Fall and Winter Commuter Challenge!

[kfergos]

Today I rode in heavy drizzle with a nice strong tailwind part of the way. About four miles into my ride, a guy flagged me down. He was standing next to his pickup truck and waving a piece of paper. When I stopped*, thinking he was in trouble, I found out that he wanted to help me. He explained that he went by me every day, that he lives in my town, and asked if I wanted a ride. His reasoning: (a) The weather's going to be getting colder soon; and (b) He's afraid I'm going to get hit by a car.

It was a very nice thought, but a little strange, too. I told him I'd ridden through winter before, and that I tried to be as safe as I could. Most of all I said "I do this because I like it." Then I thanked him several times for his nice thought. I don't know if he really understood why I'd choose to voluntarily ride in 55 degree rainy weather: His offer sounded, to me, like he thought I had no other choice but to ride.

* Stopping was exciting in and of itself: the road, freshly paved, had probably not gotten really wet before. I skidded, then started to fishtail a little bit before I eased up on the brakes. The disc brakes on my new bike work great even wet, but boy do they howl!

[Biciclista]

got in two commutes this week YAHOO!

[Geonz]

I get the offers for rides, too.
Car-culture people can't imagine voluntarily riding in less than ideal conditions... or that oh, for the sake of other values, I'm willing to risk riding in traffic. (No, I don't put myself above them. These are just my choices. I just wish more people could comprehend them )

[Eden]

My husband has been riding or taking the bus. He gets people offering to drive him the block and a half to the bus stop.....

I've been doing my typical commute. Took the bus on Monday, because I had a rest day on the schedule and a team meeting after work (so coach would totally know if I was cheating ) I don't think I can actually drive to work.. I don't have a parking pass and all of the parking is off campus.

[Grog]

It's raining extremely hard today.

I only have an hour-long obligation on campus.

I am afraid I will take the car. It's hard to believe.

I better leave a note to my husband because if he sees the car gone when he comes home he'll be sure it's been stolen!!!

[Geonz]

Dont be surprised if it feels wrong in the car

I took the fast bike today 'cause there was an inside ride at the LBS, so I was glad the weather goddess stuff worked and it rained while I was at work, not riding. Lost a glove at work... but happily *found* the reset button on my furnace at home 'cause it's gonna get nippy... gosh, the $50 that saved in not calling the repair guy out... guess that can go towards... hmmm... what gadget

[ms pepperpot]

It's been a bit hit and miss this week, partly because i haven't been at work everyday. My new Surly has now arrived though, so I'm hoping it'll be plain sailing from now on rain or shine.