HERE ARE THE TIPS OF A TOP EXPERT IN CYCLING MOBILITY, ILARIA FIORILLO OF @milano_in_bicicletta

by Dora Marraffa

September, let's go. It's time for good resolutions. So, why not make a truly important resolution for the well-being of our lives and our cities: let's choose the bike to commute to work. But where to start? Which bike to choose, how to equip ourselves...

Guiding us, step by step, in this decision to hop on the saddle for commuting is a true expert in cycling mobility: Ilaria Fiorillo. With her ever-smiling face and legs always on the pedals of @milano_in_bicicletta, she’s a real reference point on Instagram for bicycle enthusiasts, both newbies and seasoned riders.

In her posts and stories, Ilaria shares the beauty of cycling, based on the principle that the more people ride bikes, the fewer cars there are on the road. The more beautiful and livable our cities become. So, if you also want to be that 'one more person on a bike,' as Ilaria says, follow her advice.

How to choose a bicycle.

First of all, you need a bicycle. Having one already gives you a good advantage, but if you don’t have one, and especially if you have no idea what model suits your needs, and you know nothing about brakes, wheels, spokes… Here are a few simple tips to help guide you.

Choose your bike based on the type of bike-to-work commute.

• Short-range bike-to-work, meaning between 3 and 7 km within the same city or town. In this case, you need a city bike, preferably with wide tires if you have to navigate historical centers with cobblestone pavements like in Milan or Rome. Get a bike with gears if you're facing steep hills; without gears if you live in flat areas.
  
• Medium-range bike-to-work, i.e. starting from 7 km, outside your city or town, for example, commuting from the outskirts to Milan or vice versa. For this type of route, depending on your age and fitness level, you can choose an e-bike (which is a great convenience) or a mid-range bike with gears.
• Long-range bike-to-work. If you have to ride a bike for the first leg of your commute, then take a train, and finally ride again to reach your workplace, your bike is undoubtedly a folding one.
  

Now, whether you already have your bike, are buying a brand-new one, or are thinking about renting one, perhaps for an initial trial period to see how it suits you, keep this recommendation in mind, which Ilaria is very firm about: the bike must work well. 'Especially at the beginning of your bike-to-work journey, always make sure everything is in perfect working order. Otherwise, you’ll quickly lose interest because you’ll get tired, stressed… and end up asking yourself, why am I even doing this?' And then that good resolution ends up back in the drawer of unrealized dreams. But it would be a real shame to give up, because the benefits of cycling are so many. Read the rest of article to find out what they are .

How not to sweat.

The best way to arrive at work on your bike looking impeccable is to avoid carrying anything on your back. So, no backpacks. 'Let the bike carry the load,' suggests Ilaria. Therefore, yes to bike racks and pannier bags, especially models that can be detached and turned into backpacks, particularly useful during the warmer months when you also need to carry a change of clothes. Definitely no to the basket if you need to transport your laptop. Of course, if you really don’t want to exert yourself at all, the queen of comfort that guarantees you’ll always arrive at work perfectly put together is the electric bike. Discover all the benefits of the e-bike here .

What you need to equip yourself properly and functionally.

First of all, according to the highway code, in order to ride your bike, it must be equipped with a bell, front lights, rear lights and reflectors, reflectors on the pedals, and side reflectors. A helmet is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Similarly, to feel safer, it’s better to wear comfortable shoes ('...we can put our heels in the side bag and change at the office,' as Ilaria suggests). To avoid getting dirty, mudguards and chain guards are very useful. And if it suddenly rains, it’s always wise to carry a poncho and rain pants with you.

Which route to take by bike.

Absolutely do not take the same route you’ve always traveled by tram or car, unless it’s also perfect and convenient for your bike. Otherwise, it would be a big mistake: you risk getting discouraged and leaving the bike in the garage after just two days. Ilaria suggests taking the time to assess an alternative route, one that’s faster, more comfortable (perhaps without cobblestones). The route might be longer but less crowded. Naturally, check if there are any bike lanes you’ve overlooked. And most importantly, see if you can reach your workplace by passing through a park. Sure, it may lengthen your commute a bit, but you’ll gain in terms of well-being. "Imagine arriving at work well oxygenated and refreshed by the scent of trees rather than being poisoned by exhaust fumes!".

Why choose to go to work by bike.

Exactly. This is where Ilaria’s smile lights up, as she begins to praise all the benefits of biking to work. It’s more economical because you save money (which, given the times, is no small thing); you don’t pollute; you arrive before those who drive, and most importantly, you’re filled with energy and much more alert than your car-driving colleague, who’s already stressed at 9 a.m. after being stuck in traffic for an hour. In short, you’re happier, and both the city and the Earth are happier too. And above all other reasons, this is truly the most important incentive.

How to maintain your bike.

Only if your bike is in perfect condition can you ride it with joy. So, to ride without stress and in full safety, always remember to have your bike checked by a mechanic every 3 to 4 months. However, much more frequently, it’s important to check that the chain is well-oiled, the brakes are working, and the tires are properly inflated. 'You should inflate them at least once a week,' Ilaria explains, 'to avoid punctures. Especially in the city, where it’s easy to encounter glass and nails, and particularly when it's hot, you risk getting a flat more easily if your tires are deflated.'

While we wait for every town to establish a Bicycle Office to take care of urban cyclists, you can start the change: choose to commute by bike, and why not, choose the bike to take your children to school as well. You’ll save time and gain happiness for yourself, for them, and for all of us.

For more tips or curiosities and, above all, to discover all the facets of the beauty of cycling, follow Ilaria on @milano_in_bicicletta .