Tried riding to work for the first time yesterday. The route I bike is slightly different than the one I drive and totals 8 miles each way.
The trip there was pretty hardcore, it's uphill most of the way and I was beat by the time I got to work. I had to get off and walk the bike up a couple hills. Took me about 55 minutes to get there.
On the other hand, the ride home is a cakewalk. Downhill meant no getting off and only took 40 minutes.
After that ride I did realize a couple of things: I need a reflective vest. I have a super bright and flashy tail light but it was still a bit scary riding home at night. Also, I need to pack more food and water because I was pretty parched by the time I got to work.
All in all not bad considering I had hernia surgery less than two months ago and was laid up and completely lethargic for an entire month. I'm sure I can bring my times down if I do the ride with some regularity.