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 Richard.

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 Richard to see how his commute has changed his life.

CS: Where in the UK are you?

Richard: I live in Bristol.

CS: What was your main motivation for getting a bike through Cyclescheme?

Richard: My main motivation for using the scheme was to have a decent bike which was finally affordable. The attraction of no 'up front' payment coupled with a substantial saving was a big pull!

CS: What bike did you get and why?

Richard: I got a Giant Defy 3, I wanted a bike which was quick, comfortable and would stand up to daily use. The reviews I read all pointed to this bike.

CS: How much did you spend with your Cyclescheme Certificate?

Richard: I spent £600 with my Certificate.

CS: How often do you commute to work by bike?

Richard: I commute every day by bike. No matter what the weather has in store, I take the bike. My workplace offers some good facilities so drying off after a soaking is no problem.

CS: Where do you commute from and to?  

Richard: I commute from Bradley Stoke to Cribbs Causeway. It's around 11 miles a day. During the summer months that distance can easily be increased as there are lots of 'longer' routes home! After a challenging day at work, I love the 'thinking time' that only a bike ride can offer. It's a great way to start unwinding before reaching home.

CS: How has cycling affected your daily life - do you feel healthier? Have you saved money?

Richard: I definitely feel alive when I reach work! Riding in is a big wake up call and I have noticed that I'm a lot more alert when I get to my desk. I seem to suffer less with colds and coughs, generally feeling better. Of course I've saved money on fuel and all the wear / tear components of the car are lasting longer. I don't think I could ever go back to driving to work, it just doesn't seem like the natural thing to do anymore...