names for all the other bike commuters I see out there.

628BJ

04-07-2011, 02:34 PM

Looking for ideas for a 15 mile commute (one way but bus is an option). Road bike? Touring? Comfort?

radacrider

04-08-2011, 11:41 AM

That was like my old commute ... I mostly used my converted mtb, SUB, using fenders, rack and panniers. I also had used my road bike a few times, with backpack. I preferred the SUB because of the road debris (better tires); more gears (7 mile climb); more fenders (lot's of rain).

My current commute is now 6 miles and better surfaces, so I road bike primarily.

Good luck.

Tri Girl

04-08-2011, 02:10 PM

jordanpattern

04-08-2011, 02:29 PM

It was so windy yesterday, my front tire was almost blown into the curb. I also had to fight like hell just to move over 3 feet or so in the bike lane as I approached my turn. It was insane!

redrhodie

04-08-2011, 02:36 PM

until some jerk in a huge redneck truck couldn't wait literally 2 seconds for me to turn right onto my street cut off another car and buzzed me so he could get around me.

What's up with that?! I got cut off today too. Good thing we both have good reflexes, and think fast! Cycling keeps you on your toes, that for sure. I suspect my cutter was an elderly person, so I didn't get mad. I recently saw a news segment on what it's like to drive for an older person, and to simulate it, the reporter had to wear blinders and weights on all his limbs, and some other stuff that made every movement take more effort. It made me understand a little better.

Excellent commutes today. Rode an extra few miles this morning just cuz it was so awesome out. Saw the horses still in their blankets, looking happy in the fields. Rode Sugar, my fast bike, because they just swept most of the roads, so very little glass and sand. All was right in my world. :)

Melalvai

04-08-2011, 05:24 PM

good commute today. the ride home was super windy, but it was still nice, until some jerk in a huge redneck truck couldn't wait literally 2 seconds for me to turn right onto my street cut off another car and buzzed me so he could get around me. I'm still fuming. It's a good thing I don't flip the bird, or carry a concealed weapon because I sure could justify shooting at people sometimes...:mad:
I just read an article (http://www.loveofbikes.com/?p=1344) that although Oklahoma does have a 3 foot passing law, it only applies if the individual city has adopted it as an ordinance or something strange like that? And also that it only applies if a serious physical injury occurs? Sounds like OK needs some state bike/ped advocacy action!

There's a few regulars I recognize on my route too. If it's nice, Ed is out on his porch and we wave at each other. I always wave at him when I drive by too, but he never sees me when I wave from the car. Larry sometimes is walking his 2 little dogs in his backyard. Keith is sometimes walking his 2 very large dogs on the trail; they walk 3 miles a day and usually pretty early in the morning. Michelle & Ken walk their beautiful huskie(?), who just got a haircut and isn't looking so beautiful at the moment. Another guy walks his beagle, both he and his beagle are little & fat but the beagle is faster. They are so cute.

Michelle & Ken & dog (pre-shave):
http://ka-motion.org/sites/default/files/images/100_3916%20dog.jpg

redrhodie

04-11-2011, 02:26 PM

I chose the wrong bike for the weather conditions today. I checked the forecast before I left, and it looked dry, but it was perfect weather for my Soma's disc brakes, but she stayed home today. It drizzled the whole way. Had gunk build up on my rims that made stopping precarious. Luckily I only got one light. Had to put a foot down while the bike was still moving. That's always fun.

Crazy tailwind back. Hardly had to pedal. Love the wind!

Tri Girl

04-11-2011, 02:52 PM

I just read an article (http://www.loveofbikes.com/?p=1344) that although Oklahoma does have a 3 foot passing law, it only applies if the individual city has adopted it as an ordinance or something strange like that? And also that it only applies if a serious physical injury occurs? Sounds like OK needs some state bike/ped advocacy action!

You are right. It's silly! We could REALLY just use education of the public. I think if the city would invest some money into education it would go a LONG way to letting drivers know that we belong and it's legal and to just watch out for us/make us human.

redrhodie

04-11-2011, 04:18 PM

You are right. It's silly! We could REALLY just use education of the public. I think if the city would invest some money into education it would go a LONG way too letting drivers know that we belong and it's legal and to just watch out for us/make us human.

This makes me think about the last time I renewed my driver's license. At the DMV there were monitors showing stupid trivia, celebrity gossip and such. Those screens could be so much better put to use. You're stuck there for hours, why not show something useful about driving skills? A perfect opportunity to teach about sharing the road, wasted on trivia.

redrhodie

04-12-2011, 03:15 PM

Picked the right bike today; love those disc brakes. Was surprised by the rain, but ready for it! I wore a cap under my helmet just in case it started earlier than they said it would (it did), so no rain on my glasses. The only thing I wished for was long socks. I need to stash a pair at work for next time.

I'm off tomorrow, so it will be bike cleaning day. It's been a dirty week so far.

tulip

04-14-2011, 06:44 PM

I just adore working from home, but I find it difficult to carve out time for a bike ride in the middle of the day. I take a Pilates class once a week, and so today I decided to ride my bike to it. It's only about 4 miles away through downtown. My commute there is at rush hour, but rush hour is kind of a joke here compared to when I lived in DC...I was so early to my class that I had time to stop in a cafe and enjoy some iced tea before the class. Then I rode home, which was another fantastic ride.

kmehrzad

04-15-2011, 03:36 AM

redrhodie

04-15-2011, 04:28 PM

A slightly frustrating day, but good commutes saved it. I was planning on 4 for 4 this week, but lots of excuses popping out into my head. Probably just need a rest day. Planning on trying out my new wheels, so there will be a little ride, but not to work.

Biciclista

04-15-2011, 04:50 PM

commuting was the highlight of my day. Also I set up my May bike to work month team. I have 10 slots and 11 people that want to be on the team.. EEEK

Melalvai

04-15-2011, 05:01 PM

Lovely weather lately. About the only thing one could complain about is the wind, but if you're going to complain about wind around here you'd never stop! My daughter biked to school again! This is her 2nd ride since November's wreck. She plans to do more biking now that the weather is nice. Neither of us are happy at the idea of her biking home alone, for all that she is 15, we are all still nervous from the wreck (we'll get over it.) So I arranged my scheduled so that I could bike home with her.

Only as I rolled away my rear tire went flat. (I probably ran over something, I saw a pointy rusty wire on the ground later.) I called to let her know I was changing my tire, got it changed, and we rode home together.

Today the weather changed as the storm rolled through. Turns out, my gore-tex has lost its waterproofness again. I tossed it in the dryer this afternoon because the heat re-activates the waterproof stuff or something. So hopefully it'll be waterproof again.

I was on a phone call last week, and I had to excuse myself to meet my bike mechanic who was dropping off my bike after replacing my brake pads. (No bike shop here, so he drops off my bike when he runs errands. Convenient!) When I called back to continue the meeting, I explained the interruption. The person I was talking to surprised me by saying "I need to get more exercise." I wondered why she was talking about exercise? Then I realized she was responding to me talking about a bike repair.

I don't think of my bike as exercise. It's just how I get places.

7rider

04-18-2011, 08:56 AM

I overslept this morning. :o Got out a half hour later than planned. I thought the roads would be packed with cars, but it was surprisingly empty. Where is everyone? Isn't there school this week? Is everyone teleworking? Flexing? Off on leave? Passover starts tonight. Maybe everyone is off preparing or something....

Not complaining. I hope it's nice and quiet on the ride home. DH will meet me and we'll ride home together.

divingbiker

04-18-2011, 10:02 AM

Where is everyone? Isn't there school this week? Is everyone teleworking? Flexing? Off on leave? Passover starts tonight. Maybe everyone is off preparing or something....

It's spring break in Montgomery County. Enjoy it while you can.:)

Tri Girl

04-18-2011, 11:23 AM

Great commute in this morning- so far I'm on a roll- 10 days in a row commuting so far. My goal is to make it to the end of the school year commuting every day. Only 6 more weeks- I think I can do it!

Can I just say how much I LOVE that it's spring and I can hear the birds singing in the morning? I love to listen to their song as they sing me along my way to work. So peaceful- and so many people are missing out on it by listening to their noise on their car stereos. Too bad for them. ;)
I also love that it's warm enough that I can wear my work clothes on the bike to work. When it's cold I have to dress in warm layers, but now that it's nice I just put on my work clothes, jump on my bike and head out. I just love that, too!

kmehrzad

04-18-2011, 12:34 PM

It's spring break in Montgomery County. Enjoy it while you can.:)

It's also Spring Break in Loudoun County. Everyone I know went to FL - that's where the traffic went too.

Melalvai

04-20-2011, 04:54 PM

Yesterday I saw a squirrel in the road. I slowed down. It had something big in its mouth. As I got closer it ran over to the sidewalk. The I saw the tiny bushy tail wrapped around the squirrel's head. Mama was taking baby somewhere! They were SO cute!

That made up for having a flat tire last week, AND a flat tire this week. I hadn't restocked my CO2 cartridges from last week so I had to call for a ride. I can tell that CO2 cartridges aren't going to work for me because there is no bike shop in town from which to replenish my stock, so I'll get a small pump to carry on my bike. And I'm going to look for kevlar tires. The first flat was from a rusty pointy bit of wire, the second from a tiny sharp rock. I used to have kevlar tires but when they wore out, the bike shop put these on and promised me they were just as good. Nuh-uh!

redrhodie

04-20-2011, 05:22 PM

Planned on driving today, but woke up and saw it wasn't raining, so I threw on my knickers and rode. Then the rain started. Well, more mist than rain, but it was definitely wet. Had somehow forgotten a headband, and my ears couldn't take being exposed. I stopped at a CVS a couple of miles into the ride and bought some. I paid full price. I never would have done that if I wasn't so cold.

Once my ears were covered, it was a nice commute. Clothes were dry by the time I left work, and I had a tail wind home. Kind of bonked with a few miles left, though. Kept thinking about veggie burritos and candy bars. I was so hungry! I got into a weird meditative state, and riding was completely effortless. Maybe "burrito, candy bar" should be my mantra. ;)

Biciclista

04-20-2011, 05:24 PM

hey, i rode yesterday AND today. And today I felt lazy but pushed myself up the hill anyway.
what did you buy redrhodie? a hat??

redrhodie

04-20-2011, 05:29 PM

A pack of these headbands, and they were more than this price! I knew they seemed expensive.

http://www.cvs.com/CVSApp/catalog/shop_product_detail.jsp?skuId=232889&productId=232889&WT.mc_id=Shopping_Feed_Products_Google_Free_Listing

Biciclista

04-20-2011, 06:31 PM

those things keep your ears warm?!?!

Crankin

04-21-2011, 02:55 AM

Melavai, we buy our CO2 cartridges from a hunting supply store on-line. They come in a huge box (like a life time supply) and the price works out to about .50 a cartridge, as opposed to the $4.00 bike stores charge.
Do an on line search and you will find several options.

redrhodie

04-21-2011, 05:03 AM

those things keep your ears warm?!?!

It's more for keeping the wind out, but they do offer just enough of warmth for yesterday, (it was in the 50s) along with a cycling cap for the rain. In winter, I wear a buff for warmth, but I really can't ride comfortably without a headband, too. I even wear them in summer, for both wind and sweat. On the hottest days, it's too much, but I feel naked without it. ;)

7rider

04-21-2011, 05:47 AM

On the hottest days, it's too much, but I feel naked without it. ;)

I've gotten to the point where I have to have a headsweat or buff on under my helmet...regardless of the weather. I, too, feel like I've forgotten something if I slap my helmet on my head without one.

Today, I seemed to hit every green light and every clear intersection. I barely had to put a foot down the whole ride in. Sweet.

I brought my grocery pannier, as I expect to do some shopping at lunch. But I ended up "buying" a small gym bag - I put that in quotes b/c it cost me loyalty points at my fitness center rather than cash - to fill a gap in my bag collection (:rolleyes:) for a small-ish duffle when I head to the gym or workout with only a minimal amount of crap needed. My other bags are either too big or too small. Anyway...now I'm stuck with the quandry of how I'm going to get all this stuff home this afternoon. I want the duffle for the weekend, so I can't leave it at work. It's going to be a very heavy, bungee-cord clad ride home.....

Tri Girl

04-21-2011, 07:37 AM

It's going to be a very heavy, bungee-cord clad ride home.....

but that's the best kind! ;)

the ride in today was good! I left later than normal, so had to bust a gut to make it to work on time. Thankfully even when I'm running late, my commute is only 3 miles so it's not like it's that far.

I have been wearing my work clothes on the bike this week, and I learned a valuable lesson yesterday: I not only need to wear an ankle-band to secure my pant leg on the drivetrain side, I need to wear one on the other leg too- because I figured out that the giant cuff on the other pant leg kept getting caught on the water bottle cage and yanking my pants down every few strokes. :rolleyes: Problem solved today- two giant reflective pant leg protectors. I'm a dork. ;)

azfiddle

04-21-2011, 10:03 AM

I have been trying to ride to work every Friday since it has gotten lighter- with about 60% success. I rode on Tuesday this week because Friday is a holiday. For the first time ever, I had company for half my ride- a fellow commuter who was on the same route. Turns out, he works at home on Friday. I see a few others on my driving days, but they seem to be on a slightly later timetable. It was nice on the way in- almost 60, but windy and warm in the afternoon. I sandwiched a 15 mile recreational ride in after work with 2 friends so it was almost 34 for the day.

VeganBikeChick

04-21-2011, 08:23 PM

redrhodie

04-22-2011, 06:47 AM

Biciclista

04-22-2011, 06:48 AM

Rode to work, 3rd commute this week. EARTHDAY!

Tri Girl

04-22-2011, 07:42 AM

I'm a newbie commuter. Today I biked a whole 2 miles to my workplace and realized just how out of shape I am! It probably didn't help that the route to work is all uphill and I'm not exactly a fan of hills...yet. But I made it there and back to tell the story and hope that continuing to tackle the hills will make them easier.

The most important part of this story is that YOU DID IT!!!!:D Congrats on your first commute! It WILL get easier- that's a guarantee!!!

And I wanted to share with you something that is a first for me. Of the last 10 days of work, I have commuted all 10. Of the last 15, I've commuted 12 (sick 2 and lazy one day).
I usually commute 2-3 days a week, but I have made it a goal of mine to commute every day until the end of the school year (which is the 27th of May). So far I'm doing really well. It really doesn't take much longer than driving, and once I've gotten into the habit- I'm much better at getting things ready the night before and having a routine to make it quick and easy.
I'm loving it!!!!

radacrider

04-22-2011, 05:34 PM

@VeganBikeChick - Awesome, congratulations! Just getting started is a huge success. Once you get a few more in, it will just feel normal to ride the bike to work.

----
I'm still running 100% since the first of the year. Today was so wonderful, sunny AND warm here in Portland! Lot's of people out walking, jogging, strollering, biking. The daily commuting (avg about 6 miles each way) has not only made me stronger, but I've also lost a few of the extra pounds I've had.

The other cool thing is my son, with me 1/2 the time, is nearly 100%, he got a car ride once because he was still recuperating. Home to school is 4-1/2 miles. He's gotten not just stronger, but his skills are pretty good, too.

Bike Writer

05-02-2011, 11:17 AM

Commuted to work today and have yet to go home but it's no big deal because it's so short. More of a protest against high gas prices. The weather has not been conducive to commutes up until a week or so ago. Going to try to commute as often as possible. My biggest obstacle is out of the office meetings on some days.

redrhodie

05-02-2011, 04:48 PM

Fun commute, as always. Riding my bike is always the best part of going to work. Don't get me wrong, I love my job, but I don't know if I would love it as much if I had to drive there more than once in a while. It's a nice ride, by the ocean, then up a bike path, which goes through woods and swamps. At this time of the year, there's not much traffic on the path, but in a few weeks, it will get to busy with kids on summer break. Right now, it's pretty serene.

I always pass an old man on the path, who walks 2 old dogs. He stops off to the side, giving me the whole path, nodding his head as I pass. It's very chivalrous. I can tell how early or late I am by where he is. We are both creatures of habit.

I don't get these human connections when I drive.

Tri Girl

05-02-2011, 05:54 PM

I always pass an old man on the path, who walks 2 old dogs. He stops off to the side, giving me the whole path, nodding his head as I pass. It's very chivalrous. I can tell how early or late I am by where he is. We are both creatures of habit.

I don't get these human connections when I drive.

I love that you said this. I meet a man on my way to work almost every morning. He's walking to work, it seems, and always eating an apple or a banana when I pass him. A couple weeks ago I saw him much further down the street than normal, so I looked at my watch and sure enough-I was running late. We always say "good morning." I can't wait until it's warm enough that I can actually see his whole head to know what he looks like without being all bundled up. :p

shootingstar

05-03-2011, 04:12 AM

After work, I rode longer out with dearie to go..shopping for home hardware.

A 27 kms. round trip ride in an area that I'm still not familiar with. I nearly got lost after he blasted along the prairie river bank. In our area, it's not as difficult to lose sight of someone ahead of you.

I'll get to know my area..but it's been a long hard winter with alot of snow where I am living now.

Actually last few days, it's been buying stuff and hauling it around. We did rent a van once.

I moved...closed to live near the bike-pedestrian path. Just 3 blocks down the street. :p

jessmarimba

05-03-2011, 03:39 PM

I dawdled in the park this morning because after the park are the three big hills that seem to have no downhill in-between...I hate them. They're the kind that make you stare down at your wheel just so you don't have to see that your office at the top of the hill isn't getting any closer. I count bike path (sidewalk) panels. Once it switches to asphalt I can look up again.

Then I cheered a bunny that high-tailed it across the 4-lane road (he made it).

I saw and almost caught a woman on a road bike, and it was interesting because all I could wonder was whether she was someone from this forum :)

7rider

05-05-2011, 08:07 AM

Got about a mile into my ride this morning, when I looked down and realized I had forgotten my water bottle and coffee thermos! :eek::eek::eek:

I would have been miserable without my water bottle. My co-workers would have been miserable if I didn't have my coffee!! ;)

Turned around, went back to the house to get them - much to the alarm of DH who, it seems, completely missed seeing them on the kitchen counter right beside the coffee maker, from which he had just poured himself a cup. :rolleyes:

So, about 15 minutes late, into what was already a late start for me, and I was reminded - yet again - at how much quieter the streets are a 7 a.m. vs. 7:30 a.m. I can't wait for summer and it's lower traffic levels.

Geonz

05-05-2011, 11:47 AM

http://bicycleuc.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/tireshred.jpg?w=500&h=378

Since this is what my tire looked like last night, I decided to ride the folder this morning.

I stopped to take pics of the new sharrows & bike lane stripings (they're not brand new; they were painted on in the winter, the day before a significant snowfall... and I think the plows took most of the paint right off). Alas, the complaint I made with the first batch -- that the "sharrow" is hugging the right gutter, in the right turn lane, rendering the sign that says we can use the full lane confusing and pretty pointless. (My blog has the pics). Usually Urbana is ahead of Champaign (the town next door) in doing right by bicycles, but not with this.

redrhodie

05-05-2011, 02:18 PM

A guy on a motorcycle was tailing me for a while, then pulled up beside me to tell me I was doing 20. I said with a shrug, "I guess that's not too shabby."

I thought I was going to have a major headwind back tonight, but it was a tailwind. I don't understand how that happened, but :) thanks.

ZenBiker

05-05-2011, 05:18 PM

I've been a sporadic bike commuter and set myself the goal of biking every day this month, in honor of National Bike Month and to make it a solid habit. This thread has been a fun way to get myself motivated.

This week has been a great start:
It finally stopped snowing and temps were actually above freezing every morning when I left home. Yay! Prevailing winds are such that I almost always have a head wind going home. Yesterday it was a tailwind. Like redrhodie said - thanks! Today, no wind. Thanks again! And my LBS guy saw me this morning and gave me kudos. *small glow of pride*. This commuting every day thing is fun!

AppleTree

05-06-2011, 07:22 AM

Yesterday was a dentist appointment and I decided to do it by bike! As I walked into the lobby with my helmet in my hand and my bike clothes, the receptionist jaw dropped...one of the dental assistants came out and looked at me and said "you ROCK"... all this for less than four miles, heh heh. They even let me leave my bike in the lobby during my cleaning! I would say that THEY rocked!

Since it was sprinkling a bit (again) when I came out, I cut the ride short and just headed back home. But I stopped at the lake on the way and just enjoyed the quiet morning and the sight of a mama duck with about a dozen little duckies swimming near the shore. What bliss.

redrhodie

05-08-2011, 06:33 PM

Nice commutes today. I was really early, so I decided to take the long route. Ran into my friend who was on his motorcycle. Then out past the horse farms, I got cut off by a woman in an SUV coming out of a driveway. No big deal, it was more rude than dangerous. Then, her dog, who had followed her up to the road, decided to chase me. I thought I'd outrun him, but he was beside me before I knew it. I thought of Ariel Moon's broken pelvis, and I decided to stop, knowing it could be really bad if he got in front of my wheel. I wasn't afraid of him, because he was a big ol' piece of chocolate (lab :)). I firmly told him to go home a few times, and he turned and ran back to his driveway. That lady is really a jerk, though. Not only did she cut me off, but she just drove away knowing her dog was going to chase me (she would have seen this in her mirror), and even worse, she let her dog run into the street. He was over the yellow lines while chasing me. I can't imagine not caring about your pets like that.

The ride back tonight had an intense headwind. It took me 10 minutes longer than usual, which is a lot for just 15 miles, so I'm guessing it was blowing steady at 25 mph, with higher gusts. I was so tired when I got home.

Geonz

05-09-2011, 07:25 AM

Commuted to our Parkland Chorus concert last night, at a church on campus. Last week one of my biking buddies had his bike swiped "in front of McKinley" - which could be a couple places, but maybe it was this church... and Danged if I don't arrive and my lock is not with me.
(Spoiler: it didn't get swiped or anything.)
In hindsight, I should have found somebody with the authority to let me bring it in and stash it somewehre, since 1 minute before the concert I was presented with that option... but I had already found a crowded spot on a rack in the back with 10 other bikes, one a nasty Next that looked like it had been locked there all year and another that wasn't locked at all, which told me some bikes *were* too nasty to get swiped (yet). So I leaned my baby against the locked nasty one, grabbed the long cable combo lock that was dangling from the rack and wrapped it over my handlebars so it kinda sorta looked locked, and then took the abandoned Huffy and made a snug sandwich on top of it, took my tools and stuff from the bags, and went inside and decided that hey, if Icame out and it was gone, I'd see what I could get from my homeowner's insurance and tap into savings and get that adorable Trek Transport.
Happily, even my extremely easily extractable light was still on (I'd forgotten to snatch it)... and I *hadn't* left the Garmin on it... but no, I really *should* have asked about taking it in because then I would have been informed that, in fact, the reason I didn't have my lock was 'cause I'd left it in the church at dress rehearsal (when I'd been riding the folder, which I *had* just taken inside and tucked behind things, because it is TOO CUTE even with a cable lock).
...and I successfully replaced the back tyre, but had to do it twice because just trying to get it down to th ebike project, the first old tyre I put on 'til I could do better went flat and :
http://bicycleuc.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/flatwithtube.jpg

Melalvai

05-09-2011, 03:37 PM

jennyrc

05-10-2011, 08:19 AM

My commute was cold...first ride into work this year. It's an easy, mostly downhill 8 mile ride. But when it's 33 degrees out, it get's chilly (especially with wet hair). But it was still enjoyable :)

redrhodie

05-10-2011, 01:46 PM

Aaaargh, I blew it. I was trying to commute every day in May, but I wasn't supposed to work today, and got asked to come in at 10 pm last night. I figured I'd ride, and readied my bike. Then I woke up late to the sounds of HOWLING wind; it kind of sounded a lot like Curly of the Three Stooges. I quickly talked myself out if it, you know how those stooges are, someone always gets hurt.;) Gusts of 40 mph from the north sounded too intense for a nice commute.

I wanted to kick myself in the butt when I saw one of the other bike commuters I always pass on his bike. He looked to be suffering, but I was jealous. Still, I managed to get some errands done before work, so it wasn't all bad. Eh, yes it was. The suffering looked too good.

Crankin

05-10-2011, 04:16 PM

I will second your idea, RR. I went out for a ride at 5:15 AM. I didn't realize how windy it was. At one point I was struggling to go 12 mph, down in the drops, in an easy gear. I worked super hard for my 13.5 miles.

radacrider

05-10-2011, 09:39 PM

Today's commute started cloudy, a bit cool but dry. The afternoon rewarded us with real Spring weather - sunny AND warm -- Finally. :D
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2561/5708822143_64507df036.jpg

Fun to people watch (mostly).

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2650/5708821115_844fca778a.jpg

Stopped and just enjoyed the warmness for a bit, cuz we are suppose to get back to chance of showers type weather tomorrow.:(

Geonz

05-11-2011, 07:18 AM

How can you even enjoy the concert? Even in little Kirksville where people routinely leave bikes UNLOCKED and they don't get stolen, I'm nervous if I have to leave my bike unsecured and out of my sight for a moment. I've wrapped the cable lock around so it looks locked. (I keep my cable lock locked so I can't accidentally lock up my bike if I've forgotten my keys.) I could never relax and enjoy an entire concert in those circumstances!

I'm a high strung person...you must be a lot more laid-back than me. :)

I was singing in the concert... so I was already a tad nervous -- and sort of decided that, of course, it was going to get stolen and I'd have to deal with sheepishly telling the cops about not locking it... it *is* highly unique (and half the town knows whose bike it is) but it's also easy to carry something to Chicago. Then, I figured, I'd tap into savings and get me that Trek Transport -- but it wouldn't make margaritas like this bicycle can, and getting another fender blender would be even more expensive.

Today's commute was a bit heavily laden. I just got the next two units of teh Susan Barton Reading System so I put them on one side, my backpack on the other. The new tire is a fat 35 mm so it's rubbing the fender some (I hope -- when I put it on, my disk brake rotor was also rubbing and with a little help I adjusted that noise away... but it's a high pitched noise... but on the other hands, the tyres have little rubber thingies stickin' out that I *hope* are what's making the noise... can't quite tell for sure whether it's rubber on rubber or metal on metal...) I got a wave from the speed trapping cop at the school crosswalk (he's seen me before).

VeganBikeChick

05-12-2011, 10:48 PM

I finally did it! Biked to work tonight. It was a gorgeous day out, so there was no reason not to. With traffic, and walking my bike up 3 uphill blocks, it took me 22 min to go 2 miles. Pitiful, but not as bad as taking the bus the same distance that takes 35-40min. And the ride home in the AM is all downhill. I'm guessing 10 min? :D

Tri Girl

05-13-2011, 06:52 AM

Yay!!!! :D

Melalvai

05-13-2011, 07:41 AM

redrhodie

05-13-2011, 03:02 PM

Woohoo! After a whole week of intense wind from the NNE, it finally changed direction, and calmed. I got lucky, tailwinds both ways today. I feel so special. :D

I was extra careful because it's Friday the 13th, but no one did anything stupid, even me (for once ;)). Great commutes, a perfect sunny day. I'll take this any time!

VeganBikeChick

05-13-2011, 04:43 PM

That's great! I have some advice for getting up those hills without having to walk them. Use lower and lower gears early on in the hill. Before it gets hard to pedal, shift down, and down, and down. Even if you are in your very lowest gear pedaling like mad to go so slowly up that hill, you are proceeding faster than a walk.

Traffic can really slow you down. A commute isn't a race, your goal is to get there and get home, and if you can do it comfortably so much the better. Way to go!

Thanks so much! The positivity really helps. I was in my lowest gear and still had to stop, but I just need more practice to increase my aerobic capacity. When I can feel like I can breathe and pedal at the same time, all will be well ;). And you're right, it's not a race, it's just so nice to see how much shorter my commute time is by not taking the bus. The ride home today was 12 min :).

azfiddle

05-13-2011, 09:48 PM

Did my once-weekly commute (20 miles RT). It was beautiful this morning and almost no wind (which is always a head wind for part of the way). The return trip was hot (95 degrees) but I have learned to stop at add ice to my water bottle at the half-way mark, which makes it much easier. The way home is slightly downhill and with the relative calm, I was speeding along at more than 20 mph for most of the way!

redrhodie

05-14-2011, 07:12 AM

I was extra careful because it's Friday the 13th, but no one did anything stupid, even me (for once ;)).

Maybe I spoke too soon. I got a messenger bag as a gift yesterday, and rode home with it in the evening. I didn't have much in it, but it seems riding 15 miles with it was more than I was ready for, my back is telling me now. Ouch. Hopefully this will work itself out now that it's the 14th. Taking a rest day, doing some light stretching, hoping this gets better on its own.

MyRubyE

05-14-2011, 06:16 PM

I'm really enjoying my bike commutes and change my bikes on occasion to mix it up a bit. I have two English roadsters (Raleigh and Pashley: 3 and 5 speeds, both have racks). On Friday I rode my road bike with a messenger style bag. My goal is to commute 3 - 4 days per week, but I hope to commute on a daily basis, once the April/May showers stop.

redrhodie

05-15-2011, 03:07 PM

A funny thing happened on my way home from work tonight. The tour of California was starting at 5 pm, and I worked until 4:20; 15 mile bike ride, plus a 20 minute car ride, I knew I couldn't make it home by 5, but I was motivated to try! So motivated I passed and dropped a guy on a road bike. As I was loading my bike in my car, he rode by, and yelled, "thanks for the humbling experience." :D I laughed and said sorry. I wonder if he noticed I was on a steel bike with a rack, or just that I was female. Anyway, it was good he had a sense of humor about it. I rode really hard. I actually felt like puking a couple of times.

The irony, the race was canceled due to weather. What's up with that? I haven't seen the west coast forecast yet. Everything okay out there?

Crankin

05-15-2011, 03:25 PM

It was snowing in Lake Tahoe and there was ice on the road.

redrhodie

05-15-2011, 03:29 PM

It was snowing in Lake Tahoe and there was ice on the road.

Oh, thanks!

Edit: Wait...snow? In California? In May? Is that normal?

Kerry1976

05-16-2011, 10:10 AM

Today I took BlueBell (my Trek Pure lowstep) on her first foray to the office.

I learned a few things.
--Not sure about the front basket. Made the steering a little wonky. We'll see how I feel on that tonight or tomorrow.
--I cannot hike her up and down stairs at my apartment, especially with a full basket. So, she will stay locked up outside (still pondering a BF Model T Tikit).
--I only live a mile from work in a university community, and with the students having graduated and gone home, this was the perfect day to start commuting.
--As it heats up (this morning was upper 30s-lower 40s and that will be a distant memory soon) I'll have to have better plans in terms of sweat management. Even today I was sweating.
--Sweaty hands mean I need to wear my gloves, even for such a short trip!
--Helmet head wasn't much of an issue as I don't blow dry my hair anyway and the trip was so short.
--I got to work fast and it was fun!
--If I keep riding her, def need to get fenders. (this is where I need to decide if going for BF Tikit or not)

Melalvai

05-16-2011, 11:13 AM

--Not sure about the front basket. Made the steering a little wonky. We'll see how I feel on that tonight or tomorrow.
I haven't ever biked with weight on the front tire, but I've heard it just takes some getting used to.

Kerry1976

05-16-2011, 11:27 AM

I haven't ever biked with weight on the front tire, but I've heard it just takes some getting used to.

I was surprised at the difference it made! My particular basket holds very little weight/volume, so a back rack and panniers are important. (of course, that is when I ask - do I spend the money here or on rack/fenders/panniers for a new BF Tikit? - UGH!)

I should add to things I've learned - wearing sandals when temps are in the 30s and 40s makes for cold toes when going to work! BRRR! :eek:

Kerry1976

05-16-2011, 01:22 PM

I was surprised at the difference it made! My particular basket holds very little weight/volume, so a back rack and panniers are important. (of course, that is when I ask - do I spend the money here or on rack/fenders/panniers for a new BF Tikit? - UGH!)

I should add to things I've learned - wearing sandals when temps are in the 30s and 40s makes for cold toes when going to work! BRRR! :eek:

Things I learned on my ride home: I hate leaving my bike parked outside overnight. But carrying her up and down the stairs constantly simply won't do.

RadicalEdward

05-16-2011, 08:12 PM

Managed to get back on my bike today after a couple of day riding hiatus (due to the -6 degrees centigrade in the mornings, and my current inability to find the right warm riding gear)

but its a balmy 15 outside now - thinking I might have worn gear this morning that was 'just' adequate to maintain my core temperature while riding, that will now be too warm riding home
But it's better than the bus :D

and I can I just add - for anyone that is hesitant to shower at work
Commercial Hot Water + Commercial Water pressure = the shower of my dreams
(At least there's a massive difference here.. you guys might all be spoilt with great water pressure at home)

Kerry1976

05-17-2011, 05:28 AM

It was a cool 39 this morning but my toes were warm in my sandals since I wore socks (took off at the office - they looked kinda goofy!) My fingers were a little cold, too, but nothing I couldn't handle. It is supposed to be mid-60s this afternoon so the ride home should be lovely.

Kerry1976

05-19-2011, 04:05 AM

So happy that I covered my saddle with a shower cap last night! When I went outside to saddle up to go to work, there was a heavy layer of dew all over everything - but I had a nice and dry seat on my ride to work. (anyone else riding their bike was going to have to wipe off the seat and/or have a wet butt).

I totally consider that a victory!

Becky

05-19-2011, 04:50 AM

After three days of looking at the forecast, deciding that the ride home would be too wet, and having the actual weather be perfect for riding, DH and I said "enough!". So we rode today, and my coworkers have been stopping by all morning to say, "wow, you rode today...that's brave...."

Of course, according to Murphy's Law of Cycling, it will pour just as we're getting ready to leave today. At least it will be warm... :rolleyes:

Melalvai

05-19-2011, 08:13 AM

I don't mind so much riding home in the rain because as soon as I get home I can dry off. If it rains on my riding to work, and I didn't bring sufficient change of clothes (underwear AND socks!), or water got into the bag of spare clothes, then I'm stuck being damp for the morning.

So far I've missed most of the rain but we're supposed to get a lot soon. I'm so glad we got a week of actual SPRING weather, after we went from a frost advisory straight into a heat advisory earlier this month!

Becky

05-19-2011, 08:36 AM

For me, riding in the rain is more of a safety thing, especially on my commute route (which will never win prizes for its cycling accomodations). I don't mind the wet part.

redrhodie

05-19-2011, 03:48 PM

Dense fog this morning. Luckily I had a spare Cat Eye flasher in my car. Popped it on the bars, with red light flashing in the back. The ride home was wet. I just missed a huge deluge. My bike and I were covered in grit. Now the cats are mad because they had to wait for me to clean my bike before I fed them.

tulip

05-19-2011, 04:07 PM

Tomorrow I lead a Bike To Work Day commuter convoy! I know at least two people will show up. Hopefully more, too. It's only a three mile trip to downtown, so the folks who live around me and work downtown really don't have an excuse...well they have plenty of excuses but few that I accept.

I'll report back tomorrow.

Melalvai

05-20-2011, 05:44 AM

A couple days ago an SUV passed me and the passenger yelled something.
It was very complimentary about the view from behind me. :D
But the most unusual part was I could understand the words!!

(He yelled "Nice a$$". If he'd said it when the students were still in town I'd be dubious, but now that they are gone, it's believable. lol!)

Being able to understand the words reminded me of the Bike Forest video Tips for Cyclists (http://www.bikeforest.com/?p=56). Hilarious and SO true!!

Bike Writer

05-20-2011, 08:50 AM

It was a most lovely morning for a ride in today, what made it all the more enjoyable was stopping along the way for a moment or two to chat with people I know. I love small towns and my short work commute!

beccaB

05-21-2011, 08:42 AM

So proud of myself. Just started to use my bike to get myself to work in the afternoons for the afternoon school bus take-home. After putting $73 in gas in my jeep a few weeks ago, that was the straw that broke the camel's back. I can't do it every day, but I've been doing it even when rain threatens and I don't have something on my schedule afterwards that I have to be on time for.

Becky

05-21-2011, 09:25 AM

DH and I ran errands today on our singlespeeds. We hit the post office, the hardware store, and Penney's, and took the long way home to explore another potential shopping route. This new route will allow us to visit our "local food" store and the warehouse club by bike as well.

After a week of rain, it was so nice to be out in the sun, and I love the feeling of getting stuff done on the bike :)

WindingRoad

05-22-2011, 04:11 PM

Do any of you actually look for an apartment that is FURTHER away from your most common destinations just to get more miles in?!?!?! I find myself in that predicament now, lol. I REALLY want a 10 mile commute, this 3 miles bull is hardly worth putting on my Sidi's for! Right? Right?!?

Catrin

05-22-2011, 04:26 PM

Melalvai

05-23-2011, 09:56 AM

Yeah, that's why my commuter bike is flat pedals and something I can just jump on to wearing anything, suit, dress, swimsuit. (It also happens to be my only bike, but I predict now that we have a slightly more comfortable income, that might change over the next few years.)

pfunk12

05-24-2011, 03:28 PM

I guess this is a pre-commute story. I was getting ready to leave my building to go home. I hit the elevator button. The elevator came down and when the door opened, one of my co-workers was standing there with a DC Bike Share bike. I was surprised and I said, "Wow! Good for you!" She just looked at me and jokingly said, "Get your own elevator!" as the door shut. :) Seeing someone else with a bike in my building made my day.

rubysoho

05-25-2011, 04:16 AM

today was meant to be my first, real commute (round trip, 24 miles). But last night my chain was all messed up. Thought I fixed it (a friend was walking me through the steps over the phone) then this morning the same mishap occured right as I was pushing off. I'm sure it is a simple fix but my novice self doesn't know what more I can do. I commuted to work today with my bike... on the back of my car so we can head over to the bikestore at lunch. **pout**

At least it didn't happen half-way through my first attempt. I'll try again on Friday if the good weather holds.

Melalvai

05-25-2011, 01:18 PM

rubysoho, It is a simple fix but the simplest fixes are daunting to a novice, whether it is bike repairs or anything else! I had to rescue my daughter one day when her chain slipped and she couldn't get it back on. Although it turned out that it had gotten stuck, which can make it very difficult to put back on.

I have two recommendations. First, at home, put your bike into its lowest gear. Then take the chain off the sprocket (as it would be if it had slipped). Then put it back. Use a rag to handle it so your hands aren't as greasy. After my daughter got stuck, I took the chain off at home and had her put it back on, so that she'd know how next time.

Second, carry a rag with you, so if it slips on the road you don't get quite as greasy.

In the event it does get stuck, I've used various tools to pry it out, if I can't pull it out. I'm sure it's not good on the chain, but I replace it every 1500 miles anyway. Probably the pliers on my leatherman has been most useful in getting it out.

redrhodie

05-25-2011, 03:28 PM

Perfect weather for shorts today. Finally! I took the long way in this morning because I had extra time due to a wicked tail wind.

Stopped in the lbs after work, where they just happened to have a Moots set up in my size; even the saddle was the perfect height. Seems like destiny (or they were expecting me). I'm not falling for it, but I did test ride it. Lucky for me, I hated the saddle! Had they thought to put an An Atomica on it, I may be looking for a new apartment with more bike storage. :rolleyes: The saddle gave me an out, canceling out all the yummy details of the ride with an annoying belch. Nice bike, though.

rubysoho

05-25-2011, 04:57 PM

Kerry1976

05-26-2011, 04:49 AM

Today was my first commute in the rain. Thanks to all the great advice here, it was pretty straightforward. The only problem I had was that I can't seem to get my front fender (installed last weekend) tightened enough to stay in place. It got all wobbly and darn near came off the bike.I had to stop midway through just to tighten it by hand enough to get to work and then it was as loose again by the time I got to work. Will stop by my LBS and see if they can tighten it or fix it if I didn't install correctly.

Trek420

05-26-2011, 11:56 AM

Rain yesterday, rain tomorrow (yep. I'm a wimp. A fair weather cyclist at best) and more rain this weekend but it's nice today!

Last night I pumped up the tires, picked out clothes (Columbia Titanium capris which I love because the zip thigh pocket is perfect for a cell phone or keys, zip rear pocket makes it easy to grab the train ticket) and an extra shirt, and rode in today.

My ride was pleasant and uneventful, I seemed to hit every light at the right time, generally polite drivers etc.

Left the train two stops early to get another short ride in. There's a station near work but it's a bear to navigate. Easier to leave at the lake and ride the quiet residential streets or around the lake than fight the downtown elevator and traffic. Got in with time to grab a cuppa coffee

Melalvai

05-26-2011, 02:14 PM

I almost drove today because when we're moving and things are so chaotic it is easy to say "I don't have time to bike". But I had time to visit the elementary school to see the bicycle safety thing they're doing, and I was embarrassed to show up there in a car. So I biked.

I was glad I biked, even though it wasn't one of the best rides I've ever had. My destination was north, and there was a STIFF north wind. A car passed me unwisely and nearly had a head-on with oncoming traffic. The very next car to pass honked at me, and the one after that buzzed me! All this on the <1/2 mile short stretch of highway that is the only way to get out of our house-- the highway that is the reason we are moving.

ZenBiker

05-26-2011, 04:52 PM

Wow Melalvai, that sounds like a tough commute. I had the wind (20 mph sustained, gust up to 40) but not the scary traffic.

Savra

05-26-2011, 05:35 PM

Wow - the stories from the past few days of messed up chains, wind, near misses from cars -etc. all make me appreciate my no frills easy ride to work/school. Five miles, clouds but no rain while riding. New fenders did well.

blackhillsbiker

05-26-2011, 09:07 PM

Cold and very windy. I wished I had worn better gloves and warmer shoes/socks. Still, it felt good to be back on my bike after all this rain.

Deb

Kerry1976

05-27-2011, 04:37 AM

Stopped at the LBS on the way home last night and had the fenders reinstalled. I did an okay job on the back fender, but totally botched the front fender. I always considered myself somewhat mechanically inclined so I was pretty embarrassed. :o

However, the LBS owner said I actually didn't do too bad of a job - I think he was kind. He reinstalled the front fender, tweaked the back fender. I am now good to go!

This morning's ride to work was cool - only upper 40s - and very refreshing.

MTA: the LBS owner and I even talked about my Brooks saddle. He liked it! :)

ZenBiker

05-27-2011, 04:32 PM

Even more windy today, 30mph with higher gusts. And it had an annoying way of shifting direction or briefly dropping to zero before coming back stronger than ever. I really had to work at staying on a line, not veering (or getting blown) into the high school graduation and Memorial Day weekend traffic on the road with me. This has been quite a spring, weather wise.

Biciclista

05-27-2011, 05:12 PM

DH met me outside my office which led to a 20 mile detour. We went to the hardware store, the sporting goods store, and the AT&T store. missed a squall by going to a Cafe. home now totally beat. whahappened?!

Antaresia

05-30-2011, 10:57 PM

Geonz

05-31-2011, 07:06 AM

Today was the first day, in my entire life, I biked to work. I got an old mixte a few weeks ago, my first bike in over a decade. It's about as old as I am and I LOVE it.

My bike is awesome and I feel awesome.

Woo hoo ;) :)

WIndy commute here, but going through town it's not so bad. I'm feeling yesterday's Entirely Too Sunny metric (backs of my calves are fried)...

RadicalEdward

05-31-2011, 03:48 PM

Warm and Windy all week this week over this side of the world as well

First week back commuting after a week long break due to the flu - still chesty and a little congested, but I feel so much better being out there on the bike rather than being stuck in a car or on the bus

7rider

05-31-2011, 04:53 PM

Hot, hot, hot. 90s for the ride home.

And needed to get groceries at lunch. So it was a perfect opportunity to try out my new insulated grocery bag (http://www.crateandbarrel.com/outlet/home-accessories/insulated-grocery-bag/s670793) and ice mat (http://www.crateandbarrel.com/outlet/outdoor/ice-mat/s635343). Kept the stuff in the office fridge all afternoon. Eggs, spring mix, mushrooms, and cheese were the primary "cold" things. Also got some fruit, rolls, and assorted whatnots. Loaded up the bag before I left - cold stuff on the bottom, room temp stuff at the top. Slid it snuggley into my POS grocery pannier (http://www.rei.com/product/795714/sunlite-grocery-getter-pannier-09-overstock). Rode home in the blast furnace. Worked like a champ. Cool stuff remained cool for my 40 minutes on the road. I don't think I'd put ice cream in there, but if I had a lot of frozen stuff (frozen dinners or whatnot), I think it'd be fine. So...a successful first test of my grocery bags in the heat. Yay.

redrhodie

05-31-2011, 05:07 PM

Catrin

05-31-2011, 05:12 PM

I just started a new thread about my commute, but here's the condensed version: stuff thrown at me, 911, they got caught with a bunch of stolen goods in their car, bad guys off the street. And I had tail winds both ways! Yay.

Whooohooo for tail winds both ways, glad you are safe and was able to do what you needed to do!

blackhillsbiker

05-31-2011, 06:48 PM

I commuted to yoga. The sun was finally shining. I took the day off — recovering from our (twin) daughters' graduation on Sunday. After yoga DH & I went fly fishing. It was a splendiferous day!

Deb

radacrider

05-31-2011, 07:56 PM

In general, had a normal commute, stayed dry as it was mostly cloudy. The morning commute was interesting as all the rivers around here are at or near flood stage. The affect on commuting is that our floating section of the Eastbank Esplanade is near level with the terra-firma section. The ramp in this picture is suppose to be going down:eek: back there.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3417/5783180364_9432016bed.jpg

:D I should note that in the morning light I did not realize just how much the ramp had risen (it's been somewhat up now for over 2 weeks) and actually rode up this thing:p:eek::D

Oh, and they closed this section until the river drops.

Kerry1976

06-01-2011, 01:06 PM

Nice ride to/from work. My travel is short as it is about 1.25 mi each way.

I have to laugh though....I ride pretty aggressively on my Trek Pure Lowstep, which is funny because BlueBell is not an aggressive bike by ANY stretch of the imagination. I rode very timidly on my road bike. Go figure. Can't wait to get my BF NWT next month!

blackhillsbiker

06-01-2011, 08:28 PM

Frustrating this morning. A major portion of my route was unavailable due to flooding. I decided not to ride home and sent my bike home with DH. He forgot it was on top of the car and drove into the garage. Ouch. I haven't seen her yet. He took it to the LBS. I hope she can be repaired soon. :(

Deb

laura*

06-02-2011, 03:33 AM

He forgot it was on top of the car and drove into the garage. Ouch. I haven't seen her yet.

Oh no! :(

Crankin

06-02-2011, 04:41 AM

Sorry about your bike, Blackhills. The father of one of my son's racing teammates did this with the kid's team bike about ten years ago. The poor man was mortified. But, I remember that the insurance paid for the bike (it was totaled).

7rider

06-02-2011, 07:53 AM

Does riding your bike make you smile?

I was riding in this morning and ended up riding for a while with a woman on one of these. This isn't the exact bike, but is was something equal grin-inducing: Electra Amsterdam-style bike in bright kelly green bike, blue wheels, pink spokes (with Monkey Electric (http://www.monkeylectric.com/) kit in the wheels, she told me, for darkness). She was wearing a skirt, tank top, and sandals. Just looking at the bike, and you had to grin. Utterly utilitarian, yet doesn't take itself too seriously. She insisted I go ahead of her "You're much faster than I" she said. So what? I just enjoyed riding beside her, talking about her bike, and when I left...I left with an ear-to-ear grin.

Because commuting by bike - any bike - is the BEST way to get to work.

Melalvai

06-06-2011, 07:13 PM

I've been at a meeting in Montreal for the past week. Here are my commutes/ errands since I got home.

Last night I rode with my daughter to the park for her audition for the summer musical. She forgot some of the words, but her pitch & tone were good, so she's in. (I think everyone who auditioned got in.)

Today I rode to get my allergy shots & then to work. It was weird coming from the opposite side of town, where our new house is. I hit a cicada with my face. Or it hit me.

Tonight I rode with my daughter to her play rehearsal, because she wasn't sure of the route, then from there I went over to the high school for Community Band, where I played french horn for the first time in 8 years. I'm using one of the school instruments. I managed to get it in my basket! I'm always impressed with how big my basket is! And since it was dark after band, I turned on my Monkey Lights. I'm always impressed with how bright they are!

blackhillsbiker

06-06-2011, 07:49 PM

Wow! I played French horn in college. I can't imagine hauling one by bike.

I took the road bike today. My Kona is still in the shop. I think we went straight from winter to summer. Hot and humid. It was a fun ride, though. She is so fast!!

Deb

7rider

06-09-2011, 04:50 AM

Today was one of those mornings that you forget exist in the deep, dark, cold mornings of February, when it's 20 degrees out and you're dressed in 10 layers with goggles to keep your eyeballs from freezing. This morning was mid-70s at 6 a.m. and sticky, sticky, sticky. Was sweating buckets by the time I got to the office. Blech. (The ride home will be even BETTER! :rolleyes::p)

jessmarimba

06-13-2011, 04:18 PM

Found out today that the ideal north-south road on my bike commute will be closed from next Monday until sometime in August. I have a week to find another good way to get to work.

And leave it to the DOT, they put the big flashing sign up completely blocking the bike lane. Parked in it, you could say.

jessmarimba

06-15-2011, 07:02 AM

Woohoo! The best thing about being stuck behind a garbage truck is if the guy working the back is really cute and extremely friendly :) Gonna have to remember to leave late on Wednesdays from now on.

redrhodie

06-15-2011, 03:49 PM

Perfect commutes today. No complaints. :)

RadicalEdward

06-15-2011, 04:16 PM

Goggles! That's what I'm missing!! :P
Chilly ride in this morning - we had an eclipse this morning (Blood moon!!) That I had hoped to get a good view of, left the house in a rush so that I'd have a good vantage point AND.. Cloudy.
No moon for Ed :(

But leaving in a rush also meant that I've left my keys at home - which has my locker key on it.
Thank goodness I had left clothes out throughout the week - I'm wearing a pair of week old jeans (pulled out yesterday to come home for a wash.. whoops), the "emergency stashed" undergarments, and the base layer I rode in - it was fresh this morning... and I don't THINK I smell too bad.......
BUT I have no make-up, jewellery, the only pair of shoes I have that don't live in my locker are the daggy ones, and I don't have a coat or a cardigan (unless you count my long sleeved jersey!)
Lesson learnt - leave a key at work.. they give you two for a reason

The ride was wonderful.. I'm finding my zen sooner and sooner as the weeks go past
Love it :D

Kerry1976

06-16-2011, 10:55 AM

Finally got in a commute to work today. Loved it! Now hoping the storms (I don't care about rain, but do about lightning) hold off so I can get home safely when I leave this afternoon.

redrhodie

06-16-2011, 12:58 PM

Finally got in a commute to work today. Loved it! Now hoping the storms (I don't care about rain, but do about lightning) hold off so I can get home safely when I leave this afternoon.

I'm trying to decide whether to commute tomorrow, also due to forecast t-storms. Get home safe! Take a ride if you need to.

blackhillsbiker

06-16-2011, 08:03 PM

Beautiful this morning. Wet coming home. I'm so glad to have my Kona back! The fenders sure are nice when it rains. I'm going to try to take the roadie tomorrow, weather permitting, so she can get fitted for new handlebars with a smaller reach.

Happy Friday, everyone,

Deb

pfunk12

06-21-2011, 03:40 PM

I was on my way home tonight on the bike path and I was moving pretty good. I passed a guy and he yelled, "Hey! Your bike is faster than mine!" Definitely one of the funniest comments I have heard while commuting.

jessmarimba

06-22-2011, 05:16 AM

I would like to stop in here and confess -

I am not riding my bike on Colorado's bike-to-work day.

Because I'm leaving it for my little brother to ride, should he choose to go anywhere today. (He's been at school in Seoul for a year and hasn't driven - and doesn't want to try until he's back home with his car.)

RadicalEdward

06-22-2011, 04:14 PM

Wet and windy today - sinister headwind the entire way up "The Hill"
and with my luck it'll turn and I'll have a headwind home as well

redrhodie

06-23-2011, 06:04 AM

Dry in the morning, rain in the afternoon. I tried wearing my rain jacket, but it's so soupy out, it was like a portable sauna. I ended up ditching it and riding in my ss wool jersey. So much better.

Can't remember the last time I drove to work.

RadicalEdward

06-23-2011, 03:23 PM

-3.5 deg (Celcius) this morning when I left (25.7F)
Foggy - no issues with the cold once I got going, but the softshell just doesn't cut it for the additional moisture in the air!
Nearly froze solid when I arrived - should be sunny when I leave though, it'll be a wonderfully clear ride home

7rider

06-23-2011, 04:26 PM

DH left work early today, so he was able to come and meet me at work and ride home with me. That was good for a couple of reasons. First, he wants to get a few rides in (at least 1!) before we do Saturday's time trial. Second, I couldn't get to the grocery store at lunch because I had to attend a meeting, so I didn't get to do the shopping I wanted to do. With DH around, we could stop at the store we pass on the way home, he could watch my bike (I don't carry a lock with me), and I could get the groceries after work.
And since I was all decked out in bike clothes, I wanted to take the tri bike out when I got home so I could see how the chain shifts on the wheels I just put on with a new cassette. So, we got to the house, DH brings the groceries upstairs, I swap my commuter shoes for my road shoes, grab the tri bike, and head back outside for a cruise around the neighborhood to work the chain through the gears. Halfway out, I see a familiar kit (my agency team kit - which I also happen to be wearing) standing on the side of the road, with a familiar bike - a recumbent - parked off the road on on the grass. It's my friend and co-worker, Mark. Thinking he was on the phone to his wife, reporting some mechanical problem, I pull over and say hello. He was grazing his way through a neighbor's mulberry tree.
"Getting my daily dose of antioxidants!" he said. The tree was thick with fruit in various stages of ripeness.
"This time of year," he explained, "I look like I just came from a voting station in Iraq." He turned his hands over to show his fingertips and nails stained deep purple.
So we chatted for a while - him handing me a handful of mulberries every so often, and then we departed...both in our matching team kits - him on a recumbent, me on a tri bike, both with fingers stained purple. We must have made quite a pair!

blackhillsbiker

06-24-2011, 04:37 PM

Between yoga and some more tweaking the fit, the roadie and I are becoming much better friends. She seems so light and fast! I rode her yesterday and today. No back, neck or shoulder pain. I'm still smiling.

Deb

Geonz

06-27-2011, 08:04 AM

We had some major storms blow in at 4:00 a.m. -- they abated just in time. Silly me still wore all the rain gear, so I got sweaty anyway. I think I would have steamed up just as much with Gore-Tex but I'll try that next timeand see; I wore my more traditional rain jacket instead because it has a hood...
I don't *really* like these 7:30 mornings but I love the Fridays off that are the payback, and I do like that I can run five minutes later, relatively speaking, 'cause there's just nobody on the road in a college town in the summer at 6:45 a.m.

ZenBiker

06-28-2011, 04:19 PM

Had a nice commute today, great weather going in and almost no head wind coming home (unusual here). And for an interesting twist, I encountered a slight delay in the morning due to a unicycle troop (band? group?) practicing in the road! Two cars waited along with me as the unicycle riders executed a sort of pinwheel turn, before we went ahead and passed them. I'm sure they plan to be in the 4th of July parade and were getting in some street experience. Anyway it was a fun way to start the day.

redrhodie

06-28-2011, 04:59 PM

I got a flat this morning. Rear tire, of course. Got to work on time, even after stopping to buy a new tube, so I'm definitely getting faster at changing them. There's the one good thing about glass on the road. Practice makes perfect.

redrhodie

07-06-2011, 03:28 PM

What, is everyone on vacation?! Not me. I rode in today and am very excited to report that the long awaited bike path extension is done! yay! Actually, it's evidently been done for a few weeks, but I never checked. This means I can now avoid the big intersection that used to literally give me nightmares. I did overcome all my traffic fears riding through it twice a day, so that was good, but now I never have to sit through multiple light changes before I get a green light. So, the new route should be faster, even though it's probably the same length. I suspect once the word gets out that it's open, it will be too crowded with kids and dogs for me to enjoy, but for now, it's great.

Melalvai

07-06-2011, 05:24 PM

I'm not on vacation, but on good days the one-mile ride isn't all that interesting. :)

Today I rode a few extra miles around town because we did our bike/ped traffic counts! This is the first ever for the city of Kirksville. We used the National Bike/Ped Documentation Project guidelines. We learned that the guidelines are for big cities. For example they recommend one count location per 15,000 population. Well, our population is 17,000 total. One location isn't going to tell us anything! We did 4 locations. Also, the recommended dates & timing aren't ideal. They suggest a 5-7pm on a weekday. I know from experience that Saturday afternoons see a LOT of cyclists and runners on the street that I was counting at. And at this time of year, most people are out in the evening or morning when it is cooler. But during the 2 hours I was there, I counted 5. One of those was my co-counter who had to leave. One was my friend bringing me another bottle of water. And one was my friend leaving after bringing me another bottle of water!

I think the other intersections probably fared better. They were in locations that people use when biking & walking for transportation, while my spot (on my old road that I used to live on) was on a road that people use for recreation or training.

RadicalEdward

07-07-2011, 04:23 PM

It's been too cold and wet to ride :(

I rode in today though - and had to chip the ice off my bike
No seriously
Ice

Foggy morning with Frost everywhere - no sun to be seen - reasonable wind
I don't think we'll see the sun today at all

Melalvai

07-09-2011, 04:25 AM

Yesterday I took the car in for an oil change & tune up. It ended up needing a new oil pump switch too.

When it was done I drove home and switched to my bike, and biked over to my mechanic's house for new cables.

Car maintenance: $277.
Bike maintenance: $36.

I love biking.

redrhodie

07-12-2011, 02:56 PM

Like riding through clam chowder. Ick.

ZenBiker

07-12-2011, 04:16 PM

On the way home tonight:
was waiting at a stop light behind a pick up with two dogs in the back. One dog barked at me the whole time. Apparently the guy on the motorcycle behind me thought that was pretty funny, because when the light changed he pulled up beside me, slowed down, barked several times, then pulled away laughing. ??

Biciclista

07-12-2011, 04:18 PM

Melalvai

07-13-2011, 08:18 AM

My daughter's play is this weekend so the rehearsals have been going pretty late at night. She doesn't like to bike in the dark by herself so I go meet her at the park when they're done. When I ride past people out walking or just standing around, I hear them say things like "Cool lights!" and "Whoa!" to each other. Monkey lights are impressive!

This picture is from the Monkey Electric website:
http://www.monkeylectric.com/images/randomr/r8.jpg

7rider

07-14-2011, 04:49 AM

I think I missed the memo or something that today was Everybody Get Outside Day.
Granted, it was pleasantly cool, with less humidity than we've seen in recent days. It was, indeed, a glorious morning to be outside. And folks were. By the truckload.
Normally, I can count on one hand the number of other cyclists I see on my ride in, and only slightly more joggers along the MUT that parallels the road I ride. This morning, I must have seen 50 joggers and 20 people on bikes (including one woman, riding in a pair of mini short-shorts, wearing her helmet strap across her lower lip, a la the Queen's Guard (http://www.trekearth.com/gallery/Europe/United_Kingdom/England/London/London/photo980171.htm), who ran the light at Colesville Road :eek: - a 6 lane highway where cars routinely come flying down the hill - from either direction, and it's risky to cross WITH the light for fear of red light runners. To run the light at crossing is near suicide.
Ah, well.

ZenBiker

07-14-2011, 03:36 PM

arrghh - they're chip-sealing the roads in my neighborhood. This means laying down a layer of tar, then a layer of small diameter gravel, compacting it a bit, and then more tar/oil to seal it. Generally the gravel goes on and then some days pass before the top seal is applied. Wouldn't be so bad to ride on the gravel if it were even, but at random intervals there will be a "drift" of 1-2" deep, loose material across the road

So every evening is a new adventure in finding alternate routes home, depending on what the road crew got done during the day. At least the flag men on the project are sympathetic, commenting on how they've created a bumpy ride for me!

Tri Girl

07-15-2011, 06:20 AM

because when the light changed he pulled up beside me, slowed down, barked several times, then pulled away laughing. ??

that is TOO funny!!!:D

HillSlugger

07-15-2011, 04:31 PM

Bike commuted yesterday for the first time in 2 months and only the 4th time this year :( I've let my triathlon training take priority

7rider

07-15-2011, 04:47 PM

ZenBiker

07-19-2011, 04:20 PM

<sigh> the chip-seal project has now put gravel on every road within a mile of my house. It's a dusty, bumpy ride to and from work - but still better than driving!

Melalvai

07-19-2011, 04:21 PM

So, I was leaving this afternoon - heading to the elevator to go to the gym to dress for my ride home tonight.
My boss is by the elevators. "By the way," he said. "That was me yesterday."
Huh?? :confused:
"In the van. On Fairview. In the van. I beeped at you. I saw you on your bike."
"Oh. I don't remember any van beeping at me."

I suppose if they're not screamin', yellin', honkin' threateningly, or being illogical moronic jerks, I just tune them out.

The woman who cuts my hair said she sees me on my bike all the time. I asked where because I don't remember seeing her ever. I guess I'm not looking inside the SUVs.

Today's ride was brutal. I had a couple errands, and I didn't want to wait all the way until next week after this heat advisory theoretically will be over, to get them done. So I just went in the heat. 16 miles by the end of the day. The longest single trip was 5 miles, and every time I stopped I refilled my water bottle and sat in the air conditioning for a while.

It occurred to me, much much later, that I guess I could have taken the car. No one else was using it today.

redrhodie

07-19-2011, 05:03 PM

Crankin

07-19-2011, 05:09 PM

Be careful, Red. It's going to be brutal here on Thurs. and Fri. We are not used to this stuff.

Catrin

07-19-2011, 05:11 PM

I'm already stressing about the commute on Thurs. It's supposed to be 90s and humid. I can do one or the other; I suffer with both together. I will not be trying for any speed records, that's for sure.

You can do it! Personally I am tempted to avoid my planned ride Wed evening, I can't ride Thursday. I am meeting someone for mountain biking Saturday so I had better get out in the heat at least once this week to make certain I stay acclimated to the heat - regardless how tempted I am to stay in my air conditioning! I suspect there will be something in my Camelbak other than pure water though.

redrhodie

07-19-2011, 05:14 PM

I will. I have a cell, and I'm not afraid to use it. :D

Bethany1

07-20-2011, 11:07 AM

On foot. My back tire blew a mile and a half out of town. I walked in my road shoes until I hit the sidewalk and walked home in my socks.

Yes. I had a cell phone and no one was answering.

No. I didn't think of using my CO2 cartridge until my son asked why I didn't. I so hate being a newbie.

What really made me mad was that 3 cop cars drove by w/o asking if I needed help and neither did anyone else. Maybe I should have played the helpless female but I was too mad to think of that until later.

When I got home, I couldn't get the inner tube to fit right so I took it up to my LBS and the mechanic wouldn't be in for another hour. I go back an hour later and within 3 minutes he had everything done. Stupid shop is 20 miles away and turns out to be an 80 mile trip today.

Did I tell you I hate being a newbie?

My son told me to carry a pack behind me with regular shoes in it since I like the clipless shoes/pedals. I'd take the clipless pedals off, but I do love them.

Melalvai

07-20-2011, 12:49 PM

Bethany1, learning to do the simple stuff to your own bike is SO empowering. It makes me feel like Super Woman. You are going to love it. Get your son to show you how to change a tire!

One strategy I use for dealing with this heat, is I don't pedal unless my speed has dropped below about 8 mph. Lots of long coasting. It's hard not to be impatient. But when I went home for lunch I used that method, and although I was impatient at first, I suddenly noticed that I was halfway up the next slope and finally needed to pedal and I'd been off in my own little world for ages, and forgotten about being impatient.

Bethany1

07-20-2011, 02:01 PM

I do know how to change a tire, but I don't know how to change the back one out on the road and put it back on.:o That one I should practice at home on the deck. LOL.

I keep a spare tube on my bike as well but ended up going to the LBS because my son and I couldn't get the tube to fit right into the tire.

If it had been the front tire I could have had it fixed within a few minutes and be on my way.

Wondering if I should get a decent pump to put on my bike as well as having the CO2 cartridge.

I was up at 9am riding so I wouldn't have to deal with the heat. I'm just grateful I didn't lose control of the bike.:o

chincitop

07-20-2011, 02:42 PM

My commute is getting easier and easier as the days go on, and also more enjoyable. Especially the ride home, which is a lot of me gently rolling down hills being excited about unwinding from my day at work with some exercise.

I've been doing better going up the hills, and even conquered the steeper hills, on yesterdays commute. :)

redrhodie

07-21-2011, 02:28 PM

Not so bad! :) I rode really slow this morning, and managed to arrive with a dry bra--success!!! Amazing tailwind back tonight. Can't beat that! Voeckler's still in yellow, I'd call this day perfect!

ZenBiker

07-21-2011, 03:04 PM

Coming home tonight: 90 degrees, breezy, 14% humidity. Probably sounds like heaven to those in the midwest, and I admit it's pretty nice as long as my water bottle is full!

azfiddle

07-21-2011, 08:10 PM

I'm still trying to ride about once a week. Today it was overcast and 78 with just a little headwind in the morning (actually, there is a headwind almost every time I ride) and my average was only 13.3 riding in.

Coming home, the clouds dissipated and although I mis-remembered that it was going to be 91 when I left, after I got home I checked the hourly weather chart and apparently, it was closer to 101. My commute is 10 miles each way. I feel okay for the first 5 miles or so, and it helps if I stop at the convenience store and fill up my water bottle with ice. By the last 1 1/2 miles, I have usually hit my heat limit, and start to wonder if I should stop and cool off. Even though it is downhill (ever so slightly), I usually need to lie down and drink something cold as soon as I get home.

tangentgirl

07-21-2011, 08:14 PM

My commute sucked! My car blew a radiator hose and I got to hang out with the AAA guy and spend like $100 on car repairs and be late for work. Shoulda rode the bike.

chincitop

07-24-2011, 04:11 PM

started my moon today, and rode anyway. Had a good ride in, doing hills better :)

Melalvai

07-25-2011, 11:42 AM

A friend of mine commented that her bike has become her "lazy way" of transportation. I said "Isn't that funny! I know I kept intending to walk or even drive this winter but it was just easier to bike, even in the bitter cold."

How I miss that bitter cold... It's still easier to bike than to walk or drive.

redrhodie

07-26-2011, 02:40 PM

My commute was great. The new bike path extension has been working out. The virgin asphalt is dreamy smooth. It seems to take me a few more minutes, which is weird. Not sure if it's a little longer, or if I'm a little slower for some other reason. Anyway, it hasn't been busy, so that's been nice. The official opening ceremony is later this week, so that might make more people know about it. For now, it's mine. All mine.

RadicalEdward

07-26-2011, 04:37 PM

Bought a bike computer this week and got it working this morning
WOOH!! 55km/hr!!
(Just ignore the 9km/hr up that hill..) :P

Need to figure out how to pull out the average speed and distance and stuff

A Beautiful ride this morning - a layer of Frost on everything :)
I don't envy you lot the heat, it'll hit us here soon enough *sigh*

redrhodie

07-27-2011, 03:41 PM

My car's brake light came on yesterday, so I brought it to the mechanic today, which is 5 miles from work. Whenever I have car work done, I bring my bike along and ride to work. It's much shorter than my regular commute, so I think of it as not riding. I came very close to not wearing bike shorts today. I'm so glad I didn't.

When I got to the shop after work, my car was not ready, and would not be until tomorrow. And, they wouldn't let me take it because it was too dangerous to drive. So, I had to ride another 10 miles to get the bus. Not a big deal, but I had been thinking of this as a non-ride day. I ate a puny lunch, about half the calories I usually eat for lunch, and I was dehydrated. I blame my current emotional state for both of these. My appetite is off, and I forgot to drink enough. Had I known I would be riding 15 miles instead of 5, I would have used some chamois butter, and eaten more. I also didn't have bus fare. Luckily, my lbs is right down the block, and they generously gave me some cash. Love those guys.

I had to wait almost an hour for the bus, and it went a really crazy route, looping through the community college, which I'd never even seen before. Had I known it was going to do that, I would have gotten off at the first stop and just ridden from there. That would have been faster, for sure. It ended up taking me 2 1/2 hours to get home.

Well, I'm beat. At least I didn't go postal on anyone. :D

AnnB

07-28-2011, 10:50 AM

Hello All, I'm new around here, just found this website a week or so ago. I have been commuting daily to work since May. I'm amazed and how much better (more energized) I feel with even a small ride to work and back. My commute to work is a tiny .71 miles, but generally I try to get an extra six to twelve miles in after work. I own a brand new in May 2011 Specialized Vita Elite, it's a hybrid and perfect for commuting. Although I do feel, every so often, the need for a fast & light road bike (maybe next year). My dream is to get in shape enough so that I can take a bike tour of New Zealand. I guess my reason for hanging about here is to get some winter biking tips - I've gotten some good ones already from lurking about. I plan on biking as much as I can until it snows out.

azfiddle

07-28-2011, 04:55 PM

I'm trying to commute once a week. It means leaving half an hour earlier, and it's always a bit stressful even though I feel great when I get to work. I've got my change/clean-up routine down to less than 10 minutes. .... but I've got to say, riding home when it's 100 degrees leaves me ready to collapse when I get in the door.

Today the humidity was reasonable (17%) and the clouds moved in as I rode home, but I then I had wind all the way home. I'm not sure which I prefer- blazing heat with calm or more favorable winds, or overcast with wind.

tzvia

07-30-2011, 08:00 PM

Crap. Earlier this week, nice cool morning ride. For two blocks. Then my bike started feeling like it was hinging in the middle, then it felt heavy and dead in the back. Shoot, flat. No time to change it so I turned around and walked briskly home and took the truck to work.

Took the time that evening to rotate the tires (they have about 1600 miles on them and the back is more worn than the front but still serviceable.) The rear tube was not only flat from a rather large 1/2" by 1/8" wide shard of glass stuck in the tire, but it looked chaffed and had many tiny cracks like it was dry so I replaced it. Had to use pliers to get the glass out of the tire, and patched it from the inside. It felt good to ride it on Friday.

Our weather has been mild for the San Fernando Valley/L.A. I don't think it's been 108f yet, and has maybe hit 100 once or twice all month. The humidity is high though and I sweat bullets going home.

And I think it is time to start looking into new 700x28c tires...

chincitop

08-06-2011, 05:56 PM

had my first run in with rain, today. Funnily enough, two days ago was my one month anniversary with my bike. Little blue monster is a beast.
Rain isn't my favorite. BUt I think I just have to find better ways to deal with it. TO be honest, it wasn't a good day and I wasn't expecting the rain

Christopher

08-08-2011, 08:53 AM

A normal commute in, until I heard a nearby 'chufchufchuf...' as I was approaching a railway line I bike under, and thought that diesels sounded a lot like steam trains these days. Just as I got there a stream locomotive went past over the bridge, it was pulling an excursion train and working hard to get up the hill. It was quite a sight - I have mixed feeling about steam power, a steam engine pollutes an awful lot, still it made my Monday.

sfa

08-09-2011, 07:17 AM

I freakin' hate my car. My commute today: DH needed the good car (normally he works from home so this isn't much of an issue) so my choices were to take the unreliable car or ride my bike. I've been commuting by bike a lot recently, but we didn't realize our conflict for today until after I had already gotten in an early morning run, and there are thunderstorms predicted for this afternoon, so I figured I'd take the unreliable car. Generally if it's going to have problems it'll be right at the start (or the non-start as the case may be). But it started up just fine and got me about 9 miles along on my commute before it started lurching and stalling. I eventually got it off the highway and parked it in a convenience store lot and walked the last 2.5 miles to work. Between the drive, the time spent starting and stopping and lurching, and the walk, I could have biked the route a lot faster.

I'm calling a vehicle donation place and getting rid of that car today.

redrhodie

08-09-2011, 01:37 PM

Fun. For one, I finally got a new tune stuck in my head. I've had Leonard Cohen's "Everybody Knows" playing in my head on rides for months. Months! Finally today, something inside clicked, and "Heavy Metal Drummer" by Wilco came on. What a contrast! Hopefully, it's a sign of good things to come. I love Leonard Cohen, but that might be the most cynical song ever written. I'm ready for a lighter internal beat.

Also fun because I out-rode the impending rain. Saw it coming on the Doppler, and my friend said, "Ride like the wind!" and I took off. Apparently that wasn't really necessary, because it's still not raining, and I've been home for an hour. Oh, well, it's good to have inspiration for speed. I purposely didn't ride my rain bike today because I thought it might be fun to try to avoid it, and it was.

Edit, oh, and I forgot about yelling at the strollercizers monopolizing the entire bike path (both lanes) this morning. After saying, "bike back" and "walkers move to the left" and being ignored, I finally yelled "walkers to the left!" (there are signs posted at every intersection, it's not my rule). Afterward, I was embarrassed for being rude and hoped no one I knew heard me. But, they finally moved.

Tri Girl

08-09-2011, 05:59 PM

my school year starts tomorrow and that means I get to commute again!!!! WOO HOO!!! It's been FAR too hot this summer to do any recreational riding- only riding as part of the training I'm doing for the IM next month. Can't wait to get on my bike and ride to work again! I always miss it when the school year ends, and always look forward to it when the school year begins.

AnnB

08-10-2011, 06:46 AM

strollercizers monopolizing the entire bike path (both lanes) this morning.

I like the strollercizer term, that's great. I have the same problem with a section around the lake, where I bike after work. I finally gave up the bike path and used the road. Between the kids and the geese the roads are safer, and at least the geese have the sense to move. I actually had a little kid (maybe 4 or 5 yrs old) stand in the bike path and kinda jump from side to side in front of me purposely get in my way. I'm sure she thought it was cute.

redrhodie

08-10-2011, 07:52 AM

I like the strollercizer term, that's great. I have the same problem with a section around the lake, where I bike after work. I finally gave up the bike path and used the road. Between the kids and the geese the roads are safer, and at least the geese have the sense to move. I actually had a little kid (maybe 4 or 5 yrs old) stand in the bike path and kinda jump from side to side in front of me purposely get in my way. I'm sure she thought it was cute.

That sounds very annoying. I usually stay off the bike path at this time of year, but it was my friend's birthday, and I thought I might run into him on the path. We have opposite direction commutes.

I don't think this was an actual "Stollercize" group like they have in NYC, but it was 8-10 ladies working out with their babies (which I totally respect; but pay attention and give others room to get by, please). The real Strollercizers I used to see in Manhattan were totally hard core, running full speed, with one hand on the stroller, then jumping sideways. I swear, some of the women would be in tears trying to keep up. Oh, and they ran single file, with military-like formation. I suspect it would be easy to get by them.

laura*

08-11-2011, 02:22 PM

Yesterday I needed to be in San Francisco Bay Area's East Bay. Some neighbors were driving to the West Bay, :p er, Peninsula. I put my folding bike into their trunk and got a ride with them.

This let me ride across the bay via the Dumbarton Bridge (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dumbarton_Bridge_(California))! :cool: The ride was much easier and more pleasant than I expected.

I linked a bunch of errands, all via bike, into this trip. In the end, it was 9 errands and 50 miles of riding. :eek: At one point I was slightly lost - I knew I was on the correct side of a certain freeway, headed in the correct compass direction, and that within 10 miles I'd encounter the cross street I was looking for.

Even after 50 miles of pedal pushing, I don't feel a thing - no soreness, no tiredness. I think this trip must be in the top 5 of my single day riding distances.

This commute did end on a bit of a sour note. I forgot my sunglasses hooked onto my bike's handlebars while I had dinner. They were gone when I returned. :( At least I got two years of use out of them.