Recently you could read in LU News about how both fitness and sleep improved for most of the test cyclists, even though the project only lasted six weeks. Many of the test cyclists felt that commuting by bike gave them more energy and made them feel less stressed.
Read more: Fitness improved already after six weeks of cycling.
The proximity to nature along the cycle path between Södra Sandby and Lund was also greatly appreciated. As one of the university's test cyclists, Maria Nilsson, said:
– It was almost surprising what a sensual experience it was to cycle. And the feeling that you would miss cycling says something.
There is ongoing improvements to make it easier for staff and students who want to cycle to campus. Today, the possibilities for parking bicycles safely, whether there are spaces to store and charge electric bicycle batteries and changing rooms for bicycle commuters vary greatly between different parts of our campuses.
We will keep you updated on the progress of the various projects underway in the LU News.
Test cyclists' tips to get started commuting by bike
At the project kick-off last autumn, LU employees Peter Möller and Åsa Björnram Daniel shared practical tips. They have been commuting by bicycle to work in Lund for many years; Peter with a regular bike and Åsa with an electric bike.
Here are some of their practical tips when it comes to ...
... clothes:
- Shell jacket, preferably with ventilation under the arms (ventilation openings are usually not necessary when commuting by electric bike because you don't get as hot then)
- Safety vest to be better seen in traffic. When it's warmer outside, you may find it more comfortable to wear a windproof cycling vest with mesh in the back.
- Thin, windproof hat to wear under your helmet.
- Tube scarf.
- Balaclava and wool underwear during the colder part of the year.
... on rainy days:
- Rain trousers are a must, preferably with a long zip at the side so you can easily put them on and take them off without having to remove your shoes.
- A rain poncho over the rainwear provides extra rain protection if you want it.
- Rain cover for the helmet.
- Neoprene gloves and a rain cover for your shoes can also come in handy.
... equipment:
- A helmet is an obvious piece of safety equipment. Even a fall at low speed can cause serious injury if you are unlucky and hit your head on the ground.
- A rear-view mirror is recommended.
- Bicycle light aimed a few metres ahead of you on the ground so you don't dazzle oncoming cyclists.
- Bicycle bag next to the luggage rack or a lockable box on top of it to store a computer etc. waterproof. Alternatively, a parcel basket on the rack to put your rucksack in. In case of rain, put a rain cover over it.
... other:
- Using the app ‘Felanmälan’ for Lund municipality (or the equivalent in other municipalities), you can report any problems with the cycle path etc. (iPhone, Android)
- Follow the weather through animated radar images via, for example, SMHI's information or the Danish app DMI.
Watch the satisfied bicycle commuters cycle
Innovation Skåne has produced a film in which some of the test cyclists talk about their experiences of the bicycle commute in autumn 2024. The film is three minutes long.