Tips for Riding to work

1. Plan your route: Before heading off it is a good idea to plan your route by finding roads that have less traffic, have bike lanes or sealed shoulders, or off road paths to get to your destination. Sometimes an alternative route is a bit longer but will be more enjoyable and safer. TravelSmart maps are the perfect tool to help you plan a safe and pleasant cycling route.
2. Talk to other staff at your workplace who cycle to work and ask them for tips on great routes to get to your workplace.
3. Start cycling one or two days a week when the weather is good and then ride more regularly once your confidence and fitness improves and you become more familiar with your route.
4. Try to ride the route beforehand to check out the journey and get an estimate of the time it will take you to ride.
5. Riding in traffic requires you to be alert at all times. Don't use headphones or mobile phones whilst riding
6. Be confident when cycling on the road and ride out from the kerb to avoid debris in the gutter and to be more visable for motorists.
7. Watch for people in parked cars who might open a door in your path of travel.
8. Cycle at your own pace, cycling to work should be enjoyable.
9. Riding two abreast no more than 1.5 metres apart is legal and can improve your safety and visability.

For more information about staying safe on the roads, see our section on Safety.