Meet Chris McGovern, who uses his 'cross bike to get to school fast (and so his Dad doesn't have to give him a lift in the morning).
Name: Chris McGovern
Workplace: n/a Still in school…
Tell us about your commuting rig:
Specialized Crux Frame, Xero XBR-1 Wheels, Tektro Oryx Brakes, Shimano Ultegra 9spd Levers, Shimano 105 Crankset, Shimano XT Cassette and Rear Mech, KMC X9SL Chain, Campagnolo Veloce Front Mech, Shimano M525 SPD Pedals, 3T Forgie XL Bars/Stem, Fizik Rondine Saddle.
What’s your commute like?
5 miles, There is a gradient plus a few steep but short hills, on or off-road depending on how I feel, mostly downhill on the way there and uphill on the way back.
How many days a week do you commute by bike?
All 5!
What do you enjoy the most about bike commuting?
It wakes you up in the morning, and allows you to get some riding in when you can’t train… not to mention it’s faster than my dad in his car!
What’s your least favourite thing about commuting by bike?
Rain. Oh, and cars who move into your way when they’re stuck in traffic because they’re jealous that you’re moving and they aren’t.
What are your main reasons to commute by bike?
It’s less hassle for my parents, plus it’s good base training to just do a (fairly) easy 10 miles a day. Hang on, what am I saying?; it’s fun!
Have you got any funny or interesting bike commuting stories or experiences to share?
Once in the snow, I caught a guy I know out on his road bike. It had snowed during the day, so he had ridden in fine in the morning, and got stuck 5 miles from home on the way back. I got a text from him 4 hours later saying he’d just got home after walking 5 miles home in road cleats on ice.
What’s your killer commuting tip?
Get a cross bike. They’re quicker than mountain bikes and more multipurpose than road bikes so you can use them for off road commutes as well. It may sound stupid when on road tyres in the summer, but when the snow comes they are invaluable!
Are you a British Cycling Member? If so how does your British Cycling membership support your bike commuting?
I am a member, but because I race. The main way it supports my bike commuting is the discounts on parts: my commuter is also used for cross racing so I go through chains and cassettes like nobody’s business!
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)
