When it rains, you’re in trouble. (Not having a car, there’s really no back-up option. Also, living in Wisconsin, it can be sunny and bright in the AM when I’m going to work, but pouring when it’s time to leave.)

Walking into Shop-Ko with a (small) back-pack just makes you look like a shoplifter. I rode there the other day and had to have something to carry home my potential purchases. I can’t leave my bag out with my bike – way too easy of a target for young punks. So I just try to look nonchalant and hope no-one cares! lol Maybe it was my sweet, innocent visage, but no-one said anything. I hope not for my sake, but they really should up their security.

Other drawbacks – idiot drivers, puddles, and people driving to church as you’re biking home from work. Cue the double-takes.

2. Get real (padded) bike shorts and change at work. Everyone thinks it’s like a diaper when they start, but there’s a reason for that padding! You can get the kind with larger shorts attached over top if you’re worried about your coworkers snickering.

3. No argument there, although my latest road bike I picked up for $300 (new, but last year’s model).

4. Panniers.

5. You miss the radio — all 4 minutes worth?

6. What you said!

7. See #2.

8. Haha! You are wearing a helmet, right?

9. Check out “Effective Cycling” by John Forester from the library. Also check to see if you can find bike safety classes. The instructor should be LAB certified. Sometimes the city will offer them free, here.

11. Tupperware and panniers. Pizza slices fit, I promise.

13. You CAN pick up athletic people on a bike. As for flowers, they fit too:

http://bikecommutetips.blogspot.com/2006/12/who-needs-trunk.html

http://www.pearlizumi.com/shop.php?pc_id=331&mode=products

Of course you don’t have to get $100 shorts. Try your local bike shop or the bike section of a sporting goods store for something a little cheaper.

Also, I’ve heard good things about gel seat covers.

http://www.amazon.com/Schwinn-Adult-Double-Bicycle-Cover/dp/B000DZGLUA/ref=/ref=cm_cd_t_pb_i