How to map out the best cycle route to work?

Have you too been won over by the idea of cycling to work? No wonder because cycling is the one sure way to clear your head after a taxing day. Except... you may not be too sure how to find the best route to get you to work by bike. Not to worry, for here you will find several important tips!

Safety first

Start simple: in your own neighbourhood. How familiar are you with the streets, which roads have a designated cycle path? Explore your area and look for roads that are pleasant to cycle on. Especially if you haven’t cycled to work before it is a good idea to put safety first: designated cycle paths that are properly lit when it gets dark. Have a look at the number of traffic lights and busy junctions you’ll meet along the way.

Decide what is most important to you: a route that is easy to remember or the fastest one? Do you enjoy the challenge of a good climb and a steep descent, or do you prefer a level road? Think carefully about what makes a cycle ride pleasant and manageable for you and plan your route accordingly. An excellent website to help you with this is Bike to Work: you can choose a commuter route, a safe route or the fastest route and tailor it to your requirements.

Combine your options

If you do like the idea of cycling to work but feel that it’ll take you too long or that you’re not quite up to it, consider combining your car or public transport with your bike. Often, you’ll be able to park your car on the outskirts of the city and continue your travels on two wheels. Another option is to get yourself a folding bike you can bring along on the train.

If you have a route in mind, make sure to test it out at least once when you’re not under pressure of time to make sure it is manageable and to establish how long it will actually take you to get to your destination. Aside from familiarising yourself with the area, you’ll also be able to explore alternative routes.

Looking for more help?

There are plenty of applications and websites that can help you to find the best cycle route.

Apart from Bike to Work, also the well-known Google Maps will be able to lend you a helping hand. Another option is to investigate cycling junctions and bicycle highways. Many provinces and towns also offer information about cycle paths and cycle routes: take Limburg, Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent, and Bruges to name just a few. A bit of googling will lead you to many more websites and apps that will be able to help you on your way - the choice is yours!