British Cycling's Jackie Brennan works as a Recreation Manager in the north west of England and commutes from Stoke to British Cycling HQ in Manchester. She and her trusty Orange P6 mountain bike have conquered Alpe d'Huez and traversed Costa Rica, so the twice-a-week train/bike commute is a piece of cake for Jackie.
Name: Jackie Brennan
Job Title: Recreation Manager, North West Region
Tell us about your commuting rig:
Classic mountain bike in its day - an Orange P6 hardtail with Pace forks converted into a commuting bike with mud guards, rack etc and lots of rust and taped up saddle so hopefully no-one is tempted to steal it!! I have ridden it across France, up Alpe d’Huez, across Costa Rica etc so it has a lot of sentimental value to me.
What’s your commute like?
I catch the train into Manchester from Stoke-on-Trent then unlock my bike outside Piccadilly station and cycle three miles up the Ashton Canal to the NCC.
How many days a week do you commute by bike?
Twice a week usually.
What do you enjoy the most about bike commuting?
It’s a bit of a caffeine shot to wake me up for work but sometimes I feel like an urban warrior – me against the cars, other days when the weather is good it is just a pleasure to pedal my bike and watch Manchester life.
What’s your least favourite thing about commuting by bike?
The faff of panniers, bike locks, lights, hi-vis gear in winter.
What are your main reasons to commute by bike?
I don’t want to drive in from Stoke so train and bike is the best solution.
What’s your killer commuting tip?
I love KNOG lights as they are so flexible. Wet wipes are essential. I shower at home first, ride in a merino wool top then put on a clean top when I get to work.
How does your British Cycling membership support your bike commuting?
It’s great to know that if I’m involved in an incident out on the roads, I’ve got professional, experienced legal support from solicitors who know about cycling. The hints and tips give you useful ideas.
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)
