British Cycling and everyday bike commuter Andrew from Portsmouth knows how to beat the traffic, whatever the weather.
Name: Andrew Gent
Workplace: R&M Electrical Group LTD, Portsmouth Naval Base
Tell us about your commuting rig: Boardman CX with a few upgrades, Rival front mech, PLT PRO compact bars, 28mm Gatorskins, SKS full mudguards, Specialized Phenom saddle. Occasionally a rack gets fitted.
What’s your commute like? Nine miles each way, a couple of climbs, one of which is the A3 up Portsdown Hill. Much of it is on cycle lanes.
How many days a week do you commute by bike? Five days a week.
"Leave 10 minutes earlier than you need to and always carry a puncture repair kit and tubes."
British Cycling member and everyday commuter Andrew's top tip.
What do you enjoy the most about bike commuting? Fresh air, exercise and not getting stuck in traffic.
What’s your least favourite thing about commuting by bike? Wind, I loathe it.
What are your main reasons to commute by bike? Saves £20+ a week on fuel alone, keeps the weight down, good exercise and i enjoy it.
Have you got any funny or interesting bike commuting stories or experiences to share? Earlier in the year, we got sent home early because of the snow. People were taking the mickey because of the bike and I wouldn’t get home etc. I had already prepped it with cyclo-cross tyres and got home in about 10 mins longer than normal as I had to walk up one hill. I still beat every car driver, even the one who lives two miles nearer to work than me and drives the same route with a short motorway run!
What’s your killer commuting tip? Leave 10 minutes earlier than you need to and always carry a puncture repair kit and tubes.
Are you a British Cycling Member? If so how does your British Cycling membership support your bike commuting? Yes. Plenty of tips on the website.
Send us your Commuter Profiles!
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)
