Ever wondered how your commuting experience differs to others? Each month we share the story of a real Cyclescheme cycle commuter and ask them seven questions to sum up their experience from their two-wheeled commute. This month, it's Narinder.
Each month we feature one Cyclescheme participant and share their commuting story. We ask the same seven questions (hence the name, The Cyclescheme Seven) in a bid to build up a picture of cycle commuters across the UK. From John O'Groats to Lands End, we scour the country for the real cycle commuters who take to their bike each morning. If you'd like to feature on our website, just drop us a line on: socialmedia@cyclescheme.co.uk with "I'm in' in the subject line.
This month we caught up with Narinder to see how her commute has changed her life.
CS: Where in the UK are you?
I live in lovely Yorkshire - Bradford, West Yorkshire to be precise.
CS: What was your main motivation for getting a bike through Cyclescheme?
After having nagged my employer for over 4 years to get on Cyclescheme, it was only fitting I start as I meant to go on! My fondness for cycling sort of developed after agreeing to take part in a cycle challenge to Germany (even though I had never cycled before!), so it was a first in many ways! Then once I saw other benefits, such saving money on travel and weight loss I was hooked!! I've had 2 bikes through Cyclescheme and looking to get another when my work scheme opens again. I'm always championing the case for cycling and take part in campaigns to get our roads safer for cyclists whatever their age or ability!
CS: What bike did you get and why?
My first was a heavy mountain bike, but I soon progressed onto a Hybrid, then a road bike, and now I cycle with SPDs and clip on shoes and wouldn't have it any other way.
CS: How much did you spend with your Cyclescheme Certificate?
Of course I maxed it... why wouldn't you.
CS: How often do you commute to work by bike?
In the summer it's daily, but I mainly aim for at least 2-3 times a week; work diary permitting.
CS: Where do you commute from and to?
Home to work which is 6 miles, but if I do a longer run I can add another 13-25 miles.
CS: How has cycling affected your daily life - do you feel healthier? Have you saved money?
YES!!!! All of the above! I feel healthier, fitter, save money on travel, and encourage and motivate others to do the same. I even trained to be a 'Ability Instructor' and 'Breeze Champion', taking a group of ladies out on guided bike rides. Ask anyone and they will tell you I LOVE CYCLING. I'm looking forward to the Tour de Yorkshire and, of course, I will be playing an active role as a Pro Team Chaperone with One Pro Cycling! Also I'm going to cycle to Germany again, but this time I will be supporting a person with learning disabilities who has celebral palsy, so wish us luck!
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