new cyclist looking for advice to get me started

[boydj]

Cycle paths on the west side of Glasgow are generally tarmac and good quality. Can't say what they are like on the other side. I use my road bike on them a fair amount with no problems. Roads are more direct, though.

 

[redcard]

Cycle paths on the west side of Glasgow are generally tarmac and good quality. Can't say what they are like on the other side. I use my road bike on them a fair amount with no problems. Roads are more direct, though.

Thanks for the info.

From what I can gather, paths either side of Paisley are almost solely tarmac, with a couple of on-road sections, so probably be fine going for the road bike.

 

[kishan]

pop into go outdoors they do a cycle to work scheme there a few of my mates have gone there and come out happy with a decent bike and decent gear.

 

[jamin100]

If you havnt got the bike already have a look on eBay for a Chris Boardman Hybrid. These come from Halfords but are pretty nice bikes. I managed to pick up a Boardman Hybrid Comp 2010 for £175 back in october. Its got 700x28c wheels, 18 gears and is a very nice ride.
I use it to commute the 20 mile round trip to work and back a few days a week. Its all on the roads and take me about 50 minutes each way.

As for showering etc, we dont have showers where I work and believe me when im on the bike i SWEAT!
But ive found that having a shower in the morning and then just using baby wipes and deodrant at work does the job. Aparantly clean sweat doesnt smell so im ok.

On the return journey I have a quick shower when at home...

 

[redcard]

pop into go outdoors they do a cycle to work scheme there a few of my mates have gone there and come out happy with a decent bike and decent gear.

My employer has no plans to sign up. Too much set up and control required.