My inaugural bicycle commute!

Here it is, there and back:

I forgot to start my Garmin until a little ways into the way to work, and I had a doctor appointment after work with a ride that isn’t represented here, but overall I rode a bit over 12 miles today.

Riding through Astoria to the Queensboro Bridge was very pleasant - there’s not nearly the volume of cars in Queens as there is in Manhattan.

Getting up Queensboro was actually more difficult than I had expected. I definitely had to put some effort into getting up. I did have the seat a bit lower than I should have (I am still getting used to the bike), which certainly didn’t help.

Once in Manhattan, I made my way to 2nd Ave to go south, where I encountered way more traffic than I expected. Overall it didn’t take longer than I expected to get to 39th Street, but I think I’m going to try Lexington Avenue tomorrow.

39th, fortunately, has a shared bicycle lane (basically one regular lane has designated markings for bikes), making the westward trip fairly simple. I even got waved on by a taxi driver who had been honking at a standing car blocking part of his lane!

Upon arriving at my office, I was greeted in the lobby by a man who explained I couldn’t use the main elevators. I was directed to go around the side of the building and use a freight elevator. Now, I have to assume this is a policy that covers all bicycles, because my bike is no bigger than a large suitcase when folded. Heck, if I just had a carrying bag, I doubt anyone would have bothered to look in my direction as I came in.

Regardless, I took the freight elevator up and parked my bike in my cubicle. My cube’s not all that big, but I had no problems with it being there. I got quite a few questions and remarks about it from co-workers throughout the day.

After work, I made my way toward Grand Central for a doctor appointment. I was worried my bike wouldn’t be allowed in the building - I was prepared to give a “my bike lock broke today” speech, but the guard didn’t say a word about it. I think my doctor was a bit surprised to see it though!

Then I made the trip home, heading up 1st Ave, which was surprisingly hilly. Riding east on the Queensboro is significantly easier than going west, with a shorter distance to the bridge’s apex.

I saw a woman running with what looked like a pretty loaded backpack as I made my way across. I always hated running with a backpack, so I have to give her props for doing it across a major bridge.

Back in Queens… not much else to say. It was a pleasant ride though!

I will admit I was a bit worried about this commute, but I never once came close to having a close call. I know that won’t be the case forever, but it’s nice to have that first ride out of the way without a mishap.

Tomorrow I shall ride again, and after work I’ll be heading to a free bike maintenance class at the SoHo REI!

Happy Bike Month!