getting started

There's a few things you'll need to get yourself started and off cycling to work. We've put together some helpful information for you here at Go Smarter.

The bike itself
Take a look in the online library on this website, to find a ‘How to buy a bike’ factsheet.

Clothing
You’ll be happy to know that you don’t have to slap on loads of Lycra to begin to cycle!

Many people cycle in their everyday clothes, or wear a pair of jeans or tracksuit bottoms and change when they arrive at work or school.

The main item of clothing you might need is a rain jacket, although you will get wet much less often than you might imagine! If you get a red or yellow jacket then this is even better, as it will keep you visible to other road users.

Accessories
No outfit is complete without accessories and the same goes for your bike. The following items will ensure you stay safe and comfortable on your journey.

Lights and locks are easy to fit, mudguards are a bit trickier but you can ask your bike shop to fit them before they deliver your bike.

Locks - A sturdy D-lock is very important for securing your bike, while an additional ‘cable’ lock can secure any removable parts, such as the front wheel.

Panniers. These are those bags that sit on the back of bikes. You’ll be amazed how much stuff you can carry in your panniers, so there’s no need to tire your back with that heavy rucksack. You can get fully waterproof ones too, and ones which are designed specially for laptops or briefcases.

Lights - If your safety weren’t reason enough, the law requires that lights are fitted if you’re going to be cycling in the dark. Unless you are riding unlit country roads or off-road paths, a basic set of LED lights should be fine.

Bell – Bikes are almost silent, so getting a bell will help avoid accidents, and startled pedestrians! All new bikes come fitted with a bell.

Helmet – these can provide protection if you do fall off your bike or have a collision – though they are no substitute for good cycling skills...

Mudguards – Keep your feet and back dry.

Pump – A properly inflated tyre is unlikely to get a puncture, so get a pump and maintain the pressure! It may also be wise to carry some of the extras below. You can get small bags to fit under your saddle to carry things like this in.

Gloves – your hands might get a bit cold in winter.

Reflective bands – a good idea if you’re riding in the dark.

Spare batteries – for your bike lights.

A basic 'cool tool' – which has a number of simple tools on it, in case you need to tighten a screw while away from home.

Puncture kit - this is advisable, although if you keep your tyres pumped up hard you will be unlikely to get a puncture.

Security

For added security you may want to look in to some of the following:

Datatag are one company that make the electronic ‘widgets’ which you slot into your seatpost, and allow your bike to be traced if recovered by Poilce.

Bike Register will register your bike and send you a sticker and a frame etching.

Immobilise.com allows you to register your bike (and all your other gear) for free and is Police-approved.