Taking the saddle

Shimz said:
Hi Guys

I've recently been given the idea to change my commute to work by a colleague, I was told about this cycle to work scheme the company uses which seems to give me a huge discount on purchasing a bike and safety gear for commuting reasons.

I'm thinking that this might be a great way to avoid the crowded tube and buses I usually use to get to work and also let me get some exercise in. I have read some of the threads here and think a hybrid bike would be the best bet to get started since I haven't ridden a bike in years.

I'm also a bit nervous of riding a bike in London and also the fact that its going to get dark and wet most days soon, so would it be better to wait until next year in the spring to start?

The distance is around 6.4 miles from home to work also, with big inclines on the way home.

TLDR

Complete newbie to commuting on bicycle, advice on type of bike? gear? safety?
Click to expand...

Do it! You'll not regret it! :)

I've changed my 10 min (morning) & 45min+ (evening) 4.3 mile car commute into a 16-17min each way cycle commute (times still improving, was 35mins+ when I started last November).

This time of year is a good time to pickup a bargain even if you don't ride in the bad weather/snow etc. I cycled through it last year but we didn't really have a winter, just some really wet days!

I mainly started cycle commuting as it saved money (fuel etc) and was a straightforward way for me to increase my fitness by including it in my day without having to 'find time for it'. I've gone from the wrong side of 15 stone to low 13's and feel fantastic for it! :cool:

As the rest of the advice on here really - no sense in buying a hybrid if you are only riding roads. If speccing a ride go for the 700x25 over the 700x23 as you'll find them easier (less twitchy) and safer (wider) in the wet weather. Find a good LBS (Local Bike Shop) who you feel confident using and who have the time to listen to your needs. Majority of them will deal in second hand bikes too - but you'd have to check if they're part of the C2Work scheme. Clip-ins, no need when starting but don't rule them out in future.

Best advice... Decide your budget and stick to it, no sense in compromising. Take your time, 'do your miles' and see how things progress. If you stick to it you'll love it. Hardest thing I've found is taking my weekends easy so I can cycle my 5 weekdays! ;)
 
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