Commuter

In praise of the humble beater bike for city commuting

From MomentumMag.com

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In bustling bicycle-friendly cities such as Copenhagen and Amsterdam and many other cities worldwide, cycling is not just a mode of transportation; it’s a way of life. However, with the convenience, quality of life and health benefits of cycling come unique challenges, chief among them being the prevalence of theft, wear and tear, and inadequate bike parking facilities. In such environments, investing in an inexpensive “beater” bike for commuting emerges as a pragmatic solution to safeguarding against potential losses and inconveniences. And, really, seems a natural to help people from stressing too much about their bicycles while at work or play.

The Peril of Theft

One of the foremost concerns for cyclists in urban areas is the rampant theft of bicycles. Amsterdam, often hailed as a cycling paradise, like many urban centres around the world, also grapples with a high rate of bike theft. Despite the presence of large bike parking facilities that leave cyclists around the world in awe, security measures are just as lax as other areas, leaving bikes vulnerable to theft. The sad truth is that even the most robust locks cannot guarantee the safety of a valuable bike in such environments.

But that’s just the thing that Amsterdam and Copenhagen residents know but North Americans for the most part are still figuring out, many commuters opt for inexpensive “beater” bikes – sturdy, functional bicycles that serve their purpose without breaking the bank.

 

Photo by Jack Finnigan on Unsplash

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6 commuter bike accessories I couldn’t live with out

From BikeRadar.com

Deputy editor Jack Luke on his essential kit for any commuter bike

Cycling to work comes with many benefits – it will save you money, it’s good for the environment, it’s beneficial for your physical and mental health, and is usually faster.

While any bike can be used for commuting duties, it’s worth buying (or building) a dedicated commuter bike if it’s a regular fixture of your working week.

A specific commuting bike prevents wear on your pride and joy, and you’re more likely to fit dorky practicality-boosting accessories without the fear of abuse from friends.

That final point is critical – carefully selected accessories are what separates a run-of-the-mill bike from a true super commuter.

If you’re setting up a commuting bike, these are the six must-have accessories that will make your ride more enjoyable, safer and, in the long run, cheaper.

1. Mudguards

I’ve said this many, many times before, but life is simply too short to ride without mudguards.

The best mudguards keep you and your bike dry, prolonging the life of consumable parts and boosting morale.

You are much more likely to commit to riding year-round if you know you’ll arrive dry(ish). It also usually negates the need to change clothes when you arrive at work.

Provided they’re installed well, full-cover mudguards will last for years of rattle-free service.

2. Cargo-carrying capabilities

There’s nothing wrong with carrying your stuff in a backpack but, if you’re a regular commuter, it’s worth investing in some kind of luggage system for your bike.

There are many ways to carry stuff comfortably on your bike, shifting weight off your back.

Pannier bags mounted to a rack are good for heavier loads. If you only have a small amount of stuff, a little handlebar-mounted basket will suffice.

I prefer a large platform-style front rack with a basket. A custom-made bag then fits inside this.

This is a better option for me, because I don’t like the ‘tail wags the dog’ sensation of riding with rear-mounted panniers (particularly on a flexible frame). I like being able to see my stuff when riding, too.

I also think this setup looks cool – and I’m a fashion victim. Make of that what you will.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

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How to Keep Bike Commuting All Winter Long

From OutsideOnline.com

By Jakob Schiller

The best cold-weather cycling gear for the daily commuter

Now that I’m back in my office, post-pandemic, I’m back on a commuter bike most days. My office is about four miles away from home, but if I take the long way around and add in an extra hill I can stretch it into a 30-minute ride in the morning and another 30-minute ride on the way home.

Picking out my commuter gear was easy during the summer and fall. Once temps dropped and the sun started disappearing earlier, however, I had to up my gear game. To get everything dialed, I asked for recommendations from Lee LaMunyon, a school counselor and adventure course builder who rides his bike daily in the cold and wind of Wichita, Kansas. Then I did my own experimenting here in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Our recommendations will keep you pedaling no matter how dark or cold a commute you’re facing.

Velocio Alpha Glove ($120)

Riding a commuter bike in the cold without the right gloves is a recipe for never riding again. That’s why I’m advocating for these admittedly pricey gloves. Just launched by Velocio, they layer a windproof and water-resistant softshell outer over a lush, instantly warm, and highly breathable Polartec Alpha Direct lining. I’ve worn these gloves in temps below freezing while pedaling 15 miles an hour for 30 minutes and my hands were warm and happy. They also allow a ton of dexterity so you don’t have to take them off to pull out your wallet or turn your bike lights on.

HotHands Toe Warmers ($23 for 20)

LaMunyon usually puts in 100–200 miles on a road or gravel bike each week. He’s become accustomed to shitty Kansas weather that often dips into the 20s, and he says toe warmers have saved him more than once. LaMunyon lets the packets heat up and then places them on top of his toes before putting his bike shoes on. These HotHands warmers are small enough to fit well in a compact shoe.

 

Image courtesy of Pearl Izumi

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