Cycling to work is not only a great way to stay fit—it’s fast, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. For short to medium distances, especially in towns and urban areas, commuting by bike can often be quicker than driving or using public transport.
Unlike buses or trains, bike commutes are door-to-door, on your own schedule, and rarely affected by traffic delays. With the right preparation, cycling to work can be a rewarding part of your daily routine.
Why Commute by Bike?
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✅ Predictable journey times – no traffic jams or missed connections
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✅ Exercise built into your day – improve fitness without extra time
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✅ Environmentally friendly – reduce your carbon footprint
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✅ Cost saving – no fuel or train fares
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✅ Stress-busting – fresh air and freedom over crowded carriages
If you don’t yet own a suitable bike, check whether your employer offers the Cycle to Work scheme—a government-supported initiative that lets you save on the cost of a new bike and accessories through salary sacrifice.
Planning Your Commute
Although cycling gives you flexibility, you’ll likely have to arrive at work on time—so route planning is key.
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Use apps like Komoot, Strava, or Google Maps (Cycle Mode) to plot a safe, low-traffic route.
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Do a test ride on a day off to check timing and comfort.
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Adjust the route as needed—consider quieter back streets, bike lanes, or parks.
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Speak to colleagues or local cycling groups (like ours!) for tips and shortcut recommendations.
Be Prepared: Facilities & Clothing
Let’s face it—cycling can make you warm or sweaty, especially in bad weather. So it helps to check or plan for:
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Changing facilities at work (a spare meeting room, toilet, or gym shower can work)
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A place to store clean clothes, a towel, and toiletries
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Somewhere to dry wet kit during the day
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Waterproof panniers or a backpack to keep your gear dry
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Lightweight, breathable clothing in summer; layered, reflective gear in winter
Funny as it sounds, some cyclists have found changing spaces in all sorts of places—from broom cupboards to old post-mortem rooms!
Bike Security
Always secure your bike with a strong D-lock and secondary cable—especially if parking outside. Look for:
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Covered or indoor cycle parking (many employers and stations offer this now)
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Anchor points or bike racks that are solid and immovable
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Ideally, use a GPS tracker or smart lock for added peace of mind
Safety First: Be Seen and Stay Aware
Commuting often means navigating traffic, junctions, and busy roads, particularly in winter. Here’s how to stay safe:
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Wear high-visibility clothing and gear with reflective strips
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Use front and rear lights (flashing mode for visibility; steady mode for group riding)
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Consider a helmet light or reflective ankle bands—both very visible to drivers
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Always stay alert—avoid headphones and ride predictably
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Give yourself extra time so you don’t feel pressured to rush
Remember, “I didn’t see you” is the most common excuse in bike-vehicle collisions. Make sure you’re unmissable.
Insurance and Legal Protection
While not legally required, cycling insurance is a wise investment—especially for commuters sharing roads with motor traffic. Consider joining organisations that offer cover and legal advice:
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British Cycling – Legal cover, liability insurance, discounts
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Cycling UK – Third-party insurance and campaigning support
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London Cycling Campaign (LCC) – Advocacy and commuter-specific benefits
Your Commuting Bike: Reliability Matters Most
Your best commuting bike isn’t necessarily the lightest or most expensive—it’s the one that works, day after day.
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Fit full mudguards to stay dry in the rain
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Use puncture-resistant tyres with good grip
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Keep lights charged or dynamo-powered
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Perform a weekly maintenance check (brakes, tyres, chain)
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Fix issues at home—don’t wait until you’re stuck at a roundabout in the rain!
A simple, reliable bike will serve you better on a wet Tuesday morning than a carbon racer built for sunny Sundays.
Final Thoughts
Cycling to work is a lifestyle shift that can genuinely improve your health, finances, and wellbeing. With a bit of planning and the right kit, you’ll soon be breezing past traffic jams and racking up fitness miles before 9am.
If you’re new to cycling or unsure about commuting routes, join one of our rides or get in touch with Clarencourt Cycling Club—we’re happy to help newcomers find their wheels.