4 weeks in and I am a hardened commuter, come rain or shine I have ridden to work on my bike. I started out on the mountain bike with a rucksack full of high vis vests and enough clothes on to survive the arctic. After struggling to get to work on time, due to the weight on my back, having to stop to disrobe, arriving at schools unable to stand up straight and with a very wet bum, I decided the panniers would have to be dragged out of the garage.
Now on the Trektastic, panniered up and pulling a weight similar to giving Chris Hoy a backie, I have changed to touring mode. This time setting off earlier, with less clothes on, but enough items in my panniers to surprise even Bear Grylls. I recon I could survive anywhere for a week on the contents.
So, my tips for successful commuting are:
Be realistic - 10 miles takes more than 20 minutes, unless you are Chris Hoy and not carrying him in your panniers.
Be armed with excuses for being late - The puncture one always works (but cross your fingers as you say it!)
Dont bother washing and drying hair, applying make up or even considering how you look before you set out - schools pity you and make you cups of tea while you work!
Take clothes for all weathers, but dont wear them all at once - wearing 3 pairs of thermals and a pair of jeans prevents circulation and effective pedalling.
Dont try and commute on an empty stomach, hunger makes legs stop going round
Know your route, crossing farmer's fields is not good unless you look like a sheep.
Make sure you know one end of bike pump from the other, or have number for mobile mechanic close at hand.
Cook tea, grovel, do anything to please mobile mechanic once home.
Good work.
ReplyDeleteSo how many miles commuting then with these heavy panniers?