Getting Started in Bike Commuting

Bike commuting is a very rewarding experience with many great benefits. It also comes with its challenges which can be pretty easily overcome with some knowledge & planning. If you have been thinking of commuting by bike, here are some of my tips that I’ve found helpful over my commuting journey.

Use whatever bike you want

A great thing about commuting is you don’t have to have a specific bike for it, you can use just about anything. Have a mountain bike? You can use that. Have a fixie or road bike? You can use that too. Generally speaking, most people will be commuting on roads where a road/touring bike would fit the bill. For others with commutes over rough roads or mixed gravel and tarmac, using a cross/mountain bike may be more suited for you. I personally like using a touring bike for commuting. These bikes are pretty bulletproof, can haul a ton of stuff, and can usually run wide tires. 

Find the path of least resistance

To me finding a bike route is much like following the flow of electricity, I try and find the path of least resistance. There are quite a few things I take into account when I create a new bike route. First I look at elevation. What is the elevation change between me and where I’m trying to go? Is it more than I would prefer to do? Can I avoid hills without too much trouble? Next, I look at the route itself. I like to find roads that have a decent shoulder, lower speed limits, and low traffic volume. For example, my city has what some people call a bike thoroughfare. It’s basically a low traffic road usually paralleling a higher traffic one through town. I also try and pay attention to how many left turns I need to make. Why do you ask? Well, when turning left you have to merge from the roadside into the main flow of traffic which can be difficult on some single and especially double lane roads.

Bring tools  

The last thing you want to happen on a ride is experience a flat or mechanical and be stuck. Out of all the problems that occur while riding, knowing how to change a flat is probably one of the most valuable. I always carry a patch kit and or extra tube, tire levers, and a pump. My other essentials are Allen keys for minor adjustments or tighten bolts. A leatherman with pliers, in case I need to cut or re-secure something. If space/weight allows I also bring a small crescent wrench for bolt heads or nuts. Your kit might become bigger or smaller, depending on how many miles you travel, but I’d say for a bare minimum you should always carry a multitool, patch kit, tire levers & pump.

Have lights with you 

Lights can sometimes be overlooked, especially in the summer months, but having a good pair of lights is a must for any commuter. Lights can vary greatly in quality, lifecycle, and brightness, so finding the right type for you can be a bit of a challenge. I prefer lights that have a decent amount of modes for day and night riding with good brightness and light spread. I like using lights during the day, although it’s not required, I like the security of knowing I’m as visible as possible. 

Carry a Quality lock 

I always carry a decent lock with me wherever I go. That way I know I can always protect my investment if I need to lock it up. There are many different types of bike locks, with different levels of security. For the most part, I like using a bike lock chain. I like chains for their flexibly of attaching them to just about anything. I also suggest learning different bike locking techniques. There are lots of tutorials out there for your specific type of lock. You don’t want to be apart of the #bikelockfail community or worse have a stolen bike. 

Wear a helmet & eye protection 

Protecting your head is one of the best investments you can make. No one likes or plans on crashing but having your head protected is a no-brainer.[no pun intended] Another thing I always try and have with me are some type of glasses either dark or clear. This protects your eyes from bugs or other airborne particles that could get into your eyes while riding. I can’t tell you how many times stuff has hit my glasses while riding. 

So there you have it, a few of my tips to making your commute a safe & successful one.