Repeated studies suggest that cycling enhances physical health through cardiovascular exercise, obesity reduction, and improved muscle strength. For example, a study conducted by the University of Glasgow in 2017 found that bicycle commuting was associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease (41%), cancer (45%), and overall mortality (40%) in comparison to commuting by car or public transit.

A recent UN-Habitat report stated that bicycles represent the most efficient mode of transport in urban areas, taking up less road space than cars and being faster than walking or public transportation over short distances. Switching from a car to a bicycle saves 150g of CO2 per kilometer. Every 7 kilometers traveled by bicycle will save an emission of 1 kilogram of CO2 compared to when you cover the same distance by car. 

Choosing to bike to work can significantly reduce traffic congestion. According to the European Court of Auditors, traffic congestion costs Europe about 1% of its GDP every year – and bicycling can play a big role in reducing that cost.

• Bike lock or a secure storage place at work
• Puncture repair kit and basic tools
• Wet wipes for a quick cleanup of hands and face
• Weather-appropriate outer layer
• Front and rear lights for night and day visibility

Terrain: Urban, a mixture of cycle paths and city streets

Difficulty: Mainly flat

Distance: Less than 10km

Any bike will make short work of a short-distance commute. A folding bike is ideal for mixing cycling with public transport or saving space at work or home. You can take it easy with a 20-minute ride and comfortably wear the same clothes you intend to spend the rest of your day in. Unless you’re faced with steep hills or are perpetually late for work and need the boost, an e-bike may not be essential and will only save you a few minutes on your journey.

Even just a 20-minute cycle ride per day can boost your physical fitness and mental health.

Terrain: Suburban, mix of country roads, cycle paths and city streets

Difficulty: Some undulations, steady pace

Distance: Up to 20 kilometers

In many ways, this is the perfect commute distance. In a busy urban area, you can still beat cars over the same distance. It is enough cycling to benefit your physical wellbeing but short enough to do every day without getting exhausted.

With an e-bike, you could cruise this distance without working up a sweat, saving the need to wear a technical cycling kit or carry a change of clothes. A commuter or hybrid-style bike will provide the right combination of comfort, control and speed, allowing you to switch it up between roads and cycle paths to seek out the most enjoyable ride to the office.

For a 45-minute commute, you could use casual-styled cycle shoes, such as our EX300 and EX300W, which will improve your pedaling efficiency and look good off the bike.

Terrain: Rural and urban roads, cycle paths

Difficulty: Mix of hills with flat and fast sections

Distance: 20 kilometers or more

If you regularly commute by bike for an hour or more a day, you will likely make serious fitness gains. The longer distance warrants choosing a bike that will make your journey fast and efficient. This doesn’t necessarily mean a drop handlebar road bike with skinny tires. There are plenty of active-style bikes to choose from, which are perfect for tackling more challenging terrain as well as zooming around town.

Regularly riding a longer-distance commute makes an e-bike an attractive option. It will ensure you reliably get to work on time, and you can take it easy or boost your fitness by putting in as little or as much effort as you want. Over this distance, you will likely find that wearing technical clothing increases your comfort and efficiency. A few well-considered purchases can easily upgrade your cycling experience.