Commuter profile: Tale of two bikes

Name: Jay Ready
Location: I live in Olympia Fields and work both downtown and in the South Suburbs.

How do you typically get around?
Nothing's typical! I try to maximize the mileage on the bike. For most of the last 5 years, I've ridden one bike (the 'Burban Bike) to the Metra station by my home, taken the train downtown, and picked up the Downtown Bike at the train station downtown. During warmer months, I try to ride the round-trip downtown and back once a week on a drop-handlebar touring bike, usually going in one day and leaving the bike at the Sears Tower, then riding it back out another day. If I have to drive, I will often throw the touring bike in the back of my pickup truck and ride it as far as time or logistics permits. This all may seem to involve a lot of planning, but it's become like second nature to me and I am on the bike six days a week year-round.

Describe your ideal commute.
Riding the whole way on a 65-degree May day. But here's my best:

In February 2008, I had jury duty at [the Cook County Courthouse at] 26th and California. I rode the 'Burban Bike to the train, and by the time I got downtown it was a full-on blizzard. I had the ride of my life riding out to the County Jail, mostly on bike paths. When I arrived, people were being buffeted by the wind against the side of the building walking from their cars, and I got the best parking space in the universe right out front. After we were dismissed, I started riding back but conditions had worsened. So I caught the Pink Line downtown with my bike. The short ride from the Loop to Olympia Fields was no problem. The beauty of the day was that it demonstrated all the best tools of active transportation - bike racks, bike lanes, trains, and bicycle bikes on transit programs.

What does biking/walking/transit mean to your community?
More people are discovering it because they recognize the benefits for individual and public health along with a better planet. People want to return to days when community life made sense, and means of getting around weren't so car-dominated.

If you could name a coffee drink or cocktail after the way you get around, what would it be?
Screwball Balaclava Hot Chocolate with a sprinkle of U-lock keys

What is your favorite part of Metra?
The upstairs seats, especially in the back corners where you can stretch your legs. But also, the ability to be productive while in transit because I can get work done in peace and relaxed quiet.

What is the biggest misconception people have about active transportation?
That it's inconvenient and unpredictable. If you plan right, it is money - and very reliable.