Cycling Commuting Advice And Mistakes

At Westbrook Cycles, every year we supply more and more bikes to commuters. The rise in popularity of hybrid bikes and gravel bikes has seen more and more cyclists looking to commute to work on a bike which is equally capable on tarmac as it is on mild off road conditions. Commuting on a bike is great for so many reasons, but there are a number of things to remember to keep your commute running smoothly, which we discuss below:

Pack Some Tools

Nobody wants the inconvenience of carrying or pushing a bike to the workplace, or home with a puncture, so ensure that you are able to fix a puncture - having the knowledge to do so, as well as well as the tools you need to fix a puncture. There are a range of puncture repair kits available on the market, containing a spare tube, tyre levers and a pump. A good cycling multi tool is also essential!

Competition

The commute is no place for a race, as well as arriving in work incredibly sweaty - commuting times means that you share the road with a lot of traffic, which needs to be your focus.

Wear Cycling Trousers

One of the biggest changes to the world of cycling clothing, is the introduction of cycling trousers. Anybody who has commuted on a bike in jeans will testify just how uncomfortable it can be - cycling trousers. Many cycling trousers are smart enough to be worn during the day at work, and are comfortable, breathable and tough enough to stand up to the toughest of commutes.

Avoid The Road Edge

Those new to commuting, and cycling on the road in general will find tucking in next to the kerb - the most sensible place to be, and out of the line of traffic as much as possible. Riding so close to the side of the road however does come with problems, as well as the risk of motorists opening their car doors as you ride past, there's also drains and debris to content with, which can cause accidents as well as punctures.

Choosing The Shortest Route

This is one of the biggest mistakes anybody can make when choosing their commuting route, choosing the shortest route can see you have to ride some of the worst roads for cycling on, look for quiet routes when cycling - instead of choosing the busiest and most direct routes. The more you enjoy the commute, the more you will commute on a bike - leading a happier and healthier life! Google Maps is great in recommending cycling friendly routes.

Skipping The Mudguards

Whilst fitting mudguards to your brand new bike may not be the highest thing on your priority list, it’s well worth doing. Wet roads and rain on the commute cause spray, and spray from your wheels is going only one place - your clothes, that you will be riding for the rest of the day. Mud guards do a great job of keeping spray and dirt well away from you.

Workplace Essentials

It's a good idea to keep some workplace essentials at work - a spare pair of trousers and shoes are a good way to ensure that you have whatever you need for the day ahead.

Invest In A Good Lock

Cheap locks and expensive bikes are not a good combination, ensure that you buy a good quality lock that keeps your bike safe and secure. Look for locks which have a secure gold rating. It’s also a good idea to leave a lock at work, save carrying it on the commute.

Dry Kit

You cannot control the British weather, so pack some dry kit at work for the journey home - nobody enjoys putting wet clothes back on for the journey home.

Keep On Top Of Lights

Bikes aimed at commuters are getting smarter, with many bikes now having integrated lights perfect for the commute. If you are adding lights onto your bike, always ensure they are charged and have enough battery life.