The top 10 most frequently asked questions about riding to work

10 most frequently asked questions about riding to work

• Will I feel good?• Will it take long?• Do I need any special equipment?• What should I wear?• How do I carry my stuff?• How do I plan my trip?• What if I live a long way from work?• What if it rains?• What about riding in traffic?• What if I get a puncture?

Will I feel good?

Time-efficient way to fit regular exercise into a busy lifestyle

Long-term health benefits: 15-year Danish study shows that cycling for an average of 3 hrs p/wk decreases mortality by 39%

Reduces likelihood of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer

Gets endorphins flowing – great way to beat stress!

Will it take long?

Peak-hour city trips up to 15km are often faster by bike

No need to spend time at the gym

If you live in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane you may live in a No Excuse Zone where you can ride into the CBD within 30 minutes -www.noexcusezone.com.au/

Do I need any special equipment?

Helmet (check fit)

Good lock

Front and rear lights if riding in the dark

Check brakes, tyres and chain

Check bike set up for your body size

Ask local bike shop for advice

What should I wear?

Unrestrictive, light, warm and quick-drying clothes

Bright vest if clothes are not highly visible

If you change at work, carry clothes with you or bring them in once a week

Get advice from regular riders in your workplace

How do I carry my stuff?

Backpack, courier-style bag or basket

Panniers for larger loads

Bike trailers for large/heavy work materials

How do I plan my trip?

Speak to regular riders in your workplace

Ask your local cycling organisation or local council for maps

Ride with a regular rider who lives nearby

Do a trial ride one Sunday

Use public transport part way

Ride to work one day and back the next

Ride once or twice a week and treat it as a “training ride”

What if I live a long way from work?

What if it rains?

Wear a rain jacket

Take a change of clothes for your legs or wear over pants

Slow down – just like in a car in the rain

Avoid metal surfaces like tram tracks and drains

Take a break from riding if you prefer!

What about riding in traffic?

Find a riding route that is comfortable for you

Road rules are the same for all vehicles with only a few exceptions -check local road rule exceptions with your state/territory cycling organisation

Ride predictably (straight line and steady pace) and leave room to manoeuvre

Eye contact and signals will help other road users

Watch for opening car doors - ride out from door zone if possible or slow down

What if I get a puncture?Minimise chances with tyres in good condition and inflated to

recommended pressure

Ask your bike shop about tyres and tyre linings that offer extra protection

Carry tool kit and spare tube so you can either repair or replace the tube

Attend a basic bike maintenance workshop or ask a friend to show you how!

Alternative action plan: taxi? public transport? RACV Bike Assist (Vic. only)