5 tips for riding your bike to work

woman walking her bike in end-of-trip work facility

RACV

Posted September 18, 2023


Considering riding a bike to work? This guide to cycling to work will help you commute on two wheels with more confidence. 

While some workers opt for public transport or driving, many Victorians also choose to commute to work on two wheels.

Modern technology makes riding to work easier and more accessible than ever before. For example, bike-friendly route mapping can help you to keep your eyes on the road and arrive at work safely and quickly.

Need some extra motivation to get back on your bike on the way to work? Biketober is a fun, free biking challenge presented by Love to Ride and RACV. The Biketober program is free for workplaces in the City of Melbourne and available at a 50 per cent discount for businesses located in other local government areas.


Tips for riding your bike to work

 

Choose the right bike for commuting

The key to enjoying your commute to work on two wheels and getting there safely is choosing the right bike for you and your circumstances. While the mountain, gravel or BMX bike you purchased over lockdown might be good for weekend adventures, they might not be the best options for regular commuting to the office.

From slim aluminium frames with sleek tyres, to more sturdy hybrid bikes combining both on road and off-road characteristics, there are many options for commuter bikes. This handy guide can help you choose the best one for your needs.

An e-bike might be a viable option for you too, providing an electric motor as a helping hand for long trips or hills, or when you need to carry a heavy bag loaded with work equipment.

 

woman wearing helmet walking her bike in the CBD

Make sure to always wear a well-fitting helmet when riding. Image: Mike Bird


Invest in safety equipment 
 
Wearing a helmet is mandatory in Victoria and can be the difference between sustaining a serious injury or walking away unscathed. Invest in a helmet that’s certified and fits you correctly. Gloves are a handy investment for colder days and can make gripping handlebars more comfortable over longer journeys. At night, make sure to choose quality bike lights to keep you visible.

 

woman riding her bike in a CBD bike lane

Knowing your biking route can help keep you safe and confident on the road. Image: Mike Bird


Get to know your biking route

Whether you live in the inner, middle or outer suburbs, there may be multiple bike routes available to ride to work. Familiarise yourself with different routes prior to heading off on your journey.

If you want some extra help, turn-by-turn bike navigation can help you select the best bike-friendly route for your commute, whether it's the fastest route or the quietest.

 

woman storing her bike in a cycling facility

Find a safe and secure parking location for your bike after your ride to work. Image: Mike Bird


Find a safe and secure parking location

Bike theft across metropolitan Melbourne has become more common. The number of reported bikes stolen in Victoria has increased by 81.2 per cent in the last decade, underlining the importance of always parking your bike in a safe and secure location. 

To minimise your chance of becoming a victim of bike theft, take advantage of indoor workplace bike parking or lockable storage cages at train stations.

 

Learn how to properly lock your bike to deter theft | RACV

Use a quality lock to secure your bike

A good quality lock should always be used to secure a bike when parking it in a public location in order to prevent bike theft.

Use a U-lock (also called a D-lock), which are solid, curved metal locks that provide more security than a chain lock. Always lock the bike frame to a sturdy pole, post or bike stand. The right U-lock for you can depend on how secure your bike parking spot is. Consider that U-locks that provide the most security are likely to weigh more.


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