Quote Originally Posted by WindingRoad View Post
Did you decide on a route? Are you going to use pannier bags?
I think I want to try the second route you recommended on Facebook, at least at first, depending on if they have completed the Cultural Trail on Washington and I think they have. The route down the White River trail does seem more direct, and I like that it goes UNDER 38th street...I have seen how drivers treat the bike lanes on New York and that idea just scares me right now. I know Riverside Park isn't the safest, but I doubt that would be a problem at the times I would be passing through.

I think if I plan this properly all I will really need to carry is lunch and hydration. I would only commute twice a week at most, so I can bring all my stuff to work the day before and leave a few extra things in the office. I've an empty drawer in my large file cabinet I don't think I would need more than a little trunk bag - and some come with a quick release attachment to the seat post. This might be a good option while I build my comfort level to urban riding. Pity I sold my little Arkel bag when I sold the LHT - got a great price for it but still.

The next step is to regain a bit more bike and neck strength - I strained a calf muscle this weekend on the bike, probably from fighting the wind down Reed Rd and crossing over to Dandy Trail Sunday. The wind was howling! I think the only thing that will help my neck tolerate riding more is to, well, ride more Intelligently however, I won't raise my mileage until there are no repercussions post-ride. The cool part is my mileage is already longer than the ride to work