2 miles each way - is it worth it?

[davefb]

bah, I miss working 2miles from home.. it was the first time I commuted...

faster than walking/driving/bus .

since I worked in jeans anyway, no need to worry about getting too much muck on clothes, not that far.. brilliant .

and any problems, just walk the bike home

 

[400bhp]

It's fine all of the time. Have you never cycled as a means of transport?

No

 

[vorsprung]

For my three mile trip to the station I wear normal work clothes. But I have smart shoes with SPD, and have overshoes. Plus if it rains I have waterproof trousers. This get up would be too hot for normal cycling but for a few miles it's not a problem

 

[Sandra6]

I live just short of a mile and half from work and I cycle most days. I don't drive so it's that or walk, and walking is slow and you have to wait for traffic when crossing roads and shouting "get out the way" isn't acceptable on foot.
I usually wear my uniform (black trousers and polo shirt, fleece jacket) unless it's raining then I take them in a rucksack and change at work.
I can't believe you drive that distance.

 

[fossyant]

I would recommend riding a loop to work - pick some good roads and do it. Then you get some quality miles in each day, it fits in with your schedule, and you haven't got to go rushing out in an evening to train, as it's done. Quality time for family.

If the weather is really horrible, or you can't be bothered, then you can just scoot down the 2 miles to work.

I'd also recommend mixing it up, and run into work some times.

My shortest route is 6 miles, but I usually ride a loop and do 11 miles each way. The car takes upto 50 minutes for 6 miles, 35 minutes on bike for 11, madness.

Just 'think out of the box' a little. Oh and your colleagues will think you are bonkers.

 

[MisterStan]

I can't believe you drive that distance.

Me either, i used to walk further than that to school each day. In the snow. With no shoes.

 

[AnythingButVanilla]

My commute is 2.5 miles each way and I do get a bit sweaty but that's probably I'm always running late so need to go faster to make sure I'm at work on time My annual travel card runs out at the end of this year and I won't be renewing it and will save almost £900 a year.

 

[cloggsy]

Anything is better than nothing, but for 2 miles I dunno whether I'd bother TBH...

 

[Bromptonaut]

Hordes of people in London ride in work gear. Mountain bikes, Bromptons, Boris Bikes and old tourers. Been doing Euston to Lincoln's Inn in collar, tie and slacks since 1999 on a Brommy. Keep below sweat speed on way in, less worry on return. Spare trousers, shirt and shoes live at work in case of downpour.

Might be more problematic on a roadbike 'cos of posture, clipless etc but not insoluble.

 

[Trevrev]

For 2 miles, i'd run it.

 

[JoeyB]

I don fancy walking, that's boring! I like the idea of expanding the route when the weather improves again.

I have to wear smart trousers and company shirt / polo shirt so not too bad.

Cheers for the tips chaps!

 

[byegad]

It'll be good Joey and you can always take some riding gear with you in the summer and ride the long way home. I used to commute 16 miles each way and would do 30 on the way home for the fun of it.

 

[phillc]

Hi JoeyB,
My commute is two miles. l ride my old hybrid, and wear works uniform, if raining put on some waterproofs.
I cycle shortest route to work - two miles, and look for longer routes home as i have more time.
If I walk it takes me thirty to forty minutes, to long.
Running takes about twenty minutes Knees hurt and sweaty. to hard.
Cycling takes about ten minutes and a real joy.

Safe and happy cycling
phill

 

[Miquel In De Rain]

Yes.Better than that car lark.You could extend if you are feeling saucy.

 

[Sara_H]

I ride about 4.5 miles to work, I do get sweaty as it's very hilly so I do get changed when I get in. I don't change to come home though.