Originally Posted by noglider

As @Papa Tom says, you will work these things out over time. It's interesting how in our culture, bike commuting isn't engrained into our minds, so working out these details is complicated and different for everyone. I carry very little on my commute, partly because I've worked out what I need and don't need and partly because I don't have to dress very "fancy" at work. I also sweat less than most people, so it's often OK for me to wear one set of clothes all day.

I keep my gear in one place by the door, including trouser bands, cycling gloves, helmet, and mirror.

I go back and forth between panniers and a backpack. I've preferred a backpack lately. I have a cycling-specific backpack which is narrow but does not pinch my shoulders together the way many others do. I don't find the weight to bother me, even when my load is well over 10 lbs, and that's not often. It does make my back sweaty, but sweat doesn't bother me.

I also refer to the change as Superman to Clark Kent! In the summer when I sweat more, I change in my office, and I rub myself over with witch hazel. That cools and dries me rapidly. It's a mild astringent which doesn't dry the skin.

On my saddle, I hang my tool bag which I rarely need. It has tools and a spare tube. I hang my blinky tail light from this bag. I have several bikes, and this bag moves from bike to bike.

My favorite bike has a dynamo-powered set of lights, and I leave it on day and night. It's nice not needing to charge my lights. My front hub provides the power.

Someone else here keeps a spreadsheet of which clothes work well for which weather conditions. I thought that was going a bit too far, but I started doing the same, because I forget, and at the times of year when the weather changes, I need to remember, or else I'll be hot or cold.

Originally Posted by pdlamb

+1 more, but with a question. Is Superman the guy on the bike, and then you turn into a mild-mannered [whatever your job is], or are you a mild-mannered cyclist turning into Super[fill in the job title]? I'm not quite certain which way my transformation goes...

Originally Posted by joelcool

I've been riding to work for over 5 years now. Wednesdays are my laundry day so I normally drive that day and bring 4 days worth of clean clothes and bring my dirty laundry home. We have showers here at work, so my first stop after parking my bike is my office where I grab the days clothes, walk down to the shower and I'm back at my desk is 15 minutes, ready for the day. It's a routine now that's easy for me. I do remember the first few times were like "OMG what do I do now???" but like others have said that's a very short lived thing. The ride more than makes up for the small inconveniences.

Originally Posted by Korina

Yay you, and yay for not waiting! I agree with what the others have said; panniers, fenders, and all the lights. Pre-loading your work clothes also sounds like a good idea; the less you have to carry, the better. As far as cold weather clothing goes, I find layers work the best. Have fun working out your route; I love seeing new places.

And have fun! Make your co-workers jelli when they see your big stupid grin. (I may be projecting, as I get a big stupid grin when I ride.)

And keep us updated on your progress. I, for one, love seeing others' rides.

Originally Posted by Harhir

Congratulations. Cycling to work is awesome. And 20 miles is some workout. I only have 5 miles but occasionally when the weather is great I make detours to get some extra miles. I have been doing it for about 3 years now. Initially twice a week. Now daily. Meanwhile I only take the car if I really have to. Once I week I bring a set cloths for the week in a little trailer. On the other days I just carry a laptop in a pannier.
I can leave my stuff in a locker at our gym. When I come in I spend another 30 min or so in the gym on strength exercises recommended by my physical therapist. I am already sweaty so no need to change for the gym. Then shower and off to my desk.
I just love being outside in the fresh air. No matter if rain or shine. And the exercise feels good.

Originally Posted by preise

Kudos.

92 mile commute

Originally Posted by dhender02

Finally Rode Bike to work!!!! ... last night I decided I was just going to go for it..... And I DID!!! I lLUV IT!!

Originally Posted by dhender02

Thanks!!! One co-worker has already said they have always wanted to do it, but never had the nerves to try it....

Originally Posted by dhender02

Unfortunately, we can't leave a lock on the full size lockers overnight. They assigned you a 12x12 locker with a built in combination lock, but I keep much in there... Left my shoes, along with my toiletry bag today.

Originally Posted by dhender02

You're right about weather varying this time of year... Yesterday morning was rather chilly 38 degrees, so I had on two layers (long sleeve under Armour and jersey) in addition to my heaviest cycling jacket, I was comfortable on the ride. On the return trip home it was mid 60's so shedded a layer...however I was hot when I arrived home (I didn't check weather). Today was warmer than yesterday, my morning commute was in the low 50s, so I had on two layers (under armour and short sleeve jersey) along with my windbreaker jacket, I was still rather warm by the time I got to work. On the ride home I kept layer configuration, but I was VERY hot when I got home... so I checked the temperature, it was in the 70s!!! One thing for sure, if I just check the weather report prior to leaving in the morning and on my return I would be in position to make adjustments. Keeping a log, would definitely help me to dial it in! Thanks

Originally Posted by 52telecaster

Your thread is inspiring. I commute as well. It still feels like I am a little boy getting away with something. Imagine enjoying your commute!

Originally Posted by Fahrenheit531

Thanks for reminding me of the nerves and the awkward preparation and the Right on I did it! experiences of several years ago. Good stuff, that. And now here I am, an everyday bike commuter, and every day I'm still excited to swing my leg over the bike and go.

Enjoy the ride! The rest is details.