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Original poster

I hate cycling. Pls talk to me about getting a bike.

36 replies

HollywentLightly · 07/10/2025 20:29

I am not a fan of cycling in any form but for practical reasons a bicycle commute will make life much, much easier for the next year or so. I will be cycling on suburban roads/cycle paths, max 15km at a time, no real hills but a few slow, steady inclines. I was hoping dd's old bike would do me but she has suddenly rekindled her interest and to be honest, it's probably too small for me to use regularly anyway.

Could anyone suggest where to start looking, brands, styles, etc? I'm 5ft 2 and my brain can't compute how gears work (honestly, I get the theory but it fails me completely as soon as I'm pedalling). Dh has suggested an electric bike but I resent paying that much for something I resent. Yes, i know I'm being very childish about all of this.

OP posts:
Chazbots · 08/10/2025 08:08

I'm actually a Breeze Leader & if you're in north Wales, we have some local groups too.

There's lots of women's groups tho all over, I am not usually a joiner of clubs but it does help with cycling.

If you dm an area, I can see if there's a leader by you Alternatively, have a look on Let's Ride but it can be a bit temperamental. BC are moving in other directions, so the incredibly successful Breeze initiative is somewhat drifting.

Hdpr · 07/10/2025 22:23

I love cycling and have a Specialized bike which I really rate. My daughter has a Liv and that’s also good. I’d also make sure you’re getting plenty of practise as cars can be hard work!. I actually cycle on paths when the paths are not busy and the roads are scaring me. But it’s amazing exercise and so quick to get around

AnotherExpatKiwi · 07/10/2025 22:19

I’m a keen cyclist - I do around 120-150 miles a week. If you’re riding predominantly flat areas I’d recommend a hybrid bike rather than an MTB as the gearing is more suitable and you won’t need the front suspension of an MTB. A hybrid e-bike (power assist up to 15mph) would be ideal if you can afford this.

Liv bikes (women specific) would be good - you’d need XS or S. in other brands you’ll def need an XS.

Breeze Rides are women centred rides and there may be one near you. https://www.letsride.co.uk/breeze there’s also a facebook group called VeloVixens which is great for women specific cycling info.

Get out there and enjoy it! Riding is fun!

Breeze

Free bike rides for women, information and inspiration on women's cycling, from HSBC UK Breeze by British Cycling.

https://www.letsride.co.uk/breeze

Holidaysandsunshine · 07/10/2025 22:08

Ribble are pretty good.have some good sale bikes.

Original poster
HollywentLightly · 07/10/2025 22:06

Actually, a class/group to build confidence is probably a good idea. I saw a horrible accident a few years back which pushed me from not liking cycling to borderline phobia. I used to cycle to school with the kids but it wasn't too far and I had to push myself to not be obviously fearful for them but I hated it.

I'll look at some mountain bikes at the weekend, our next door neighbour who cycles everywhere recommended the bike shop she uses.

OP posts:
Benvenuto · 07/10/2025 21:43

Cycling UK has lots of info for beginner cyclists including how to choose a bike. I would use a mountain bike for commuting as they are stable, quite lightweight and the gears make going uphill much easier, however lots of other people use hybrids so it might be worth looking at both. I would be wary about traditional shoppers as some can be heavy and have a limited gear range. I can’t advise on electric bikes as I don’t have / want one, but they are worth considering for longer journeys. It’s also worth finding a good bike shop to advise on frame size. Whatever you buy, having a rack and panniers makes it much easier to carry luggage.

It might also be worth checking if Cycling UK / British Cycling / Sustrans / your local council are running any beginner cycle sessions or women’s cycle groups like British Cycling’s Breeze as they can be really helpful to improve confidence and skills.

Original poster
HollywentLightly · 07/10/2025 21:11

Will electric really make a big difference over that kind of distance? Maybe I need to rethink that so. Any reliable makes? Moped is an even bigger no, storage as well as me being a wuss. A park and ride would be perfect but we've only one car so dh will be taking on some driving duties while I'm cycling. Stupid office move and stupid cycling.

OP posts:
DontBuyANewMumCashmere · 07/10/2025 20:43

Could you park slightly further away and have a folding bike in your boot?
Reduce the mileage, and still get a bit of fitness in?

Chazbots · 07/10/2025 20:32

Liv or Marin, check standover height. Fellow short person.

But defo go electric, I think. Will make your life easier & more fun.

LooseCanyon · 07/10/2025 20:31

Or, how about a moped?

LooseCanyon · 07/10/2025 20:30

I would get an electric bike, no question.

ETA: 15km is a lot, twice a day.