My opinion and that's all:
1. Don't bother with patch kits - tubes at MEC are $2.99 and with practice (and you should practice) you can change one and be on the road again in 5 minutes.
2. Buy cycling shorts without a doubt.
3. Don't be afraid of 23c tires (this is based on my experience as a NON winter commuter) - less friction means more speed, but the higher PSI also increases your chance at a flat. I don't find them any more squirrely on well paved roads than 28c or 32. Regardless which size you go with - get slicks.
4. Do you have a place to shower? If so - try to keep shoes and clothes there so you don't have to haul them everyday. If you do - roll your clothes instead of folding them. Less creases that way.
5. Be mindful of the traffic and the fact you're a guppy swimming with sharks. Right of way means nothing in a battle between a bike and a car. You'll lose.
6. Be respectful for the drivers. They spent time getting past you - don't cruise to the front at a red light so they have to do it again. Get behind the car in front and wait your turn. I also like to move over to the far left side of the right hand lane so people can still turn right if needed.
7. Get lights for front and back and get a backpack with some reflective striping.
8. Watch youtube videos and learn how to maintain your bike - you'll save a ton of dough. (I wish Pylon was still here - I wanted him to do a CP repair class)
9. Buy new clothes - you'll lose weight dude. I have an 18.6 km ride one way - my garmin/HR monitor tells me it's 1200+ calories burned there and back. If you can pull that off three times a week you'll love the results.
10. Like HulkRogan said - MEC is your friend. They have great gear and staff and it's all well priced.
Keep us updated on how things go - I love hearing stories about people doing this!! It's a mini subculture - all the commuters I pass give the nod, smile or wave.
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