How I did it: I bought a really good bike through the cycle to work scheme http://www.cyclescheme.co.uk/ organised by my company,I saved myself a lot of money and was able to get the bike I really wanted :D

I didn't overdo it as it can become addictive!

Have days off so your legs can recover

Lessons & tips: Find safe routes to cycle, I'm lucky as the council recently built a really good cycle path near where I live

Chat to people who do it

Be realistic about your fitness level and how far your work is, I got fit quite quickly as the ride to work is all downhill on the way there but all uphill on the way back

Take different clothes in a rucksack with you as it gets colder, I work as an Office Manager so prancing around the office in my cycling gear is not an option

Last year I didn't cycle Jan or Feb as it was bloody freezing here (UK)
I don't mind the cold but Winter riding is fun if you wrap up warm, especially if the weather is clear and dry

Look after your bike (see services below)
Be careful going round corners too fast as you could end up kissing the pavement (I know...ouch)

Resources: I checked out a few websites for inspiration, though some of them are a bit hardcore, like cycling in the snow!!!!

I liked the shorts with padding, nice touch
I bought a really good lock, some cycling leggings
I don't have hardly any cycling "gear" I usually cycle in my dresses/skirts in Summer or my skinny jeans in colder weather
I haven't got one yet but I'd like a decent jacket

Find a decent bike shop who will service your bike reguarly, I had a blow out on one of my tyres (luckily it happened while I was in the shop)
I don't have time to do it and I'm happy to pay someone to service my bike

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Sep 09, 2009, 06:13AM PDT | 0 comments | 6 cheers