In the first of a new series, we will look at how to join the Active Travel revolution and start cycling to work.
Cycling to work is a great way to keep active, save some money and protect the planet. It can also be the most enjoyable part of your day, setting you up for a great day at work or clearing your head after a long day of meetings.
But, if you haven’t cycled to work before (or it’s just been a while!), the thought of it may be a bit daunting. That’s where we can help, as a little preparation can make a huge difference to your ride! Here are a few of our favourite tips to get you on the road in no time.
Step 1: Preparation
Getting organised in advance is the best way to make for an enjoyable first cycle.
The Route
Other road users may be a worry, but remember your bike is small and nimble so can go many places that cars can’t! Take time to plan your route – use side roads for quieter travel, route away from big interchanges and use cycle-only lanes to avoid cars altogether. Online route planners like We are Cycling UK and Cycle Streets can make it even easier. (With a good route in place you’ll also know what time to leave in the morning, which will make your boss happy!)
Your Kit
Preparing your bike – and yourself! – are next on the list. Make sure your bike is fully serviced and that you have all the legal requirements for road use (lights, reflectors, etc.). A bag or pannier rack are great if you’ll be carrying your laptop, lunch or gym kit too. Clothing should be comfortable, non-restricting and weather-suitable, and make sure nothing will get caught in the chain. Finally, don’t forget your helmet!
Test Run
Trying out your route before the big day will iron out any unforeseen issues you may come across, like a steeper-than-you-thought hill or a road that’s blocked! Test the route at a weekend when the roads are quieter and other users in less of a rush, and take a friend with you for the ride.
Here to Help
Remember, it might be your first time cycling to work, but you’re not alone – at Cadence Performance we are always here to help guide you to cycling success. Make yourself a quick checklist of the above points, and please get in touch for more advice – we’ll ensure you have the best kit to make that first cycle to work a breeze!
Cadence Performance
At Cadence Performance our highly trained teams can offer you a support in lots of ways. You can contact us in-store at the addresses below, and you’ll find information about our comprehensive services by following the links below.
Bike Fitting
A professional fitting ensures you get the best performance from you bike by expending energy efficiently. At the same time, it prevents knee, hip, and back injury. Find out more >
Workshop and servicing
We believe that the workshop is the heart of any good bike shop. We offer a free estimate for any repair we take on and we do not carry out any work until we have the go-ahead from you. Find out more >
Membership
Spreading the cost of our services with a membership is a great way to enjoy regular exercise, health and wellbeing at an affordable price. Our workshop service memberships are available exclusively in Cadence stores. Find out more >
Check out our website to find out more about our services.
Cadence Performance is on your local high street
- Cadence|Giant Crystal Palace, 2a Anerley Hill, London SE19 2AA
- Cadence|Giant Paddock Wood, 62-62a Maidstone Rd, Paddock Wood, TN12 6AF
- Cadence|Giant Shoreham, Little High St, Shoreham-by-Sea BN43 5JF
- Cadence|Giant St Paul’s, 200 Aldersgate St, London EC1A 4HD
- Cadence|Giant St Albans, N Orbital Rd, St Albans AL2 1DL
- Cadence|Giant Twickenham, 111 Heath Rd, Strawberry Hill, Twickenham TW1 4AF
