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A lot of people have no choice but to go to their workplace at the moment. I thought I would share some positive thoughts for those thinking about taking up cycling who are a bit apprehensive about it.
1) As a lifelong cyclist, I think things are far safer than they used to be in a lot of cities (I regularly take a fold-up bike around the UK with me). It also helps me stay sane and explore the world.
1b) But you need a bit of thinking time to make sure your commuting route is sensible. Lots of really good guidance out there. Look up your local and hopefully growing cycle networks - hassle the council is they are rubbish.
2) Be confident - it works. Drivers needs to understand your intentions. That means taking a road position that will indicate to a car/van/bus etc what you are doing - and why they may they need to wait a few moments on narrow sections.
3) Communicate. Signal. Eye contact with other road users really really helps. Indicate thanks with a big thumbs up to those drivers who give you time or space - they& #39;ll then do it even more and other drivers may take note.
4) Call out idiots on two wheels who break the law and are a hazard to others. Don& #39;t crash through pedestrian crossings. In that context, the pedestrian is vulnerable and you could kill them. There are morons in cars and on bikes. Don& #39;t be one of them.
5) If you have a problem with a driver - come along side them at a safe location ie long red light, smile and wave and explain politely why you felt vulnerable. Don& #39;t get finger jabby and angry. Won& #39;t work. It& #39;s a commute, not urban warfare.
6) Have a plan for a change of clothes if you& #39;re going more than a few miles. Take water. Take a banana !
7) Buddy up. Find a mate who wants to do the same journey - the time will fly by and you& #39;ll both have a smile on your face at the end of the day.
8) Please don& #39;t wear headphones. It& #39;s your funeral, not mine. Someone swung right to turn without looking in front of me last year. He did not hear my bell or shout. I missed him - he went flying as he did an emergency skid he couldn& #39;t control.
9) Bikes are like cars. They need maintaining. Chains wear out, tyres degrade, gears slacken & bearings grind in the British weather. Look after your bike and it will look after you. Basic bike maintenance is easy and rewarding.
10) Finally become a friend of your independent LBS - Local Bike Shop. They will look after you.
Forgot one. Get a secret credit card so your inevitable addiction to cycling and all the stuff that comes with it can be hidden from your long suffering family.
