Simon commutes 18 miles in London traffic to his job at Holborn police station. His top tip - never forget your pants. Our top tip - avoid him at all costs if you're out for a leisurely stroll on the Grand Union Canal.
Name: Simon Gray
Workplace: Holborn Police Station
Tell us about your commuting rig:
Cube Curve- with added mudguards, white wall (well fluoro!) Vittoria Randonneur tyres and bits from my Trek 8500 MTB such as seat post and comfy Bontrager saddle that I’ve used for over 10 years! Oh cycle computer that I look at on good days but pretend isn’t there when legs and lungs feel a bit ropey...
What’s your commute like?
Commute is touch under 18 miles flat as you like (ergo downhill all the way) but on busy suburban roads dicing it with London traffic and crazy cyclists! I do go through Stratford so I have the Olympic park for inspiration. It’s not pretty; gritty for sure but I love it. I’m sure Samuel Johnson said something about a man tired of cycling in London is just tired.
How many days a week do you commute by bike?
Well about 2-3 it depends on the shift and whether the kids need taking or collecting for school. Weather is not an issue as London never gets too cold and rain is just wet.
What do you enjoy the most about bike commuting?
Beating my car-bound colleagues to work!
What’s your least favourite thing about commuting by bike?
The dangers of riding in London traffic.
Have you got any funny or interesting bike commuting stories or experiences to share?
Once a ‘fun’ ride along the Grand Union canal nearly led resulted in knocking a woman into the water! Luckily, I fell onto an open tin of tuna and had a very interesting circular scar on my elbow for ages…
What’s your killer commuting tip?
Never forget your pants for when you get to work
Are you a British Cycling Member? If so how does your British Cycling membership support your bike commuting?
I am a Ride member and British Cycling inspires me to ride - through its coverage of the sport and its support of bike riders of all kinds; commuters and athletes - treating us all as important in the grand scheme of all things cycling.
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)
