COMMUTING - WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO DO IT? #6
19/12/2024
Raus aus dem Alltag und rein ins Abenteuer! Escape the routine and dive into adventure!
A sporty morning challenge, fresh air to wake you up, and impressions of nature: a bike can transform every commute into a little adventure. This winter, our colleagues are once again showing how to dive into this adventure. You'll get exclusive tips on safety and comfort and learn which gear works best for different bikes and rider types.
And then? The best thing is to try it out yourself! Feel the fresh wind on your face, leave all the stress behind, and recharge in nature. Escape the routine and dive into adventure to experience the freedom of two wheels every single morning!
Kathrin, proud owner of a B54 MAX GOLD, works in Purchasing
Why do you commute by bike, and what’s the biggest benefit for you?
To stay fit, wake up, and avoid at least some of the traffic chaos. Reducing the carbon footprint while saving a ton of money by not constantly feeding a thirsty car 😉
How long is your commute, and what's the route like?
One way is (flat) 20 km. Sometimes I get bored with the route, so I modify it or add other activities at the end.
What bike do you ride?
I ride my road bike without e-assist… the "Colnago Titan Work Biatch" – based on an old Colnago Titan frame with tasty Campagnolo components and matching SUPERNOVA lights: the E3 PRO 2 & E3 TAIL LIGHT 2 for a dynamo. Since I ride in all weather conditions, the titanium frame is super handy – less sensitive than carbon and no rust issues like with a steel bike.
Do you ride in winter or bad weather?
Yes, but with much more grumpiness and far less excitement than in nice, warm weather… Dealing with car headlights can be challenging – sometimes it feels like entering "mole mode." Knowing an alternate route with less traffic or oncoming cars is very helpful.
What’s your must-have gear – especially in winter?
Lights (who would’ve guessed?! 😁), a large saddlebag aka “rocket,” so I don’t need to carry a backpack. And always with me: a rotating bottle cap on the headset… Otherwise, I lean toward minimalism (not always great when riding without a spare tube, tire levers, or pump). In 2025, I might work on being better equipped.
What else do you carry with you?
Not much: phone, keys, headphones, and the usual stuff needed for a work week… mainly clothes and snacks.
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Which SUPERNOVA lights do you have or use most often?
I’m a proud owner of the B54 MAX GOLD – it was love at first sight (there are more bikes at home waiting to get their turn in the spotlight 😉). Since it’s battery-powered, it’s quick to reinstall. On the commuter bike, as mentioned, I use the E3 PRO 2 & E3 TAIL LIGHT 2 with a dynamo.
What tips do you have for someone wanting to start bike commuting?
Store clothes, etc., for a work week at the office (if there’s space). It can save you a lot of hassle. Small mishaps are possible, though: I’ve had to work in my bike gear because I forgot something important… Not sure the colleagues would appreciate that long term?! Packing and hauling daily can get annoying – best to do it all at once.
A special highlight for our cyclists every year is the STADTRADELN campaign, where we pedal extra hard for 21 days to raise awareness for mobility beyond combustion engines. Every year, we end up with some wild mileage battles within the team. SUPERNOVA always dominates the city cycling rankings in our municipality and beyond with ease. 😃
Text & Photos: Levin Sottru
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