Commuting vs Riding

I've had a bit over a year to experience bicycle commuting. I do not ride to work every day for several reasons:

• Weather: I won't ride in snow, ice, heavy rain, high winds, or thick fog -- these roads are fairly busy and drivers are minimally attentive.
• Clothes: If I run out of spare clothes at the office and can't fit a change into my backpack.
• Fatigue: My shortest route is 15.5 miles one way. I always plan to ride at least 16 MPH, while I'm usually closer to 17. Ambling along at a slow pace isn't an option. So after a couple of round-trip days, or extra hard rides due to speed or conditions, I drive in.
• Tolerance: Some days I just don't want to deal with the close calls and other frustrations. These days are rare but they happen.

I'm averaging 3 days a week commuting, 33-39 miles each round-trip day, 17 MPH average over typical rolling terrain (800-1000' elevation gain) while wearing a backpack between 5 and 10 lbs.

Here's what I've learned in the past year:

• Baby wipes are great
• Short hair helps
• Beat the school traffic
• Carry enough food
• Stage one more set of clothes than you think you'll use
• Buy and use chamois cream
• Tough tires are good (my current favorites are Continental Grand Prix All Season, 700x25mm)
• Saddle bags have a place
• Panniers don't
• Headlights are critical
• Tail lights should be as bright as possible
• Ride a few extra miles to avoid busy roads
• Change the route enough to keep it interesting
• Don't be afraid to rest (i.e. "Not Ride")
• Secure your bicycle inside
• Always have a rescue plan
• Don't ride in snow, ice, heavy rain, high winds, or thick fog
• Wave at other riders. Every one.
• Riding for transportation can become a drudge, and rob some of the enjoyment riding brings. Fight to keep the joy.