Hello - new to cycling

Cycle Route Forum > General Chat Forum >
swalld 03 Jul 12:41  

Joined: 03 Jul 2009

Posts: 34

Bike:

My Profile 		I have recently been told I am not allowed to run anymore due to potential need for hip replacement so I have bought a bike to keep fit but now are starting to view cycling as the sport for me. Is there somewhere I can find out non-road routes (for eg to work) so I can cycle to work? Also are the social clubs of cyclists that do sport for fun more than out and out fanatics?



pshughab 04 Jul 09:04  

Joined: 04 Jul 2009

Posts: 2

Bike:

Hi Swalid. I, like you, want to start cycling in lieu of running.

However, I am looking to start cycling to work to get fit. My problem is its a 20+ mile trip with some serious hills en route!

I have just joined this forum and am hoping to find a flat (ish) route from Hucknall in Notts to Spondon near Derby - also hopefully away from main roads and preferably on cycle paths/routes.

I know from having driven the most direct route to work for several years that it would be quite hairy on a bike.

Best of luck to you.

Pshughab


MarmiteRach 05 Jul 12:09  

Joined: 05 Jul 2009

Posts: 4

Bike:

Some cities have cycle route maps available, although these will use roads with cycle lanes as well as designated cycle paths. Im lucky enough Im sourounded by parks and canals so can work my way through these before I hit the city centre where many of the pavements are partly cycle paths as well. Residential areas can be great as the roads are rarely busy. I found it best to just explore a bit, give yourself plenty of time to get to work or do it on the way home and find a route which suits you best.


dudley 06 Jul 08:40  

Joined: 16 Jan 2009

Posts: 498

Bike:

My Profile 		pshugh

one option is to drive the first 10 miles, park somewhere free, and cycle in the 10 miles (or 5, or whatever you choose to start)
a railway station is a good bet, as you can then get the train back to your car if it is raining hard, you're late, or whatever.

build up, parking further and further away.

this assumes that the first 10 miles of your commute aren't the worst for traffic, and you can get safe free parking somewhere.



My Latest Route: Nov 2009 Forth Estuary Circular

pshughab 20 Jul 21:30  

Joined: 04 Jul 2009

Posts: 2

Bike:

Thanks to you all for some very sound advice and encouragement.

I think I have identified a suitable route. It will take me out through Bulwell and Strelley, past Bilborough College to Stapleford, across to Sandiacre and then through Risley to Spondon.

It looks fairly flattish on the map and I've driven some of it before so I am quite hopeful.

When I finally get around to putting it to the test I'll report back and let you guys know how it went. I'm actually quite looking forward to it.

Thanks again for all help and advice.

Pshughab