The health benefits of cycling are well documented and I think we can all agree that bike commuting is great for the environment. Add to this how cost effective it is, especially when you take into account the 52% tax saving on the bike purchase price (when purchased through the bike to work scheme see www.biketowork.ie for more information) and the cost savings on petrol / diesel which really adds up. But despite all this ‘Upside’ there is still a lot of resistance to bike commuting, and there are all sorts of reasons and excuses used. ‘It’s too far’, ‘I don’t want to get sweaty’, ‘I’m not fit enough’ or ‘It rains too often’. We’ve heard them all.
As bike commuters ourselves (some recently converted) we know that these excuses are misconceptions about bike commuting and disappear once you try it and take some simple steps to prepare for taking your two-wheeler to work.
So let’s bust some of these negative perceptions (myths) with regards to bike commuting
It’s not Safe!
Cycling does involves some risk, but then so does driving, and walking, and pretty much every activity. You are far more likely to feel the health benefits of cycling than you are to sustain an injury. More than 30 times more likely. With bike commuting on the rise safety and infrastructure will also improve. Bike to Work has seen a 37% increase in the demand for bikes under the bike to work scheme in 2020 alone. Of course there’s a lot you can do to make your cycling commute safer, following the rules of the road, riding confidently, wearing a helmet, putting lights on your bike and use them even if it’s not dark, wear hi-vis clothing and don’t forget there is safety in numbers so buddy up for your commute.
You need a special bike.
Nope! Any road worthy bike will do, whether it’s a borrowed second hand bike or a €10K superbike.. Any bike can be a commuter bike if you commute on it. And when you’re ready for an upgrade don’t forget to check out the www.biketowork.ie scheme to avail of tax savings up to 52% on the purchase price of your new city bike with all the accessories or a new e-bike for pedal assist commuting.
You have to wear Lycra!
Lycra is optional—when it comes to commuting, you probably already have all the clothes you’ll need. Dressing in normal clothes for short journeys is totally fine. Longer commutes though, may require specialist clothing to help you feel more comfortable. Clothing designers now make clothes from waterproof and quick drying materials, but in styles that wouldn't be out of place in the office.
It’s Always Raining!
Not so! In Dublin, it rains on average 181 days out of 365. Eliminating weekends and looking only at commuting times; Dublin cyclists get wet approx. 35 times a year. So invest in wet gear but only expect to use it 2 or 3 times a month.
You need to be Fit!
Cycling does make you fitter, but you don't have to start off fit. The idea that cycling is tough comes from bad bike set-up (saddle too low, tyres too soft etc.) & from trying to pedal in too high a gear. Good bikes, properly set up, are a breeze, just make sure you leave plenty of time for your journey so that you can take it at a steady pace. You can also try an e-bike for assisted pedalling.
Cycling makes you Sweaty
Not necessarily! If you dress too warmly and/or ride too hard, then yes, cycling will make you sweat. Give yourself plenty of time and carry your luggage on the bike instead of your back & you'll arrive sweat-free. You might be lucky enough to have shower facilities in your office or a gym nearby that will let you use their facilities for a small fee. If not don’t push so hard on your journey, leave a change of clothes in the office and use baby wipes if necessary!
So there you have it, the most common myths or excuses debunked. Now is a great time to get out and start riding your bike to work and enjoy the benefits of improved health, less stress, saving money and the earth in one easy step. Don’t let these common misconceptions keep you from commuting by bike to work.
