Back in October, I posted an entry entitled Commuter’s Shopping List, which listed all the items I thought I would need in order to successfully commute to work regularly.  Now that some time has passed and some purchases have been made, I figured I would write a follow-up entry to share my progress on the matter.  So here goes…in the order of my original post

Bike Rack.  If you remember from my earlier post, I have a Jeep with oversized tires.  This little fact limits the types of bike racks that I can get.  I didn’t buy either of the two racks that I was considering before.  Instead, I bought the Swagman XP: 2.  It has the ability to carry two bikes and has a locking mechanism that secures both bikes.

Cycling Clothes.  I learned a bit here.    I ended up with mostly Pearl Izumi products.   Gloves are important and I was able to find some pretty good ones.  They make thicker ones that are  warmer, and thinner ones that provide more finger dexterity, but the ones that I found are working great.   Pearl Izumi’s Arm and Leg warmers are great for using those summer outfits in the winter.  The ones I got have Therma Fleece which adds a little more warmth the some of the alternatives.  I also got some Calientoes, which are basically toe covers for your bike shoes.  They haven’t tested out too well, though.  They keep my feet warm enough, but they have torn on the bottom and sides. 

Panniers.  I ended up not getting panniers at all.  I decided to get a commuter’s backpack by Novara (REI Brand).  This way I didn’t have to worry about extra weight on  my back tire and how I was going to mount the thing.  The backpack I got is a commuter style.  It sits higher on my back making it easier to ride with it on.  It has a compartment to store a U-Lock and rain fly to keep it dry in wet weather.  I carry my laptop, clothes and shoes, and emergency supplies (spare tube, etc.) in it.  It doesn’t have enough space to add anything else.  That is its only downside.  It is probably the best purchase I have made.

Multi-Toolkit.  I purchased the Crank Brothers Multi 19 Tool.   I still don’t know how to use half of what it has, but I have it for when I need it.

Cycling 101 Class.  I already blogged about this experience.  Check it out here, if you haven’t already.

And there you have it.

Joe.