I am wondering how many Massers commute to the weekly forty by bike. I would think, and hope, the majority of you connect A and B by bicycle.
My utility machine is an Ibex 3300 classic. It was made in Georgia and shipped to my door for under $500. Assembly was minimal and simple, I had to mount the front wheel, set the stem and hang the bars.
With an artic blue aluminum frame, chromed steel forks, a set of double walled alex rims, entry level brakes and a down tube shifting drivetrain this machine weighs in at 22 pounds. I find that really rather impressive for a new road worthy machine at this price.
I am nearing the 2000 mile marker and the only maintenace beyond washing and chain lube has been to adjust the brakes one time.
I have front and rear panniers. The rear panniers combined hold over 5000 cubes. I have so much storage room I can pack fluffy rather than tighly rolled and stuffed. It is a very liberating experience to get the pack off your back. I have never had a need for the front bags yet so I ride with a naked rack on the front. I would like to do a self-contained, multi-day road trip one of these days and that was the thinking behind the massive bag purchase.
I run 25c tires @ 125 psi. The aluminum makes for a rigid ride that resonates with road buzz, but I have spent so much time in the saddle that I don't really notice anymore.
Taking the shortest route possible, my daily commute is roughly 10 miles each way. The mornings, without a doubt, are the best. The air is cool and deceptively clean feeling at 3 in the morning. Traffic does almost not exist.
I run a catchpenny tail and headlight combo I bought for under 20 bucks. The tail works well. The headlight doesn't do much other than make me legal to pedal in the dark.
I ride with a third eye mirror mounted on my helmet and I never leave home with out it. I always thought it was a goofy piece of gear until I tried it.
Anyway, I would find it interesting to hear what other bikes are being used out there.
How do you carry your stuff?
What lighting system do you use?
I didn't mention it here, but how do you perform the post ride clean up upon arrival?
If you've got a moment drop a replay. I bet I can learn (steal) at least one tip or trick from the every response.

ride a 'Caution'. some model a few years ago.
use this light system:
http://www.hiawathacyclery.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=26

works well. never forget my light, never run out of batteries.


i don't commute, because i live about a block from my work.

mainly bicycling in events these days. though, i do have a burley cart i hook u p and go for groceries over at the NPS Market Square store:

http://www.bicycletrailers.com/Burley-Flatbed.pro

i am also a big freak bike fan. love reading all shapes and sizes of freak bikes.