John from Ramsbottom has a quiver of bikes to choose from for his 21 mile journey to work. Nothing will get the way of his commute, including security gates and biohazards.
Name: John Drogan, Ramsbottom
Workplace: Bowdon, Altrincham
Tell us about your commuting rig:
Part way – Scott MC40 full susser with Cobra i900 hydraulic post – using the Trans Pennine trail
Full way bad weather – Boardman Hybrid Pro with skinny guards
Full way nice days – Boardman Carbon Pro
What’s your commute like?
My full commute is a mixture on road however its on the main commuter routes around the city. My shorty route is mostly off road but it’s too short and doesn’t cut out the worst part of the drive to/fro.
How many days a week do you commute by bike?
Two or three.
What do you enjoy the most about bike commuting?
Feeling charged, using energy positively rather than aggressively when trapped in a car. My fastest run was 1hr 6mins to do 21 miles whereas in the car it’s at least an hour and sometimes two when United are playing at home!
What’s your least favourite thing about commuting by bike?
Drivers using phones, not looking out for cyclists, not space on Manchester’s roads for bikes, no shower facilities at work (YUK!)
What are your main reasons to commute by bike?
Keeping fit, saving time, stress busting, and a bit of cash however I spend more on high energy foods!
Have you got any funny or interesting bike commuting stories or experiences to share?
I used to ride across Chat Moss to get to my former place of work and used to take a short cut along a farm track. After a break during the winter, I started cycling again and went along the same way to find my exit from the farmyard obstructed by 6 foot high security gates; it was much too far to backtrack, which would result in me being late and exhausted. I manhandled my Mtn bike over the top and followed it over only to discover that the gates were there as there was high risk bio-hazard! Luckily I escaped with no known side effects….. (NB: British Cycling does not condone trespassing - stick to legal routes folks)
What’s your killer commuting tip?
Always believe you’re invisible and everyone is trying to kill you!
Are you a British Cycling Member? If so how does your British Cycling membership support your bike commuting?
Yes – I’ve been riding for years so an old hand!
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)
