British Cycling member Rob Masters works for a cycling equipment importer and practices what he preaches, commuting 16 miles a day through rural Staffordshire.
Name: Rob Masters
Workplace: Yellow Limited – UK importers of Pinarello cycles, Assos and Giordana clothing and Rudy Project eyewear and helmets.
Tell us about your commuting rig: 2012 Specialized Sirrus Comp (right), no mods apart from SKS mudguards during the winter.
What’s your commute like? Eight miles each way, using parts of National Cycle Route 5 from Stafford and then A34 dual carriageway, finishing at top of Bury Bank hill!
How many days a week do you commute by bike? I try to do five during summer, usually averaging two to three across the year.
What do you enjoy the most about bike commuting? Fresh air, (VERY fresh past some of the local farms) exercise and a nice hot shower when I get to work.
The sudden realisation when you get to work of “Did I actually pack a set of underwear with my clothes?”
Rob on real-world commuter problems.
What’s your least favourite thing about commuting by bike? The usual traffic near misses, rogue wildlife that runs into you rather than away from you and the aftermath left by the local tractors down the lanes.
What are your main reasons to commute by bike? Keep fit is main reason at 46 years old, also as I work for a cycle and clothing distributor seems the natural way to travel, although I am the recognised non-cyclist in the workforce!
Have you got any funny or interesting bike commuting stories or experiences to share? Only the sudden realisation when you get to work of “Did I actually pack a set of underwear with my clothes?”
What’s your killer commuting tip? Keep smiling! Try to enjoy the freedom even if cold and wet!
Are you a British Cycling Member? If so how does your British Cycling membership support your bike commuting? Yes – just joined. Mainly for the training plans and the insurance cover, just in case.
Send us your Commuter Profile!
We want to know about your commuting experiences; how far you go, why you choose to ride, your killer tips and your commuter grumbles. Download, complete and email back your commuter profile to editor@britishcycling.org.uk and tell your story. Feel free to include a photograph/photographs of you and your trusty commuting bike!
Download Commuter Profile Form (Word Document)
