A few people have been asking me where to start with #cycling from bikes to routes to training so a quick thread of advice https://twitter.com/allpartycycling/status/1259248632513073156

I’m a massive advocate of electric bikes. Game changers, especially if you live in a hilly area. I have this one that I got on the Cycle to Work scheme 3yrs ago. Basket on the back so can carry loads https://www.halfords.com/bikes/hybrid-bikes/pendleton-somerby-electric-hybrid-bike---white-and-navy---17in-19in-frames-750871.html?dwvar_750871_colour=White%20%26%20Navy

Bromptons are amazing but expensive. I can only lift the titanium one. But they’re wonderful and you can share them with others in your household as so easily adjustable. Proper investment though but 2nd hand ones good. Bags clip on the front easily

But if you’re after a standard, attractive bike I’d recommend @bobbinbicycles. Loads of great accessories like baskets and panniers. I’ve long-term loaned this one to my best friend but missing it. Again the Cycle to Work scheme makes them more affordable

Spend 10% of the value of your bike on locks (locks plural). I use two D-locks (like those pictured here) plus a cable lock. Locks are heavy but I carry them in baskets on the bikes. I cable lock my bag into my basket while I’m cycling too

All my bikes are registered with @bikeregister, which was done at @MetCycleCops events over the years. Means it’s easier to recover your bike if stolen (touch wood I’ve not had a bike stolen) & also acts as a bit more of a deterrent to thieves: easier to nick unregistered bikes

In the ‘normal world’, @TfL funds cycle training for Londoners. More info here: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/cycling/cycle-skills This is properly life-changing. I was trained by the wonderful @FixedFun 7yrs ago & it gave me so much more confidence to cycle longer distances & in all road conditions

Cyclists like getting others on board. Ask a cycling friend to help figure out your route to work. Ask them to go with you (post-lockdown) on a quiet Sunday morn. @jon_klaff patiently helped me navigate my eBike route (difficult thru @BarnetCouncil) from home to central London

If you’re not sure whether to take the plunge yet, hire a @SantanderCycles bike in a quiet area or Hyde Park with a friend and remind yourself how much fun being on a bike can be. I’d never cycled in central London before we launched bike hire 10yrs ago

Kids bikes: start them on balance bikes not with stabilisers. Best kids bikes bar none are @frogbikes. They’re expensive but hold their value. Got eldest’s 2nd hand on eBay & will pass down to her sisters. Otherwise @jointheBikeClub is a great concept

Cycle shops. I’ve never had a good experience as a woman in an Evans shop. This is just my personal experience though. Halfords have been much better but independent shops always the best for service and advice. Shout out to @lunarcycles_ who saved my bacon when my chain fell off