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Thanks for the suggestions. Sounds like, ultimately, it comes down to what fits/feels the best to the individual. Waterproof seems pretty critical and I really want to ability to clip on a light.

Thinking of going the experimentation route and purchasing a couple/few. Will look into the suggestions above. The Ortlieb Velocity looks interesting, as does the Vaude. Also considering the Timbuk2 Especial Raider because it looks light but large enough; however, I think it lacks a rain cover and I am not sure a black pack with little reflectivity is a good idea.

I am going to give the backpack a go before I consider panniers.

edit: Dickie, thanks also for the link. Great info on that old thread.

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Thank you all for replying.

Bilsko, thanks for the summary of exit points. No doubt they will be useful.

Sethpo, I also plan to ride the River to Falls to MacArthur into DC route. The C&O ride is attractive to me because of the lack of cars and nice scenery. I currently drive into Tyson’s Corner from MD (until we move our office to DC next month) and I cannot think of a greater contrast in commuting experiences between 495 to Tyson’s and C&O to DC. I am looking forward to early morning rides down the towpath on my cyclocross. What a way to start the day! We are putting a shower in the office we are building out so I can clean off all of that mud. It will be nice not having to deal with cars (only pedestrians) on the days I ride the towpath.

My work schedule will not enable me to commute more than 2-3 days/week because I will sometimes need my car for travel. Plus, the work hours I log mean that a 20-mile bike commute (each way) will not be feasible during the time of year when the days are shorter.

Raymo853, thanks for the suggestion re the bell. I could have used one on my ride on the canal last Saturday.

Again, thanks for the feedback and suggestions.

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@ronwalf 66613 wrote:

The BTWD route from Pooles Store (may it rest in peace) follows MacArthur, and so did Strava when I asked it to plot the route. I lived up in Beallsville for a while, but never biked in the area much. Depending on the hour, River Road will alternate between race way and traffic jam, but you probably know that.

Thanks for the suggestion. Yes, I don’t think I want to do River Road. I am thinking MacArthur and at some point getting on the Crescent Trail or towpath.

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