I thought that maybe I was ready to cycle to work. After all, I had taken my baby steps on the new bike. Then two weeks ago, I had proper test ride in the safe environment of Hampstead Heath. It really was time to take it to the jungle that is London traffic.

Today was the designated day. When I woke up, almost hopefully I ran through every one of my excuses for not riding to work. Wet weather. Not enough morning time to sort things out. Unwieldy bag. Awkward clothing.

Today, though, all those excuses melted away. I was prepped. I psyched myself up. ‘You’re gonna do it, Joan. Today’s the day. The day is today.’

And before I knew it, I found myself on the road curb, bike unfolded, helmet adjusted, trouser leg tucked in with a reflective clip. Then I pushed off and I was back on the road again.

The whole exercise of bringing my bike downstairs, unfolding it, riding slowly (to avoid catching up to buses and having to overtake them) and locking up my bike at work, it all took as long I normally take to walk to work. I’m not saving much (if any) time. But it sure is fun.

Transport for London‘s journey planner has even mapped out a route for me that uses dedicated bike lanes. I took that on the way home this evening, stopping only three times to check my map print out.

Now that I’ve proven that I can cycle to work, I’ll probably go back to walking most days. I’m sure, though, I’ll try the cycle again next week.