Meet Cycle Sport Events Manager Jonathan Day and find out what makes his commute tick. Actually, Jonathan's ride doesn't 'tick' at all - he rides a very blingy fixed wheel commuter bike so his ride into the office is silent and efficient. His top tip - don't forget your trousers!
Name: Jonathan Day
Job Title: Cycle Sport Events Manager
Tell us about your commuting rig:
A ‘Wills Wheels’ powder blue steel fixie with carbon forks. Kitted out with white ritchey wcs finishing kit, rack, mudguards (with extension flaps!) and 25mm heavy duty tyres.
What’s your commute like?
12 miles per day, flat ride into the office from south east Manchester on quite busy roads but a few shortcuts through parks and back streets thrown in for good measure. Sometimes in the summer I do try and put a loop on which can take it up to about a 45 mile commute.
How many days a week do you commute by bike?
It varies throughout the year due to my role so I tend to commute less in the summer as I am out and about more but in the winter I try to commute in every day I am in the office (rain or shine).
What do you enjoy the most about bike commuting?
It’s a cracking way to start and finish the working day. It’s great thinking/planning time, on the way in get things in order of what needs to be done – on the way home review what you’ve achieved and think about what’s for tea (North east term for ‘dinner’)!
What’s your least favourite thing about commuting by bike?
On fixed the biggest issue is punctures in the wet, especially with the rear wheel as it’s just that bit more awkward to change.
What are your main reasons to commute by bike?
I just enjoy riding my bike, it helps me to relax and it’s probably quicker than commuting by car. Don’t under-estimate how good it is to keep you ticking over through the week too.
Have you got any funny or interesting bike commuting stories or experiences to share?
Just make sure you have always got plenty of clothes at the office just in case you forget a key item such as a pair of trousers. It’s not unknown to come into the office to see a fellow commuter tucked tightly under his/her desk with lycra covering the bottom half of the body!
What’s your killer commuting tip?
Invest in good winter clothing as it will mean that you will feel more like riding despite the weather. Plus invest in a good pump, the elements can destroy tools and components and the pump is one thing that you don’t want to break down.
How does your British Cycling membership support your bike commuting?
It’s just good to know that you have got one of the best legal firms in the country fighting your cause if you are involved in an incident. I have had way too many close scrapes over the years not to be covered.
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)
