By bike to work

Are you one of the many people who repeatedly plan to ride a bike to work and leave the car at home at least occasionally? But is the effort really worth it? And do you need to purchase any bike accessories or even special cycling clothing if you want to commute to work by bike? Find out here! We also have tips for safety and some help for when your motivation dips.

Why are bicycles once again the future of mobility? It's simple, they help save a lot of CO2 and space, they also make less noise, consume fewer resources during production and throughout their lifespan, and so on.

A few good reasons to ride a bike to work

That the bicycle is the more environmentally friendly means of transport for regular short distances (like the commute to work) is undisputed. But there are more advantages, for example, people who cycle to the office are fitter and happier. You can even save time on the way between work and home by bike. The shorter the distance, the more likely it is that you'll be faster on a bike! Especially if you have to travel during rush hour in a big city, a bike is faster than a car stuck in traffic. And then there's the annoying search for a parking space...

But you surely know all that already. That's why we want to focus here on the practical side of commuting by bike.

Which bike is best for commuting to work?
At what distance is a special cycling jacket worthwhile?
What do you do in bad weather?
And... very important... how do you arrive on time?

You can find this and much more here, so let's start our guide with the most important aspect: First of all, you need the right bike!

Which bike do you use to get to work?

To be able to ride it daily, you first need... a bike! But which bike is the right one if you want to commute to work (to university, to school or wherever)? Actually, the type of bike doesn't matter at all! The main thing is that you enjoy riding it! Nevertheless, we have some tips for you here if you want to buy a bike. Which bike is best for commuting to work depends primarily on where you live and what your commute is like.

A trekking bike is a versatile commuter – a commuter bicycle with all the bells and whistles. Image © Ghost

❤️The right bike for the commute to work ❤️

The bike for work – on the:

If you have to commute to work in the countryside, you often face longer distances and poorly paved paths. Here, an off-road trekking bike is just the right choice. A MTB Hardtail also handles these challenges well. A Gravel Bike also works well for cycling commutes in the countryside. For really long distances or inclines, an E-Bike from the corresponding categories is just your thing.

Commuting to work through the city by bike:

City bikes and trekking bikes are the perfect means of transportation for cities – big cities, small towns, and everything in between... Both types of bicycles are very comfortable, they have an ergonomic geometry, comfortable saddles, and handlebars. In terms of equipment, they are true all-rounders. Mudguards, all-weather tires, luggage racks, or lights are usually factory-installed. Urban Bikes are an alternative, but they usually lack the StVZO equipment.

If the route is a bit longer, a trekking bike is usually the better choice. These bikes are built for long distances and changing terrains and work particularly well there, they are also very robust. You will also find many models with a low entry on trekking bikes and city bikes.

The cult bike for the big city:

Especially in the city, fixies and singlespeed bikes are popular and indeed they are not a bad choice for the commute to work. The minimalist bikes require little maintenance, they are lightweight and also inexpensive to purchase. However, in cities with inclines, it gets really tricky without gears! Since they have now achieved cult status in big cities, they are often stolen, so you need a good lock!

Commuting to work with bike and train:

If you use your bike as a feeder to public transport, it should not be too “fancy.” If an expensive bike stands in front of the station all day, the risk that it won't be there one evening is just too great.

If you want to take your bicycle on the train or subway, we recommend a compact bike or a folding bike.

Do you need an e-bike or S-pedelec for your commute to work?

Sure, with the e-bike, the commute to work is immediately less strenuous. Therefore, it is worth considering purchasing one, especially for a longer commute or for greater inclines. It might also be necessary to have an S-pedelec that supports you up to 45 km/h. These fast electric bikes are mainly used on long commutes across the countryside, in dense city traffic they often cannot fully realize their potential.

⚡ E-bikes for the commute to work ⚡

E-Hardtails | Gravel E-Bikes | Trekking E-Bikes | City E-Bikes | Urban E-Bikes

Rather unsuitable for the commute to work…

A bicycle that is simply impractical in everyday life is an MTB Fully. The dampers and the high weight cost efficiency, and if you want to be on time for work, that's not very helpful. Fullys are also not exactly cheap, you shouldn't just park such a bike somewhere during work. Also, a racing bike is not the best choice for every commute, as it only works on well-developed roads. If you always roll over smooth asphalt, you can ride a racing bike, otherwise, you should shop among the Gravel Bikes if you like the racing bike look.

If you want to ride your bike to work every day, a permanently installed dynamo lighting is particularly practical! Image © Trek

In general, the bicycle for the commute to work should be equipped for traffic safety otherwise, there could be trouble with the police or insurance!

A few more considerations for the optimal work bicycle:

Are you dependent on the bicycle or can you get to work in other ways? The more important the bike is, the more a good quality pays off! With brand-name bicycles from well-known manufacturers, you can expect fewer breakdowns.
Do you ride inclines? Then you need the appropriate gear! A derailleur with many gears is more climbing-friendly than a hub gear. If hills or even mountains are part of your daily commute, you need a bit more range here. In flat terrain, a hub gear also works well. The hub gear, in contrast, is the all-round carefree package that requires almost no maintenance.
Do you have to go up or down stairs? Not only for stairs, a particularly light bicycle is a good investment. If you have to lift your bike now and then, it should weigh as little as possible.
Do you ride over gravel, cobblestones, or poorly developed roads? Then you need thicker tires and ideally a suspension fork.
Do you ride in all weather conditions? Then you should definitely have mudguards and all-weather tires!
Do you need to carry a lot? A luggage rack is really practical for that!
Do you ride in bad weather, at dusk, or at night? Then you need good lighting, so really good battery lamps or a permanently installed dynamo lighting system.
In general, a safety equipment with lights, bell, and reflectors is firstly important for your safety and also required on public roads.
Is your bike left unattended for a long time? Then a bike that "doesn't look like much" is less likely to be stolen!

Leasing a bike for the commute to work

The "Jobrad" is very popular, and indeed a leasing bike is an affordable option if you want to switch from a car to a healthier, more environmentally friendly means of transport and want to afford a slightly better and more expensive bicycle for it. Maybe your company already offers this benefit? It's always worth asking! You can find more information about bike leasing in the Bike Mailorder shop.

If you want (or have) to ride it to work daily, a high-quality bicycle is not only more reliable, it is also safer. Robust tires, better brakes, or a good lighting system definitely pay off in everyday life. But who should pay for that? It doesn't have to be a high-end bike, but financing or leasing a solid bicycle can really be worthwhile, as you will face less hassle and downtime.

With the bike to work... what do you wear?

The right clothing for the commute to work

If the commute to work is not too long, you can simply wear what you like.
For longer rides, it can become more difficult. You have a longer commute to work by bike. But you don't want to change clothes. You also don't want to sit around all day in tight cycling clothes, and your employer's dress code doesn't allow casual MTB gear? Fortunately, today that's no longer a problem! Here you'll find out what clothing you really need!

Cycling clothing for work, office, and everyday life

You can buy functional clothing that has all the features that make it comfortable cycling clothing. The cut fits, and the material is also optimally selected for sports and movement. Nevertheless, pants, shirts, and sweatshirts look like "normal clothing." There are even bike shirts with collars and buttons. With these, you can easily show up to work if there is no special dress code.

Sweatshirt cycling clothing for the commute to work

The function? Clearly cycling! The Look? Perfect for the office! Today, there is plenty of cycling clothing that doesn't look like "sports" and can therefore be worn at work. Images iXS, Platzangst, ION, Vaude

A few more tips for clothing for bicycle commuters:

Functional clothing that doesn't look like sportswear can still be made from special fibers. Particularly pleasant are stretchable, breathable pieces!
If you notice that you sweat a lot when cycling to work, you can look for clothing made from antibacterial fabrics. These fibers dry quickly and prevent the formation of odors.
There are skirts , which are specially designed for athletes, usually have invisible shorts integrated, making any type of bicycle rideable. Otherwise, you simply need to adjust the bicycle: with a skirt or dress, a women's bike with a low entry is highly recommended.
If you have to wear work clothes, you can simply test them on the bike. Maybe they feel quite comfortable on the bike? If not, you'll have to bite the bullet and change clothes.
Whether you need special cycling clothing to ride your bike to work primarily depends on how long you are on the road. The longer your journey, the more comfortable cycling clothing is.
Even if it doesn't necessarily match your style, you should prefer bright colors, as you will be better seen in traffic!
Special cycling clothing, such as cycling shorts, should be purchased if your commute to work takes about an hour or if you find that you don't feel comfortable in your regular clothes.

⭆ Cycling clothing for the commute⭅

Cycling shorts | Cycling jerseys | Sweaters | Cycling jackets

Cycling clothing for the commute to work... the must-haves:

The most important piece of clothing on the bike remains the bike helmet. Whether your commute takes you right through the city and heavy traffic, or you're riding alone on country paths, you should protect your head!
If you've never been out on a bike in the cold morning, you'll be surprised at how quickly your fingers turn into icicles in the wind on the handlebars! Even at temperatures that are actually pleasant, your hands quickly become ice-cold on the bike! The problem: Most gloves won't help you here because they are not windproof, the wind chill penetrates unimpeded, and your fingers still get cold. Special cycling gloves are available in windproof and waterproof quality, and they are really worth the investment!
It's quite similar with the ears! The head also cools down quickly, and most thick hats don't fit under the bike helmet. For this, there are thin but windproof headbands and helmet caps.
The next purchase is a special cycling rain jacket (even if you have a regular rain jacket). You can get on the bike with a fashion rain jacket, but it is not adapted to the riding position, so it can pinch or cut in. With a rain jacket for cyclists, you are much more comfortable on the road! An ultralight rain jacket that you can pack small is particularly practical. You can easily take it with you in your pocket and pull it out when needed. After all, it's hard to ride a bike with an umbrella!
The danger of flapping pant legs getting caught in the bike's drivetrain is often underestimated. There are straps for this, which at least keep the pant leg on the right side in check.

Accessories for Cyclists

Bicycle Helmet | Gloves | Helmet Caps

The Bad Weather Equipment for Cyclists

Whether you should invest in cycling rainwear "from head to toe" depends on whether you will really get on the bike in the rain and winter.

In the next section, we explain the reasons in more detail, but you will be glad if you have overshoes!
If you really want to ride your bike to work in any weather, you should next buy waterproof rain pants.
A helmet cover seals your bicycle helmet in the rain.
It's not always cold and wet! If you have to ride through rainy weather on warm days, waterproof shorts can significantly increase the comfort factor!
Maybe you can just store a dry pair of pants and some spare shoes in your desk or locker?

↪Cycling Rainwear for the Commute to Work↩

Overshoes | Rain Pants | Rain Ponchos | Rain Gloves | Rain Suits

The Right Cycling Shoes for the Commute to Work

Shoes are actually a special case if you want to ride your bike to work. Clipless pedals are rarely used here, so you don't really need cycling shoes. From sneakers to loafers, to winter boots, you can actually wear anything.

It becomes difficult when the weather is bad will. Here your feet – they are after all your lowest point – get quickly and thoroughly wet. From experience, we can guarantee you: While wet pants or shirts eventually dry, shoes remain really wet and cold for a long time! Anyone who rides their bike to work in any weather needs overshoes or a pair of spare shoes in their backpack!

to work in bad weather with bicycle overshoes

Shoes with high heels are absolutely not recommended on the bicycle! If you need to support yourself with one leg (at the red light, for example), you simply don't stand securely. It's better to pack your high heels in a bag and change shoes once you've parked your bike.

The perfect time planning for the way to work by bicycle

“I ride my bike 20km to work – how long does that take?” or “How much time should I plan for 10km to work?”...

… all good questions, but unfortunately we can't offer you a general answer here. How long it takes you to get to work by bike depends on many individual factors. Is it downhill or uphill, do you have many red lights on the way or free passage? Your personal fitness counts, the weather too, and last but not least, it also depends on your bicycle! Basically, you are naturally a bit faster with the e-bike, but how long it exactly takes until you arrive at the workplace, no one can predict.

There are estimates that say cyclists on city bikes or trekking bikes ride about 10 to 20 km/h, on gravel and MTB about 20 to 25 km/h can be achieved, and with racing bikes and e-bikes 25 and more are ridden. These are guidelines, but just rough orientation values.

Our tip: Especially those who are untrained or haven't ridden a bike for a long time should approach slowly and plan enough time.

How do you manage to get to work on time by bike?

If you've never ridden your bike to work before, it's advisable to simply test ride your work route on the weekend. Then you'll know roughly how long it takes. Initially planning a few extra minutes is also a good idea, then you have a buffer if it takes a bit longer in the morning rush hour on Monday.

The Comparing the commute with the usual travel time by car or public transport is difficult! With the car, you have to plan for traffic jams or searching for a parking space, while with public transport, you have to consider transfer times or overcrowded trains. In the end, experience shows that bicycles are even faster on shorter distances (up to about 5km). By the way, the route that works fastest by car is not necessarily the fastest bike route, because you might have some shortcuts available!

This is how you get to work safely by bike

There are two measures that are important when you ride your bike to work in any weather or even in winter.

First, you need the appropriate thermal or rain clothing. You have already read about this above, but we talked more about comfort there. However, adapted clothing is also an effective accident protection. Chilled muscles react sluggishly, and if you are cold, the risk of accidents increases.
And secondly, you need the right equipment on the bike. It should definitely have mudguards, and it also needs good bicycle lighting. In wet conditions, your tires need good grip (so still enough tread), and your brakes should also work well.
Furthermore, in dull weather or for the winter season – when you might have to set off in the twilight – high-vis clothing has proven very effective. Also, reflectors on bags or bicycle helmets make you more visible. Reflectors are no substitute for good bicycle lighting, but certainly a good addition.
If you want to be safe on the bike even in winter, a few special rules apply. Not only should your cycling clothing be adapted to the weather, but you can also equip your bike with winter tires for more safety. At the very least, it should have all-weather tires.
If your bike regularly ensures transport to the office, you should not miss the annual check. If your bike is checked once a year by a specialist workshop, you can pedal with peace of mind.
Are you allowed to ride with headphones? Do you have to use the bike path, or is that more of a “can”? And if so, on which side? There are some regulations you might not know, but they are important for safe coexistence in road traffic. It doesn't hurt to find out what's okay and what's not.

Do you need insurance when you ride your bike to work?

Get on and speed off. Cycling always sounds very uncomplicated. But in fact, you should take a few precautions, especially for the regular commute.
You can take out a theft insurance for a valuable or new bicycle, then you will be reimbursed if it is stolen. You can also insure your bike in the event of an accident, depending on the insurance plan, the repair will be paid for by the insurance. An accident insurance covers you personally, and a liability insurance steps in if you cause damage.
If you ride a fast S-Pedelec, you need to get additional information, as stricter regulations apply here!

Can I charge my e-bike at work?

The range of the e-bike is a topic that keeps coming up. How far can you go on a single battery charge? And what do you do if it's not enough for the way home? Can you just charge your bike at the office?
In any case, you should ask your boss or supervisor before charging private devices in the office or at the workplace. The cost of a charging process is manageable, about 15 to 25 cents are estimated to fully charge a battery. But still, you should get permission beforehand so you don't get into trouble for "electricity theft"! The same applies to your plug-in lights, cell phones, or the battery of illuminated bicycle helmets, which are becoming increasingly popular in urban areas!

Commuting by bike: Advantages & Disadvantages at a glance

	Advantages	Disadvantages
Environment	✅ Cycling is environmentally friendly.	❌ A bicycle also naturally consumes resources during production. But the longer you use your bike, the better the eco-balance becomes!
Cost	✅ A bicycle costs significantly less than a car.	❌ Good bicycles tend to cost a bit more.
	✅ The follow-up and maintenance costs are significantly cheaper.	❌ Even a bicycle needs maintenance, service, and spare parts.
	✅ You don't need much initially to ride your bike to work. A good bike helmet is the absolute minimum.	❌ If you mostly ride your bike to work, you need the appropriate equipment (lights, clothing, lock, bags, etc.)
Practical Considerations	✅ You don't have to look for a parking space.	❌ You have to find a place where the bike won't be stolen.
	✅ You also don't have to pay for parking!
	✅ You are independent of schedules and fuel prices.
	✅ Depending on your commute, you might even be faster by bike than by car in many cases
	✅ Need to stop briefly on the way? No problem! The bike makes you flexible!
Weather	✅ In Central Europe, the weather is perfect for cycling on many days!	❌ Okay, it can rain. Then you stay dry in the car. But you would still have to walk to the car in the rain!
	✅ There is now excellent cycling clothing for wet and cold weather. Even winter tires are available.	❌ Depending on where you live, the seasons can put a damper on your plans for a long time.
Fitness & Health	✅ You'll notice it – after just a few weeks, you'll feel better and fitter.	❌ It can be quite exhausting to ride a bike, especially at the beginning.
	✅ Regular exercise is beneficial for health and well-being.	❌ The risk of accidents is, of course, not to be underestimated.
	✅ Exercise in the fresh air has been proven to improve mood.
	✅ Covid says hello... but even under normal circumstances, you are exposed to numerous pathogens in public transport that have no chance on the bike path!

To Work by Bike – Here's How It Works:

Now you know which bike is best for getting to work. You know what you should wear and you know the benefits. The will is there, but what's missing is the motivation? Here are a few final tricks:

Be a fair-weather biker! Riding your bike to work directly in the rain and storm is a real turn-off. If you start in the spring, a habit can develop over the nice months that you will maintain in the fall. And even if you only get on your bike in good weather, it's a win for you and the environment!
Find riding companions! Maybe colleagues live along your route to work? If you make arrangements, you'll get going better.
No chance for stress! Plan enough time, after all, you want to leave the stress behind. It can also be really calming if you take your bike for a service before the first attempt.
Reward yourself! A scoop of ice cream on the way home is tempting... and it's much easier with a bike and without searching for a parking spot or a parking ticket! You've already burned the calories!
Plan the savings! Calculate how much you save by cycling and think about what you can do with the money! Cinema, concert, or a good meal? You deserve it!
Motivation can be bought! Maybe you're dreaming of a stylish bike helmet, a cool backpack, or even a new bike? An investment helps some to stick with it!
Surely there will be days when you just don't feel like biking. But every ride on the bike is good for you and the environment, so you can be proud of yourself if you manage to leave the car behind more often!

Here in the Bike Blog you will find lots more information about bikes and e-bikes; everything you need for a great time in the saddle can be found in our shop, have fun browsing!