Get set for cycling
To get cycling you only need to think about three things: yourself, the bike, and the journey. This guide is designed to address all three in order to give you the best start to cycling in Glasgow.
Still got questions? Contact us below:
- University of Glasgow Strategic Travel Planning - travelplanning@glasgow.ac.uk
- GUEST Sustainable Transport team
New to cycling, or maybe it has been a while?
- Look out for Learn to Ride or refresher cycling training sessions on the events page. There are also several organizations in Glasgow who offer beginner training, such as Bike for Good, Women on Wheels, and Sunny Cycles.
Try cycling for free!
- Yes, free! Find out how to sign up for an OVO bike membership here.
- Check out cycling friendly areas. The National Cycle Network passes through Kelvingrove Park, right next to Gilmorehill campus.
- If you like these bikes, and stations are well located for you, then just stick with it!
How can I get my own bike?
- Ask staff in bike shops, who will help you find the right size of bike
- Consider what type of bike you are looking for:
- City/Dutch - Comfortable with a step-through frame. Robust and easy to maintain.
- Folding - Easy to store and take on public transport. Best for short and flat routes.
- Hybrid/Commuter - Versatile and fairly comfortable. Ususally has good range of gears (for hills).
- Road - Built for speed and performance. Full range of gears.
- Single gear - Easy to maintain. Suited for flat and short journeys.
- Mountain (mtb) - Robust. Built for off-road use.
- Cargo - For transporting goods or people.
- Tricycle - Easy to balance. Suited for smooth surfaces.
- Many of the above also have electric assist variants (e-bikes).
- If bike theft is a concern, a cheaper bike will be less attractive to thieves (and less of a financial loss if it is stolen)
- Get a good lock (two D-locks or a D-lock with cable). Look for 'Sold Secure' approved locks. Shop staff can also advise with this.
- When choosing a lock, also consider where you will normally park the bike. Will you need a more flexible lock (e.g., chain lock) to secure the bike? You should be able to secure the frame and both wheels to an immovable object.
Essential gear
- Security - Bike locks (see above: How can I get my own bike?)
- Visibility - a front and rear light, and some high-visibility clothing (can be worn over regular clothes).
- To cycle between sunset and sunrise, bike lights, a red rear reflector, and amber pedal reflectors are required by law. White front and wheel reflectors are also recommended.
- Helmet - the Highway Code advises that you should wear a helmet conforming to current regulations. To use OVO bikes you are required to wear a helmet.
Other gear to think about
- Cycling is not just for sunny days! To prepare for all weather, make sure you have waterproofs and enough layers to keep warm. Waterproof jackets, trousers and 'overshoes' can all be worn over your regular clothes.
- Repairs - you can keep your bike maintained by dropping into GUEST's Bike Hub or your local bike shop. But you might one to learn how to fix (or avoid) the most common problems yourself. To start, invest in a multi-tool, spare inner tubes, tyre levers, and a pump. YouTube has many great help videos, or you could sign up for a maintenance class in Glasgow (check out the events page!).
A little bit of research (journey planning)
- Route planning - if you have time to explore, scout out some low-traffic routes that could get you to your destination. They are often the fastest! There are also several route mapping websites for cycling (linked below), although often a few tweaks to their "quiet route" suggestions can make them even better - so keep exploring!
- Parking - wherever you secure your bike, do it correctly with good quality locks. You can find short videos on how to lock your bike securely on YouTube. It is also important to choose a good location - avoid quiet corners, thieves prefer not to have an audience, even if most people don't take notice. CCTV is a bonus.
- (Optional) Showers and changing - you may wish to access a changing area or shower after arriving on campus. A list of showers can be found on the cycling information pages.
Training opportunities
- As well as Learn to Ride, there are training opportunities for those looking to improve their confidence with road cycling and commuting. Check out our events page, as well as cycling organizations in Glasgow such as Bike for Good, Women on Wheels, and Sunny Cycles.
- Test your knowledge with Cycling Scotland's Essential Cycling Skills app
Useful websites for route mapping and other services
Route mapping:
- Cycling UK
- Cycle Streets
- Komoot
- Plot a route
- Cycle Travel
- Google Maps (with cycling layer enabled)
- Strava (subscription required)
- University of Glasgow recommended routes
- Glasgow City Council
Cycling services (events, training, workshops and more):