Commuter Profiles Homepage
Name: Paul Burfoot
Workplace: A bus garage
Tell us about your commuting rig: My bike is a Carrera Virtuoso road bike. I got it though the government Cycle to Work scheme, added a saddle bag and water bottle and was ready to go. At first I was not sure it was the right choice for commuting but I love the bike even if it shows up how bad the roads really are around here. It feels so fast after using a mountain bike.
What’s your commute like? My commute is 15 miles each way. There are some good hills near home but it’s quite level after a few miles. I ride roads most of the way but then pick up a canal path as I get closer to work. Which is quite nice, no cars to worry about, just the odd dog walker
How many days a week do you commute by bike? I try to ride as often as possible depending on the shift I am on. I still don’t fancy the idea of starting a ride at 03:00 to get to work for an early shift but have often left work at midnight and rode home on a late shift.
"It started as a challenge. I just wanted to know how quick I could get to work. As I already rode a lot the distance was never an issue. Then I found I was saving a small fortune."
Why Paul commutes by bike.
What do you enjoy the most about bike commuting? I love the time it gives me to unwind after work, I have seen things in my area I never knew were there when I was using the car all the time.
What’s your least favourite thing about commuting by bike? The drivers that seem to think you have no right to be on “their” roads. You know the ones. They sit right behind you then pass with inches to spare.
What are your main reasons to commute by bike? It started as a challenge. I just wanted to know how quick I could get to work. As I already rode a lot the distance was never an issue. Then I found I was saving a small fortune, I am in a better mood when I get home from work.
What’s your killer commuting tip? It’s your road as well don’t get bullied by the cars and keep out of the gutter, the surface there is quite bad mostly and if it goes wrong where have you got to go?
Are you a British Cycling Member? If so how does your British Cycling membership support your bike commuting? I found Sky Ride though British Cycling and this year I have become a ride leader.
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!
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