Starting to Cycle to Work Part 1

Cycling to work is a great way to keep active, save some money and protect the planet. It can also be the most enjoyable part of your day, setting you up for a great day at work or clearing your head after a long day of meetings.

But, if you haven’t cycled to work before (or it’s just been a while!), the thought of it may be a bit daunting. That’s where we can help, as a little preparation can make a huge difference to your ride! Here are a few of our favourite tips to get you on the road in no time.

Step 1: Preparation

Getting organised in advance is the best way to make for an enjoyable first cycle.

The Route

Other road users may be a worry, but remember your bike is small and nimble so can go many places that cars can’t! Take time to plan your route – use side roads for quieter travel, route away from big interchanges and use cycle-only lanes to avoid cars altogether. Online route planners like We are Cycling UK and Cycle Streets can make it even easier. (With a good route in place you’ll also know what time to leave in the morning, which will make your boss happy!).

Your Kit

Preparing your bike – and yourself! – are next on the list. Ensure your bike is fully serviced and you have all the legal requirements for road use (lights, reflectors, etc.). A bag or pannier rack is great if you’ll be carrying your laptop, lunch or gym kit too.

Clothing should be comfortable, non-restricting and weather-suitable, and make sure nothing will get caught in the chain. Finally, don’t forget your helmet!

Test Run

Trying out your route before the big day will iron out any unforeseen issues you may come across, like a steeper-than-you-thought hill or a road that’s blocked! Test the route at a weekend when the roads are quieter and other users in less of a rush, and take a friend with you for the ride.

Step 2: Hitting the road

With the prep suggested in our last post under your belt (read it here >), any fears will hopefully be a distant memory; and there’s lots you can do on the day to ensure an even smoother ride.

Timing

Aim to be on the road before or after rush hour for a quieter and more enjoyable ride. Let your boss and colleagues know in advance, just in case you’re a little bit late as you try your new route. And book out your morning so that no one can schedule a big meeting on your behalf – you won’t want to jump straight into a presentation with a new client or your manager as soon as you’re through the door!

Buddy Up

Keeping cycling fun will keep you motivated, so invite a friend or colleague to turn the commute into a social event! Let them know it’s your first time and any bits you’re worried about, so that they can go at your pace and help navigate those tricky bits. Just don’t forget to agree a meeting point and time! If you can’t find a buddy, let a family member know your plans and check in with them when you get to work – you’ll feel more confident knowing others are thinking of you (you could even set up phone tracking so they can follow your progress!).

Other Road Users

Making yourself visible to other road users will help boost your safety – wearing reflective clothing is a great start. Making your intentions clear is also important – signal early and clearly so other road users (and pedestrians!) know where you intend to go. You could even refresh your knowledge of the Highway Code so you know how best to place yourself on the road and what to do at junctions.

Here to Help

Remember, it might be your first time cycling to work, but you’re not alone – Cyclecadence is powered by Cadence Performance, we are always here to help guide you to cycling success. Make yourself a quick checklist of the above points, and please get in touch for more advice – we’ll ensure you have the best kit to make that first cycle to work a breeze!

About CycleCadence

CycleCadence is a bike subscription service from Cadence Performance. CycleCadence subscriptions are facilitated through the UK government's Salary Sacrifice scheme, so they have to be managed through your employer. We provide bikes from Giant, the world's leading brand of quality bicycles and gear. Liv Bikes, by Giant, is the only brand designed explicitly for women. Cadence Performance operates a string of cycle stores, each with bike fitting and workshops, around London and the South East, as well as a somprehemsie e-commerce platform at cadenceperformance.com.