I have been a bike commuter for 13 years. I started off using a short commute to a train station. My total commute took about 45 minutes. I did this for about 4 months. My second day of riding I got a flat. Yep, it was a goat head or puncturevine. I got some Schwalbe Marathon tires and that took care of the flats. One day, the thought entered my mind to ride all the way to work. It’s 13.2 miles one way. I gave myself plenty of time, planned my route, which was very straight, and headed off. Elation filled my soul and body when I made it to work that morning for the grand achievement of not only riding 13 miles, but doing it to get somewhere. I was riding with a purpose. This transformed my life and opened up my mind to new possibilities and challenges. Where else could I ride? How could I get there in better comfort? What gear do I need to improve?

Over the course of four years, I got new bikes, sold bikes and added more bikes. Fat bikes, touring bikes, gravel bikes, 90’s road bikes. I also started collecting bike bags of all shapes and sizes. Not sure panniers, but bags that went on my handlebars, and saddle. Speaking of saddles, I discovered Brooks Saddles and that oh so comfortable leather dream. Most people see a Brooks Saddle and immediately say, “Wow, that looks hard!” “But it conforms to my butt, and it feels so nice,” I reply back. My wife says I have no butt, and maybe that’s why the Brooks B17 saddle fits me so well. I have four of them and they are fantastic.

If you want to start commuting by bike, here are my top 5 tips for success:

1. Tires – Thorn resistant tires are key. Schwalbe makes some great tires. Or go tubeless. The tires you get on that brand new bike are not gonna cut it. Carry an extra tube if you don’t choose a thorn resistant tire and a small repair kit with a pump.
2. Clothes – Just wear shorts in the summer, and pants in the winter. Wear comfortable clothes that are breathable. You can wear jeans, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Bright colors as well. People ask me all the time, “So you ride your bike year round? What do you do in the winter?” “I put on more clothes!” Just wear ski or snowboard stuff, but don’t put on too much, you will sweat to death. Just like an Oger, and onions, Layer.
3. Time – Give yourself lots of time. Think of this as your gym, yoga, and mediation time. that longer commute now seems like time well spend.
4. Slow down – Along with giving yourself more time, please slow down. Slowing down will make you sweat less, enjoy it more, and use up less energy. The most efficient form of transportation of any living thing is a human on a bike. Take your time.
5. Get a great bike – This one is crucial. Get one that fits you well, is dependable, and rolls smoothly. You don’t have to get a brand new bike. Get a used one and try it out. See if you like it. Get a hybrid bike. Please get a hybrid or gravel bike. You will thank me. Get handle bars that fit you, flat pedals so you can wear any shoes you want, and a rack. Get a rack to put bags on, or bags that fit on your handlebars. Don’t wear a back pack. Only you can prevent sweaty back!

“I just put on more clothes!” Response to people asking me how I ride my bike in the winter.

Wrapping Up with Key Insights

In the infamous word of Queen, “Get on your bike and ride!” I will see you on the trail.