It is never going to be a topic that is on the front of the cycling press, but commuting by bicycle is on the increase, with 2% of all journeys in the UK made by bicycle (figure quoted from The Independent) and although this leaves us lagging behind our European neighbours, the figure is heading in the right direction.
I personally use my bike to travel the 6 miles each way to and from work and attribute this to my continued good health. From home to work takes 30-35 minutes which, because I work a 9-6 job (and am therefore travelling during peak times), is quicker than travel by car or bus, both of which I’ve tried. The main reason for this is the network of cycle paths and lanes which cross the city and allow a steady cycle rather than being stuck behind traffic all the time. This is all within the Highway Code, so I’m not saving the time by illegally jumping red lights, cycling on the pavement etc.
An additional benefit to a daily commute is the low running cost of a bicycle. With a good quality hybrid style city bike costing from as little as £200, even when factoring in additional equipment and replacement parts (inner tubes, for example), you could run a bike for a little over £1 per day. This beats the cost of parking in a congested city centre and is about the same as you would spend on the bus. So it’s potentially faster, potentially cheaper and good for you. Go on, why not?
My Top “commute tips” are:
- To help avoid punctures, use a puncture protected tyre like a Bontrager Satellite Elite Hardcase, or use Panaracer Flataway kevlar felt in an ordinary tyre.
- Always carry a spare tube and pump in case you do puncture or for a fast fix use “Innovations Seal and Flate” which will seal the hole and inflate your tyre in one go.
- Function Over Fashion. Mudguards are not the coolest looking thing on a bike, but they certainly help to keep you dryer and cleaner when they’re on your bike.
- A pair of jeans and a cotton t-shirt just don’t cut the mustard in terms of comfort. The correct clothing on a bike will increase comfort with better breathability and fit.
- A little bit of TLC on the bike will go a long way. It doesn’t take a lot of effort to keep the bike running smoothly, but a little bit of oil on the chain and air in the tyres will keep your bike running that little bit better (meaning less effort on the bike too).