Cycling to work

If you are one of the 4 million people who commute less than 3 miles by car, cycling to work could save you money, get you fit and help the environment.

As an incentive, you may be able to get a one-year, interest-free loan to buy a tax-free bicycle through a government scheme called Cycle to Work. The scheme would need to be set up by your employer, so ask them for more details.

If you take part in the scheme, you will need to insure the bicycle yourself. Get an instant quote for cycle insurance cover.

Why cycle?

Wherever you go by bike, you are unlikely to have difficulty finding a parking space – and you won’t be charged money for the pleasure.

At a leisurely pace, a distance of 3 miles takes only twenty minutes. It’s an aerobic exercise that is kind to your joints. Research has found that regular cyclists have a level of fitness equivalent to someone 10 years younger. And unlike a gym membership, if you don’t use your bicycle you will not be charged.

Cycling helps the environment because it is responsible for very little pollution, noise or danger. When you leave your car at home in favour of a bicycle you are improving your local environment.

How can I learn to cycle?

Cycling is well-known as the skill that once learned, you never forget. Having said that, if it has been years since you last took to the roads, acclimatise yourself by starting on quieter roads. Take a ride with a cycling friend or work colleague or book a refresher lesson with a cycling instructor. If you are a complete novice, the instructor route is best – some local authorities offer this for free. Oh, and don’t be embarrassed if you have reached adulthood without turning a pedal – you are not alone.

Is cycling safe?

If you are not used to it, cycling on busy roads can feel like a risky affair, but in common with just about every other worthwhile activity, it’s a skill you have to learn. Many people limit their cycling to leisurely jaunts in their local park, and there is nothing wrong with that, but the ability to ride on busier roads will allow you to use your bike for almost any type of journey you choose.

How much should I spend on a bicycle?

Brand new bicycles range in price from £80 to £5,000 and above. A bicycle costing £100 will work just fine if you intend to do a little gentle cycling each weekend, but if you are commuting everyday or plan to increase your mileage, it is advisable to spend at least £300. Bikes over £300 are likely to be lighter and better equipped.

Can my employer help with cycle commuting?

There are many reasons why you might want to talk to your employer about encouraging cycling to work. They will need to be involved if you want to buy a bicycle through the Cycle to Work Scheme. Cyclists at larger companies may want to set up a Bicycle User Group (BUG) within their workplace to make the case for improved facilities like secure cycle parking or showers.

No shower at work – how do cyclists manage?

The following tips are from cyclists who regularly cycle to a workplace without shower facilities.

Baby wipes Many cyclists shower before they set off and when they arrive at work, wipe themselves down with disposable baby wipes.
Ride slower Cyclists in continental Europe tend to ride their bikes slower when they commute to work – it doesn’t add much to the journey time and you will sweat less.
Keep a supply of shirts at work This doesn’t solve the problem of getting clean, but bringing five clean and ironed shirts to work on a Monday avoids the crumpled look

Cycle insurance for commuters

There are a number of ways in which a cycle insurance policy can help make commuting by bicycle a little easier. The ETA includes a 24/7 breakdown recovery service called Cycle Rescue.

Cycle insurance from the ETA includes the following

Does your policy match up?

  • New-for-old – free race cover | No matter the age or condition of your bicycle
  • Cover for accidental damage – free race cover | Much like fully-comp car insurance cover
  • Free Cycle Rescue breakdown cover for bike and rider
  • Third-party cover up to £2million | Included with this cycle insurance as standard and covers you on any bike you ride
  • Personal accident cover |Pays out up to £20,000 in the case of death or serious injury
  • Cycle hire | In the event of a claim, keeps you on the road
  • 90 days’ worldwide cover | Covers your bike against theft and damage while on holiday
  • ‘Get you home’ cover |Reimbursement for a taxi home should your bike be stolen or damaged
  • No-claims discount | Up to 40 per cent
  • Discount for folding bikes .
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