If you’re interested in riding to work but don’t know where to start, we’ve got some tips for you so you’re ready to roll towards National Ride2Work Day on Wednesday 14 October.
Getting equipped
You don’t need special cycling gear or bike to ride to work but there are some things that could be helpful.
Bikes where you sit more upright are easier to ride in traffic as they give you better sightlines of what’s going on, but any bike you are comfortable on is the right bike to ride.
Mudguards and a pack rack allow you to keep cleaner and dryer and carry work clothes and equipment. A backpack is fine for small loads but if you want to take your laptop home or pick up dinner ingredients then panniers allow you to carry up to 20–25 kg without a trip to the chiropractor.
Front and back lights are critical for any time of the day where visibility is poor, a good quality D-lock keeps your bike safe and a waterproof jacket helps you keep riding through rain.
Choosing a route
If you can, riding to and from work earlier or later than peak hour traffic makes a big difference to your comfort on roads.
Many of us are used to taking the most direct roads to get to our destination but they are not always the best riding routes. Are there quieter streets you can ride instead of the arterial traffic routes?
Tasmanian road rules allow us to ride on footpaths unless council signs forbid it. This is a big help in navigating one-way streets or when you get to a road that has heavy or fast-moving traffic, but remember to always give way to people walking.
Are there off-road paths or trails you might not know about that can help build a commuting route? Some councils publish their path networks or you can check sites like All Trails.
Ride the route you choose on a weekend to get a sense of it, but be prepared that conditions may differ on weekdays.
Brush up on your riding skills
Our Back on your Bike program can help you brush up on riding skills that can be useful for commuting. If you can get a group of people together at work who are interested in a session, even better! https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/back-on-your-bike
Ride2Work Day
This year Ride2Work Day is being celebrated on Wednesday 14 October (Tasmanian school holidays are out of step with the rest of the country this year) and the breakfasts in Hobart and Launceston are already shaping up.
Hobart will have multiple bike shop stalls, free bike checks, pastries and coffee, and prizes! While Launceston is moving to the university’s new shed for its pastries and coffees, providing more space and bike parking.
Get more info at https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/rides-and-events/ride2work
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