With the increasing number of cars in most urban areas, the traffic jams are kind of becoming the order of the day. The feeling of being caught in the midst of a traffic jam while you are running late for work and knowing that there is almost nothing you can do about it is frustrating.
A lot of time is wasted on the road, lowering productivity and quality of life. Because of this, most cities are thinking of alternatives to automobiles to help reduce the congestion on the roads. Cycling paths are being included in major road plans to accommodate non-motorized transportation. Cycling is still the best most viable alternative if you want to get to work quickly and avoid the traffic congestion. Finding a good route is cheap, fast and also helps you exercise while cycling to work. To maximize the experience, here are some tips you might consider following:
Know the Traffic Rules
Every city has different rules that apply to cyclists, so research your local regulations before hitting the road on a regular commuting basis. Know when to stop, when to go, how to turn, how to overtake and how to interact with other road users. Knowing the rules is one thing and following them is another. Ensure after you know the rules you follow them and your cycling to work experience shall be trouble-free.
Plan Your Route
Planning is key to success. Know the best cycling route to get you to work beforehand so as to avoid hitting dead ends getting lost in the traffic. USually it’s best to combine a mix of safe routes and short routes Shorter isn’t always better when you’re on a bike – you want to ensure you’re on roads that aren’t a danger. Most cities provide maps showing the routes for cycling and therefore one can make use of them. However, not all of them are up-to-date and therefore it is also vital not to only fully rely on a map, keep your eyes on the road and make use of your senses. In some cities, Google maps can provide good cycling suggestions, but that is not the case everywhere. Consult with your local bike advocacy organization, or your local bike shop for additional ideas.
Avoid Heavy Traffic
The last and most basic tip is to avoid heavy traffic. Yes, even with a comfortable city ride like a Copenhagen bike, heavy traffic is going to slow you down and also increase the risk of getting into accidents in case your road doesn’t have a special part set for cyclists.
With those few tips, now you can try it out. You might even find that you get to work faster and in a better state of mind. Furthermore, you will cut your fuel costs by far and improve your health.