So, you’ve decided to start commuting by bike. First off, good call!

It is one of the best changes you can make for your body, brain, and bank account. But like anything new, there’s a learning curve attached to it. To help transform that curve into a climbable mountain I’ve talked to a bunch of commuters as well as tapped into my own bank of experiences and created a nice list to overcome the most common mistakes.

Here’s a roundup of beginner mistakes I either made myself, or have heard countless riders vent about.

Avoid these, and you’re setting yourself up for a smoother, less sweaty, and way more satisfying commute to wherever you’re about to go.

Tobias 12 Tips For New Bike Commuters

1. Starting Too Fast And Too Hard

The classic move: ride 12 miles on Day 1, uphill both ways, and swear off bike commuting forever by Day 3. Don’t assume you’re going to have the muscle memory from those short childhood rides.

Problem Solver: Start small. Do a few practice rides before setting out on any huge ones. Break your commute in half. Get to know how your body feels after 20 minutes in the saddle before going full Tour de Office Park.

2. Assuming the Fastest Route Is the Best One

Car routes don’t always translate to bike routes. In fact, they rarely do. The smoothest bike commutes usually zigzag through quiet backstreets, dedicated trails, or those secret cut-throughs you only find by exploring.

Problem Solver: Apps like RideWithGPS and Komoot help, but nothing beats exploring it yourself on a no time-pressure day.

Check out our top tips on how to find safe bike routes.

3. Wearing the Wrong Stuff

You don’t need full Lycra to commute, but you also don’t want to wear jeans that feel like armor plating by mile five.

Problem Solver: Prioritize breathability and movement. Bonus points if your clothes dry fast and don’t look like you crawled out of a wind tunnel. And always, always bring backup socks!

4. Riding in the Gutter

New riders tend to hug the curb like the cars are out to get them. Don’t. That’s where broken glass, storm drains, and surprise potholes live. Plus, it gives cars a false sense that they can squeeze by you.

Problem Solver: Take the lane when you need to. Own your space, it’s your safety buffer.

5. Treating a Backpack Like a Trunk

Every new commuter learns this one the hard way: backpacks are the worst. They make your back sweaty as hell, throw off your balance, and shift sides mid-turn.

Problem Solver: If you’re riding more than a couple miles, invest in a rear rack and pannier. Your spine will thank you. Bonus is that on a hot day air flowing into your shirt is the best cool down you can get.

6. Forgetting to Downshift at Stops

You roll up to a red light in top gear, the light turns green, and… the pedals are locked. You’re stuck mashing pedals like a confused toddler.

Problem Solver: Before stopping, click down a couple gears so you’re ready to roll when that “go” light turns on. It’s smoother, faster, and way less awkward.

7. Not Doing the Two-Minute Pre-Ride Check

Tires properly inflated? Brakes grabbing like they should? Chain looking dry or squeaky?

Problem Solver: A quick check-up before you leave can save you from the dreaded “walk of shame” halfway to work. I keep a floor pump and chain lube by the garage door. The more you build this habit the quicker it’s gonna go, eventually you’ll only spend a couple seconds inspecting the bike.

8. Neglecting Your Helmet Fit

A helmet that tilts back like a party hat isn’t doing you any favors.

Problem Solver: Your lid should sit level, low on your forehead, and snug without cutting off circulation.

Straps should form a clean V under each ear. Fit it right once, and you’re set for success, and can avoid fiddling with it mid-ride.

Pro tip: Here’s everything you need to know about how to find a safe and perfectly fitted helmet.

9. Trusting That Morning Forecast a Bit Too Much

Commuters live in weather denial. “It’s sunny now,” you say. “I’ll be fine.” Then the afternoon downpour hits, and you’re the human sponge riding home.

Problem Solver: Keep a lightweight rain jacket or wind shell in your bag at all times. And stash a dry shirt or towel at work if you can.

10. Not Practicing Low-Speed Handling

It’s easy to feel confident at cruising speed. But it’s the tight turns, awkward starts, and last-minute dodges that shake most new riders.

Problem Solver: Practice weaving between cones (or trash cans) wherever you find them. Learn how your bike reacts at walking speed. Its important to be able to keep your balance at lower speeds too.

11. Underestimating the Power of Good Lights

Even if you don’t ride at night, good lights matter. Foggy mornings, shaded trails, or low-sun evenings can turn you invisible.

Problem Solver: Go for a bright front light (bonus if it has a flash mode) and a blinking rear.

I use mine every ride, day or night. It’s a small thing you can do to try and force drivers to notise you.

12. Thinking You’ll Just “Figure It Out” on Repairs

One flat tire can derail your whole week if you’re not ready.

Problem Solver: Learn how to fix a flat before you have to.

At the very least carry a can of self-sealant and a small portable air pump so you can get up and running quickly.

Stuff I Wish I Knew When I Started

• Your commute will get easier and easier, but it takes time. Let your body adjust.
• Fenders are life-changing if you ride in rain. No more dirty stripe up your back.
• Keep chain lube and a multitool at home and work, or with you at all times, not just in one place.
• Test your route on a weekend when you’re not racing the clock.
• Build in 10 minutes of cushion time. That removes a ton of both physical and mental stress.
• You’re biking for a reason, don’t forget it. Whether it is for health, wallet, or must.

Bottom Line – Just Start Commuting Slowly

Commuting by bike shouldn’t feel like prepping for a triathlon. Make a few smart choices, skip the rookie traps, and you’ll hit that sweet spot: efficient, confident, and you’ll even enjoy your mornings (at least once you’ve past the first few weeks of adapting).

Check out our guide on how to start bike commuting, where we cover all the in’s and out’s of gear, safety, and setup. And make sure you grab our free bike commuting checklist to set yourself up like a pro!

Got questions? I’m probably way ahead of you on mistakes, so don’t be afraid to reach out. Let’s get more bikes and fewer regrets on the road!

— Tobias