Commuting Advice From Other Cyclists On Their Ride To Work!

[@gcn]

What's the best piece of bike commuting advice you've ever gotten? 🤔Let us know! 👇

[@Mr.NotImportant-qu5rx]

Bar mitts in winter!

[@MatthewMabborang]

Before cycling to commute, be sure to pray for your safety and protection as well as be cautious in your surroundings when riding on the busy roads 😊

[@Mr.NotImportant-qu5rx]

Assume that all drivers are drunk texting with one hand while drinking scalding hot coffee with the other hand, while filling out a Sudoku puzzle with one foot while the other foot slams on the gas, but they are facing backwards and steering using their gluteus maximus. Assume the worst out of drivers and be very pleased when they wave or are nice.

[@oplkfdhgk]

pick bike components that are easy to maintain so you don't have to wait for like week for bike shop to fix it.

[@Mr.NotImportant-qu5rx]

Two identical, well built single speed cruiser brake bikes from your local bike shop owner is probably your best bet. They don't need as much maintenance and when one breaks you can use the other one while your local bike shop owner fixes the broken bike.

[@bubblesezblonde]

This is the type of content we need to promote cycling!!! thanks

[@gcn]

Glad you enjoyed it! We loved chatting to all the happy commuters on the bike path 🙌

[@paulgrimshaw8334]

Well done, GCN. You added some swagger to the people being interviewed by cycling media on their daily commute.

[@piersderoos6941]

And to ride over priced bikes in skin tight lycra with are "pals"

[@stephentodd3798]

Expected to hear padded shorts🍊🔥

[@billp8768]

Rack and panniers . Complete game changer.

[@mikehedges5954]

I was shocked by how much it improved my ride. Underrated.

[@Alfthecyclist]

I put a lock box on my rack 12 years ago. Several others have appeared in the bike rack since! I never had myself down as a trendsetter! 😂

[@fredsirvalo1904]

@@mikehedges5954 Agreed. I was a backpack commuter until last year. It's crazy that I waited so long to get panniers.

[@DB-sm2do]

Ortleib quick rack if it's also your fun bike. Waterproof panniers. It's a winner

[@a1white]

I’ve had ortlieb roll top pannier bag for 15 years now. They are so durable and very waterproof

[@BarryJones-wt3et]

Commuting by bicycle was the best thing I ever started doing, I actually look forward to the trip .❤

[@gcn]

Awesome! We agree, Si is a big fan of commuting by bike 👉 kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6nUlYWEg7dmn5Y

[@Frostbiker]

Great idea! And the advice they provided was excellent. Completely agree on the weather: it is not as bad as you think. People are not made out of sugar.

[@gcn]

You just need the right kit 🙌

[@oplkfdhgk]

i mean some people eat alot of carbs so maybe they might be made out of sugar. 😀

[@questgivercyradis8462]

I've only regretted riding in bad weather once or twice. 1) The weather changed from "okay but chilly" to a sleet storm with high headwind such that pedaling as hard as I could was like 5km/hr and I was freezing. 2) In a MEGA storm with 4in of water on the ground, and big soggy leafs on my path at night, which made me crash. Low speed, but I still got whacked pretty hard and have minor pains since. Normal rain? Pfft. That's fine. Just need decent tires for generic wet.

[@IK47-d2l]

I don't mind cold temperatures but riding in the rain sucks though, I avoid it..

[@henning1910]

​@@gcn Complete dad sentiment but: "There is no bad weather, only bad kit!"

[@lassipls]

Number 1 thing to get for your bicycle are mudguards. My jacket still has stains in the back from riding one day in a muddy weather without mudguards.

[@jameslee-pevenhull5087]

Started cycling to School in 1972. Got a job 12 miles away across Birmingham. Cycled when I could but got a great group of friends on the train and bus. 1979, got posted closer to home so rode to work. 1983, worked in London 3 days per week, so cycled less. 1992, back in Brum and cycling every day. 1995, posted 18 miles from home. Kept riding. 2001, New job in Coventry 13 miles. 2007, posted 16 miles from home further away in Coventry, kept cycling. 2011. posted 25 miles from home at Gaydon. Kept cycling. 2014, returned to 16 miles from home. Kept cycling. 2020. Retired. Now, shopping and club rides.

[@MrEpsilonZero]

Well that is detailed description. 2011 must have been tough, 25 miles each way!?

[@davidhocevar8510]

mudguards and rack... total gamechanger

[@martinwarne]

Best piece of advice I got when I started was that on-bike storage (panniers) is a game-changer.

[@fredsirvalo1904]

This is one of the top videos I've seen from GCN. I commuted off and on through the years as I could (including today!). My top tip was covered in the video: prepare the night before, so there are no excuses in the morning.

[@fredsirvalo1904]

Thanks for highlighting the person who rides an ebike. I am not one myself, but whatever get folks peddling is okay in my book.

[@randallmiller3842]

I made it more than a commute when I could. Add in a trail, or a stop for coffee, make it a fun ride , turn it into a cyclocross practice (potholes, curbs, and gravel).

[@GrumpyOldMan-pk3mg]

Spare clothing such as socks , spare inner tube and a small toolkit, and always carry a packable rain jacket. I live in Brisbane and the bike way runs along the side of the motorway, on a Friday afternoon you are going past the traffic which is bumper to bumper and you are flying with a strong tail wind, it always makes me smile.

[@oldmanstumpie1061]

It sure is nice passing by cars on the Pac Mway 🙂

[@BirdmanDeuce26]

One of the best tips I heard, I paraphrase from Tom Babin/Shifter on KZbin - don't feel compelled to have the most optimized route and routine right off the bat the first time you try to do it! Give yourself time to explore what works best for you, and feel free to start small and work your way up.

[@gcn]

Great point! It's a learning curve after all 🙌

[@TwiinStar1224]

That's exactly it! Things don't tend to be perfect the first time you try, but if you never try you can't get any better.

[@bruceclark7198]

Practice a new route with a slow ride in good weather with no pressure. Learn where the bottle necks are and which junctions to avoid.

[@jasonarthurs3885]

Shifter is a great channel and Tom is a talented presenter.

[@questgivercyradis8462]

The lady in yellow hit it! High vis, lots of lights, and she has the same panniers as me. They're amazing. Kept my laptop safe and dry through Vancouver mega rain storms. Lights. Mudguards. Panniers. Rain gear. Find the safest route available for derpy morning brain! And.... be prepared to like it once you get into it. I never expected to like it originally. The bike was my "can't go to the gym" pandemic fitness. Never put it down. For local distances, it is absolutely the best way to travel. Sucks that so many (in the USA especially) can't even imagine it. I know I didn't before trying. The 40mins of riding to/from work I get every day is all it takes to prevent the "bleh" feeling of butt sitting.

[@clubstew]

Personally, I like to push hard on my commutes and am fortunate that our buildings have bike cages, lockers, and showers. So I pack casual work clothes and, as one gal said, spare socks (more so because they get sweaty). Except for our short summers, I install mud guards and always carry tools and a spare tube in my saddle bag. Haven’t needed them in over ten years, but you know you will once you stop carrying them!

[@seangrumett]

Schwalbe marathon plus tyres, especially during the winter when the cycle paths are covered in debris washed down by the rain

[@adam3rdcanvey]

Absolutely agree! It's good training too. As when you ride some lighter tyres you will fly 😍

[@goldenretriever6261]

I've put 20,000 km on one set of marathons and not one flat tire.

[@santiagobenites]

That was a fantastic GCN episode! Everyone was so pleasant and relaxed. I bet if you interviewed people commuting in their vehicles you'd see a noticeable difference.

[@CarlWilliams-sp4zy]

Just be prepared the night before and I found a more comfortable classic bike with a more upright seating position has helped me enjoy the commute more.

[@turboseize]

Lights, mudguards, panniers. Lights are self-explanatory, mudguards make a hell of a difference in rain. In Europe, monsoon-like downpours are relatively rare. Most often rain is just a drizzle or rather mild. But once the road is wet, your tyres will kick up much more water. In a typical rain, mudgiards will douple or triple the time until soaked. Get full mudgiards - front and rear. It's the front tyre that i skicking up water and grime onto your shoes - and in your face. Panniers allow you to carry more stuff (like a second set of clothes/shoes for the office). They make you a bit slower, as they add aerodynamic drag, but they make cycling much more enjpyable. A backpack will always make ypour back sweaty, even in winter. In summer, a backpack is a guarantee to be soaking wet after just 2 or three kilometres. A backpack can also lead to shoulder and neck discomfort, and it may even block your field of view when turning your head, which will make merging into traffic much more dangerous. Get puncture-resistant tyres. You do not want to change an inner tube on the side of a road with heavy traffic, in freezing rain and with numb and stiff fingers... Speed and souplesse are less important for a commuter tyre then reliability. Another important tip might be route planning. With a bike, you will often take different ways than with a car. Optimize your trip not for distance, but enjoyment - and minimum traffic lights. Every traffic light avoided is worth a few hundred meters of detour, timewise. Also, this will usually avoid rads with dense traffic and naturally guide you towards cyclepaths through parks, along rivers/canals and through side streets. When you have the time and are not in a hurry, make detours and explore the area! After some time, you will have an intimate knowledge of every side street, back alley, cul-de-sack etc and know which ones are dead-ends- and which ones will allow a bike to filter through. Also, exploring is fun.

[@jasonarthurs3885]

This post was edited?

[@NinjaElephant]

Don’t overthink it just do it, you will learn the important stuff on the way, it makes the whole experience. I have the feeling most people are afraid to even start because they are not fit enough, afraid of traffic or rain, they think they need a better bike… just chill, you don’t need to be they fastest on your first day trying, trying and failing is still better than not trying at all. And don’t be afraid to donut on an ebike if you want. Real cyclists won’t judge and forget about the rest.

[@sebastiandomagala9233]

Oh, I do need to be the fastest on the way. Last Sunday I was going with my city bike and trailer and still wanted to keep up with a road bike. Because I am too stupid to go slow and enjoy the ride anyway, so I might as well push it to the limit instead.

[@NinjaElephant]

@@sebastiandomagala9233 I guess we are all guilty of this trait. But as long as it makes us faster… 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@KLCowan]

I needed this tip thanks, just do it. Don't overthink

[@pklh1214]

Looked at my shirt/pants covered in mud after I first start commuting. Looks like I need mudguard. Back sweaty, especially in the summer. Look like I need a rack with a way to attach things to it (pannier or milk crate). Ooh, its dark out? getting kinda sketchy not being seen. Look like I need a light. Here I am now :D

[@pioneer7855]

As a ebike user on my college campus I feel that biking made me feel so much freer than on a scooter or a car, I'm so happy to have found this online community of all bikers. ❤ Thanks GCN!

[@ricardogee7434]

If you commute on the south circular for 12 miles into London, ensure you have 360 vision, be bright, be seen, wear a helmet (you’ll be surprised how many don’t) and most of all abide by the rules of the road. I’ve done this commute for 10yrs now and I never tire of it relieves the stress of the day, to & from work.

[@davidwalker6510]

Great video, hats off to everyone who commutes by bike you get my respect. I commute to work in Thailand once a week I would do more but it is so hot. As the crow flies my commute is only 4 or 5km but I go the long way 25km to make it more of a challenge. Thankfully we have showers in my place of work. My tip is Daytime Running Lights be seen stay safe everyone love from Thailand.

[@fb19700101]

I commuted 3 miles to work for 30 or so years (until the pandemic let me transition to working mostly from home) and the number of times I arrived at either end significantly wet I could count in the fingers of one hand. Admittedly I'm in a dryer part of the country (Cambridge) but a decent jacket sufficed the majority of the time when it was raining. The most challenging conditions were when there was slush in the gutters, but at least here traffic is relatively understanding if you cycle in the main traffic lane in that scenario. Time to cycle - 15-20 mins. Time to walk about 50, and time for the bus 45+ depending on how snarled up in traffic they got, so it was a no-brainer really. Never really got any advice, but mine would be to assume that any car hasn't seen you until you see them react to your presence. Making eye contact with drivers when facing them is quite effective too (e.g. when they are looking to turn across your lane).

[@hondasaurusrex6998]

Brilliant video!!! Thanks Manon and GCN.

[@HighFell]

Find a route that makes you smile not necessarily the shortest/fastest one

[@flufflebut8781]

I always like a route by a duck pond, so cute to see a queue of ducklings waddling after Mamma in spring. 😊 🦆

[@HighFell]

@@flufflebut8781 beautiful! It wasn’t commuting but today I rode under an echelon of Geese, absolutely fantastic.

[@marknethercoat3314]

2sets of lights in winter, always having a full change of clothes at work so I take in socks undies and t-shirt and swap them. And keep a record of towel usage so it gets replaced regularly. And last of all, always enjoy the lovely stress free cycle to work!

[@duncanbaxter3347]

Not discussed in the clip but I would say be mentally prepared if you are on roads, at some point another road user will do something that gets your blood pressure up. Just know that this will happen and your preparedness will allow you to deal with it better 😊

[@ecopennylife]

Great so see so many commuters cycling. I've been doing it 10 years, last 5.5 years eBiking. My biggest tip is to ride an eBike so you can wear normal clothes & shoes & get less sweaty up hills, start with once a week in fine weather & build up from there. 🚴

[@Chaley72]

Get a rack, basket or seat pack. The worst thing is a sweaty back. Weight on the bike, not the person.

[@xijaomao]

Yeah, when I rode a round-trip of like 30 miles my back hurt like hell and I wanted to lie down in the middle of the ride.

[@IK47-d2l]

Transparent glasses are a MUST imo, especially in winter, they made a huge difference for me! You can wear them day and night, they protect your eyes from the freezing cold wind in winter and also from insects and dust in summer!

[@C345OFR]

Better yet: invest a little more in some photochromatics (I paid about £15 for some Rockbros ones) so that you can use them through all seasons/conditions!

[@better.better]

I build my alarm schedule from arrival backward. for example I know I need to start work at a specific time, it takes me an approximate amount of time to get locked up and changed. it takes me another approximate time to cycle from home to the office. because I stop for breakfast on the way I allow time for that. and then my initial alarm to wake up is based on how long it takes me to actually get on the bike. because I'm not always going to the same place, I use the alarms to keep me on track. because I know my average pace, I calculate the route ahead of time, give myself a handicap for longer routes, or if the winds will be in my face. then I add half an hour to that for safety, and even with that there have still been times where I've arrived half an hour late, when I thought I was doing well and would be early. if your employer is not going to be okay with that, then you need to build in enough time to prevent it.

[@prpapas]

40 years since I first rode to work because my car died and I couldn't afford to fix it. The bike was supposed to be temporary...but here I still am, on two wheels and still loving it. Lots of great tips given already, but I'll add for those who must lock up on street: * Don't lock up a spendy/fragile & lightweight/trendy or otherwise desirable or vulnerable bike with any regularity. *A budget bike (new commuter or a safe & solid vintage beater) is best for locking up. *A backpack or messenger bag is ideal; panniers and racks etc. are one more thing to attract thieves. *take fancy lights and other accessories off when you've locked up. *buy the best lock(s) you can afford. *learn how to properly secure your bike (what to lock it to, securing frame/wheels/components). *try to move your bike around, instead of using the same predictable spot every day. *do a quick pre-ride check of brakes/tires/steering every time you unlock. Bikes do get messed with on the street. *Keep an eye on your frame and wheels - weekly check will alert to any damage from other people's locks and adjacent bikes smashing your bike.

[@jasonarthurs3885]

The note on heated gloves resonated with me. I cycle commute by e-bike on Vancouver Island year round. Winters here are mild by Canadian standards, but where I live they are wet and windy and temperatures hover around 4C. I picked up a pair of heated gloves from Sealskinz two years ago: Game changing! I'm adding their heated socks to my kit for next rainy season.

[@vicebeer]

Great cycling video idea! My tips- - cycling to work makes me soo happy, mental health benefits are amazing, it is a great springboard to more intense exercise. - Shower and shave at work to save extra time in the morning - a pair of bmx gloves keeps the hands really warm (Fist great designs) - always have excess bike lights for the commute, more cheap temu/ebay lights > one expensive one - lock your helmet up in your D lock to save it finding its way into the jands of a kleptomaniac. - mud guards pay themselves back in one rainy ride. - a longer route without traffic may be safer, faster and more enjoyable than the most direct route - there are no fashion awards for commuter clothing so wear whatever makes you comfortable. - Other video ideas in the same vein: - ‘How to pick a route to work’ - what makes a commuter bike that will last + essentially commuting kit. - how to deal with road rage on your commute with a great outcome for everyone. - Are puncture proof tyres worth it? - Happiness, finance and commuting time benefits of riding to work. (Maybe a few test cyclists with EP sessions, psych surveys and financial benefits pre and post 1, 3 and 6 months into their journey- like your amazing zone 2 training series) -interviews with organisations that promote and and advocate for cycling. - Used vs new commuter bikes, where to buy them. Keep up the great work on the videos as always and come down to Australia for some videos!!! We’ve some great cycle routes and initiatives in Brisbane and Melbourne.

[@happyf00d]

Started daily commuting to work 5 years ago - best decision of my life 😆. Got rid of car, no polution, no car expenses, fuel, parking problems and so on. Advice - check weather forecast regulary day before, in time you will learn weather patterns and how to prepare for your commute(clothing). Also - commute distance depends on the mood, not the weather !

[@peterwhitson1142]

Having a few others to ride with on the commute also helps the resolve to get up and on the bike early. There’s nothing like the early morning message banter to encourage.

[@flufflebut8781]

I don't bother with the extra weight of a flat tire kit since I live in an area where it is easy to call an emergency Uber, fold the bike in half, and pop it in the trunk.

[@paulgrimshaw8334]

Good, practical advice. Real cycling. High utility. Love it!

[@E11or]

I really appreciate people who bike to work. They dont add to the roaf traffic for people who really need or want to drive and pathing the way to more healthy greener future

[@johnnunn8688]

Tool Station and the like, do very good De Walt safety glasses in clear, orange or dark lenses. They are really comfortable, don’t let the wind blow at your eyeballs and cost less than £4.

[@ThomasPublicThuene]

And they exist with reader bifocals, for the blind bats among us.

[@MarkWarnePhotography]

Handlebar bag. I use a Brooks scape handlebar bag. It stops your back getting sweaty, I can carry a laptop, tools, waterproof jacket/trousers, lights and a folding backpack (for any extra that I might need to carry like shopping). Having everything organised in small bags makes this possible. Quick release too so it’s really convenient. Another must is a waterproof jacket with a helmet hood I find that even the best waterproof gloves are not waterproof for long, so I try to leave a dry set of gloves in the office for the journey home if it rained on the way in.

[@katetottle1024]

Great video, I started cycling by commuting and it's a fantastic way to arrive at work ready to hit the ground running and then to wind down and relax at the end of the day. So good for your state of mind as well as body!

[@chrisjoyce5539]

Decathlon waterproof trousers which covers your shoes and socks for raining days game changer.

[@erins9271]

Neoprene shoe covers for the cool weather, and wear layers. Hi vis clothing and lights are a must for me. Pack you stuff the night before to save time in the morning.

[@OperationDarkside]

I started grocery shopping with my bike a few months ago, but the route is muddy and mountainous. I can't say, that it'll be for everyone, but I'm enjoying it. And for a situation like mine I have 2 tips: 1. Hydration: hills demand water 2. Storage: if you're not shopping every day, the bags fill quicker, than you anticipated. (3. Reward: always buy a small reward for yourself. Keeps you motivated)

[@FGZKlunk]

Paniers and mudguards. Panniers are especially good if you are carrying a laptop, that weight is not going to do your back any good. And the extra weight makes your weekend bike feel so light when you ride it.

[@WW226]

I really enjoy seeing everyone's bike and setup. Gives you some ideas, even as a bicycle commuter of many years. So interesting to see how creative ppl get and what gear they use

[@LovetheIPAs]

This was a super video! I love the enthusiasm of the cyclists and their advice was varied and all extremely useful. Good you had a range of ages and genders, as well as folks wearing cycling kit and folks wearing non-cycling clothing. I think this mix will help people see that cycling is accessible to all!!! But we want more bike paths!!! When do we want them? NOW!!!

[@ramsden35]

Brilliant video! I commute 46 miles round trip three times a week. I work a 10 hour day and my cycling days I’m more focused, happier (well as happy as you can be at work) and it helps knock off miles on the Garmin and Strava challenges which gives you a sense of achievement. I also use the three days as training. One day is a full Threshold ride, one at tempo and the Friday is as close to zone 2 (weather permitting, rain means full clip haha). Zone 2 Friday in the sunshine is my favourite.

[@paddlepedal4780]

My best advice for commuting to work via bike. Throw your leg over saddle and start turning the cranks. It gets easier and more fun the more you do it.

[@forceninewinds]

game changers for me...dutch style ebike (nice to be upright and see the world around me and be comfortable) poncho from Decathlon which was not only cheap but has kept me dry even in the worst weather!

[@AlexNes]

1. Wear a helmet! It is clumsy, uncomfortable, doesn't look good on Instagram, but might just save your life. 2. Don't cycle under the influence. If you feel even a little tipsy, don't leave on your bike. Wait a bit until you sober up a bit. 3. Assume that the car won't stop. 4. Just because you don't make mistakes, drivers / pedestrians / other cyclists do and it takes two to have an accident. Don't assume that other commuters pay attention. 5. If you only use the bike for commuting choose a simple one. No big ascents? Choose single speed. The less the bike maintenance, the happier the commuter. 6. If there is any chance of rain, pack dry clothes in a waterproof bag (Decathlon sells hiking backpacks with built-in rain covers) 7. Don't try to out-waterproof rain while cycling. You can't, because you either get wet on the outside or on the inside. Wear cycling gear that dry fast and keep you warm even when wet. 8. I cannot recommend solid tyres enough. Been using them for 11 years now. Never gonna turn back. (Though if you want maximum comfort you are better off with a wide, flat-resistant city tyre) 9. If you don't care about having a nice bike, you see your commuter as a purely functional item to get you from point A to point B, then buy an old, ugly, cheap used bike. Get the mechanical parts in good shape and buy a strong bike lock from a reputable manufacturer (Abus, Kryptonite etc.). That way you will be the only cyclist in your group of friends not worrying about your bike getting stolen.

[@ballroomdru]

This is some of the best cycling content I have seen in the channel. Please do breakdown videos on different weather, bike types, and distances.

[@renaudmaljean2518]

I got a backpack that you can zip open in half and clip it on the rack. It's great and doesn't look like a touring bag. Bigger tyres should help with potholes, sidewalks, and countryside trails if you encounter those. Got schwalbe G one allround. Perfect

[@mikehaberdotco408]

Tip: First thing to do once you're up is get the bike out of the shed/garage/wherever. Then you'll know what the weather is like and you can check for flat tyres / light batteries and you'll have time to sort everything out. Don't leave it too late to find out you need to fix or charge something.

[@a1white]

Been commuting in London for 17 years. Lots has changed over that time for the better. My current commute is 90% on (mostly) segregated fast direct bike lanes. Back when I started it involved working out quieter routes on back roads.

[@davezzzz172]

I commuted by bike for 30+ years. It was best way of getting miles in during the week. 20+ years of that included riding over the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco (30-32 miles round trip). On the other hand, while I enjoyed getting my exercise in while going to work, I didn't always arrive in the best mood. Too many incidents with cars that left me feeling enraged. I'm retired now, so I don't commute at all. And when I did retire, I knew that my weekly cycling mileage might fall off, which it did. Nothing like a morning commute to get you on the bike; retirement, on the other hand, made me lazy!

[@stevendolphin6752]

For me it’s getting all my stuff ready the night before, ready to wake up and get spinning without the faff! I’m up and out for 4:30am. The last thing I can be bothered to do find out and pack all my things so it helps massively with the head game!

[@gcn]

This is a great point! It's during those early morning that you can put yourself off 😴☔

[@Mikolaj_u]

So I've got a bicycle which I would like to use to get to work. Now I should: 1. Complete cycling training course. 2. Get mudguards and lights 3. Prepare the route in advance 4. Complete the route in advance 5. Carry spare socks 6. Carry spare work clothing 7. Carry extra set of dry cycle clothes 8. Prepare to be soaking and freezing and looking rough when coming to work 9. Cycle with friends first 10. Get heated gloves 11. Carry clothes for 4 seasons in one day 12. Prepare for lot of trial and error 13. Wear high vis 14. Prepare to be scared if not using lights and high vis 15. Carry tools to fix bicycle 16. Get rear rack and panniers to carry the stuff 17. Get puncture proof tyres 18. Find a wiggly squiggly route 19. Get more lights 20. Find a route with mud in it 21. Get a helmet 22. Get more high vis 23. Get glasses 24. Prepare mentally to be on the road 25. Lobby employer to fit showers at work 26. Carry a lock to lock the bike 27. Carry 2nd lock to lock the wheels 28. Carry 3rd lock to lock the rack and panniers 29. Carry waterproof trousers 30. Carry hydration pack 31. Get more high vis 32. Get more lights 33. Get bar miffs 34. Enjoy it I wonder why more people don't commute by bicycle 🤔

[@blankseventydrei]

this all good advice. I would suggest also to change your route from time to time if you can, as the same route can get boring and demotivating.

[@antonbragin852]

It's great to see how different and yet amazing the cycling people are! My tip for the beginners would be to use a dedicated cycling clothes for anything above 15 minutes - it gives you much better comfort and fun)

[@nicmorton280]

Love it! Great feature GCN

[@ktadema]

My favorite cycling subject is commuting!! SO glad yall interviewed some cyclists that have been doing it for years. But you can tell that UK is living in a completely different world than the USA. Wish we could hear from some Americans commuting in non-cycling friendly areas.

[@steveng5691ify]

I've lived in Florida for 23 years, before that Vancouver, Canada. I've been a bike commuter for over 40 years. Here in Jacksonville, people think I'm insane but actually bike commuting here is close to ideal. I use side roads to avoid traffic and equipment that is durable above all. The terrain here is flat, it's rarely cold, it's legal to ride on sidewalks (which are usually empty), and people are actually quite friendly. It's 13 miles each way for me and I have a shower at work. Like others have stated, you need high visibility out there. The two best things about bicycle commuting is fitness and immense cost savings. I've ridden the same bike for 30 years and have learned to maintain it myself. I've only been injured one time when a tree vine across a sidewalk clotheslined me (broken arm) in the dark. I still have very fond memories of riding along the Adanac corridor as a young man in Vancouver. I passed through every type of neighborhood on my way to Gastown.

[@flufflebut8781]

US definitely has more big highways, fewer connected side roads. I always plan the route on Google maps' Street View to ensure there is a wide enough shoulder or sidewalks. No way cars will slow down or tolerate being stuck behind a cyclist, so in-the-road cycling is super risky. And wear high vis. Flashy is good. Post-accident, motorists can't claim they didn't see you when you are a 6ft disco ball. Kids always have good giggle at my silly outfits too.

[@neverlostatsea6527]

An upright bike, I don't use one myself but feel they're safer because: * you're higher up with better visibility for both you and other road users * weight further back so less likely to go over the handlebars when slamming on brakes * I think you'd be better off in an accident since your head is higher up and the bike is more in front of you

[@threeam____]

A great way to promote cycling I love this !

[@НовыйАккаунт-ы1х]

1:52 My advice too! especially in winter

[@tarikberair9562]

Manon, on a saddle or with a mic, you are smashing it!!

[@IowaNinersFan]

No backpacks unless you enjoy sweaty backs. Panniers and racks are your friend. Plan your main and backup routes (due to weather, construction, etc.....) Have proper front and back lights and last but not least, know how to change a flat.

[@DB-sm2do]

For short commutes... e.g. 6k like mine. Casual cycling Shorts, wool t shirt and in winter or rain waterproof jacket, maybe trousers if really cold. Don't go hard enough to sweat. I'm lucky to change into scrubs at work, but otherwise have clothes at work. Rack and pannier. Good lights all the time. Breakfast at work after ride in. Otherwise you'll want second breakfast. When i did a longer commute (30k each way), real cycling kit esp wool tops, eat snack before you head home, perfetto jacket or similar in winter. Dry kit on radiator at work. Consume 2 breakfasts.

[@eagletheblue]

also glasses, cant keep count the amount of times a bug would’ve flown full speed into my eye at 30kph…. if I hadn’t a pair of glasses on.

[@jasonarthurs3885]

This is so universal, yet no one talks about it.

[@CyclingMartialartswithMusic]

In my opinion the best "genre" of cycling. Cycling commute. I love fixed gear and Enduro though.

[@CraigDude-xj2gk]

When first commuting with a longish ride, take your bike to work in the car, ride it home at end of day. The next morning ride it back to work, load it up in the car and drive it home. This worked for me with a 22 mi commute to help reduce fatigue.

[@fishingwiththomas]

Dyno lights were the best thing I did. Plus commuting with mates helps the motivation

[@johnnunn8688]

Do modern dyne lights still go out when you stop, or is there a back-up battery?

[@simonwilliams1696]

We will all have individual circumstances with our commutes so everyones will be slightly different, its about finding what works for you. It will take time to perfect yours through trial and error. Being organised the night before and a good routine will help things run more smoothly but most of all enjoy it.

[@derwent1972]

i Spicy up my rides on Fridays I get the old cross bike out and take a small detour then enjoy 6 miles of old Newcastle railway and waggon ways look forward to this Friday

[@ceimac832]

When I commuted by bike (I work from home now) having access to a shower at work was a game changer. I was lucky the office I was based at had a gym and I could use the showers there. The office eventually relocated and the new building had no shower facilities. I found a gym near the office and negotiated a deal with them to use the showers. It cost me £8 a month which was much less than the £40 full membership. That was £8 well spent.

[@19Vegi91]

I've been getting to work with my electric scooter for 6 months now. Ordered a cheap-ish entry level gravel bike about a month ago which is supposed to arrive any time soon. Can't wait to arrive at work all sweaty for the first few times.

[@awavey]

alot of it depends on what facilities you have at work for cycling, Ive got a locker where I can keep a change of office clothes and everything I need. which makes it far easier as Ive not got to take everything I need in on the bike each time, but it takes time to get into a routine, but just be aware you wont always have such a nice route as the Bath to Bristol cycle path to ride.

[@ivordavies1828]

Do not try drying your socks out in the works microwave. Someone will notice!

[@peterwillson1355]

You tried it!😂

[@gcn]

Hahahah this sounds like it's come from experience 👀

[@chrisridesbicycles]

@@gcnSounds like a Conor thing to me.

[@BarryJones-wt3et]

😂

[@ivordavies1828]

@@gcn It was one of those "seemed like a good idea at the time" moments. Unfortunately it wasn't 🤣

[@NexaYa]

Mirror in order not to look back for traffic so often and hit potholes with front wheel or guide bicycle to left/right unconsciously while looking back, it can be dangerous. 24000 km in 7 years mostly commuting. I am using left mirror Cateye BM-500G but that is personal preference (there are also helmet mirrors)

[@moctarfofana392]

Helmet with a removable visor, it is an absolute God-send if it's raining and you're riding into the wind. I use the Lazer Urbanize MIPS

[@izmael_kneafcy]

Have all your daily bits and bobs near to where you store your bike. Make sure you hang your kit up after each ride, if its not sweaty you wont need to wash it every day. Building up your kit throughout the year makes year round riding far easier, Overshoes, Base layer tights and a Winter Jacket. The weather is never as bad as you think. You'll quickly forget about that "what if it rains gremlin." Do wash your bike at least once a week on the weekend or something. Makes riding your bike so much more pleasurable. Look after your bike and She'll look after you. Enjoy! it's not a race take your time.

[@chrislehr07]

Thanks for getting at least one person who looked like they hauled a kid somewhere that morning - I was surprised how few I saw in this segment.. in our town, I'd see a few with kid or kids on them or a bakfiet or two!

[@Gamebreaker08]

I see Manon, I hit like! I don't even care what the video is about!

[@ecm86]

I commute about 9.2km to work and 9.2km back every day. I live in Taiwan, so my tips will be much different since it's more tropical here. To get some perspective, the average temp here in summer is a solid 34~38C actual with a feels like of 40~47 with humidity. (Today,, May 10th was 31C with a feels like of 35C). Winter is typically 8~17C, so it's much more pleasant than UK winter riding an requires different kit. I'll focus on spring and summer first since that's what's relevant now. If your climate sounds like mine, you need to consider the time and distance of your commute as well as time of day. I leave home around noon to go to work and the UV is at extreme levels, so for summer I have arm and leg covers + a cap that has a 360 degree veil that covers my neck, ears and wear my usual shorts and T-shirt. Depending on UV index, I sometimes just forgo the kit and go uncovered since my commute only takes me between 30~35 mins with traffic lights (26 mins without or all greens). Other than that kit, you should always hydrate more in the heat, so I carry a 700ml bottle of water and 450ml of (my essential daily drink) homebrewed coffee. In the heat that I described, I nearly finish all or most of the volume onboard. Since we often get afternoon thundershowers in summer here and the rain can be just torrential, I have a pannier bag which is waterproof and carry within, a cycling-specific rain poncho, a hand-pump, a spare inner tube and rain covers for shoes. I also have a rack on my bike with a rear basket attached via bungee cables as well as mud guards-- of course. Taiwan is an island and being such, weather can be a bit variable (as I referred to), so for my footwear I basically only wear Croc-like shoes all the time on the bike now. If it's a pissing rainy day, I just don't wear any socks. If it's sunny AF, I wear thin ankle socks to keep the foot fungus away. I swear by this for commuting in a hot climate since it gives your feet protection from the sun while being breathable and quick-drying in case of rain. You can always keep good shoes at your workplace if it matters, but since I teach ESL and my boss and kids don't care what I put on my feet, I always wear my "Crocs". I come from the east coast of Canada with normal winter temps being from 0~40C (averages around -10C in the midst of winter), so needless to say, winter here isn't that cold. Even still, sometimes it can get as low as 4 or 5C (seen it before after spending 14 years here). However, the usual is just slightly north of 10C which is very pleasant to cycle in. And in case you're wondering, I do NOT miss snow or any of that cold from winters of yesteryear--I have adapted now to the heat which took about a solid 5-6 years to stop sweating profusely and smelling. Winter here still comes with intermittent rain, so I have all that rain kit onboard all year-round. Only difference is that I wear a thin jacket over my T-shirt and wear thinner pants that are flexible and fit so that they don't get chain grease on them. Hope this helps someone.

[@dazakendrick]

40 years and still love it 😊

[@dayleguy3485]

Nice one GCN - this is great to see. With hybrid working commute to the home office or lunchtime commute (Lu’mute) 😀

[@zukzworld]

Great job GCN! Loved the tips. ❤

[@andyglawe7804]

Always have a back up plan if it does go completely wrong. Sometimes when it's pouring down and you puncture on a dark winters night and you can't fix your bike, call a friend , family etc to get you out of a predicament.

[@jackhorsley3912]

My tip no one mentioned is have fun!! Also two pairs of socks in winter

[@tjohnson200]

I use a wahoo bolt V2, Garmin Varia taillight radar, and Trieye glasses combo to stay safe commuting on a 70MPH, two lane, highway. I also keep a change of clothes in my file cabinet in my office just in case.

[@arkadyevna]

I agree about the weather not being nearly as bad as non (or potential!)-cycling commuters think. The number of days it'll actually be raining at the time of your journey is far lower than the number of days when it rains, which is what most people tend to think about.

[@peterward4005]

If you have to ride through temp roadworks, soon as you can dip inside the cones and then wait at the light at the other end till the last car has passed you before setting off. If you have lots of time to do it, you wont sweat as much and its more enjoyable, dont commit to every day or every week.

[@AmieWea]

Watching Global Cycling Network made my life easier on the bike.

[@colinlittlewood9613]

Two more I'd add - keeping a log of your commuting miles is a great form of extra motivation, and throw in a gravel sector if you can!

[@erlendsteren9466]

I have been working sleeping night shifts, 17 km from home, some nice saturday mornings I went quite far to a very pleasant forest cafe (Kikutstua) and enjoyed a waffel and coffe on a bench in the sun.

[@stuartfreedman6854]

Make eye contact with car drivers as much as possible. That way you know that they know you're there.

[@diegoruiz3216]

Yes!

[@mac23806]

As someone whose been hit, I can attest to this significantly

[@hmar9599]

Great advice. Something I do regularly. Also, keep an eye on drivers' sideview mirrors on parked cars. If you see a face, you are at risk of being doored.

[@stuartfreedman6854]

@@hmar9599 Good point about the mirrors! And while we're on the topic, when a moving car is next to you watch the front wheel, not the body. The front wheel telegraphs where the car is going to go sooner...

[@carlwilliams9624]

I cycle all year all weather.... pitch dark during winter, commute.... Yeh like other have said having all the gear makes a huge difference ....i have paniers and in one bag is light waterproofs / spare socks ... i have good hi-vis jackets/ night time reflector jackets / headtorch plus all good quality lights... People i work with still think im nuts commuting in by bike even tho im mostly home by time they have even left the staff car park with all the traffic.

[@aerowilly65]

If you’re commuting into a big city learn how to fix a puncture/change a tube at the roadside and don’t ride the fastest tyres available or you’re going to be puncturing more often than most. My commuter bike tyres have 1 million cuts, whereas my training bike for use at the weekends on rural roads hardly has any cuts by comparison.And make sure your pump actually works by checking it regularly.Been caught out on that one.