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.