Commuting to Work by Bike – All the Essential Tips

Your workplace is nearby … but not quite close enough to walk? Public transport or the car will get you there, sure. But there’s a better option: simply commute to work by bike!

More and more people ride a bicycle to work. As so often, there’s even a trendy English term: “commuting”, and the “commuter bike”. But cycling to work isn’t new — it’s just a good, modern idea.

The benefits are clear:

• Cycling is healthy and helps you stay in shape
• It improves your fitness
• Nothing is greener: the bicycle is the most sustainable way to get around
• Independence from car & train: say goodbye to traffic jams and delays!

Especially in the city, the bike is often the fastest way to reach the office — and it doesn’t need a parking space! Many employers also provide convenient bike parking near the workplace — or even offer extra benefits such as JobRad.

Thinking about commuting by bike too? Here are a few tips:

Set a goal — and stick to it

At some point you just have to take the leap. A bike doesn’t need fuel, lasts for years, and may even be tax-deductible — the daily commute included. That also makes it far cheaper than the alternatives.

Once you have a suitable bike and basic kit, you’ve already cleared the biggest hurdle — because cycling is fun and feels liberating.

Set yourself goals and track your progress. Start realistically — no world records needed! Aim to ride at least once or twice a week at first. As soon as you’re in a routine, you can adjust and increase your targets.

Tip: paper notes are so yesterday. Modern bike computers give you all the data you need: speed, distance, calories burned and more. For easy route planning, mount your smartphone on the handlebar. With your favorite maps app you can conveniently discover alternatives to your usual route.

The must-haves

Highly motivated but unsure what you still need? Start with safety. Number one on your shopping list should be a good commuter helmet. Our blog post has tips for the right fit.

Also check your lights. Bike lighting is legally required. Some bikes still use a classic dynamo, but battery lights are brighter and don’t add pedaling resistance. Especially when days are shorter (or workdays longer), you’ll want good, bright lights.

Safety starts with you — and includes your bike. Get a quality bike lock that offers solid protection and meets your needs. Always lock the bike correctly, ideally to a secure stand.

All the options

Now you’re set to gain your first experiences. Once you’ve got a taste for it, you’ll soon refine your setup.

You can ride in jeans once or twice, sure — but it gets uncomfortable quickly, so you’ll want an alternative. Modern bike apparel with a casual look should top your list. With the right outfit you can perform on the bike, hop off and walk straight into a meeting.

Another tip: commuting works in bad weather too. With the right rain gear or a solid winter outfit, you’re ready for changing conditions.

Storage is also incredibly useful when you ride to work frequently — whether for lunch or important documents. Bikes with racks are great for commuting because panniers and handlebar bags are easy to attach. Of course, there are also saddle and frame bags.

Finally, consider a good pair of commuter cycling glasses. They protect your eyes from sun and debris, boosting both safety and comfort.

Because ultimately it’s all about this:

The most important thing: fun

Don’t forget it! Movement itself is joyful and helps you perform at your best throughout the day. Unlike rush-hour traffic — whether stuck in a jam or waiting on an empty platform for a delayed train — which drains your mood and focus.

Our final tip: don’t put yourself under pressure with overly ambitious goals. Set realistic targets and simply make sure you get on the bike regularly — maybe motivate a colleague to join you, especially if the route is longer. Mutual motivation not only keeps you consistent — riding together is also the most fun.