Meet Phil who regularly tackles a monster 76 mile round trip commute! Phil commutes for health, weight control and saving cash. Why do you commute by bike?
Name: Philip Atherton
Workplace: Production First Line Leader
Tell us about your commuting rig: I use a TREK 8.5DS (pictured above), it comes with front & rear hydraulic disc brakes, I have put a rear pannier rack and topeak DX multi pannier bag on it so carrying all my work clothes and bike tyre repair gear is no problem.
What’s your commute like? I have 2 routes I take for work route 1 is mainly off road along a couple of canal towpaths and is a 44 mile round trip. This route is mainly flat with a few hilly parts. Route 2 is on road all the way using Dual Carriage ways and quiet country roads, this route is a lot longer 76 mile round trip it also as a lot very hilly parts to it as well.
How many days a week do you commute by bike? 1-2 days a week for work,
What do you enjoy the most about bike commuting? Its keeping me fit and my heart healthy and you can’t beat the early morning scenery as I cycle along the canal towpaths, the wildlife you see is amazing.
What’s your least favourite thing about commuting by bike? Motorists that do not give cyclists the room we require to safely use the road.
What are your main reasons to commute by bike? Keeping fit, weight loss and the main one to save money, with the price of petrol these days using the bike for just 1 or 2 days a week the bike as paid for its self.
What’s your killer commuting tip? Always wear your cycle helmet and Hi-Vis clothes be seen and safe cycling.
Are you a British Cycling Member? If so how does your British Cycling membership support your bike commuting? YES. With membership come piece of mind while out on my bike knowing I have insurance and a professional body I can contact if I have a problem regarding my cycling. And as a member we are all supporting our Olympic cycling programme for the 2016 games in Rio.
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)
