Another person considering switching to bike commute
Discussion
Sorry if it's been brought up before. Is it worth all the hassle and expense and getting up earlier in the morning for 40 additional minutes exercise each day?
I've not ridden a bike since I had a mountain bike as a kid. I started a new job which brings me to within 20 minutes biking distance of my new office so am considering ditching the car.
Things I have to think about are:
1) Locking the bike up at work. No obvious safe place outside the office block, but there may be space at the back of the building. Taking it inside up the stairs to my second floor office is going to be a hassle (no lift). What would you guys do?
2) Personal hygiene. No showers at my work. However, I don't have a dress code at work, and have an office to myself and there is a fairly big disabled toilet that we are allowed to use so I have plenty of options. Am thinking maybe leaving some shirts at work and changing there. What do you guys do (especially if you've sweated a lot)?
3) Transporting a laptop safely everyday, and occasionally some big lever arch files (normally around 2 files a couple of times a month). Any ideas on this?
4) I'm budgeting £1k for a new bike. I've got an Evans cycle shop near me. Any Idea what bike would be good for a 6' 2" , 14 stone guy at this price?
5) What accessories do I need? Helmet cam? Do you guys have separate insurance for the bike or are you covered via your own home contents?
6) Finally any other good websites, and forums I can go to for more advice and reading? The Cycle Commuter magazine looks good, I'll have a read cover to cover on all the 9 issues http://www.issuu.com/cyclescheme/docs/cc09-issu-v2
It seems like a big hassle, but the weather has been nice recently and the commute is over some very nice country lanes so am seriously considering it, especially as I don't do any other exercise at all at the moment. And I used to love biking as a kid, am sure I'll get the bug back.
I've not ridden a bike since I had a mountain bike as a kid. I started a new job which brings me to within 20 minutes biking distance of my new office so am considering ditching the car.
Things I have to think about are:
1) Locking the bike up at work. No obvious safe place outside the office block, but there may be space at the back of the building. Taking it inside up the stairs to my second floor office is going to be a hassle (no lift). What would you guys do?
2) Personal hygiene. No showers at my work. However, I don't have a dress code at work, and have an office to myself and there is a fairly big disabled toilet that we are allowed to use so I have plenty of options. Am thinking maybe leaving some shirts at work and changing there. What do you guys do (especially if you've sweated a lot)?
3) Transporting a laptop safely everyday, and occasionally some big lever arch files (normally around 2 files a couple of times a month). Any ideas on this?
4) I'm budgeting £1k for a new bike. I've got an Evans cycle shop near me. Any Idea what bike would be good for a 6' 2" , 14 stone guy at this price?
5) What accessories do I need? Helmet cam? Do you guys have separate insurance for the bike or are you covered via your own home contents?
6) Finally any other good websites, and forums I can go to for more advice and reading? The Cycle Commuter magazine looks good, I'll have a read cover to cover on all the 9 issues http://www.issuu.com/cyclescheme/docs/cc09-issu-v2
It seems like a big hassle, but the weather has been nice recently and the commute is over some very nice country lanes so am seriously considering it, especially as I don't do any other exercise at all at the moment. And I used to love biking as a kid, am sure I'll get the bug back.
Edited by ATV on Monday 15th April 18:02
Obviously on here you'll get plenty of support for this.
20 minutes really isn't much at all, so I'd JFDI.
In answer to your questions:
1) Don't get a bike that's attractive to thieves (see 4).
2) Leave shirts, suits and shoes at work. Take clean smalls with you each day (don't forget! It's very awkward). Get decent, dedicated kit and some deodorant and you should be fine. Or just ratchet the pace down a touch (what's the mileage?)
3) Rucksack or panniers.
4) No need to spend that much for such a short commute (will get flamed for this no doubt). Helps with (1) above too.
5) Lights, clothes, helmet, panniers, locks.
6) Not really, it's mainly common sense. Presume everyone is an idiot, don't forget your pants and enjoy it!
20 minutes really isn't much at all, so I'd JFDI.
In answer to your questions:
1) Don't get a bike that's attractive to thieves (see 4).
2) Leave shirts, suits and shoes at work. Take clean smalls with you each day (don't forget! It's very awkward). Get decent, dedicated kit and some deodorant and you should be fine. Or just ratchet the pace down a touch (what's the mileage?)
3) Rucksack or panniers.
4) No need to spend that much for such a short commute (will get flamed for this no doubt). Helps with (1) above too.
5) Lights, clothes, helmet, panniers, locks.
6) Not really, it's mainly common sense. Presume everyone is an idiot, don't forget your pants and enjoy it!
Used them loads of times on races when there hasnt been any facilities. Do it, you wont regret it, it sets you up for the day and is a nice relaxing way to get home, especially in good weather when you can bimble back at your own pace. You've already got some good advice, I'll just add a bit more!
1. Your bike will most likely have quick release wheels so a cable and a good d-lock is pretty much essential, kryptonite stuff is excellent, thieves know this too so will likely leave the bike alone. . Just leave the lock locked to something each night and it will be fine meaning you dont have to lug it each way.
2. Dont treat it as a time trial and you wont get quite so hot and sticky though its inevitable in the summer months. wet wipes, change of clothing etc. You can get good cycle clothing that isnt lycra but still comfortable to wear such as these shorts which are padded so will be comfy enough.
3. Wenger do some good laptop bags that are quite spacious and comfy but you will get hot wearing one on your back so do have a look at panniers for the bulky stuff.
4. £1k is a lot of money for a commuter, the Specialised Sirrus is very popular and more than adequate. Its got good, reliable spec and wont be too heavy. Join British Cycling as a "ride" member for the third party liability insure and access to solicitors if there is ever an incident.
5. You only really need a helmet and some quality lights, cateye are worth a look, even in the summer its worth having a rear light for dawn/dusk. Have a look at these
there are loads of cycle commuters here who would be happy to help.
1. Your bike will most likely have quick release wheels so a cable and a good d-lock is pretty much essential, kryptonite stuff is excellent, thieves know this too so will likely leave the bike alone. . Just leave the lock locked to something each night and it will be fine meaning you dont have to lug it each way.
2. Dont treat it as a time trial and you wont get quite so hot and sticky though its inevitable in the summer months. wet wipes, change of clothing etc. You can get good cycle clothing that isnt lycra but still comfortable to wear such as these shorts which are padded so will be comfy enough.
3. Wenger do some good laptop bags that are quite spacious and comfy but you will get hot wearing one on your back so do have a look at panniers for the bulky stuff.
4. £1k is a lot of money for a commuter, the Specialised Sirrus is very popular and more than adequate. Its got good, reliable spec and wont be too heavy. Join British Cycling as a "ride" member for the third party liability insure and access to solicitors if there is ever an incident.
5. You only really need a helmet and some quality lights, cateye are worth a look, even in the summer its worth having a rear light for dawn/dusk. Have a look at these
there are loads of cycle commuters here who would be happy to help.
2. When I rode to a previous job I took it easy in the morning, and used unfragranced baby wipes and deodrant Worked surprisingly well, no one complained I smelled and I felt fresh.
I have got back into cyling in the last year or so, having spent a lot of time on my bike when I was young. I only cycled to work when it wasnt raining but it wasn't a chore, rather a great start to the day. Don't discount cycling a little further to get a nice route. Cycling into central Cardiff, I followed a route along a river and through a large park, as I said
, great.
I have got back into cyling in the last year or so, having spent a lot of time on my bike when I was young. I only cycled to work when it wasnt raining but it wasn't a chore, rather a great start to the day. Don't discount cycling a little further to get a nice route. Cycling into central Cardiff, I followed a route along a river and through a large park, as I said
, great.
Edited by covmutley on Monday 15th April 22:14
Edited by covmutley on Monday 15th April 22:21
Do it. Find out for yourself what works best for your situation re carrying laptops and files. Let it evolve over time. If you have semi rural commute like I do you are in for a treat and the best possible commute! I've been doing it for 1.5 years now and enjoy it more every day. Even the challenge of staying dry when it rains is fun. The only problem for you will be the commute is too short... But you can always extend it!
As someone who was in a very similar position to you less than 2 months ago, I say go for it. I'm really enjoying it and wish I'd started earlier.
If you don't try to push yourself too much, and aren't too unfit, you can probably avoid getting sweaty. I wear baggy mountain biking shorts and normal running/active type t shirts (the ones that wick moisture away from the skin). No need to look like a MAMIL
Lights are a must, even if you're only riding in late afternoon and early morning light. The Smart Lunar R1 or R2 are good rear lights, and for the front look at the Blackburn voyager 2 or the moon mask 5 (both have come out very well in tests).
You'll get a perfectly good bike for half your budget. Giant Escape is a good one to look at.
If you don't try to push yourself too much, and aren't too unfit, you can probably avoid getting sweaty. I wear baggy mountain biking shorts and normal running/active type t shirts (the ones that wick moisture away from the skin). No need to look like a MAMIL
Lights are a must, even if you're only riding in late afternoon and early morning light. The Smart Lunar R1 or R2 are good rear lights, and for the front look at the Blackburn voyager 2 or the moon mask 5 (both have come out very well in tests).
You'll get a perfectly good bike for half your budget. Giant Escape is a good one to look at.
pablo said:
Do it, you wont regret it, it sets you up for the day and is a nice relaxing way to get home, especially in good weather when you can bimble back at your own pace. You've already got some good advice, I'll just add a bit more!
This - everytime I take the train to work I stand on the platform wishing I was on my bike!Get a cheap second hand biek and give it a go - you'll soon figure out a routine and then you can buy something more suitable.
A brompton is a good shout - perhaps you could borrow one from someone?
I'd definitely say £1k is overkill for a 20-mins each way commute. Leave that in the bank until you've got the bug and want to get your first proper roadie!
Something like a one-careful-owner Boardman Hybrid Comp would sort you out for that kind of riding I'd say - it'll handle pretty much anything (urban, suburban, towpaths etc) without breaking a sweat.
Something like a one-careful-owner Boardman Hybrid Comp would sort you out for that kind of riding I'd say - it'll handle pretty much anything (urban, suburban, towpaths etc) without breaking a sweat.
ATV said:
Sorry if it's been brought up before. Is it worth all the hassle and expense and getting up earlier in the morning for 40 additional minutes exercise each day?
I've not ridden a bike since I had a mountain bike as a kid. I started a new job which brings me to within 20 minutes biking distance of my new office so am considering ditching the car.
Things I have to think about are:
1) Locking the bike up at work. No obvious safe place outside the office block, but there may be space at the back of the building. Taking it inside up the stairs to my second floor office is going to be a hassle (no lift). What would you guys do?
Up the stairs
2) Personal hygiene. No showers at my work. However, I don't have a dress code at work, and have an office to myself and there is a fairly big disabled toilet that we are allowed to use so I have plenty of options. Am thinking maybe leaving some shirts at work and changing there. What do you guys do (especially if you've sweated a lot)?
Sink wash in the disabled loo, leave shirts at work. You have your own office - ponce it up with pot pourri and leave the windows open.
3) Transporting a laptop safely everyday, and occasionally some big lever arch files (normally around 2 files a couple of times a month). Any ideas on this?
Carradice Bike Bureau. Quality kit, doesn't look weird off the bike. Could take laptop, lever arch files, and still leave room to pick up shopping. It is big. http://road.cc/content/review/3820-carradice-bike-...
4) I'm budgeting £1k for a new bike. I've got an Evans cycle shop near me. Any Idea what bike would be good for a 6' 2" , 14 stone guy at this price?
Something like this in 58 or 61cm, plus mudguards and a rack - http://www.evanscycles.com/products/trek/crossrip-...
5) What accessories do I need? Helmet cam? Do you guys have separate insurance for the bike or are you covered via your own home contents?
Helmet, v lightweight waterproof jacket that you can pack small, summer gloves
6) Finally any other good websites, and forums I can go to for more advice and reading? The Cycle Commuter magazine looks good, I'll have a read cover to cover on all the 9 issues http://www.issuu.com/cyclescheme/docs/cc09-issu-v2
Forums are better than the mags. Read this place, cyclechat, yacf. Lots of commuters on all of them
It seems like a big hassle, but the weather has been nice recently and the commute is over some very nice country lanes so am seriously considering it, especially as I don't do any other exercise at all at the moment. And I used to love biking as a kid, am sure I'll get the bug back.
I was ~100kg when I started commuting. A year later I was ~70kg. You'll be needing a belt for your trousers soon. Or save money on new clothes by drinking more beer.
I've not ridden a bike since I had a mountain bike as a kid. I started a new job which brings me to within 20 minutes biking distance of my new office so am considering ditching the car.
Things I have to think about are:
1) Locking the bike up at work. No obvious safe place outside the office block, but there may be space at the back of the building. Taking it inside up the stairs to my second floor office is going to be a hassle (no lift). What would you guys do?
Up the stairs
2) Personal hygiene. No showers at my work. However, I don't have a dress code at work, and have an office to myself and there is a fairly big disabled toilet that we are allowed to use so I have plenty of options. Am thinking maybe leaving some shirts at work and changing there. What do you guys do (especially if you've sweated a lot)?
Sink wash in the disabled loo, leave shirts at work. You have your own office - ponce it up with pot pourri and leave the windows open.
3) Transporting a laptop safely everyday, and occasionally some big lever arch files (normally around 2 files a couple of times a month). Any ideas on this?
Carradice Bike Bureau. Quality kit, doesn't look weird off the bike. Could take laptop, lever arch files, and still leave room to pick up shopping. It is big. http://road.cc/content/review/3820-carradice-bike-...
4) I'm budgeting £1k for a new bike. I've got an Evans cycle shop near me. Any Idea what bike would be good for a 6' 2" , 14 stone guy at this price?
Something like this in 58 or 61cm, plus mudguards and a rack - http://www.evanscycles.com/products/trek/crossrip-...
5) What accessories do I need? Helmet cam? Do you guys have separate insurance for the bike or are you covered via your own home contents?
Helmet, v lightweight waterproof jacket that you can pack small, summer gloves
6) Finally any other good websites, and forums I can go to for more advice and reading? The Cycle Commuter magazine looks good, I'll have a read cover to cover on all the 9 issues http://www.issuu.com/cyclescheme/docs/cc09-issu-v2
Forums are better than the mags. Read this place, cyclechat, yacf. Lots of commuters on all of them
It seems like a big hassle, but the weather has been nice recently and the commute is over some very nice country lanes so am seriously considering it, especially as I don't do any other exercise at all at the moment. And I used to love biking as a kid, am sure I'll get the bug back.
I was ~100kg when I started commuting. A year later I was ~70kg. You'll be needing a belt for your trousers soon. Or save money on new clothes by drinking more beer.
I'm with the others; Buy a bike for half your budget and a decent lock and just start. Save the other half the budget for things you find you need once you've started. There is no point trying to pre-guess what you need, especially in these days of internet shops and next day delivery. Don't even worry about cycling kit to begin with - normal clothes should do the job fine.
As far as the bike is concerned, I'd choose something that'll take panniers and mudguards and doesn't have suspension but aside from that it's personal preference. A town bike or Brompton will let you commute at a slightly more sedate pace in comfort to avoid getting sweaty. A road bike will be fast, fun and a great workout. A hybrid or cyclocross splits the difference.
As far as the bike is concerned, I'd choose something that'll take panniers and mudguards and doesn't have suspension but aside from that it's personal preference. A town bike or Brompton will let you commute at a slightly more sedate pace in comfort to avoid getting sweaty. A road bike will be fast, fun and a great workout. A hybrid or cyclocross splits the difference.
Thought I'd just tag along for the ride on this thread because there are some similar questions that I also have.
I have a separate dilemma about a car commute vs bike-train-bike commute but that's another story.
If I were to cycle (thinking of buying a Brompton) then I'm wondering about clothing for when it's bad weather. I'd like a set of clothes to go over my work attire (trousers, shirt, shoes) so that I don't have to carry a change of clothes and can be shoved in a bag when it's not raining.
Any recommendations? I also won't have anywhere to shower.
I have a separate dilemma about a car commute vs bike-train-bike commute but that's another story.
If I were to cycle (thinking of buying a Brompton) then I'm wondering about clothing for when it's bad weather. I'd like a set of clothes to go over my work attire (trousers, shirt, shoes) so that I don't have to carry a change of clothes and can be shoved in a bag when it's not raining.
Any recommendations? I also won't have anywhere to shower.
MagicalTrevor said:
Thought I'd just tag along for the ride on this thread because there are some similar questions that I also have.
I have a separate dilemma about a car commute vs bike-train-bike commute but that's another story.
If I were to cycle (thinking of buying a Brompton) then I'm wondering about clothing for when it's bad weather. I'd like a set of clothes to go over my work attire (trousers, shirt, shoes) so that I don't have to carry a change of clothes and can be shoved in a bag when it's not raining.
Any recommendations? I also won't have anywhere to shower.
I don't bother with bike-specific in these circumstances. I have a cheap set of Regatta waterproofs (thin jacket and trousers) which pack up small and stuff in my bag. You have to slow down a bit to avoid the "boil in the bag" effect (don't wear too many layers underneath either!) but they do the job just fine. It doesn't rain as often as you'd think anyway!I have a separate dilemma about a car commute vs bike-train-bike commute but that's another story.
If I were to cycle (thinking of buying a Brompton) then I'm wondering about clothing for when it's bad weather. I'd like a set of clothes to go over my work attire (trousers, shirt, shoes) so that I don't have to carry a change of clothes and can be shoved in a bag when it's not raining.
Any recommendations? I also won't have anywhere to shower.
I commute (around 10 miles each way) on a Trek 1.2 road-bike and have-done for many years.
I personally wear baggy shorts (whatever the weather) and a high-vis Endura jacket in winter.
Pack a clean shirt and tie in my camleback each day.
Leave my suit and shoes at work.
My current place of work doesn't have a shower, so I leave my makeup bag at work as well... some deodorant, wet-wipes and hair product.
I use the disabled toilet as a changing room. Just means going to my desk to get my bag, suit and shoes which everybody has got used to now. Sometimes I am soaking wet after riding through a deluge, but I don't mind if others don't.
Panniers would help transport bulkier items, but I manage with a shirt & tie, packed lunch, laptop inside the camleback and 2 D-locks strapped to the outside (it's a snowboard designed pack with exterior straps). The pack doesn't let your back breathe though, so can get hot and sweaty in the summer or if I am trying to beat my PBs on Strava!
I personally wear baggy shorts (whatever the weather) and a high-vis Endura jacket in winter.
Pack a clean shirt and tie in my camleback each day.
Leave my suit and shoes at work.
My current place of work doesn't have a shower, so I leave my makeup bag at work as well... some deodorant, wet-wipes and hair product.
I use the disabled toilet as a changing room. Just means going to my desk to get my bag, suit and shoes which everybody has got used to now. Sometimes I am soaking wet after riding through a deluge, but I don't mind if others don't.
Panniers would help transport bulkier items, but I manage with a shirt & tie, packed lunch, laptop inside the camleback and 2 D-locks strapped to the outside (it's a snowboard designed pack with exterior straps). The pack doesn't let your back breathe though, so can get hot and sweaty in the summer or if I am trying to beat my PBs on Strava!
Smartboy said:
Panniers would help transport bulkier items, but I manage with a shirt & tie, packed lunch, laptop inside the camleback and 2 D-locks strapped to the outside (it's a snowboard designed pack with exterior straps). The pack doesn't let your back breathe though, so can get hot and sweaty in the summer or if I am trying to beat my PBs on Strava!
It can be done with a backpack but you really should try panniers, especially carrying that weight. It's so much more comfortable and eliminates the sweaty back problem!Also; why on earth are you carrying two d-locks? Leave them on the bike rack at work unless you're going to need them at the weekend!
I commute by bike every day, have done for four years now. My commute is only about 10 minutes in, 15 minutes back (lots of climbing). With the exception of SPD shoes (leave a normal pair at work to wear) I don't bother wearing any special clothes, just jeans and a t-shirt most days, my ride in is easy enough that I'm not a sweaty mess when I arrive.
We don't have showers here, I have on occasion done longer rides before work, I usually just pack a change of top and a small towel - quick wash in the disabled toilet seems to suffice.
I have a Crumpler laptop rucksack, seems to have stood up to constant use well and keeps rain out. A pannier and some good bungee straps would probably work for your files.
The folding bike idea isn't a bad one if you're worried about security, I borrowed a Brompton recently and it was surprisingly pleasant to ride (I'm your height and build).
ETA - If you aren't changing clothes get a waterproof jacket, overtrousers and maybe some overshoes for rainy days.
We don't have showers here, I have on occasion done longer rides before work, I usually just pack a change of top and a small towel - quick wash in the disabled toilet seems to suffice.
I have a Crumpler laptop rucksack, seems to have stood up to constant use well and keeps rain out. A pannier and some good bungee straps would probably work for your files.
The folding bike idea isn't a bad one if you're worried about security, I borrowed a Brompton recently and it was surprisingly pleasant to ride (I'm your height and build).
ETA - If you aren't changing clothes get a waterproof jacket, overtrousers and maybe some overshoes for rainy days.
Edited by Accelebrate on Tuesday 16th April 13:36
What would say are the pros and cons of (exclude the costs for now):
Car journey: 1hr to 1hr 10mins each way
vs
Bike - Train - Bike journey: 1hr 30mins each way but 1hr 10mins either waiting for a train or on the train. Only 20mins max cycling.
For me...
Car:
Car journey: 1hr to 1hr 10mins each way
vs
Bike - Train - Bike journey: 1hr 30mins each way but 1hr 10mins either waiting for a train or on the train. Only 20mins max cycling.
For me...
Car:
- I can leave the house when I want, it doesn't matter if I'm late getting up
- I can set the aircon to whatever temp I want and sit in a comfortable seat, guaranteed every day
- I can listen to the radio through speakers rather than headphones
- I have to keep alert for the entire time
- increased stress of driving for 2 hours a day on the motorway
- I can switch off on the train and read a book, use my iPad
- It's probably cheaper but that's not really an issue
- I have somewhere secure to leave my bike but I'd get a Brompton to make things easier on the train
- Cold & wet weather doesn't exactly inspire me to get out of bed!
- I'll get some fresh air on the way to work
- An extra hour a day 'working'
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