Just like riding a bike...

[Kaloobear]

We're moving soon and I'll have either a 45 minute walk to work or a 45 minute drive through rush hour so I've decided to get a bike. This is good because a) I need to get fit and b) it will be cheaper-long term-than driving. Though I haven't quite got as far as thinking about snow.

I haven't really cycled for about 10 years and never used to do it much anyway. Is there anything I need to know before I buy/get on the roads? I'm planning to practise in a park before I let myself loose on the roads...! We live in a fairly flat city, apart from one big hill, and the city centre has loads of bike stands. If an area's pedestrianised does that mean no bikes or just no cars?

Think about theft. Bikes get stolen. A 2nd hand bike that looks rubbish is a lot less stealable than anything that looks shiny and new (even if the new one is worse!)

Snow normally isn't a problem in cities, the roads are clear, you just get wet.

Get the right clothes to cycle in to keep you dry and warm.

Pedestrianised means no bikes - you don't go where pedestrians are unless they are shared use paths, these are quite common, but not normally in the city centre itself.

Respect red lights, never, seriously never filter up the left of anything large, and be very wary of even doing it with a car.

I echo everything Fred advised. Absolutely never go up the left side of buses or lorries. The driver can't see you in his wing mirror and this is how a lot of fatal accidents happen. If you follow this rule you are automatically safer on the road.

You should get yourself a high viz jacket (I have an Altura night vision one) and rucksack cover (Respro Hump do a good one). It makes it so much easier for drivers to spot cyclists. A pair of padded cycling shorts or leggings (in winter) and cycling gloves will make the journey more comfortable.

But enjoy! My cycle to work used to be the highlight of my day (before DD arrived). It's by far the best way to travel.

Pedestrianised means local rules that can mean anything. Never assume anything. In Norwich, traders or the disabled can take their cars into supposedly pedestrianised zones 24/7. You have to check local signs to see what's allowed by who.

There are some very good guides online for beginner commuter cyclists. I like this one from Bham Uni.

Thanks all, this is really useful stuff.

Yes to everything everyone else has said. I used to commute 17 miles a day (round trip) and it's a great way to get some exercise in and relax after work, and cyclists are much more friendly than drivers. Occasionally still get to do it - with 2 kids in trailer - oof!

Find out if there is any cycle training in your new area (council website might help, or Mr Google of course). This will give you confidence, advice and route planning for the route you will be using.

One last thing: don't cycle in snow. It ain't worth it!

Also look into any tax benefits/incentives from work for cycling rather than car use - you never know, it might make you money too!

I started off as a fair weather cycle commuter in south London but then had so much public transport frustration I took to using the bike in all weathers (except deep snow when I would walk - about 45 minutes) and up to 6 months pregnant! Even used to take ds to workplace nursery in the bike seat from 13 months. Agree cycle training is a good idea if you are 'rusty', also look up information about good locks, get your bike coded. Good luck and good on you!

Your local authority may have a Bike Buddy scheme where someone will go out with you to get you used to your route, or they are likely to publish maps of "Bike Friendly" routes.

Another thought - try Sustrans too.

Depending where you live there may be some cycle training you can go on - they do most things from learn to ride to urban cycling. We have this in Merseyside (www.letstravelwise.org/cycling) but if you're not here, then just google it and see what's on offer! I did a course to help me with busier roads, my friend did a learn to ride one...with an instructor you can ask all the questions too.