Hey guys thanks for the posts
I used to walk 6 miles home from clydebank after working my old job, the 14 miles is fairly flat as far as i know, plus i work IT support and don't do much at night but watch netflix
My route is
https://www.google.co.uk/maps/dir/G...c6992346b51!2m2!1d-4.5513185!2d55.9403085!3e1
Hi again!
You are getting excellent advice about the bike and tyres so I won't add to those.
BUT your route, at night time?
You really need to budget for a very good front light, again
@fossyant is the person to ask. Don't ask
@Mad Doug Biker (another local) because he does not believe in lights
The route you want to do has unlit parts very near the water.
As you're coming back from work after midnight you might want to consider taking Dumbarton road instead of the path.
It is a very busy road during the day, but maybe at night time it is safe to ride, never tried myself, I know
@Mad Doug Biker has.
If you decide to ride the main road you still need to buy lights to be seen, they will not cost as much though as good "to see" lights.
Marathon tyres hardly get punctures, however you do need to keep them at the appropriate pressure (written on the side wall). For this you need to invest in a track pump - can be had for about 20/25 pounds and check your tyres for air every 3/4 days.
Check for embedded bits of glass or grit every day before setting out, the flints before Bowling have caused many a puncture.
There are plenty of train stations on your commute, however they will all be closed after midnight
Carry some money and a mobile, a black cab will take you and your bike home if you have a mechanical.
Changing a flat Marathon's inner tube in the dark and cold is hard, they are rigid tyres.
Try once at home, if you can't manage in a reasonable amount of time, forget it on the road. Do carry a multi tool, in case bolts come lose - if you get
Halfords to assemble the bike this is a certainty
You also need mudguards and some clothing suitable for the weather and shoes for the
muddy path.
Happy commuting
