Its the best time of year here for commuting-cool in the mornings and just nice and warm in the evenings. My favorite part is when I pass homes that have orange trees blooming....the scent of orange blossoms in the cool morning air is intoxicating!
After a few near disasterous equipment failures last year, I resolved to buy a new bike for commuting. My tax return was nice this time and (after much research) I spent some of it on a Swobo Otis! I chose the 16.5 stepthrough size, fenders, rack and back basket (for shopping and errands). I made the decision to try and live as car free as possible (either one of the bikes I have is worth more than my '95 Neon right now-lol) so the rack and the basket are for store trips, etc.
I find myself getting up early to ADD miles to my morning trip to work on purpose because my new bike is so fun to ride!
Since the bike is all stealth matte black, I added Lightweights spoke reflectors and black reflecting tape to parts of the frame, plus new lights.
I don't find myself riding in the dark too much, but it does happen and I want to be prepared.
You must do the thing you think you cannot do.
- Eleanor Roosevelt