Biking to work... for beginners

[chml]

Hi,

Due to an office move I'm considering riding to work. It will be 6 miles each way but my only experience of bikes comes from being a kid and just messing around on them. Does anybody have a suggestion as to what sort of bike would be best, and also is it worth looking on eBay/gumtree as I'm not looking to spend thousands on one?

What other bits of paraphernalia would I need and is it feasible in winter months? I'm office based with shower/changing facilities at work.

Thanks

[chml]

loudlashadjuster said:

In reality almost any bike should be fine. The best choice though might depend on the route to work.

• Flat? Hilly?
• Roads? Towpaths? Cycle lanes?
• Urban? Rural?

In the winter it's a matter of finding what works for you. Some go out like they're attempting K2, I'm more of a 'keep it light and work harder'. Good lights, overshoes, decent gloves and a good jacket are pretty much the only must haves though, depending on what you wear the rest of the year. I go full lycra but then I'm doing about double your distance with about 300m climbing per round trip.

All main roads and city centre although there are some nice canals nearby that would be nice to explore on a weekend.

Winter doesn't sound too daunting then... hopefully!

[chml]

Thanks for the comment guys, some really good advice about stuff I hadn't even considered, I'm away for a few weeks this weekend but will keep you all updated upon my return

Thanks again