Carless commute

[078]

Is there anyone here who commutes to work not using a car? I am in a situation where I am considering trying to find alternative ways to commute. My work is only about 5 miles away from where I'm current living, so I think on most days I could bike to work without much of a problem. I'm a little worried about the traffic, but I think it would be manageable.

My big concern is on days that it rains. I really don't want to ride my bike in the rain to work. I've looked at bus schedules, but they don't seem to work out well from where I need to get. If there is anyone who bikes to work, what is your solution on days when the weather is not cooperative?

[LivingAlmostLarge]

Seriously you take the bus or carpool or have the other person drive you. But I commuted for 5 years without a car through the winter. You just bundle up, carry shoes and wear winter boots (I had ice tracks as well), change of pants or wear the winter pants, then get going. I had a car but no parking so there wasn't much options other than public transit or walking.

[snafu]

Walmart.com: Rain Poncho: Bikes & Riding Toys

there are some terrific rain ponchos created for bike riders. I suggest you post a notice on your information board/bulletin board at work, contacting anyone who might be able to pick you up in inclement weather for a fee. Have you explored the possibility of a parking location somewhere along the most efficient bus route? Can a neighbor drop you off at the bus stop?

[bjl584]

Work is 8 miles from home. I moved a little over a year ago, and work was 26 miles from home. I'm a lot closer now, but still too far to do without a car.

[feh]

I'm 10 miles from work and bike when the weather allows. That means when it's not raining and above 35 degrees. Otherwise I drive.

[Mjenn]

I invested in some good rain gear. I use it when I bike to work and when I walk my dog in the rain. It works pretty well, just have to wear pants on rainy days, no skirts. Ice is the biggest problem, and on those days I usually drive. But DH is stubborn and he bikes year round.

Invest in some good lights for your bike if you will be biking on roads in the dark. And maybe a safety vest as well. And a good helmet.

[bjl584]

I'd consider a bike, but most of the roads on my way to work are rural with no street lights, no sidewalks, and a lot of blindspots from hills, bends, and trees. It would be a very dangerous commute on a bike.