Absolutely shattered...

Hi guys.

As some of you know I've started commuting into town on my bike this week. I hadn't been getting out on my bike much until now but I'm finding after just 4 days of the 40 mile trip into london (and vice versa) is leaving me UTTERLY exhausted.

I'm falling asleep at night by 10pm if there's nothing I have to stay up for and having probs getting up in the morning even after all the sleep.

Has anyone else ever experienced this and does it wear off after getting used to the new journey?

It's so bad I've even got a headache today...

hmm, sounds a bit odd. Perhaps you're going down with something.
I used to commute on train/tube, and that used to leave me feeling completely washed out, sleepy, etc. I used to need a large mug of strong coffee to get going
On the bike I now arrive fresh & wide awake

Think of it as starting at a new gym - at first it's knackering, but you'll soon get used to it

[BillyC]

Where are you commuting from and to? Roughly what time of the day are you doing these journies, and how long is it taking you?

I was doing similar distances from Islington to Gatwick, but that was mid-winter, and coming home was entirely in the dark. That was particularly tiring - and after a while I gave up and started to use the train instead. It was absolute bliss, but that was mainly due to the Gatwick Express and a reverse commute.

I agree. Its probably just your body getting used to the stresses its being placed under from riding the bike regularly again.

Old age plays a part too!

Seriously I find winter commuting a real drain, especially driving / riding in the dark. The long summer (sic) nights in Scotland mean even going home at 9pm it's still light!

Two tips.

Stay warm and give yourself lots of time for the journey. Stressing about getting there in time can be very tiring. You'll be able to enjoy the ride better too.

Cheers for your replies guys.

The commute's from South Woodham Ferrers (Essex) via A13 into London (Brick Lane near Liverpool Street)

I tend to be of the train of thought that it's just because I'm not used to it and that hopefully after I've been doing it for a couple of weeks it won't be so stressful.

It's only stressful because I'm still getting to grips with my bike and not used to filtering through narrow gaps in heavy traffic yet. Out on the open road I love it.

I just can't believe how rubbish I feel today.

[BillyC]

Ping,

If you're not used to riding in heavy traffic, then it is going to knacker you out. Luckily it's something you'll learn and adapt to pretty quickly. Give it a few weeks - but ensure that you allow yourself to rest and recover until you're strong again - so take it easy at the weekends.

The daylight hours are going to be your friend... longer and brighter evenings make riding in traffic much easier. You'll get used to it too, and learn a lot about filtering.

Above anything - take it easy, don't put yourself in a situation you're not sure off, or endanger yourself weaving through heavy traffic. Build up your strength and observation, relax into the journey... and it'll get easier and easier.

You'll get used to it Claire, like the others say its just adjusting...

I had the same thing with the train tiring me out, using the bike i'm fine

[Biker Biggles]

The traffic/filtering bit should get easier as you get used to the route.you get to know where the dodgy bits are and where the better bits are.Ive recently been traveling to odd places all over London for work and I find it quite tricky.I feel like an amateur being passed by all the local couriers and scooters who know exactly where the bus turns right and when you can or cant use the bus lane Practice gets you there.