5 tips for riding your bike to work

The key to enjoying your commute to work on two wheels and getting there safely is choosing the right bike for you and your circumstances. While the mountain, gravel or BMX bike you purchased over lockdown might be good for weekend adventures, they might not be the best options for regular commuting to the office.

From slim aluminium frames with sleek tyres, to more sturdy hybrid bikes combining both on road and off-road characteristics, there are many options for commuter bikes. This handy guide can help you choose the best one for your needs.

An e-bike might be a viable option for you too, providing an electric motor as a helping hand for long trips or hills, or when you need to carry a heavy bag loaded with work equipment.

Wearing a helmet is mandatory in Victoria and can be the difference between sustaining a serious injury or walking away unscathed. Invest in a helmet that’s certified and fits you correctly. Gloves are a handy investment for colder days and can make gripping handlebars more comfortable over longer journeys. At night, make sure to choose quality bike lights to keep you visible.

Whether you live in the inner, middle or outer suburbs, there may be multiple bike routes available to ride to work. Familiarise yourself with different routes prior to heading off on your journey.

If you want some extra help, turn-by-turn bike navigation can help you select the best bike-friendly route for your commute, whether it's the fastest route or the quietest.

Bike theft across metropolitan Melbourne has become more common. The number of reported bikes stolen in Victoria has increased by 81.2 per cent in the last decade, underlining the importance of always parking your bike in a safe and secure location. 

To minimise your chance of becoming a victim of bike theft, take advantage of indoor workplace bike parking or lockable storage cages at train stations.

A good quality lock should always be used to secure a bike when parking it in a public location in order to prevent bike theft.

Use a U-lock (also called a D-lock), which are solid, curved metal locks that provide more security than a chain lock. Always lock the bike frame to a sturdy pole, post or bike stand. The right U-lock for you can depend on how secure your bike parking spot is. Consider that U-locks that provide the most security are likely to weigh more.

Get the wheels spinning with RACV Bike Assist.