I'm in the market for a new bike - well A bike. Its great excercise, it costs NO gas, and its just a great way to get around. Besides, my city is pretty much heading towards being a biking utopia - there's even talk about making every other street downtown a bike only street (though I don't think the PBA would really allow that, but I won't get into that). So yeah, combined with an excelent public transportation system, the rising cost of gas, and the enviromental impact of cars it doesn't make sense to drive at all here.

Anyways, I'm curious, for those of you who choose to transport yourself via peddle power - why do you do it? How often do you do it? What do you like about your bike? Yes, just talk about your biking experiences.

Can't wait till I get to ride in the pouring rain. I'm nuts like that.

Hey Aaron, congrats on your decision. My mode of transportation is a Giant Cypress. Not the sexiest bike out there, but it's built like a tank and very reliable. It's outfitted with a set of saddlebags and a high watt light. Riding where you are should be a breeze. The rain isn't too bad. Just be sure to have waterproof pants with you as well as a rain jacket and helmet cover. Shoes are a little more challenging. I usually use either waterproof hiking boots or covers on shoes. Just be sure you tuck everything in!

The only negative experience I've had commuting thus far (and I don't commute as much as I'd like) was in January when I rode to work in the dark in 6 degree weather and took a header on some black ice. My helmet and my pride took the worst of it, but it was not a huge deal.

More recently, the challenge is riding in the heat. I work in an office and have to be "presentable" (i.e. lack of stink) and that can be tough. I take some wipes with me and a different t-shirt to wear under my button down shirt. Seems to get me through the day.

Also, it's taken awhile for my friends at work to get used to it. They all think I'm a nut (which I am, but not for that reason). Michigan is not the most cycling friendly state (to say it politely).

Anyhoo... there's a bunch more I could go on about, but I hope that helps. Let me know if I can be of further help!
John

I'm in the market for a bike, too, so I'll be lurking:)

I have a Giant too. It's a Boulder, and it's about 10 years old. Giant makes great entry level bikes in the "better than Walmart" range of quality. IIRC, my boulder cost me ~$250 back in the day.

I don't commute to work, because I need my car (on the road alot, sales)... but this is my baby for when I do ride. Trek Madone 5.2, from 2004... full carbon, Ultegra components (good-ish, not elite). Upgraded the wheels to Bontrager X-Lites though. Light bike, fast, fun.

You bike in Michigan? Wow, now that's hardcore!
Yeah, I suspect that I will be more apt to not bike in colder weather, especially rainy weather. A lot of times in the winter we get basically melted snow falling from the sky, and it.is.miserable.