PhotoSafari,
You blokes in Europe are legends.
I live in Queensland, and as it's almost spring, I've only just started commuting on the bike again. All winter I've been driving a gas-guzzling LandCruiser... Yep, I'm soft compared to you blokes....
Your original post sounds like the pitch I used to justify buying my XT to the Missus... "Think of the money we'll save in fuel."
Enjoy your commute (you'll arrive in a good mood every time) & the extra time with the kids...

(My 6yo son made me put this in) & this one...