Introduction
Commuting to work on your bike offers a myriad of benefits, especially as the brighter days of March signal the impending arrival of spring. In County Dublin, the increasing number of cyclists on the roads is evident, with approximately 55,000 people choosing cycling as their mode of daily commuting. Surprisingly, this still represents just 3% of all commuters in Dublin.
As dedicated commuters ourselves, the Cycletribe team is eager to share insights, tips, and inspiration drawn from our own experiences and preferred routes. In this blog, we'll provide valuable advice for those considering the switch to cycling as a mode of commuting, offering guidance to make your journey to work both enjoyable and efficient. Join us in embracing the cycling lifestyle!
Exploring Dublin's Scenic Cycling Routes
Dublin has seen significant investment in cycling infrastructure in recent years, providing a boon for commuters and cyclists. Among these developments is the breathtaking Clontarf to Howth cycling lane, a scenic 10km route offering picturesque coastal views from Clontarf to the iconic fishing village of Howth.
Pedalling Along the Canal Way Cycle Route
Constructed by Dublin City Council under the Smarter Travel Initiative, the Canal Way Cycle Route is a favourite among cyclists, attracting over 2,000 riders daily. This 3.6km path links Portobello with Spencer Dock, offering a scenic journey alongside Dublin's Grand Canal.
Exploring Dublin's Waterfront on the Grand Canal Way Green Route
Opened in 2010, the Grand Canal Way Green Route provides an 8.5km off-road pedestrian and cycle path from Inchicore to Lucan. This safe and secure route along the Grand Canal offers a serene alternative for commuters seeking tranquility amidst the city hustle.
A Coastal Journey from Dun Laoghaire to Dublin City Centre
For cyclists starting their journey from the south of Dublin, the coastal route from Dun Laoghaire to Dublin City Centre offers breathtaking views of the coastline. With its flat terrain and scenic landmarks like the Poolbeg chimneys and Sandymount strand, this route provides an enjoyable ride for cyclists of all levels.
Visit Our Showroom in Dundrum, Churchtown, and Sandyford
For cyclists in the Dundrum, Churchtown, and Sandyford areas, our showroom awaits you. Explore our range of products and receive expert advice to enhance your cycling experience. We're thrilled to welcome you and cater to your cycling needs.
Cyclist's Black Spots to Try Avoid in Dublin
There are a few bad areas for cyclists to try avoid as some roads aren’t designed with the cyclist in mind. Most reported bike accidents occur alongside the 2.6km stretch from Fairview to the IFSC in Dublin. You should also try steer clear from the junction at Kevin Street Upper and Patrick Street, overlooked by St Patrick’s Cathedral, it is one of the worst junctions in the country for serious injuries.
Cycling to Work, What to Wear?
Whilst cycling to work, if you have changing facilities in work, a decent pair of padded bib shorts or undershorts are almost essential if you’re going to be cycling for a while. Along with a breathable long sleeve cycling jersey. A short or long sleeved base layer such as a thermal vest would come in handy for the Irish weather. As the weather in Ireland changes quite a bit a cycling rain jacket will come in handy when the rain comes down!
For early mornings when visibility is paramount, equip yourself with a reflective jacket or attach a back light to your bike to ensure you're visible to motorists. Our top recommendations for weather-resistant and visibility-enhancing gear include the Altura Nevis Nightvision Men's Jacket, Nightvision Waist Tights, and Airstream Long Sleeve Jersey. Don't forget to check out the ladies' versions for a tailored fit and style. Your cycling commute deserves the best, and these options from Altura provide both functionality and flair.
Benefits for Commuting by Bike
There are a huge number of health benefits for people who commute via bike to work, such as building your fitness as you’ll get a lot fitter cycling by everyone stuck in rush hour traffic! There are environmental benefits to commuting also as less people in cars means less fuel consumption damaging the environment. Overall if you commute to work there’s more pros than there is cons!
Can I rent a bike in Dublin?
If you don’t have access to a bike but live around the city there are a number of options available to you. If you'd like to rent a bike in Dublin, you can do so easily using the Dublin Bikes scheme, which is run by Dublin City Council, sponsored by Now TV. There is also the Bleeper Bike, where you download an app onto your phone which shows you the nearest bikes near you that you can use!
Bike Safety Tips
Like most cities, with a high number of commuters via bike, this comes with the occasional bike theft in the town, the best way to mitigate this is to invest in a good quality bike lock, we stock many on our website from the German brand Abus and they are all of great quality, think of it as an investment to protect your bike during the day!
For a top-notch recommendation, explore the ABUS Granit 460 and Cable Lock. These locks not only provide robust security but also offer peace of mind for your valuable investment in a reliable and durable manner.
Bike Commuting Luggage
There are many bags you can get that strap onto your bike that makes your life commuting that bit easier, these can be handlebar mounted or frame mounted and will equip you with a lot more storage space during your commute! You can pack in your change of clothing, laptop, lunch and any essentials you may need to store. You’ve two options, you can buy a good quality backpack or attach the bags to the bike.
Upcoming Route Plans for Dublin
There are many exciting plans for bike routes in Dublin being developed currently such as a 6km segregated cycle track, between Clontarf and Connolly Station which will connect the City Centre with the Dublin Bay cycle path. The project will include 5.4km of bus lanes, 6km of cycle tracks and 8km of footpaths as well as the replacement of 6km of old water mains. The project is being funded by the NTA and Irish Water. A €42 million construction contract has been awarded to Clonmel Enterprises Ltd and work is scheduled for completion.
There has also been approval by An Bord Pleanála giving to begin work on a greenway between Donabate and Malahide across the Broadmeadow Estuary — alongside the northern line railway most of the way between Malahide and Donabate it has been welcomed by local politicians and funding has been secured for the project.
In 2020 a €2.5 million project was officially opened between Baldoyle and Portmarnock which was the first phase of the Sutton to Malahide Greenway Scheme, which is 1.5km in length and it is a wide greenway being 2.4m in width.
FAQs
Commuting by bike offers numerous benefits, including improved fitness, reduced environmental impact, and often a quicker commute during rush hour compared to driving.
Approximately 55,000 people commute by bike in Dublin, which accounts for about 3% of all commuters.
Popular routes include the Clontarf to Howth cycling lane, the Canal Way Cycle Route, the Grand Canal Way Green Route, and the coastal route from Dun Laoghaire to Dublin City Centre.
Cyclists should avoid the 2.6km stretch from Fairview to the IFSC and the junction at Kevin Street Upper and Patrick Street due to high accident rates.
Wear padded bib shorts or undershorts, a breathable long sleeve cycling jersey, a thermal vest, and a cycling rain jacket. For visibility, use a reflective jacket and attach a back light to your bike.
Recommended gear includes the Altura Nevis Nightvision Men's Jacket, Nightvision Waist Tights, and Airstream Long Sleeve Jersey.
Yes, you can rent a bike using the Dublin Bikes scheme or the Bleeper Bike service.
Invest in a good quality bike lock like the ABUS Granit 460 and Cable Lock to prevent theft.
Options include handlebar-mounted or frame-mounted bags and high-quality backpacks that can carry clothing, laptops, lunch, and other essentials.
Planned routes include a 6km segregated cycle track between Clontarf and Connolly Station, and a greenway between Donabate and Malahide across the Broadmeadow Estuary.
It's a 3.6km route linking Portobello with Spencer Dock, passing Leeson Street Bridge and the Samuel Beckett Bridge, ideal for all cyclists.
Wear a cycling rain jacket and waterproof gear. Ensure your bike has fenders to reduce splashing.
Cycling reduces fuel consumption, lowers carbon emissions, and helps alleviate traffic congestion, contributing to a healthier environment.
During rush hour, cycling can often be faster than driving due to traffic congestion.
Invest in comfortable and breathable clothing, a well-fitted helmet, and consider adding a gel seat cover to your bike saddle.
Visit the Cycletribe showroom in Churchtown for expert advice and to explore a range of cycling products.
Yes, many local cycling clubs and communities organise group rides, which can make commuting more enjoyable and safer.
Carry a basic repair kit including a tire pump, spare tube, and multi-tool. Knowing how to perform basic repairs like fixing a flat tire is also helpful.
Consider wearing moisture-wicking base layers that dry quickly and bring a change of clothes in a waterproof bag.
Set personal goals, track your progress, join a cycling community for support, and enjoy the health and environmental benefits of cycling.
Conclusion
Commuting to work by bike offers a myriad of benefits, especially as the brighter days of March signal the impending arrival of spring. In County Dublin, the increasing number of cyclists on the roads is evident, with approximately 55,000 people choosing cycling as their mode of daily commuting. Surprisingly, this still represents just 3% of all commuters in Dublin.
Cycling to work not only improves fitness and reduces environmental impact, but it also offers a sense of freedom from traffic congestion. Whether you're gearing up with the best weather-resistant attire, looking for safe bike storage options, or exploring new cycling routes, our blog provides comprehensive guidance to make your cycling commute both enjoyable and efficient.
We hope you found this information helpful in our blog series. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. Our team is always ready to assist you. Happy commuting!
