The short days of the Scottish mid winter can make bicycle commuting a miserable affair but from late February to early November the daylight is there even if the weather is not.  Modern advances with cycle clothing and lighting make it perfectly possible to commute on a bike for a large proportion of the year.

West Highland Wheelers are looking at ways to promote cycling and reduce the reliance on cars; join us and make a difference.

Nevis Cycles have begun a cycle commuter club and discounts are available.  They are keen to hear from anyone who is commuting or is thinking of trying it, have a look at their website 

Take a peek too at Off Beat Bikes in the High Street in Fort William. 

Both of these cycle specialists offer discounts to members of West Highland Wheelers.

Thinking of taking up cycling?
You will get much better advice and after sales service from one of these local specialists than from some anonymous assistant in a national discount warehouse / chainstore selling mass-produced low quality cycles.  Buy your bike locally and support your local traders, you will save money in the long-run by getting good quality components that can be serviced locally as opposed to non-durable poor quality or even junk parts on a short-life throw-away cheapo bike.  These bikes are also heavy, inefficient and generally unpleasant to ride; cycling is supposed to be enjoyable and you are saving a lot by riding instead of driving so make sure the bike you buy works well, fits you properly and is therefore enjoyable.  Good advice is the key to a good purchase.

Before buying a cheap bike in a warehouse, ask yourself a few questions:-

• Will you get expert advice, local support and a club discount?
• How much will it cost you to drive to that big town to collect a bike that is just a few pounds cheaper?
• How often will you have to take it back to them?
• Will they have the parts or will you need to leave it with them and make another unnecessary journey?
• How long will the bike last?
• Will you get the right sort of bike for the style of riding you are planning?
• Will the bike fit you properly?