ESSENTIAL CYCLE COMMUTING TIPS
1. What bike to use
If you have a choice in what bike to use, there are some things to look for. Bikes that come with or have space for mudguards (to avoid getting a wet behind when walking into the office!) and a comfortable geometry and saddle, are perfect for riding into work.
Cyclescheme is a fantastic option for accessing a bike and saving money. Plus, when you buy a new bike through Cyclescheme, you’ll have the option to activate 14 days FREE insurance with Bikmo so you can ride worry-free.
Own an e-bike? Benefit from a 25%* saving on e-bikes policies compared to regular bikes. Plus, all Cycleschemers save 10%* on our hassle-free policies.
2. Appropriate clothing
With 15% of accidents occurring in dark and low light conditions, it’s important that you invest in lights for your bike and some reflective clothing. Hi-vis jackets and gilets are good options, or you can get strips that can be worn around your ankles or arms.
3. Helmet and cameras
Although it’s not a legal requirement that you wear a helmet, it can save your life if you’re involved in an incident. Helmet cameras can also be fitted, and provide you with vital evidence in your defence if you ever needed it.
4. Know your route
Traffic is far heavier and more congested in rush hour. Get to know your commute time, give yourself more time than you need, and if possible, practise your route prior to the day you ride to work for the first time.
5. Invest in a Sold Secure rated lock
Theft accounted for 57% of our claims in the UK in 2022. A whopping 77% of those claims were while away from home. Therefore, investing in a decent lock is crucial. Most insurers, including us, insist on you using “Sold Secure” accredited locks, as they are the premier testing and certification house for security products.
Some of the Bikmo staff have one lock in the office, and one at home, so they don’t have to carry the weight of one! Lightweight but dependable locks are also an option.
Check out our blog on the best D locks here.
6. Where you are parking
We always recommend locking your bike to an immovable object when not in use. Check out our handy locking requirements video below.
7. Signal like you mean it
Signalling is imperative to commuting safely. Always remember to check over your shoulder early before changing position.
8. Consider cycle-specific insurance
Accidental damage and theft can happen to anyone, and if you can’t ride your bike purchased through Cyclescheme, your monthly repayments will continue.
It’s also worth checking your home insurance policy, as often there’s a low maximum bike value in the small print, and sometimes your bike won’t be covered away from home.
That’s why we designed our hassle-free cycle insurance with commuters in mind, to have your back if you need it.
Cycleschemers benefit from:
– An exclusive 10%* saving on full insurance policies
– A 25%* saving on e-bikes compared to regular bikes (automatically applied at checkout when ticking “e-bike”)
– 5%* off for friends and family
Plus, when you buy a new bike through Cyclescheme, you’ll have the option to activate 14 days of free insurance with Bikmo so you can ride worry-free.
Let us help you find the best plan for your journey.
*Minimum premium £3.73/mo and policy wording applies. Terms and conditions apply. This promotion is provided by Bikmo Limited, 1 Minerva Court, Minerva Avenue, Chester, CH1 4QT who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority ref: 745230.
