What are /r/bikecommuting's favorite Products & Services?

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That bike is an unironic fanny pack. It's a pair of those late-80s wrap-around sunglasses. It's a special reunion episode of Prairie Home Companion. It gives carob treats to children. It means well, lives humbly and does no harm.

Rather than water bottles which generally have narrow necks, there are containers actually designed for holding things in the bottle cage that work much better and they're fairly cheap.

https://www.amazon.com/Bar-Mitts-Handlebar-Shifters-Externally/dp/B00380H7PK

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The best is over the bar mitts.

I started at 340. I started with a mountain bike where I could lock the suspension for commute rides. I also replaced the knobby tires with slicks like these I also replaced my seat with a more comfortable gel seat like this one. even still, you'll deal with saddle pain for a while. Keep at it and it will become tolerable. 8 miles each way is a great distance, but you may need to work up to riding it every day. Start out dong it 2 or 3 times a week (or more if you're feeling good) Just listen to your body and don't push yourself so hard that you're always miserable.

I'm a big advocate of avoiding backpacks whenever possible on a bike, but this one from Oak Creek is $40, actually waterproof (not just "resistant"), and has been awesome for me for a few years now. Not sex-specific though.

I would advise using small hose clamps in stead of zip ties though, Zip ties will break down from UV light. Most auto shops and hardware stores will have them

It was tight right!? Your body will only take a like a week to whip into biking shape. Pretty soon it doesn't even feel like you're pedaling and biking brightens your day pretty much no matter what.

I suggest some fenders for wet mornings or if you get caught in a little rain. A front one will keep your feet dry. Also make sure you lube your chain at least once a month to keep everything frictionless and smooth. The white lightning clean ride has done me great for many years.

White lightning

Biggest problem I see with e-bikes has to do with regional practicality. They're not allowed in bike lanes in Tulsa. Yet, one of our local cycleways has this bitch in it...seriously about 350m of ~25% grade. It's like climbing a wall on my Electra Amsterdam, I can barely do it. It's steeper than anything on a major cycleway in Portland by a lot.

Also on the westside, and one that you don't see coming until you make that last turn on to it is another basically wall climb. There's 3 or 4 signed rest area platforms on that short north-south segment. There's an abandoned dead-end segment of Quincy Avenue that starts at the same elevation as where it crosses parallel, with nothing but a lot for sale at the top, but I doubt it'll sell because that block is even with the cycleway adjacent to it at the dead end at the top. I honestly don't think my pickup truck can climb that unless I put several hundred pounds of bricks in the bed. Worst thing about that is you can't even bomb it, the yellow dot is a stop sign and even if that wasn't there, the sharp, semi-blind turn at the bottom just past the stop sign puts you on the brakes anyway.

Plus the wind and the hot weather. It's been in near 40°c (give or take a few degrees) for weeks now with no end in sight, I'm basically a wet salt-lick by the time I get home in the evenings. Definitely see the value in at least being able to maintain the same modest speed with less effort, too.

You should check out this cool feature on Strava:

https://www.strava.com/routes

I'm not sure if you need to be a registered user or not (but it's free if you don't already use it)

One of the features that it includes is a global heatmap, so you can see where other cyclists most often bike (which are usually the best bike-friendly roads).

There's also a "use popularity" option. You can select your starting point & destination and it will create the route for you based on the most popularly ridden roads.

I listen to podcasts on my rides. I use these bone-conducting headphones: https://www.amazon.com/AfterShokz-Wireless-Conduction-Headphones-AS650SG/dp/B075FMK7SD

Your ear canals are open so you can still hear everything around you. Give them a try.

Yo. I work midnight to 0830 and ride fifteen miles each way. Or I did, until I started working from home.

I run a good Light and Motion taillight with sidelights, one of these on my helmet and another on my handlebars, and a bunch of red LEDs laced into my rear spokes. I'm lit up like a damned christmas tree.

My ride home is almost all on bike paths, but those aren't safe at night so I'm on surface streets all the way in. Traffic is light, but I still get nervous in the neighborhoods with lots of bars.

When I built an upright commuter bike out of an old MTB, the biggest step towards making it practical was changing out the straight handlebars to a North Road style set:

https://www.amazon.com/Sunlite-Northroad-Touring-Handlebar/dp/B00ZDSX71I

This change makes your posture more upright, and turns your wrists in a more natural direction than an a sporting bike. You can additionally change out the stem for something that will raise the bars further.

The first step is to find out the diameter of (1) the clamps for your shifters / brakes and (2) the diameter of your current bars where they clamp into the stem.

Most of the contents of the care packages I just picked up at Target, but the wool socks I got off Amazon. They're "Fun Toes" brand, 6 for $26 - incidentally, the same ones I wear for everyday.

You could use gloves if you don't want to put any bar tape on (not sure why you wouldn't, though). Bar tape is relatively cheap. Maybe something like Cinelli Bar Tape or Deda.

I use one of these Contigo mugs on my rides. Fits my bottle cage perfectly and keeps coffee warm for hours.

Only big downside is that the color finish scrapes off easily in the cage, so mine looks pretty beat up now. Still works great, though.

Another common tip, which I did myself, is to do a practice ride to work on a day off, so you can get familiar with the route and the whole routine without being stressed about doing all of this while still getting to work on time.

A few more tips. Personalize to your own situation. Note that I am able to wear a simple work outfit with the same shoes everyday, maybe not everyone can do this (or wants to do this).

• Have spare work clothes at work. I bring a full outfit (except shoes - I keep a pair under my desk) to work each day, but I keep a backup set in case I forget to pack something.

• Where I work, I can leave a U-Lock locked to the rack, so I don't have to carry a heavy lock with me back and forth every day unless I know I'm going to make a stop somewhere.

• I used to scramble every morning at home to to put together the clothes I want to bring. To get more organized, I got a set of five packing cubes each one is about the size of a large tissue box and it fits one shirt, one pair of socks, and one pair of underwear. When I do laundry, I fill each packing cube with those clothes, and each morning I just pop one into my pannier. I wear the same pants for a week so I just keep the pants in my pannier and wash them at the end of each week, and repeat the cycle. While this practice wasn't exactly life-changing, it has helped keep me a little more organized and saves time in and a little aggravation in the morning. Since I've done this, I don't think I've needed any of my backup clothes because this system makes it hard to forget anything.

• I keep a pair of shoes under my desk. I bike in bike shoes.

Unfortunately I have to do a lot of riding on a 2 lane highway with no shoulder.

While, yes, many times in the city I'll ride like this graphic, I don't at all feel safe doing this on the two lane. I pretty much just assume everyone is on their phone.. well because they are. So even if there's oncoming traffic, as well as traffic behind me, I stay as far right as I can, and keep an eye on them in my mirror. I don't feel like getting smashed into by someone doing 60mph just because I wanted to assert my rights as a cyclist.

Sometimes they wait for the oncoming traffic to pass, sometimes they fly by. But being way over to the right and watching them closely in my mirror gives me a chance to bail if it seems like they don't see me.

Anyways I mainly said all this so I could recommend this mirror to everyone (good for drop and flat bars): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011DLUBIK/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?smid=A2G7B63FOSFZJZ&psc=1

BY FAR the best mirror I've used. Mounts very securely, high quality glass, not ugly, and tough. I can't ride without one now.

As a lover of vintage rigid steel mtbs for commuters:

• Luggage carrying system. Tons of opinions here, but get the weight off your back and onto the bike. A rear rack with panniers will work. My personal preference is a small front rack (like so) with a basket attached to it and a cargo net. You can then throw whatever briefcase, purse, etc you want in there.
• Better rolling tires. Schwalbe big apples would be a nice choice and offer great feel. Lots of other options. If you want thin and vintage looking Panaracer Paselas in 1.75x26 are quick and have nice ride quality.
• Pedals. Nice grippy mtb platforms. Something like raceface chesters would be nice, but you can find decent ones for cheaper too.
• Fenders. Planet bike makes nice ones that are durable, inexpensive and have clips at the front that breakaway which is a useful safety feature.

Personal preferences:

• I like swept back bars for commuting. They're a pretty easy swap that will fit your current parts and give you a slightly more natural wrist position and maybe a bit more upright which is nice for looking around in traffic.

Yeah. We have most of our bicycle infrastructure on sidewalks in Lithuania. I do this. Only I don't sing. I use the power of heavy metal, electrogaze, dubstep and rock'n'roll to clear the way. Rest assured, you will know I am behind you.

UE Megaboom. Any weather, any season. Ain't riding anywhere without it, I got a dedicated internet plan and a waterproof phone just for Spotify on my bicycle.

this horn I've experienced in person. It will be a rude awakening but they will not be able to ignore it. You can store the air reservoir for the horn in your bottle cage. Refills with any regular pump. beyond that maybe lighting and throwing firecrackers ahead of your path?

Depending where you are, openstreetmap may be better, usually it is for cycle, foot, and mixed use paths. It also has a bicycle specific version, which shows contour lines, and highlights designated bike routes.

I learned the hard way by getting doored breaking my thumb and being to flustered to get any info from the cab driver. I only managed a measily $40 from the passenger who felt bad. That bought me a new front wheel but I still shelled out over $1000 for the emergency room bill.

I still bike to work. In traffic I slow down and split the cars. I go down whichever side leaves the most room. The busiest and most harrowing part of my trip is down 57th st in mannyhattan. some of it has a bus lane that is open except for when people want to park in it.

My advice, stay to the right unless traffic is stopped at a light then move to the front. I find that i will still beat cars across town even if they decide to sprint by me between red lights (i think this is idiotic, cab drivers are idiotic) If the cars aren't moving i will weave a path all around them. if they are moving i won't deviate from my lane without a good opening and a clear hand signal to the car i'm cutting in front of.

Great job on this, I'm a little jealous of you releasing something like this cause I was planning to do something similar this weekend with Tasker ;)

I just received some Flics (Bluetooth button), and I will stick one to my handlebar so I don't have to rely on movement detection.

I will also do a task to automatically name my ride in Strava to "Daily commute" or something like that.

To achieve the ultimate commute nerdness, my plan is that when I stop my ride at my building street door, it will open the door via a wifi switch (LazyBone) wired to my intercom and turn on my computer.

I also have a Fly6 which I love, and my only real complaint is about how fuckhuge it is.

I know that someone has posted a file on Thingiverse that is an adapter to move your Fly6 from the seatpost to a rear rack, which I might try to adapt so that I can mount it elsewhere like the seat stay.

May I ask how you have your Fly6 mounted to your rack?

I can't wait for the newest version of the Fly6 to become available.

http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2014/09/eurobike-snippets-trainers.html

Komoot can help you figure out what’s bike trail vs street, assuming you have good ones nearby. https://www.komoot.com/ I only have shared lanes near me and it’s good for routing me on those as much as reasonable, but can’t tell you how it does in a better biking city.

Bonus, it integrates with COBI.Bike, in case you have one, for on-handlebar turn-by-turn directions.

A very good mount is a Quad Lock, you attach a mount to your phone - best to get a case and attach it to that - then it locks to the mount on your handlebars: http://www.quadlockcase.com.au/collections/ride

You would want the Universal Fit. Quad Lock can probably be found on Amazon if you are in the US or Europe - my link is to the Australian store.

Apps for cycling? Strava https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.strava

For recording your ride and some interesting info, the free version of Strava is great. If you need more info, there's a premium version with a small monthly subscription.

https://www.linkedin.com/pub/michael-donovan/0/605/63a

;-)

It is Coronado, this type of stuff goes on all the time. But everyone seems to be fine with driving souped up electric golf carts all over the bloody place!

Use openstreetmaps instead. Google maps sucks for anything that isn't driving.

I use OsmAnd with brouter. Works really well for me (even for MTB, if i want so).

If I may...I found the same thing, so I picked up one of these:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0761RX64G/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It allows you to mount just about any of the modern, fancy flashlight you want on your bars. I have an Olight that's programmable so I can go from low to high with one button press that I can reach with my thumb while I'm in the hoods. Check it out!

My trunk rack for bikes has locking mechanism with a key, but it's reliant on aluminium tube for mounting the frame and few sturdy zip ties for wheels. This is quite sufficient to prevent people from nipping it while you wait at red light or sit in traffic, but not much else really.

When it comes to weather I wouldn't worry too much. It isn't all that different from just riding the bike in the same conditions.

If you have space to transport the bike in your car I'd say go for it, just pay attention not to damage the derailleurs. Few rags needed to keep all the possibly greasy parts from dirtying anything else are much cheaper than any semi-decent bike rack for a car. Such bike rack also has some slight impact on how your car handles - for one thing its dimensions will now be different (bike on roof rack might be higher than some underground parking lots allow for example). For another it also will slightly decrease your mileage due to additional air drag.

I'm also not quite sure how law regarding this in US works, but at least in EU there are some specific rules. Like - if the rack with bikes covers rear lights or license plate, you need a secondary set of rear lights and another licence plate with unobstructed view. I.e. something like this. I've got no clue how this works in whichever US states you'll be passing through tho.

That makes a big difference to comfort, but you can probably add one to just about any bag. I got this to stabilize a light bag and it works like a charm.

The trick is to look for collapsible milk crates. I have one of these and it's alright.

I bought it off Amazon because it can carry up to 80lbs. Here's the link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085VX54GG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_C0RVX1BS3XSKXMF7M8ZN?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I would buy again.

I think I'll end up getting this for my apartment, but thought I'd post this link here for anyone else interested. It's $45 on amazon.

They're Pearl Izumis, so presumably you should be able to get them easily enough outside of Canada. Try searching "lobster gloves" on Amazon, tons of results. Alternatively, try your LBS - if it gets down to -45 where you are, I'd be surprised if they didn't have some solutions for you.

I've only used lobster gloves down to about -10C, but they work fine at that temp. I doubt any sort of gloves or mitt would work very well past about -15C and still allow you to shift and brake effectively. Bar mitts are supposed to be amazing for those conditions, but I've never tried them.

I bike through the winter up until a certain temp cutoff. My no go temperature is colder than -12. Anything warmer and I'm going.

With the right gear it's actually nice, and your commute to work turns into an adventure every day, and you feel like you're on an expedition conquering the elements.

bike setup: i have a single speed 1970's road bike that i use in the winter. I have 32mm studded tires on it for icy conditions.

https://www.amazon.com/Kolpin-Geartector-Mitts-Black-92185/dp/B001Q4YMXA I use these ATV bar mitts because they are way cheaper than bike specific ones. I wear thick gloves inside of these when it's below zero.

base layers: you need wool or synthetic long johns as the base layer and wool socks. when really cold i double up

pants: I have winter biking pants that are lined with fleece and windproof on the front. get some chinese made ones on amazon, just make sure you get the really big size

top: so on top of the base layers, I have a soft shell jacket that breaths a little. when less than zero, sometimes there will be a fleece under that

boots: I have undersized snow boots I ride with, using flats for pedals. If you have the jack and ride clipless, look into 45nrth boots

face: balaclava, and when really cold, I wrap a scarf around my head too. I used to wear goggles but they would freeze up so I just stopped and let my eyelids freeze shut every once in a while.

that's about it.

I take the same route near many neighborhoods. This is the 3rd dog I've come across that had accidentally ran from home and got scared. Started carrying a a leash with me and actually got to use it this time. The pup in the picture had no collar and no chip (PLEASE CHIP YOUR PETS!), but I did eventually find the owner after knocking on many doors. Most car drivers wont stop, and can't stop to help dogs that get loose. As a cyclist, you can! The leashes are super cheap for a pack of them on amazon.

On super crappy commute days here in Seattle we use drysuit ankle seals, and they work pretty good under your rain pants cuff and over your boot/shoe top. Cheers! https://www.amazon.com/Bare-Bottleneck-Style-Latex-Drysuit/dp/B005CS3Z7A

This is where I usually plug the Aftershok Bluez 2, a set of headphones that use bone conduction instead of speakers (mostly) to transmit sound. There's nothing actually in your ears to prevent you from hearing noises around you. Mashable review link

(JUST IN CASE MY GF OR FAMILY SEES THIS COMMENT...)

My new route has a big hill to tackle, roughly 70 ft of climbing at an average 6% grade. First time I did it in 1:20, yesterday I logged my fastest climb at 58 seconds. If I can shave off 10 more seconds I can snag my first KOM!

IFTTT has recipes like this one that do pretty much what you're describing. I think you could set up a similar recipe that sends an auto-text when you get to work, too.

Whenever I commute, I always wear 'actual kit.'

First, I want something more visible than normal street clothes (or what passes for street clothes). Even if someone looks at me and thinks "what a dork," they still saw me.

Second, as you found out, they're excellent to ride in. This is my commute into work, and for me gym clothes don't cut it. Gym clothes chafe, or get snared, or ride up/down from where I want them. For me, cycling clothes just work, and that's more important to me that someone else's opinion.

So I guess I'm "one of those cyclists." Whatever that means.

This is my ride back home. I usually do this route at night but today I got to do the same trip early in the morning. You can see I travel mostly in bike lanes, since I'm not in a rush to get home this is the safest option.

This is the ride information in Strava: https://www.strava.com/activities/275785086

Have you tried using Komoot? It plans bike routes (touring, gravel, mtb etc.) using users data and opencycle maps data. Maybe there you'll find a safer route for your commute

This might be what you need

Super comfortable seat. I have three, my wife has one. No complaints from either of us.

https://www.amazon.com/Dirza-Bicycle-Release-Adjustable-Capacity/dp/B075WS4KX3

Here is what I got, My bike doesn't have the proper eyelets to hold a rack at the bottom so I use this seat post one. So far its rather sturdy but the cargo net was not so great. I use bungies to hold my water bottle instead.

You’re a badass My hands get too dry and crack when I go no gloves and it’s that cold. I’ve been using these with the bar mits for years. Great mix of warmth and breathability. Link: Pearl iZUMi - Ride Thermal Lite Glove https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K0NJA7Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_5OddGbAV1SC4X?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I have a Fenix BC21R I am very happy with. It takes standards /r/18650masterrace batteries. You can load them directly with the micro-USB port (I only tried with the battery that came with the light).

The top of the optic is made to send the part of the light that would go toward the sky right in front of the bike.

Only the 2 first levels are legal to use in the streets where I am, they are quite enough and I use the 2 higher when in the forest at night.

The fixation could be more "permanent", I just remove it when parking in the street.

Got it from amazon for ~80€

Wald are the standard in bike baskets

https://www.amazon.com/Wald-Rear-Bicycle-Basket-14-5/dp/B001AYKN84

The rear one looks pretty highly reviewed on Amazon, also inexpensive and a bit more stylish than a milk crate.

You could also use panniers instead, I prefer this as it keeps the weight lower, easier to keep stuff dry in the rain and also easier to swing your leg over without a big basket.

Bungie Cords cause a lot more in juries than people would expect. I switched to these and have been super happy with them as a replacement for my bungies.

• RunnerUp is open source, works completely offline, no ads/in app purchases

  • OsmAnd is a complete offline or online map application. You can also record and review gps tracks. A bit of an overshoot, maybe

Any rack should do, you will just have it sit higher. You can also get adjustable height tack like this one.

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Edit: this one has a better adjustment for top connection.

just curious, are these the mondials you had? i like mine for finally putting a stop to the flat issues i had been on a streak with, but do feel like they are on the slow side

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07X3LMNQL

Wald makes some good ones, but one drawback to these, especially the sort that fold, is that they rattle. Worse than a squeaky chain.

Something like this perhaps?

https://www.amazon.com/Wald-Rear-Bicycle-Carrier-Basket/dp/B000AB6DCS/

Don't get me wrong, 100+ is mind boggling to me too. I don't really trust myself over 75-80km/h, just that I know it's achievable. And thats on a steel frame with non aero components.

https://www.strava.com/segments/958700

https://www.strava.com/segments/11637549

Going platform pedals and proper winter boots makes it so much easier to keep your feet warm.

My additions:

1. Mudflap on the front fender, which makes a big difference. Road filth comes off the wheel at a tangent, so without a flap you get your feet and chaingear sprayed. I only get the lightest mist spray on my feet.

2. In addition to normal lights, Holiday lights wrapped around the frame. People young and old are tickled by them - a plus in itself - and making drivers more cheerful and pleased to see you could be a safety plus sometimes.

This is in San Jose, CA. https://www.strava.com/routes/5452973

The idea is that the Guadalupe River Trail meets with Auzurias Ave downtown. You can take Auzurias from downtown to midtown. This is not a busy road, but still needs some work. It isn't a bad ride, tho.

I think the official plan is that you're supposed to go around the park at Meridian, but everyone just cuts through it.

This picture was taken on the other side of the park on Douglas.

If you continue on, turn left on Willard, then right on Scott you can go across Bascom (the light that needs fixing) to MacArthur (which takes you over I-280).

From there is a simple matter to loop around behind Valley Medical Center to the footbridge over the freeway. If you keep going west, Williams and Payne are both good bike routes.

South on Central Ave will take you into downtown Campbell where you can pick up the Los Gatos Creek trail.

If you turn right on MacArthur, tho, you can get to Forrest. Left on Forest takes you under the freeway (with no on/off ramps) to Monroe.

Monroe is a great bike route that will take you all the way out of Sunnyvale. In Sunnyvale, you can turn onto Evelyn (which has been repaved/striped with bike lanes) and will take you through downtown Sunnyvale, downtown Mountain View and to the bike path out to Google.

You can also turn right off on Monroe onto the San Tomas Aquino trail. This will take you up to Intel and Levi Stadium and eventually out to CA-237 and the Bay Trail.

You attach one to your handlebars, or you could have a mirror attached to your helmet or glasses. I've tried both of the products I linked to, but I prefer the helmet mirror. It took a day or two to get used to using it though.

I will say Edmonton is a real winter city. When people talk about bringing ideas over from what they think are winter cities like Chicago it's just comical. I just checked and even Montreal and Minneapolis are not as cold for as long as Edmonton although it's getting to be a better comparison. Better yet would be Winnipeg, Saskatoon, and Regina.

Having said that I still support bike lanes. If it's difficult in winter, it's even worse shoving them into traffic with ice and slippery conditions. And you can dress for the cold in many instances, and cycling keeps you warm. And Ebikes can easily remove the problem of sweating in your core with your limbs freezing and other common issues with cold cycling.

This awesome 2006 raliegh sprite alu.

Front hub was something fancy electric, broke down the way. My internally geared hub died. So bought new(used) front+rear wheel at some point.

Awesome rear basket for carrying my shit. I bring a strap and can carry almost anything.

The best bottle cage http://www.dx.com/p/bike-bicycle-plastic-water-bottle-holder-cage-black-134479 . holds every beer bottle/can i tried, even holds champagne bottles.

does depend on the hill! This is one of my standard local hills:

http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/507183830

not very long, but on those 17% stretches... my Cateye Micro Wireless speedometer won't read below 2 mph and sometimes it does stop reading! 3 mph is just too fast for that hill!

Might as well throw my experience into the thread:

In 2013 I started a new job and decided I was going to start commuting by Bike. My journey was about 15km long, mostly flat (couple hills to push on) and at least 12km of it was on either old railway dirt path or cycle paths and I was/am using a Cube Analog 29r mountain bike.

The first week of commuting: https://www.strava.com/activities/61914840

• 15.7km~

• 43:42 minutes

• Avg 21.7km/h (13.4mph)

A year later: https://www.strava.com/activities/210011937

• 15.1km~

• 34:30 minutes

• Avg 26.4km/h (16.4mph)

Now that 'year later' is one of my best times, my avg time when heading home was normally around the 38 minute mark.

So what does that show? After a year my avg speed has increased but not by much. I've always had strong legs so it was mainly stamina I was building over the year. The bike started with brand new knobblys which of course slowed me down, I moved over to some CX tyres for a week and felt faster (but didn't see much of a time difference) but got WAY more punchers so went back to my old ones - I'm now on some lovely Big Ben tyres for commuting from new workplace.

Tracking your commute using strava or one of the many other apps is a really good idea. I've always pushed as hard as I can when on a bike, I just can't take it easy. Push hard on every hill, get your speed up on the flats! Every day soon as I get to my destination I'm breathless, sweaty, weak kneed but feeling great and then if you can take a look at the stats after and think "oooo I beat yesterday" or "new fastest section" you give yourself something to work towards :)

One thing that did get better over the year was comfort. Getting bike setup correct for correct seat height stopped my knees from hurting, bars stopped my neck hurting, 1 year of commuting made arse tough as nails!

Roughly 1.5 hours (Wind can play a factor)

Will see if this route shows up public: https://www.strava.com/activities/277357665?utm_content=3085201&utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=ride_share%20#strava

If you're willing to pay the modest monthly or annual subscription fee, Ride With GPS provides excellent route planning tools and good, clear turn-by-turn directions.

Looks pretty neat! trailer

It's on netflix, but I'm surprised to see it only has 1 star. What's up with that? Although when I click on it, it has 3 stars...which still isn't great. Is it really biased or something?

How did you like it?

I got folding baskets on Amazon that fit a backpack perfectly. I use these when I bike to work, and put my lunch box on the other side. Great thing is they fold up when your not using them: Wald 582 Folding Rear Bicycle Basket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012DZEBY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_BD84N7WZFAQJ9C08EZ17

Hi, sorry to hear about your accident. Anyway, my friend created this android bike app that has recording capability and others. In case if you want to use it:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cholab.bikecompanion

Daytime running lights, especially this rear 350 lumen tail light, cars see it from so far away. I run this during the day and cars see me from so far back and always move into the other lane way before they get to me.

Amazon Cygolite Hypershot – 350 Lumen Bike Tail Light

right, here it is

Im not US based, but I do assume you guys are, here's a link. I would get one that has a strap for extra protection of the pump falling out tho

https://www.amazon.com/Ace-Select-Bracket-Frame-Mounted-Mountain/dp/B078W5G8G3/ref=sr\_1\_6?dchild=1&keywords=bike+pump+holder&qid=1622634011&sr=8-6

I have a few of these Delta Gravity Bike Racks and I'm really happy with them. It does take up some wall space obviously.

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B000ACAM38/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_i_5QGWZWFB84KZSV8QA5PM

Which do you use? I've had a few of the Topeak ones but I keep breaking them. Probably because I use them to carry around a massive jbl charge bluetooth speaker to listen to audiobooks while I ride...

I have some of those single pack wipes on my bike's handlebar bag for when I'm out and about and need them, but in office I go with these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07S5FH3ZH

I tried baby wipes a while back but they just weren't all that large or resilient and would just break up in use. Don't know if I just had a bad set or what, but those ones are great.

How big do you need it to be? I carry my lunch in a Packit feeezable lunch box which goes into my pannier. It keeps my lunch cold until I need to pop it into the microwave.

Looking at it more closely, I think this is the axiom rack that I have

https://www.amazon.com/Axiom-Streamliner-Disc-Cycle-Black/dp/B004094HY2/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=axiom+700c+rack&qid=1611278414&sr=8-1

> I have an enabler bike shop

Ha ha, perfect - I may borrow that phrase!

I have a less pricey setup (from my local enablers!) with the Shimano Nexus DH-3N72 hub dynamo. I think it was around $200 including the wheel. This was intentional as it's my commuter bike that gets locked up outside running errands etc. I've had the dynamo setup around 10 years now - completely reliable, and no noticeable resistance (though in theory a SON hub would have less friction). I just leave the lights on all the time.

When I set this up I didn't see the need for USB charging, and I got a Trelock front light primarily because it was cheap but had a high output/$, and integrated reflector. Again, didn't want to put super nice parts on the commuter, but in practice it's fine even for fast descents at night. You can't go wrong with B&M lights though, have one on another bike and it's brighter and smaller. I have B&M rear dynamo lights on two bikes, bright and completely reliable.

Amazon - I needed to replace 4 helmet cams... I was using Mobius Actioncam, and at $100 ea, it was kinda pushing what I wanted to spend.

Saw these recommended as a budget action camera - I'm sold already.

1080p. 90 minute battery. Spare battery included. There's like 15 mounting accessories. All for super cheap.

Worth it, imo. Picking up 3 more. Helmet and rear camera for 2 riders.

Like judge said, dynamo lights are amazing. I have a SON Edelux II front and rear light that require no maintenance and are bright as hell. While they excel at the "seeing" aspect, they lack in the "be seen" department- I don't think any light can do both, and I ride exclusively without bike lanes so I tend towards more lighting so I don't get run over. The more points of reference you add, the easier you make it for drivers to determine your direction, size, and speed. My current setup is the helmet light listed below, the dynamo head and rear light, and a set of Orfos Flares.

My favorite buy lately has been the Light and Motion Vis 360+ (Amazon). It's daytime visible from the front and rear, super visible because it sits on the highest part of the bike, and allows you to look through turns. It also allows you do "blink" a car that might not see you- look at them two or three times in rapid succession and they'll notice you. When combined with a good conventional headlight- say, a dynamo light- it allows you to double your visual field when you look through turns for a ton of illumination. I have been getting compliments from bicyclists and motorists (!) on my light setup. This is the only product I've bought that actually makes me feel safer though they all work together well. Yes, it's an expensive way to be seen but I feel like there are spotlights on me and that makes me feel good.

I use regular Buffs or more specifically Buff knockoffs. You can get them on Amazon (i.e., Qing) for 1/4 the cost of the brand name, or on eBay for less than that (if you're willing to wait to ship from China).

They are just thin, cheap, tubes of stretchy fabric, so I wear one as a helmet liner year round. I fold it up to be a sweatband/headband in summer, then pull it down to cover my ears as it gets cooler. Then in the winter I add another one to my neck, and pull it up to cover my mouth and nose (and maybe a double layer on my ears). Just covering the skin keeps me warm enough down to below freezing; the fabric is thin enough that I have no problem breathing through it, and since they are cheap, I have enough that I just toss them in the laundry when they get damp/dirty and cycle onto another pair.

I also have a real (polar) Buff that is attractive and fashionable and super warm and cozy, but I end up just grabbing the cheap ones because I can litter them around my bags and always have one on hand.

For less messy amazon links you can extract the part after "/dp/" in

https://www.amazon.com/Cycling-Cojoy-Rotating-Scrubber-Maintenance/dp/B013ZU1S20/ref=sr_1_fkmr3_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1484228191&sr=8-4-fkmr3&keywords=park+tools+cassette+cleaner

and make it:

https://amzn.com/B013ZU1S20

BEEP BOP

Plz send any recommendations via PM

Little nook in my office served as the perfect spot to keep the bike out of the way. It's a $17 hook from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FGTTEW/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have an Osprey Radial 34 that I love. It's extremely comfortable with a very open back that doesn't trap sweat. It's pretty waterproof on its own but it comes with a built-in rain cover for extreme weather. I've worn this thing through a snowstorm and heavy rain and it comes out like a champ. The 34 is big enough to use as a replacement for carry-on luggage and to pack, lightly, for a week long trip, the 26 is big enough to use as a day pack.

It's a bit on the spendy side for your budget but you might be able to pick it up for less than $150 if you look around. Here's the 26L version on Amazon for $135, and here's the 34 in bright green from REI garage for $127.

I use an Amazon Basic Electronic Organizer (https://smile.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Universal-Travel-Electronics-Accessories/dp/B002VPE1QG)

Other stuff I usually have in there are bandages, wet wipes (small pack), electrolyte/caffeine pills, and the lights go on the orange top/bottom sections.

Photo: https://i.imgur.com/JvqFlQY_d.jpg?maxwidth=640&shape=thumb&fidelity=medium

I've had the VP vice pedals on my Amazon wish list for at least a year. My stock pedals work well enough that I can't quite justify the purchase, though.

It's a super cheap Velcro attachment bag off Amazon!

https://www.amazon.com/Onedayshop-Function-Mountain-Waterproof-Accessories/dp/B013I40E8C/ref=sr_1_24?crid=2ID1GZ9SAMF7M&keywords=bike+bag+rack&qid=1561408186&s=gateway&sprefix=Bike+bag+%2Caps%2C149&sr=8-24

Grocery bag panniers are great. Plus they fold up flat when not in use.

~~I wish our police had a sane process for reporting it. As it stands we need to take timestamped multiple angle pictures which capture the restricting sign, clearly show the location and the vehicle and then write a small report detailing time of day, location, infraction, your contact info and etc - single vehicle per report only.~~

~~It takes way too much time and effort for anyone to bother. I don't get why can't we take a video and submit it under our universal citizen login. Would take 10 seconds instead of half an hour.~~

Holy fuck, snooped around and found out they DO have a modern crime reporting app these days. Looks super sleek. Can't wait to try it out...

This is why I use a bike safety spacer even though they look dorky as hell. I swear I think I get more space just because drivers don't want to scratch their cars than because they might be concerned about hitting me, but whatever works...

It really does make a difference. I get waaaay more space now.

I really like these Pearl Izumi shoes. They can either be used with flats or clipless pedals.

​https://www.amazon.com/Pearl-iZUMi-Mens-X-ALP-Cycling/dp/B011RBHQ52

Schwalbe Marathon Plus are quite good for wet roads and also offer great puncture protection. You can find it in 26x1.5, 26x1.75 and 26x2

They're also usually in lifted pickup trucks, so they could drive over the cones with abandon.

RE: attention, I seem to recall in Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance that driving in a car is likened to zoning out in front of the TV... I can totally see it now that I've been commuting by bike for some years.

For all with Android phones who want to help the OSM project a bit: Try StreetComplete.

It's a nice app which adds information by solving quests like: "Which surface has this part of the road?" Your answer: "Cobblestones" --> Routing engines will now avoid this part for cyclists

They actually turned it into a standalone app called Google Fit. It's not that great but it can kinda sync with Strava and other fitness apps.

That's the idea, it simply runs in the background and tracks your movements. Moves is pretty similar, I used it a for a few weeks and it did a nice job of describing your day's activities, walking or biking.

I have to agree with this. I started with my GoPro mounted to my handlebars, but found that the interesting things happening were always out of frame. After getting the helmet straps for it, it is infinitely more useful.

Here's some of my test recordings (I don't upload most):

Handlebars

Helmet

Edit: different helmet vid

Accidents happen, don't let it keep you off the bike. Kudos for not overreacting, you can mention it to the other cyclist if you see them, just be nice and try to educate them. Now, I'd love to give you some tips on how to avoid accidents like this.

Check traffic behind you and signal, then move to the center or left most lane, that way the cars turning right can see you and cars turning left can see you. https://vimeo.com/57791385. A cool trick I learned from a motorcycle video can also be applied to cycling https://vimeo.com/57791385

I use a couple of these on the back of my jones bars. They are a bit too big and I need to be a little careful if I come out of the saddle (which I don't very often). I few hundred km with them on and I like them well enough for the price.

http://imgur.com/a/oOcvk

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1pcs-15-x-8-5-x-20cm-600D-Nylon-Polyester-Dump-Drop-Reloader-Pouch-Military-Tactical/32781096931.html

So, the route up to SF isn't bad. Look up 'Yawyab' (Bayway backwards) from SF2G, which should get you from the Dumbarton bridge to SF itself really easily. The route itself is pretty flat with only a few easy climbs, and mostly follows the bay trail. If you're feeling really uncertain, Strava will have most segments documented for the route, and should make it easy to choose a route variation that works for you.

Having done the similar ride, it's not too bad. Bring water, some snacks, and take a break at the midpoint. Solo will be about 3 hours to 3.5, with a group about 2 to 2.5.

Picture time? https://www.strava.com/activities/702139657?fb_action_ids=10209233414646106&fb_action_types=fitness.bikes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%5B1103493426402268%5D&action_type_map=%5B%22fitness.bikes%22%5D&action_ref_m...

Looking at OpenStreetMap's cycle layer there is no elevation to speak of and the distance is quite doable.

With the road layout you might be able to find a route with only right-hand turns, and the (yellow) bicycle shops might have some local knowledge.

If you decide on an e-bike I suggest a 'pedal assist', full support in the morning to not arrive sweaty, little/no support for some workout on the way back to the home shower.

Depends on required business attire, having a locker at work with a spare suit to change into makes live easier, and maybe there is a local hotel/club that can do the laundry/ironing of it.
Daily/weekly backpacking that stuff is possible but a bit of a hassle.

Rainjacket: get a 'breathing' type like Goretex (you might still get sweaty), for the bottom part I like rainlegs.

see that truck now imagine there are a rush of cars trying to go around it.