Ranked by page views
Trading car keys or travel passes for a commuter bike requires a bit of thought. You'll need to evaluate the type of terrain you'll be riding and the distance involved.
A touring bike looks similar to a standard road bike but is a more robust choice for longer distances.
Ready for your first cycling commute? Make sure you have the right bike for the job.
Before contemplating a cycle commute, try out in advance the route you need to take and familiarize yourself with roads and streets. By doing so, you'll ease any stress on your first day commuting by bike.
Don't underestimate the distance involved in getting from home to work and back again. Cycling involves physical exertion and a level of mental awareness you might not be used to. Is the destination truly within your pedaling power?
If in doubt, begin by commuting by bike a couple of times a week, or in increments. This will test your resolve and fitness levels.
The fact is any clothes can be biking clothes. Just avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing near any parts of the bike that move (like the gears and wheels).
If you'd rather not cycle to work in office attire, consider bringing a change of clothes or even stashing some work-appropriate apparel at the office.
Cycling in summer can work up a sweat. Hopefully your employer offers changing and shower facilities. If this is the case, why not turn your time in the saddle into a training session, a kind of ride-to-work workout?
If your commute takes you through city streets, a road bike is probably the best option.
And that's one of the great advantages of cycling to work. It's exercise on the go. Furthermore, a bike commute is cost effective—no bus fares, train fares, or congestion and parking fees to worry about. And how about this? You're practically immune against public transport strikes!
Depending on the distance of your commute, you might be able to cycle in your work clothes, a suit even.
Actually, with the right gear you'll be in a position to work on the road, if necessary. Bags often have special pockets for laptops and suchlike.
Carrying out a two-wheel reconnaissance mission beforehand will also introduce you to any potential hurdles, such as a flight of steps. Will you be able to carry your bike over obstacles like this?
And we've already mentioned hills. But if you're not using an e-bike, will those steep gradients get the better of you?
Be prepared for a rainy day—and make sure motorists can see you—by investing in hi-vis wet weather gear. In fact, make a point of always wearing a fluorescent cycle jacket when riding in built-up urban areas.
Remember, cycling to work may very well mean carrying gear with you. Some bikes have mounts for racks that can help you haul your bags. Others don't. In this case, you'll need to invest in a comfortable and roomy shoulder or messenger bag.
An e-bike, or electric bike, is a bicycle equipped with an electric bike motor to assist you when you're pedaling. This is a great option if your commute involves hilly terrain or you're a tad unfit.
Will your commute still involve using a form of public transport? Here's the perfect compromise: a folding bike. The one big advantage of a folding bike is that it's easy to transport. So even if you still need to use the bus, train, or subway to get to work, you'll have a two-wheel option at hand with which to complete the journey.
In fact, practice how to fix a flat at home before it happens on the way to work.
Use a bell when riding in the city and on multi-use bike paths.
In fact, in some countries you're legally obligated to fit front and rear lights to your bike. Either way, it's common sense to see and be seen.
Bike lights are absolutely essential if you plan to ride before daybreak or after dark. And even daytime running bike lights are growing in popularity because they help you to be seen out on the road, even in bright sunlight.
It will happen sooner or later, but don't get caught out by a tire puncture. Make sure to carry a fix-a-flat kit, and know how to use it.
It goes without saying that a tough, heavy-duty bike lock is essential. U locks, chain locks, and folding locks are all designed to keep your bike safe.
Does your place of work provide a bicycle parking rack? And is it set near your workspace? This is an important consideration when it comes to ease of access and peace of mind.
Cycling has its risks, especially within an urban environment. To minimize potential injury, always wear a helmet.
Hopefully your route will be facilitated by dedicated cycle lanes. Follow these lanes whenever you can.
And cycling, whether for work purposes or as a leisure pastime, is sustainable and environmentally friendly, and leaves a zero-carbon footprint.
See also: Incredible photos from the Tour de France over the years
One the other hand, a sturdy gravel or mountain bike will suit those fortunate enough to enjoy a rural commute.
Still unsure of the best two-wheel route to work? Consider investing in a cycling app or route-mapping tool, which will enable you to design a quieter, safer route for biking to work. GPS is also a handy accessory.
For many, cycling to work is the new commute. While in some places, like the Netherlands, cycling to work is commonplace, elsewhere commuting by car or public transport is the norm. But with ever-increasing traffic numbers and fuel costs, it makes perfect sense to reach the office by pedal power. Furthermore, it's a far more environmentally friendly way to travel, and, hey, cycling keeps you fit!
A bike requires minimal maintenance and is easily stored. In fact, the hardest part about bike commuting is getting started. Still wondering whether you should saddle up and take to two wheels? Click through and trade the car keys or travel pass for these easy-to-follow tips and ideas.
The fantastic benefits of cycling to work
The pedal power of commuting by bike
LIFESTYLE Biking
For many, cycling to work is the new commute. While in some places, like the Netherlands, cycling to work is commonplace, elsewhere commuting by car or public transport is the norm. But with ever-increasing traffic numbers and fuel costs, it makes perfect sense to reach the office by pedal power. Furthermore, it's a far more environmentally friendly way to travel, and, hey, cycling keeps you fit!
A bike requires minimal maintenance and is easily stored. In fact, the hardest part about bike commuting is getting started. Still wondering whether you should saddle up and take to two wheels? Click through and trade the car keys or travel pass for these easy-to-follow tips and ideas.