Starting to commute

[nu7ty]

Hello

Over the next few weeks I'm hoping to start my commute to work. There are several reasons why
I've decided to do this, the main reason being fitness. It will also be good physio for me as I am just recovering from a broken leg.

My commute isn't going to be the longest, its 5.1 miles into the centre of Birmingham. 2.6 of which is along main roads and the other 2.5 mile is along a canal side.

However with the dark nights approaching I am hesitant about riding along the canals after dark so I am just wondering if many other people do it and their experiences?

I'm looking at buying a Saracen Urban ESC Hybrid bike, any thoughts?

Thanks

J

 

[Pat "5mph"]

Part of commute is on an unlit park. My cateye front light supplemented by a helmet light works for me.
No doubt you are going to collect a few lights until you find your ideal one. Read some of the threads about lights on here to give you an idea of what's available.

 

[oiljam]

I commute only 4 miles and I don't finish work till 2315. Its a very busy road going to work and I actually feel safer going home when its quiet. Get a good set of lights and you'll probably find motorists give you a wider berth with your lights flashing than during daylight. I actually love the sprint home with empty roads and look forward to it. I use a Smart R2 on the rear and its amazing how bright it is. Can't really recommend a front light, I use a phaart dark night and its 'just' ok

 

[Kookas]

Are you worried about crime or just falling in? Personally, I've ridden on the canals in the dead of night and had no problems whatsoever - hardly anyone about. As for falling in, I used to have a cheap light that was just for being seen. I could still light my way through the canals without feeling like I might suddenly hit a rock and go over.

I don't tend to ride them now since they're not really great for roadbikes, but that wasn't that long ago. I'd just be careful through the tunnels (especially if you're tall) and on the corners, since most of the surface is gravel.

 

[wisdom]

On the commute i have a big cateye with a low and high beam,its good for seeing with on the unlit bits, I have a cree on the other side of the bars set to flash,great for being seen,it has the advantage of a good steady beam as well.Should i need a bit more light.
I like commuting in the dark as you can see the beams of cars coming up behind you. I just ride a little slower on the unlit bits.Whatever the weather i just enjoy the bike.(not used the car for work for 2 years).8 miles each way.

 

[harrow1977]

Hi

I've started to commute into work recently too...about 10 miles each way and 2/3 is along a canal towpath. I've done it in the night before and it's fine - just make sure you have a spare light with you.

Or are you worried about any dodgy folk?

 

[videoman]

I've also started the commute to work a few weeks ago, 11 miles each way with approx 2 miles on the road and the rest canal and cycle path. Been cycling two days a week and just trying to get a few miles into my legs before I try and up it.