Joe the Guinea Pig (Tales of a New Bike Commuter)

One of my co-workers, Joe, has seen me commuting by bike for the past year.  He has always shown an interest, asking questions about my commute, inquiring about equipment, and looking at maps.  After a lot of talking, coaching, and expounding the benefits of riding a bike to and from work Joe has decided to bite the bullet and start riding his bike to work as well.  I would love to think that it is my oratory skills that persuaded him, but more than likely it is the rising fuel prices.  Gas prices pushing $4.00 per gallon are pretty painful motivators for some people.

In order to help Joe and keep him motivated I asked him if I could write about his experiences.  That way there is some accountability, to you the readers, and motivation to keep commuting by bike until it becomes a habit.  Additionally, in exchange for being able to write about his experiences I told Joe that I would purchase everything he needs to start this journey, except for the bike, which he already owns.

Joe (real name) is pretty much your "average Joe"; mid-40s, slightly overweight, out of shape, but good natured and motivated by accountability and the desire to save money and get healthy at the same time.  He is 5'9", 186 Lbs., has a mountain bike, nothing fancy, just an inexpensive bike that you could pick up at any bike store.  He rides it on occasion around his neighborhood, but no more than 3 or 4 miles, and is apprehensive about commuting by bike.

We have created a route for Joe that is just over 10 mile from his house to work and he thinks it is going to be a long way and he doesn't have the physical ability to complete the route.  In order to build his confidence I suggested that he ride his bike each evening for two weeks.  The first week should be spent building up to 10 miles and then ride 10 miles each day of the second week.  That way his confidence will grow, his stamina will improve, he will more than likely loose a little weight, and he will see that 10 miles in an easy goal to reach.

Starting day for Joe's commute is May 16th, which puts us at Day -13. I will be following Joe's progress from tentative commuter to committed cyclist.  Checking his weight every few days, monitoring his fitness level and writing about the things he encounters and adventures he is bound to have.

This will be an ongoing series for at least the next eight weeks so please subscribe or check back frequently.  Also leave comments, suggestions, and words of encouragement for Joe.  Thank you for reading and we look forward hearing from you.