Hello,
I currently live in the Far Northwest Suburbs of Chicago (Think 40 miles out) and 8 miles from the train station.
I am currently without a car and need a way to get to the train station in the short term. (Until I can either move closer to work or work closer to home)
I have the desire to bike, but I had a mini panic attack thinking about everything that I was not prepared for, so I would love if somebody could offer some advice on what you would do in my situation.
Concerns:
1. Time - I would be adding an hour onto a daily 3-4 hour commute that I already have
2. Inclement Weather - I'm worried about water damage to my laptop that I need to use on the train on my way to work. Also, I need to be dressed business professional from the moment I walk in the door at work. So leaving clothes in the office isn't really an option.
3. Route - The route I would need to take would be a little worrisome considering I get home in the dark
Thoughts:
I'm wondering if I should bite the bullet and buy a crappy car (can't be anything really nice since my hair is currently on fire with student loans), or if there is some type of enclosed scooter/alternative enclosed vehicle that I could find, or if there is just some gear that I am overlooking.
What would you do? Any thoughts, advice, ideas are greatly appreciated.