Want to Cycle to Work!? Help-Complete Cycling Beginner!

[Suze_]

I've just landed a new job and noticed the scenery is stunning on-route. It's a bit fiddly to get to via public transport (don't drive) so thought of cycling? Thing is I worked it out as 9.1 miles to get there (therefore 18 miles roughly total a day). It's not uphill or anything and is mostly main roads, paved. Since I have no clue as to how long a mile is roughly on a bike, is this pushing myself a bit much. Does anyone know roughly how many miles an hour a cyclist, beginner or average individual roughly gets through. Though I haven't cycled since I was about 12 I am quite serious about the cycling thing, since I do no excercise at all, and considering the change in weather it seems ideal way to fit it into my schedule. Also does anyone know any uk laws about cycling? Do I have to wear helmet as a must at all times, also whats the deal in cycling on pedestrian pavements...etc. I mean most of the pavements are hardly used on my route, since main roads (and no real town areas, can I use them??? Is it against the law. Also what type of bike should I consider getting,hybrid...etc. I like the town/shopper type style since I would like to use it for down the road where I live as well, but is this not appropriate for the length of journey I want to do? Also what kind of things should I get to accessorize the bike thats an absolutely MUST.??? Urrgh,PLEASE Help so many questions! I am a complete NEWBIE!

[Mr k]

If you have not been on your bike in along time and as you say you do no exercise i doubt you would even get to work on your first day. I reckon it would take you at least 11/2 or more to get to work.

[Rosie1974]

9 miles is a long way - I'd do a trial run first on a day you don't have to work. Have you considered that you will probably need a change of clothes and possibly a shower when you get to work after having cycled all that way.
It is illegal to cycle on pavements. Don't think it is law to wear a helmet but very sensible as your brains could be smashed up if you are hit by a car or fall off.

[Suze_]

Hi

Thanks for both getting back to me. The place I will work at has showers, and have thought about clothing for work.

I intended, maybe try the route on a Sunday and ease myself into it, i.e. try it in non-work hours a few times, then maybe once a week for a while than maybe a 2-3 times a week.

Really my questions, was basically is it too impossible-to the point, even after months of doing it I still would practically collapse on arrival, lol!

[sarahreiki]

It is not law to wear a helmet butit is highly recommended. Dont ride on pavements as that is against the law.
Most important pieces of kit, a pump, a very decent lock, waterproof jacket and lights. Also perhaps some padded cycling shorts (dont wear underwaer with them as well as that defeats the object of having a soft pad with no seams rubbing on your tender areas. get them from a good bike shop)
Most people can cycle at 9 miles an hour on the flat if you are relatively fit. No more than 1.5 hours. I think its a great idea to cycle 1-3 times a week to get a rest too. Also could you cycle to work one day, leave your baike safely overnight and then cycle home again after the next day at work?
I would get a comuting bike (get advice from the staff in a good bike shop).
My hubbie is doing a 24 hour bicycle race off road this weekend at Catton Park, called Sleepless in the saddle for charity. We know about bikes!!!
Enjoy getting fit in them outdoors, my hubbie and I (used to) both commute on bikes. Its great. Also good idea to cycle defensely, i.e. assume cars have not seen you and take evasive action.