Have you resolved to cycle to work more often, or do you want to leave the car at the shops, but still lack the motivation? With our ten cycling hacks, you’ll be (even) more likely to get on your bike in the future – you can bet it will work.
Would you like to cycle more instead of travelling by car or train, but often find it too strenuous or inconvenient? Maybe you just haven’t found the right equipment or route yet – or you lack the motivation? Either way, here are some hacks to help you become a cycling fan.
1. Must-have bike bag or basket
Invest in a good bike bag or basket: As soon as you commute to work by bike or go to the shops or do sports, you need storage space for your luggage. A rucksack can be uncomfortable and make you sweat more quickly.
Bicycle panniers or baskets on the bike make riding much more comfortable, especially for shopping or commuting, and you can also use them directly as shopping bags. And even if there is no room for a basket or box at the front of the bike, you can retrofit a rear rack or luggage rack.
2. Find the best cycle routes
Use apps for the best routes: If you have no or few cycle paths on your way to work, cycling quickly becomes dangerous and less fun. Apps such as Komoot, Google Maps (bike mode), or Bike Citizens can help. They show you cycle-friendly routes and avoid busy roads. They often also find shortcuts that you don’t even know yet.
3. Smart clothing – even in the rain
Kit yourself out for the weather: Bad weather is probably the most common reason for abandoning your bike. With a rain jacket, however, you are well equipped for light rain and will arrive at your destination dry.
If you want to go one step further, you can buy rain trousers or overtrousers against the rain. They will protect you if it rains heavily and you have to ride through puddles or on wet roads.
As soon as it gets colder, gloves are a little game changer when cycling; sunglasses or cycling goggles not only protect your eyes from sunlight, but also from cool wind and insects.
The most important thing, however, is comfortable everyday clothing that is breathable. If you cycle a slightly longer distance to work and work up a sweat, you can pack a change of top.
4. Bike hack: Switch on your lights!
Get rechargeable LED lights: The right lighting makes a real difference when cycling in the dark. Bright LED lights with rechargeable batteries as front and rear lights increase your safety and make cycling in the dark or fog much more pleasant.
5. SOS tool kit for your bike
Pack a mini tool kit for breakdowns: A flat tyre or a loose screw can be annoying – and dangerous. With a small tool kit, a spare inner tube, and a mini air pump, you are equipped for many eventualities. You should have these things with you, especially on longer journeys. The good news is that what may sound like a lot can all fit in a saddlebag.
6. Make cycling part of your everyday life
Plan your everyday life around cycling: It may seem difficult at first if you have a busy schedule, but try to consciously plan cycling into your daily routine and organize errands around it. For example, you can cycle to work and stop at the supermarket on the way home, or take a short diversion to the post office or pharmacy. If you have an appointment with a friend, plan enough time to cycle there and make cycling a habit, even if you have to take small detours.