Cycle Lanes

For every commuter, a cycle lane that goes where you want it to - in the direction of your workplace - is the ultimate find. It is far more pleasant, and relaxing to make as much of the commute via dedicated cycle lanes than on the main road.

The government is investing in cycle lanes all the time, and with average speeds across urban areas at rush hour being so low, cycling is seen as a major part of the solution to a very real problem.

With modern technology, cycle lanes are now monitored with sophisticated traffic monitoring systems, to count the number of cyclists and pedestrians who use them. This data is used in the support and planning of cycle lane networks throughout the UK.

Keep Your Bike Secure

One of the unhappy downsides about commuting to work on a bike, is that thieves do often target commuting bicycles because they know that their owner is probably safely out of the way in an office out of sight.

Many business parks do employ security guards, but even so there are a few obvious things you can do to improve security and lower the risk of your bike being stolen.

Firstly this may seem obvious but invest in a decent lock. The chain based type are more vulnerable than a D-lock, which is a solid hardened steel bar that is difficult to remove. The locks on these are the weak point, so don't get the cheapest one, and also make sure that you attach it to the frame and not just a wheel. Preferably loop it through a strong point in a dedicated bike shelter.

It's also worth considering removing expensive lights, luggage or other accessories and taking them inside with you, rather than leaving them on the bicycle. These can be quickly unattached, so be security conscious and take some sensible measures to keep your commuting a happy experience.

Avoiding Accidents

One of the biggest complaints many people have about riding to work on a bike is how dangerous it can be in rush hour traffic.

Keep safe and greatly improve your chances of a safe journey every time by following these 5 tips:

• Wear a high visibility jacket or vest. 
• Don't run red lights, even if you think there is nothing coming.
• Don't weave out into the road suddenly to avoid potholes. Try to anticipate them well in advance.
• Watch your speed. Charging up the outside of a line of traffic an get you into sticky situations.
• Be conscious that car drivers may be half asleep in the morning, cycle defensively.

Finally, take as many cycle paths as you can. Work out your route in advance and if you can make a third of it on cycle paths you'll be doing pretty well.

Have fun commuting to work by bike!

Travel to Work by Bike

The benefits of commuting to work by bicycle are many. Firstly you build some valuable exercise into your working day, without having to dedicate extra time in an evening. The dead time that you would have spent sitting in traffic is put to good use.

Secondly, the speed at which you get to the office may actually reduce. Average speeds through cities at rush hour have been shown to be faster on a bike than in a car. Being able to coast past stationary cars gives you an enormous sense of snugness.

Okay, so when it rains you may not be quite so smug, but many commuters love to get out in all weathers and don't mind getting a bit wet.

Choosing the right bike for the job is important. Commuting bicycles are generally hybrid types, taking the best of both road and mountain bikes. They are rugged enough but use slicker, thinner tyres to reduce rolling resistance, and dispense with the suspension of a full off-road bike.

Pick the right lightweight bike, and you will cruise past the rows of cars with ease while soaking up the odd pothole.