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10 Things That Happen in Your First Year of Commuting

Here's what you can expect from your first year of commuting by bicycle

Commuting around town on your bike is not only cost-effective, but it’s a great way to clock up those training miles in the week. It’s fun, freeing and there’s a lot to gain from it, however, there are some harsh truths that come with the commuting territory which you’ll find out in your first year of commuting…

Commuting 101: The TWC Catalogue of Advice

The Drowned Rat Effect

Cycling in the UK means that at some point, probably weekly, you will get caught in the most biblical downpour and have only one choice but to continue to ride like a total badass!

Transformation; cyclist to professional

We think Jennifer Purcell nails it!

You will soon be able to go from cyclist to professional as seamlessly as Superman to Clark Kent. Little tricks like carrying the right products with you in your bag and keeping a spare pair of tights in your drawer will allow you to get your cycling fix and maintain a professional look!

Road – Bicycle – Driver – Pedestrian Rage

Much like with the rain, sharing your commute with other road-users may mean the odd, inevitable spat of words with others on their way to work. Read our guide if you are concerned about navigating traffic and avoid altercations with other road-users.

You will develop an air of ‘smugness’

During your first year of commuting, your colleagues might start to notice a change in your demeanour the more frequently you commute in by bike. By the time you get to your desk, you’ve already pedalled a few miles through town and burned some energy. This will give you a certain glow and a slight air of smugness. Enjoy it!

Is my bike ok?

Your mind will regularly drift to thoughts of your precious bike and whether it’s OK where you left it. Trips out to check on it during your lunch break might also become part of your new routine. This mode of transport will become utterly cherished.

Helmet hair, don’t care!

Your hair will also undertake something of a transition as it goes from coiffed and orderly to wild and free. Don’t be shy to embrace the wind and your unruly new look.

Hairstyles for Helmets: Half-Up Tuck

Your income will go on bike accessories

“Amazing, I’ll be saving so much money on transport”  – so you thought until the lure of beautiful kit and handy accessories lead you into temptation…

You frequently question why you ever took public transport

As you cycle past bus queues and packed stations full of long-lines of depressed commuters, the million-dollar question as to how you put up with it for so long will frequently cross your mind.

You will discover the bond between cyclists

You’ll suddenly feel like you belong to a new network of cyclists who are all happy to share their experiences with you. Subtle nods to each other at the traffic lights and stories of the road with your new-found community will become a regular feature of your first year of commuting.

You’ll experience episodes of pure joy

As your first year of cycling rolls on and you grow in fitness and confidence, you will experience bouts of sheer joy as you pedal your bike through town and soak up the sights whilst knowing that you are contributing to your mental and physical health. Keep going!

You may also enjoy:

10 gorgeous commuter helmets

How to make your clothing waterproof again

The best-padded cycling knickers

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