Some basic tips for BTWD -- feel free to pile on more thoughts or argue with these!

[baiskeli]

You forgot you sarcasm smiley.

Oh, yeah, sarcasm. Yeah, right. If you say so.

[dasgeh]

If you're going to change at work, don't forget underwear. Every other consideration is secondary.

You're not a true bike commuter til you've gone commando at work.

[vvill]

I had one of those mornings today. Running late. Halfway to the trail I realized I forgot my wallet/keys/ID/etc, luckily my wife hadn't left for pre-school yet. Arrived at work and realized I had no underwear to change into. Etc.

[Terpfan]

I would add, if you're not sure about something and on these forums, then just ask your question. People are great here about providing earnest advice and opinions. Similarly, on the trails, if something goes wrong during commuting (unlikely on just one trip, but hey, if you're biking to work once, why stop?) then more often than not a fellow cyclist will saying something like "are you alright" often shortened to "alright?" If you're not, just say so. People will stop and help you if they can or point you in the right direction. And enjoy it all--you will likely pace auto traffic, have amazing views, and appreciate everything around you a little more.

[Greenbelt]

... luckily my wife hadn't left for pre-school yet.

Your wife is in pre-school?

[vvill]

Heh, no, but my 4 year old just isn't very steady behind the wheel yet.

[Mikey]

Remember, if it is your first time, or your 400,000th time if you ride your bike to work you are a BADASS, period. You will look over at all of the cars stuck in traffic and have a sense of superiority, because you are, well, superior to them. And if the cars are not stuck in traffic, it's becuase so many cars were taken off the road by your fellow BADASS bike commuters. Just remember, wait in the line at lights.