Inspired by the success of our athletes at London 2012, Steve Carley decided to tell us about his everyday podium performance - commuting 10 miles a day, five days a week, in all weathers, to and from the Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield.
Name: Steve Carley
Workplace: Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield.
Tell us about your commuting rig:
It was an old Trek now upgraded to a Giant Rapid. So much better all round. With a better bike I now want better wheels and tyres!
What’s your commute like?
Not very far – 10 miles approximately – round trip. It’s not flat and the last quarter mile home is steep. I never seem to be ready for that but every day I do it. I’m not one to get off and push! The journey is on relatively quiet roads that do get busier at peak/home time.
How many days a week do you commute by bike?
I commute every day in all weathers. Winter can be challenging but as I don’t own a car my choices are limited.
What do you enjoy the most about bike commuting?
Where ever I have worked I have cycled (or run) most of the time. When the weather’s bad I complain but secretly I love it. The freedom and the thought that I regularly beat the traffic is really appealing. Over the years I have seen the number of cyclists increase and there is a real feeling of a cycling community.
What’s your least favourite thing about commuting by bike?
Cyclists who give other cyclists a bad name coupled with ignorant/arrogant road users……and in Sheffield……the huge pot holes!!
What are your main reasons to commute by bike?
I do it to keep fit and it is my only means of transport. Giving up the car two and a half years ago has been one of my best decisions.
Have you got any funny or interesting bike commuting stories or experiences to share?
None really but I have crashed a few times on ice and been knocked off once by a driver who “didn’t see me”, despite my powerful lights, fluorescent jacket, bright panniers……..enough said on that I think.
What’s your killer commuting tip?
For dark, winter commutes decent lights are ‘de rigeur’ and develop eyes in the back of your head!
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)
