How hard is it to ride a bike to work?

[alexwilson101]

People often ask me whether it would be hard or not.

Eg; you would need to shower, have a spare change of clothes, store your bike somewhere, store your riding clothes somewhere.

Anyone had any experience?

Is it easy? Hard? Do you save much money?

[gareth]

At my previous job I used to ride quite regularly and found it to be great. There are some considerations though you have to take into account:

1. You definitely need a shower in the office somewhere - no one likes BO in the workplace!

2. You need somewhere to store the bike. I used to bring mine up into the office and shove it in the stationary cupboard! If you have to leave it in a carpark make sure you have a good chain-lock for it.

3. Clothing is an issue - I used to leave my work shoes in the office during the week to save a bit of weight for the ride. Also a tip is to leave your riding clothes with your bike - keeps the stink out away from your desk!

4. You will obviously save on petrol, parking or public transport costs - I estimated by riding even only once or twice a week I was saving $5 a week. It's not much, but the more you do it the more save.

5. Take your safety very seriously - it is worth investing in a red LED light for the back of your bike, a white one for the front and a hi-vis vest or sash, especially now it is getting dark at close of business. It's a cost upfront but could save your life, and with the money you save on transport they eventually pay for themselves.

6. There are other benefits - to your fitness, and in particular I found to your alertness and productivity. I found I could work harder and concentrate for longer, meaning I was doing a better job which was very satisfying.

[lisablay]

I think clothing is the hardest part! I used to only ride 3 days a week and the other two days I would take the bus so I could get my clothes back and forth in a small suitcase! I don't know how people can ride everyday??

Shower is the biggest one. My new office doesn't have any facilities so I can't ride anymore. There is a gym across the street but I don't really want to buy a membership just to use the showers! Maybe I can cut a deal with them?

And of course its much harder if your office is at the top of a hill Always something to remember!

[ClaireBear]

I go to the gym in the mornings around where I work. I bring with me a bunch of clothes, but as you said Lisa - it is VERY hard to coordinate and do so without bringing a million things.

Riding to work is a dream of mine, but I have three worries:

1. I get hit by a car (seriously!)
2. Where do I keep my bike?
3. How on earth do I get ready in a 1metrex1metre shower area!