Beginner’s guide to riding a bike to work

Consider going electric 

There's a reason e-bikes are booming in popularity across the globe.

While going electric doesn't mean the bike will ride itself, it might make your commute slightly more enjoyable. E-bikes look, ride and brake the same as a regular push bike, only they have a motor that can give you a little oomph, particularly if you're traversing hillier terrain, riding into a headwind or, simply, your legs are running out of juice.

When it comes to commuting, they also offer myriad benefits - the extra pedal power will enable you to get to your destination quicker, and you'll arrive less sweaty because you won't have to work as hard on the journey.

As e-bikes put less strain on your joints, muscles, and cardiovascular system, they make a for a great option for anyone looking to get back into cycling. 

Get the right gear

Now that you’ve got the perfect bike, you’re going to want to make sure you’ve got the right accessories to make riding enjoyable, and also keep you safe while you're on two wheels.

A decent set of lights will ensure that you can see - and be seen - when you’re out and about, especially if you'll be riding at night.

Gloves are also a smart purchase to help you maintain a safe grip on your handlebars and keep your hands warm on wet or cool days. A drink bottle attachment so that you can easily maintain hydration is also a smart accessory and, if you're planning on keeping up the bike commute long after Biketober ends, consider bike racks or panniers to take the weight off your back.

Dress comfortably

If you're just starting out, it might be tempting to go full MAMIL (middle-aged man in Lycra) and splash out on all the latest cycling gear, but for the casual commuter, this isn't necessary.

If you want to invest in a couple of key pieces to make your ride more comfortable, a waterproof jacket or windbreaker is essential in all seasons, especially when riding in Melbourne. Otherwise, comfortable clothing and sensible shoes (see: sneakers) are all you need to get moving.

Get to know the road rules for cyclists

We like to think about safety by remembering the three H's – helmet, headphones and hand signals.

• Helmet: Wearing a helmet can be the difference between life and death, and in Victoria, it’s mandatory. Find one you like the look of so wearing it isn’t such a chore, and make sure it's been certified and fits correctly.
• Headphones: A toot of a horn, the skid of a tyre, the sound of a siren in the distance – all of these are important to hear when you’re cycling on the road. It’s a contentious point, but if you must listen to music, make sure it doesn’t completely mask the sounds of your surroundings.
• Hand signals: Cars use indicators, bike riders use their hands. Be sure to acquaint yourself with Victorian road rules for cyclists and all the common signals to avoid confusion and collision.

Carry a spare tube and patch kit

What’s a tube, you ask? Well, the inner tube is the inflatable rubber or latex doughnut that sits inside your tyre. It’s important to know this because if you end up with a flat tyre on the road, this is what you’ll need to replace.

A spare one can be easily stored in a backpack, along with a couple of other tools to help you replace it. This might include a multi-tool, a couple of small levers and a mini bike pump.

If you can’t remember everything you learned about fixing a punctured tyre from the helpful lady in the bike shop or the nice man from YouTube, RACV’s Bike Assist service can get you moving again. Our patrols will even provide you with a new tube at no additional cost.

Plan your ride 

If you want to get your cycle on and put pedal to the metal, preparation is key – especially when you’re just starting out. Use a journey planner app like arevo to find the best cycling route and, if you haven’t ridden in a while, maybe allow a little extra time, just in case.

It’s also a good idea to consider where the nearest bike-parking or storage facilities are (if your office or workplace doesn’t have them).

Get a sturdy bike lock

It might seem obvious but, if you're going to park your bike in a public or even shared private facility,  investing in a sturdy lock and chains will help keep your two-wheeled baby safe from theft.

There are many types of bike locks so, even if you're parking it in a safe place, learning how to lock your bike properly will ensure it's secured, and always double-check it before you leave.