It's late April, meaning those of us in the Northern Hemisphere are finally beginning to see longer days and more consistent dry weather, after what has felt like one of the most relentlessly wet winters ever.
With the turn of the seasons, millions of cyclists are dusting off their bikes and taking to two wheels for an environmentally cleaner, more mentally invigorating commute to work that also happens to avoid queues of traffic and associated fuel, parking and Clean Air Zone costs.
To celebrate that fact - and to do our best to help on your transition from four wheels down to two - this week is Commuter Week here at Cyclingnews.
In a fortunate case of happenstance, today is also Earth Day, so what better way to make a difference than by choosing to swap pollution for pedal power?
As part of Commuter Week, we will be taking a detailed look at commuting by bike in all its forms and what you can do to make your commute as exciting, enjoyable and as safe as possible.
We'll be looking at every aspect, such as equipment, in which we'll cover the ideal bike choice for your journey, right down to the little accessories such as bells and phone mounts that improve the journey. We'll be diving into the logistics, such as locking your bike and planning a route, and we'll even help you save money on the initial outlay, with advice on buying used bikes and using tax-saving schemes such as the Cycle To Work scheme in the UK.
Keep your eyes peeled throughout the week for all our commuter-specific content.
Maintenance advice
- Bike maintenance tips - Keep costs down by doing it yourself
- How to maintain a bike - Some basic pointers to get you started
- Electric bike maintenance: The ultimate guide to keeping your e-bike running smoothly
- Tips and tricks to help maintain your road bike this winter
Logistical tips and tricks
- How to prevent bike theft - Top tips to keep the thieves at bay
- How to lock a bike - Tips on proper practice to prevent bike theft
- Best cycling apps - Plan your routes and record your mileage
Types of bikes for commuting
- Commuter bikes - A look at all the types of bikes you can commute with
- Best commuter bikes - Our pick of the best bike options to use for commuting
- Best folding bikes - Take your bike on the train or in the car
- Electric folding bikes - Turbocharge your commute
- Best e-bikes for commuting - Slash your commuting times with an e-bike
- Best lightweight electric bikes - Great for public transport or lugging upstairs to the office
Cycling accessories for commuting
- Best commuter bike accessories - A look at some of the most useful accessories for commuting
- Best cycling backpacks - Don't leave the laptop at home (as I did once)
- Best commuter cycling jackets - Stay dry and comfortable both on and off the bike
- Best commuter bike helmets - Commute-specific helmets to keep you safe
- Best commuter bike tyres - Puncture-resistant rubber for the commute
- Best mudguards - Keep yourself dry on the ride to work
- Best bike lights - See and be seen on dark rides to work
- Best bike locks - Keep your bike safe and sound
- Best saddle bags - Carry the essentials on the bike
