Go to a good cycle shop rather than a discount store. Explain what you need and take several bikes for a test ride. Buy the one that feels right. You will probably end up with either a hybrid or a comfort/commuter bike. The former is a bit more sporty and good for longer rides if you decide to do that. The latter is geared more to keeping you looking respectable and clean. Not so much of an issue if you can shower and change at work.
I'm not familiar with UK prices but I'm guessing that something around three hundred quid would get something that would work well for you. For example, this, which is the newer version of what I ride, goes for $500 or so here. Also get a helmet, lights and a rack and rear panniers. Panniers are a much better way of carrying stuff than a backpack.
Another thought. Choose your shop carefully. You are going to have a relationship with them. Bikes need some maintenance and you want someone you can trust. I really like mine. They aren't pushy. They didn't try to oversell me. They offered two years free tune ups (and actually did one just outside the two years for free).
The shop is kind of chosen. My employer seems to have a relationship with these people www.evanscycles.com and whilst it's a government scheme meaning I could probably go elsewhere, it all seems streamlined dealing with these guys.
I think I need to try out what bikes are these days. Evans appear to be quite happy to let you go play for a bit on production of a credit card and ID.
Like I say, Evans have a good name and a good range of stock. I like chickenfeet's Globe, Specialized are good, Trek and Kona. Outside that, I'd do a bit of research on the brand.
FWIW, when I bought my first bike I hadn't really done any biking since school and felt like a complete n00b...went to Dales and they were super helpful and pitched the advice at exactly the right level without making me feel like an idiot. They also offer a free first service after six weeks and participate in the cycle scheme.
I think Evans are a bit bigger than Dales, so probably can't offer as much of a one-to-one service. Might be an idea to go some morning during the week, so they're not too busy to help. And I suspect the sales will be starting up soon, so keep an eye out for them.
Oh, and insure it the minute you buy it...keep an eye on the T&Cs, they can be sneaky and only agree pay up if it's been locked inside a police station with an armed guards and a bullet proof lock. We're insured through the Nationwide, and we're covered as long as it's locked (and with no specific lock) or we're with it, so technically I'd be covered if it were leaning up beside me and someone lifted it.
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I'm not familiar with UK prices but I'm guessing that something around three hundred quid would get something that would work well for you. For example, this, which is the newer version of what I ride, goes for $500 or so here. Also get a helmet, lights and a rack and rear panniers. Panniers are a much better way of carrying stuff than a backpack.
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I think I need to try out what bikes are these days. Evans appear to be quite happy to let you go play for a bit on production of a credit card and ID.
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I think Evans are a bit bigger than Dales, so probably can't offer as much of a one-to-one service. Might be an idea to go some morning during the week, so they're not too busy to help. And I suspect the sales will be starting up soon, so keep an eye out for them.
Oh, and insure it the minute you buy it...keep an eye on the T&Cs, they can be sneaky and only agree pay up if it's been locked inside a police station with an armed guards and a bullet proof lock. We're insured through the Nationwide, and we're covered as long as it's locked (and with no specific lock) or we're with it, so technically I'd be covered if it were leaning up beside me and someone lifted it.
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Ay Up lights
Topeak MTX panniers (Trunkbag). It's very versatile.
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