5 good reasons to get motivated :
- Avoid traffic jams and crowded public transport
- Save on fuel and transport fares
- Good for morale: Regular cycling tends to reduce stress and make you happier.
- Good for the climate!
- Well, good for the figure…
5 things to know to keep it fun:
1. First and foremost, correctly assess the distance of your daily commute!
- Up to 5 km > It’s within everyone’s reach, even the less athletic, you just have to get into it.
- From 5-10 km > We remain in the easily surmountable range, even for an occasional cyclist with a little practice and good equipment.
- From 10 km > You’ll need to be a bit more athletic and allow plenty of time for training, or opt for an electric bike.
2. Choose your bike with foresight!
As soon as you start using them on a regular basis, the choice of the optimum machine can make all the difference between the birth of a new sporting passion and definitive disgust!
- For long distances, back comfort is not a luxury; at the very least, a comfortable saddle!
- In town, it’s also better to sit rather than lie down, to anticipate the road better.
- Adjust saddle and handlebar height correctly to avoid pain and unnecessary effort. And don’t forget the right wheel size and tire inflation for greater speed and better performance…
3. Confronting the forces of nature with serenity
A common problem for all cycling friends, it’s time for the appropriate Quebec proverb: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad equipment!”
- Summer > water bottle, deodorant, sun cream, for girls magnetic skirt clip or shorts to slip under the skirt for comfort
- In winter > Don’t forget warm gloves and a neck warmer, as well as good rain gear.
- For rain > Summer and winter alike, a good pair of rainproof pants is a must, as is a rain jacket or waterproof poncho, both of which should be chosen in a breathable version, otherwise you’ll quickly turn into a steamer.
4. Don’t neglect your own safety
- Good vision in all situations (insect goggles and/or visor and effective night lighting)
- Be seen in all conditions (position lights and reflective devices, including on the bike)
- Hear well > Avoid headphones, earphones or earpieces (no smartphones in your hand either).
- To be heard from a distance…> an audible doorbell is your best ally… and still have good brakes!
- The helmet is also a MUST have
Route planning is also an opportunity to choose the safest and most practical route, even if it adds a little distance. In fact, sometimes a slightly longer route will give you access to a path with bike markings, and in the end prove much quieter and more pleasant to ride on a daily basis.
4. Finally, keep your precious bicycle out of trouble
Good bikes are worth their price, and you know it, so it’s better not to tempt the devil and to plan from the outset for a good lock and/or a safe place to leave your beloved machine.
From an insurance point of view, above a certain value, you need to think about declaring it specifically so that you have the right cover in case of a problem!
Expert opinion on this subject
There are 2 categories:
- Standard and electric bikes up to 25 km/h and max 500 W motor
- Electric bikes up to 45 km/h and max 1000 W motor
The decisive criteria for choosing insurance are the purchase value and motor power for electric bikes.
1. CASCO
- For those up to 25km/h, as for a standard bike, household insurance covers the risks of theft (at home or additional cover for theft away from home), vandalism and fire, as well as damage to the bike itself (casco ménage). However, above a value of CHF. 2,000 or 3,000, an additional declaration must be made for the actual value in the event of simple theft outside the home, otherwise the amount of cover will be capped at CHF. 2000 or 3000, depending on the insurer.
- For those up to 45km/h, an extension is required, as household insurance does not consider this type of vehicle to be part of the inventory. Most insurers offer extended coverage, including protection against theft and damage (to bikes, accessories and equipment), as well as breakdown assistance.
2. Civil liability
- Those up to 25km/h -> private liability
- Those up to 45k/h -> vehicle liability (plates and registration)
3. To sum up, the covers you need for your bike
- Civil liability
- Household insurance (standard coverage for fire, natural damage and water damage)
- Theft (single at home and out-of-home option)
- Fire (Compulsory > in some cantons, this is the responsibility of the cantonal establishment)
- Household insurance (coverage other than fire, theft and water damage)
- Bicycle helmet (specific coverage)
Some insurance companies reward regular cycling with a reduction of up to 10% on the premium for supplementary health insurance, so it’s worth asking!
Finally, in the event of an accident, if the bike’s equipment is not up to standard, it can be very costly, so it’s best to plan ahead…
When to start? Take advantage of the summer season to get started!
Argos Group, Mastery. Clarity. Commitment.
