So after much agonizing, I decided to get a road bike (Madone WSD 4.5) as my commuter. My commute is about 14 miles each way, mostly along a highway with a very wide shoulder, and my husband just got a road bike, so anyway, I decided a road bike would do fine for the commute, and I could also use it for rides with my husband and our friends.

I would expect to ride my bike to work 10-15 times a year, although if the road bike reduces the time significantly, I might be tempted to do it more often.

All fine and dandy, except that I can't attach any kind of rack to the bike. I have a backpack I could use, but I'm wondering about the advantages of messenger bags and other bike-specific designs. Are they just as sweaty as backpacks?

The very helpful guy at the bike store was concerned that I wouldn't like a messenger-style bag because of, well, strap vs. anatomy. I tried on his bag, and the strap seemed to fit fine between 'em, but I said I would look around to see if maybe there are some designed for the female form.

So -- thoughts? Does anyone have a bag they absolutely adore?

I keep a pair of sneakers at the office, and can keep a towel and toiletries as well, but I need to be able to bring the day's clothes and maybe a pair of shoes.