FIRST TIME RIDERS

Are you considering commuting to work by bike and/or taking part in your first Bike to Work Day? The first commute can seem a bit daunting but we’ve got your back with some tips to make your bike commuting journey a bit less stressful and more enjoyable.

1. Make Sure Your Bike is Ready to Ride

Give your bike a review giving it the ABC Quick Check. This will ensure that your bike is ready to ride and you can roll along confidently that you will arrive without issue. If you find something that needs attention you can drop in at one of the many local community bike shops and get some repairs. Alternatively you may be able to make some adjustments yourself with help from Dr. Google.

2. Remove the Worry of Getting a Flat Tire

Lots of people worry decide to not ride in fear of having to change a flat tire. Fixing a flat tire is not all that difficult as long as you understand some basics and have the needed tools/supplies. At a minimum you should consider carrying a mini pump, adjustable wrench, tire levers, repair
kit or better yet a spare tube. Beyond that carrying a set of allan keys or a small tool kit is always a good thing to have.

3. Plan

Before you hit the busy streets, take some time to both practice that you feel comfortable on your bike and plan your route in advance. The City of Winnipeg has bicycle map that can help you to plan your route. If you have not been riding for some time you may not realize just how many
other options that we now have in our city. You may as well want to have a look at our recommended bike routes. Still not convinced? Why not reach out to a co-worker/friend that you know rides regularly and buddy up. Don’t have a friend that rides, sign up with Go Manitoba and see if you can find a buddy.

4. Practice

You have planned your route, now it’s time to practice riding it. A great way to prepare for that first ride is to get out on a Sunday when traffic volumes are down and there are no time restrictions and take a quiet ride along your planned route. Not only can you familiarize yourself with your route but also get a sense of how long the ride might take you. You can also confirm that your map planning is accurate and if you need to adjust you can be prepared.

5. Brush Up on Rules and Best Practices

Not sure of some of the rules or best practices for riding your bike? We have your back again. Check out our bike riding tips.

6. Time Management

You test ride your route and have a sense of how long it will take you, but you should also ensure you’ve got enough time to handle a flat tire or give yourself time to get ready at work. Part of that time management is also making sure that you are prepared in advance for what might be the weather conditions that day. Check the weather forecast and have your gear all laid out and ready to go. And don’t forget about the ride home as well. If that first ride in Bike to Work Day you are going to want to leave early and check out the many pit-stops along your route or maybe take part in our annual ride and go seek to be entered for a prize.

7. Keep your bike safe

We all worry that our bike might be stolen. Here are some tips on making sure that your ride is safe.

8. Have Fun!

Remember, riding your bike isn’t just about all the preparation above, it’s enjoying the ride. Think back to those time when you were a kid. Riding your bike not only gave you freedom to explore, it was also fun. Embrace the fun! Enjoy being outside and not stuck inside your car. If it is Bike to Work Day, you also get to enjoy all the fun activities, pit-stops and engaging with others also enjoying the day on their bike.