I would have to agree that commuting has boosted my confidence and aggressiveness on the road. I have found that if I ride like I belong out there, look like I belong there (helmet, bright jersey or jacket, lights, etc), signal when needed, and follow the rules of the road, vehicles tend to respect me and make proper allowances for the cyclist.

Commuting has also taught me to be self reliant. If I have mechanical problems or a flat and I am eleven miles from home, I am the one who has to figure out a way to fix it and get my rump home. Mr. Tater isn't always there to bail me out.

Through commuting, I have also come to enjoy riding in variable temperatures. Snowing and temps in the twenties or sunny and over one-hundred, if I dress properly for it, I can ride it.