Who else cycles to work? I’m about to start!

[BubbleBoop]

In a weeks time I’m going to start cycling to work. I’d normally use public transport but I’m not in a rush to go back to that anytime soon.

My ride will be 6 miles each way and is flat. We have showers at work but I am hoping I won’t get sweaty enough to need one when I get there? I’m just trying to get my head around what I’ll need to carry with me in my backpack and making sure I don’t forget anything!

I’m also paranoid about getting a puncture on the way to work and ending up late from faffing around fitting new inner tubes etc

What kind of job, what kind of bike - do you have, do you have mudguards?

I do (did). I never repair a puncture on the way to work. It’s only happened once or twice but I just locked my bike up where it was and got a bus/taxi the rest of the way then collected it and fixed it on my way home. Other option is take the wheel with you into work (locking the bike where it is) fix the flat in your break then just pop the wheel back on the way home.

@ragged a hybrid bike, and I’m in an office based job

I’ve been cycling to and from work for about 2 years. Just under 9 miles each way. Mostly flat but I do need a shower when I get there. I pack the night before clothes for wearing in work, make up and hairbrush. But have learned it’s good to have duplicates that you can keep in work so as to travel lighter. Also handy to have a radiator Accessible in work to dry out your clothes as the weather can be unpredictable. I know not everyone will have access to one. I’ve become a bit obsessed with the wind forecast. If it’s against you it will take longer and potentially be a bit miserable. And take a spare tube, easier to replace the tube than to repair a puncture. Also take a pump and watch a few videos on YouTube so you get an idea of what to do. I’ve broken down a few times and I don’t think there’s even been once where a fellow cyclist hasn’t stopped and helped me. Probably because I cycle on a cycle track so loads of passing cyclists. I should point out I haven’t broken down once since I got a more suitable bike over a year ago so hopefully that won’t put you off. My long hair is the main issue, you might need some dry shampoo which helps with helmet hair and a sweaty head.

I am in the same position as you. Our local council offers a service with one on one proficiently training and also the person goes on a practice cycle with you to work!!

I second carrying a spare inner tube or two, much easier to fit than faffing around trying to fix a puncture by the side of the road, but also have a puncture repair kit with allen keys for tightening bits and several tyre levers. Good lights for dark evenings/mornings, ones that take AA batteries are better than cell batteries, cheaper.Lightweight rainwear for unexpected showers. I wear sportswear to cycle in and change into work clothes, it's surprising how much dirt can be thrown from the roads, especially if it's raining. I do make use of work showers just to feel clean so carry a small bag of toiletries and a towel.

Panniers rather than back pack cut down on sweatiness. Why not do a trial ride before you start in earnest?

Another to say spare inner tube, pump and basic tool set.

Definitely pannier and mudguards. Rucksack is fine to start with but panniers are much nicer. Get a waterproof one. Also, I bought puncture resistant tyres and have only had one puncture in 10 years after previously getting them loads. They’re not bomb proof so you still need to avoid glass etc. Also, get some good waterproofs. Riding in the rain is fine if you have waterproofs coz only your face gets wet. Also waterproof gloves for winter are good. Make sure you keep your tyres pumped up as it makes riding so much easier. You can check what the recommended psi is on the tyre. The stand up pumps are soooooooo much easier to use than the little hand ones. Get a good high viz and good lights. Take the lights off when you leave your bike because otherwise people nick them. Have fun! You’ll get to the stage where you hate being stuck in traffic coz you get overtaken loads by cyclists.

Take in a pack full or work clothes and supplies for the week on Sunday if you can? You can practice the route and also make your weekday commute a lot lighter!