New rider: My first motorcycle commute – I was nervous so I made a plan.

First Motorcycle Commute: Planning the Route The day after I got my endorsement, I wanted to ride to work - but I didn’t want to go in blind. I spent Sunday scouting a route that felt manageable for a beginner. My strategy: Stoplights over stop signs: I chose a route that favored lights so I could avoid pulling out into heavy traffic (even if one of those lights decided to be a flashing stop that morning!) The 4-way hill: I knew I couldn't avoid the 4-way stop on an incline without hitting the busy 6-lane road (wanted no part of that), so I practiced it when the roads were quiet. The result: On my actual commute, I managed to time the traffic perfectly and navigated the 4-way without a hitch. (Whew!) The gear: I used a standard travel backpack to carry my laptop, shoes, and lunch. They still expected me to work, no matter how I got there. Commuting as a new rider is about knowing your limits and making a plan that helps you build confidence one mile at a time. I don't know if it's a good or bad thing to have such a short commute - a longer ride every day might be nice!