Cycling to work in Leeds

I have decided to give it a go to cycle from Micklefield to my lunchtime pilates classes that I'm teaching in Leeds city centre starting on the 15th of Oct (it will be every M, W and F).  I figured it would help me shed a few pounds as well as save money, fuel and the environment a bit. Now, it's great on paper, but I am not a cyclist. I have a bike and a helmet, but I don't really know what it's like to cycle here on the roads etc...

any tips? directions? anyone in Leeds that wants to join me for a trial run? I signed up to bikebudi online and hope that works out. I need to get the confidence to do this as I am definitely hesitant.

I don't know much about cycling in Leeds itself, but I'd recommend taking a look at the Highway Code, especially the rules for cyclists. There are certain things you're supposed to do when cycling on the roads - such as using hand signals to indicate that you're turning left and right or slowing down and also when you're approaching roundabouts/traffic lights/overtaking parked cars etc. - that you should be aware of so you can be safe on the roads .

Your local police station might run cycle safety schemes that you can go on?

If they don't, the best thing to do is to practice by cycling on a Sunday when it's quiet first, and then work up to cycling in full traffic! Do practice using your arms to signal when you're turning left or right - this can be a bit unnerving the first few times you do it.

It doesn't take long to get used to it, even the roundabouts! Make sure you wear your helmet, though, and that you always have your lights and a high-visibility belt or jacket if you are going to be out after dusk - even if you plan to be back early, it's a good idea to always carry your lights with you. Don't leave detachable lights on the bike if you leave it in a public place as they can get stolen.

Try contacting the Road Safety Promotion Unit to see if they have useful information.

http://www.leeds.gov.uk/Community_and_living/Walking_and_cycling/Road_safety__cycling_and_walking_to_school/page.aspx

I did it  I cycled about 30miles today all inclusive. I had time today to figure out the route, so I cycled there, ate a granola bar and cycled back. I thought about taking the train back with my bike, but it was such a nice day here in Leeds, so it was worth it to cycle. I tell ya - my legs are going to feel it for a while I am not used to so much hard work, even with working out several times a week and doing pilates. This will quickly whip me into shape if I do it 3x's a week! I recommend trying it if you have a bike, fun and liberating.

How long did it take to cycle each way?
Im 15 miles from my work as well, and have often thought 'i wonder if i could cycle?'... dont know if im fit enough, but would give it a try, maybe.

Hiya!

Good links and advice so far -

Many years ago at 12 years old I did what's called the Cycling Proficency Test. I passed and was given a little badge to put on my bike!

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/6495713.stm

I think you need to go through your local council etc..    

Cheers! DtM! West London & Slough UK!

Approximately 1.5hrs, maybe a little more. I am planning to leave 2hrs before my lunchtime classes and if I am in a time crunch, I'll take my bike on the train and cycle home and vice versa. For the most part, I have my late mornings and early afternoons free, allowing so much time to do it. It certainly won't be something I'll do in the driving rain, but I really want to give it a go at least twice, if not all 3x's a week. The key is to figure out the route, I used my sat nav (it has a cycling route option). It's so different on a bike and I never realised just how many cycle signs and pathways there are! You would never find as many in the US (maybe in a major city)!

By the way, in that time I had to take a few breaks, walking the bike up steep hills etc...or pausing for lights/traffic and navigating curbs. Give it a go, you never know until you try, which is why I had to try! 

I just might try that someday!