Journal

Local Riders Q&A - Jay McCarthy

Jay McCarthy is an Australian racing cyclist who is currently riding for Bora-Hansgrohe. He has completed both the Giro and Vuelta as well as finishing 3rd place at the Tour of Turkey in 2015. 

I met Jay when I was cycling with a friend in Lucca (Italy) a over a year ago. That is where Jay lives. He was kind of enough to ride at my pace over the rolling hills and quiet roads of Tuscany in the sun, a memorable moment for me on the bike. I asked him a lot of the questions during that ride and followed up the conversation with an email exchange which lead to him agreeing to answer the Local Riders Q&A. 

It is also worth mentioning the way he bolted up the side of a mountain on that same ride, probably the most impressive display of climbing I'd ever seen in real-life on a bike. 

Jay has been really supportive regarding Mamnick too and he sported the Sheffield made stainless steel bracelet at this years Tour Down Under, where he wore it on the podium whilst wearing the leaders jersey. I thought that was pretty cool. 

 

As a racing cyclist, which results are you most proud of and why?

2nd in the world championships when I was a junior is always a proud moment, as that's when I realised that I had some sort or a future in professional cycling. 

Which are your favourite stretches of road to ride on locally and what is it that you like about them?

Home being Lucca, I love Pizzione. It's a hard, steep climb and its just in my backyard. Great hard start or finish of a ride. 

The same question for roads anywhere in the world?

I love doing my training camps in Livigno, Italy using all of the passes - Gavia, Posso Motorolo and of course the infamous Stelvio. 

What is your most memorable moment on the bike or involved with cycling?

There's so many! But the one that tops it is in the Giro 2014 - getting the chance to go in the breakaway in stage 17 and grabbing a 3rd.

Has racing affected your relationship with the bike? If so, how?

Of course there's parts of the year when you've raced a lot and you feel like your not getting anywhere and you hate it, but when you look back they are the moments that make you stronger.

Do you agree with Mickey Goldmill's advice to Rocky that 'women weaken legs'?

No, I've been with my girlfriend for 8 years and she's been a part of getting to me where I am today. 

We are in the midst of a well publicised boom in cycling in the UK atthe moment. Has it affected you? Do you have any thoughts about why it has happened and whether it will continue? Do you see any negatives to the increase in popularity?

Defiantly no negatives to the popularity, it's great as an athlete to meet people with the same passion for the sport from all different ways of life. I think Team Sky has given the UK a good insight into cycling too. It’s always great to see a Glen Country team doing well. 

All cyclists, whether they race or not, seem to obsess over the weight of their bikes. Why do you think this is?

I think sometimes people forget that it's not about the bike, it's about the shoes and the sock height!

Do you approach riding, or ride your bike, differently now to when you first got into cycling?

No, I've always wanted to be the best and I'm still on that journey. I never got onto the bike to only improve fitness but to kick arse. 

Who has been your favourite pro riders over the years and why?

I look up to Mick Rogers because he's an extremely professional athlete that doesn't have his head up his arse.

What was you favourite era of professional bike racing?

Mine because I'm apart of it!

 What is your favorite piece of cycling kit (either something you currently own or have in the past)?

I just like sunglasses and brand new socks!

What do you think about Strava?

Not against it, great motivation for up and coming cyclists all over the world! 

Do you have any cycling pet hates?

Couch pro’s! People who think they know about professional cycling and cycling in general when they just don't. #keyboardwarriers

Cotton cap or helmet?

Cotton cap, although a helmet has saved my life a time or two. However always have a cotton cap in the jersey ready for my cafe Doppio stop. 

The benefits of spinning a low gear compared to mashing a high gear is often discussed. Putting aside the serious, physiological and mechanical aspects, what cadence you think looks right?

85-90  - although I am a spinner. 

What do you like to talk about when you are on a ride with friends/team/club mates? Do you prefer to keep the subjects lightweight or get your teeth into something contentious or controversial?

We just talk smack. 

Which three words best describe you?

'Up' 'and' 'coming’.

Did you used to listen to music before a race? If so, did you have a

favourite tune or playlist?

I don't have anything particular but Spotify always finds sometime to suit the mood. 

When were/are you most happy?

When I finish a monster ride that feeling of hitting the numbers and floating on the pedals. 

Are you the type of person who likes to have a plan? Or do you prefer to wing it? 

I like to have base plan. But can make decisions quickly if needed. 

If you could edit your past, what would you change?

No regrets, it's all been a journey, I have learnt from any decision or mistake I’ve made.

What single thing would improve the quality of your life?

Learning Italian. I'm on the way but I need to focus a bit more on it. It would make life in Italy so much easy.

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Local Rides Q&A - Jonathan Tiernan-Locke

This is a long overdue entry to the Local Rides Q&A as me and Jonathan exchanged these email nearly a year ago, so my apologies to Jon for the wait on completing this. There are also a few more Q&A's to go up on this journal over the next couple of weeks too so keep your eyes-peeled. 

Jonathan Tiernan-Locke's major breakthrough as a professtional cyclist came from winning four stages during the 2012 UCI Europe Tour, including the Tour of Britain while riding for Endura Racing. He has also rode for Rapha-Condor Sharp (2011) and Team Sky (2013-2014). 

Now JTL is riding for a team he co-founded, inspired by the patron saint of tin-miners and Cornwall - Saint Piran. ( http://saintpiran.cc )

Saint Piran was apparently tied to a mill-stone by the heathen Irish and pushed over a cliff into rough seas. The sea then became calm and the saint floated back to the beach in Perranzabuloe, the place where is was buried. 

 

As a racing cyclist, which results are you most proud of and why?

Pride comes before a fall and I’ve always felt more relief than anything else when I’ve won.  It’s funny but I see guys screaming when they’ve won a race and I’ve just never felt like that. It’s more like, “Thank fuck that’s over, and I won… And didn’t crash!”.

Which are your favourite stretches of road to ride on locally and what is it that you like about them?

Anything on Dartmoor or the South Devon coast line.  It’s all so incredibly beautiful at any time of year. I love the contrast of stringing together the moonscape of the moor with the picturesque scenes of Salcombe and Dartmouth.

The same question for roads anywhere in the world?

The Pyrenees, without doubt.

What is your most memorable moment on the bike or involved with cycling?

Getting drunk under the table in a Korean nightclub by Estonian hardman and cycling legend Jaan Kirsipuu.

Has racing affected your relationship with the bike? If so, how?

For a time it did: when I starved myself, stared at a power meter and dreaded training camps and shit races. I was trying to change the sort of rider I was, chasing something else. But now it’s back how it used to be; just going out and enjoying cycling for the sake of it. Taking an interest in the equipment again and training how I want.

Do you agree with Mickey Goldmill's advice to Rocky that 'women weaken legs'?

Sorry Mick, you’re wrong!

We are in the midst of a well publicised boom in cycling in the UK at the moment. Has it affected you? Do you have any thoughts about why it has happened and whether it will continue? Do you see any negatives to the increase in popularity?

We are, but I see it as cycling just growing up. The friction between disciplines has all but disappeared and it has become a more mainstream sport.  The anglicisation of the sport at World Tour level has attracted proper sponsors and the guys at the top are household names. Participation is higher at grassroots level and a UK based pro can now earn a reasonable living if he’s handy.  Women’s cycling is going in the right direction too, albeit more slowly. Perhaps we’re on the crest of a wave and there will be some tailing off, but I see no negatives from cycling’s new found popularity.

All cyclists, whether they race or not, seem to obsess over the weight of their bikes. Why do you think this is?

In the past I’ve been guilty of this. It’s easy to get caught up in a numbers game, and some will find it easier to shave weight off their bike than to lay off the cakes.

Do you approach riding, or ride your bike, differently now to when you first got into cycling? 

Of course. As a kid I wasn’t a cyclist! I was a mountain biker who did rad jumps!  There was no training, no SPD pedals or helmets. We’d watch MTB videos to get all fired up before going out and taking lumps out of our shins with bear-trap pedals.  Now it’s much more gentile - with training rides - although I like to get out to the local DH centre on the MTB when I can.  

Who has been your favourite pro riders over the years and why?

In my early days it was guys like Martin Ashton, riding trials.  Racing XC as a junior it was Nick Craig and Roland Green.  Then Lance came back and he was the coolest guy ever. I even started pedaling faster! Despite what has happened with the guy I still think he was the best. It was the era, and no amount of PC bullshit will change that.  In the classics Bettini was the man!

What was you favourite era of professional bike racing?

The 90’s and early 2000’s without doubt.  So many characters.  I started learning about the sport in about 2003, watching old VHS tapes that Colin Lewis lent me and reading some books. I was both enchanted and inspired.

What is your favorite piece of cycling kit (either something you currently own or have in the past)?

A Castelli Gabba jacket…so versatile.  

What do you think about Strava?

I actually like it.  I mean sometimes it pisses me off seeing these downhill segments through a local town or whatever, where some guy has basically been a menace without regard for anyone’s safety…just to put his time out of reach.  But as a harmless bit of competition I think it’s good fun. I’ll push myself harder in training to beat my own times as well, so it has a benefit.

What do you think about Sportive rides?

I used to think they were a bit pointless: to the anti social guys who are basically time trialling, I say go and do a real race.  But as a social thing, with the camaraderie of riding with a huge group, and a big event feel, I think they’re great.  It’s a date in the diary that gives people a training focus and is helping the cycling trade no end.

Do you have any cycling pet hates?

Half wheeling, poorly maintained bikes, scabby kit. 

Are there any cycling traditions that you think have been, or are being, lost as a result of changing attitudes and behaviour? And are we better off or worse off as a consequence?

There are many, but one of the most lamentable is the decline of the cycling club and the culture that went with that.  As a young rider getting into the sport I was helped immeasurably by the Mid Devon cycling club.  Getting a kicking on the club run a few times gave me something to aim for and taught me cycling etiquette and how to ride safely in a bunch.  Things I took for granted until I first rode with a newer generation of cyclist. They’ll happily half wheel you, totally oblivious.  Also the sense of entitlement that many very average cyclists have when it comes to getting support or sponsorship, expecting to be given free kit for getting round a premier calendar in the bunch.

Cotton cap or helmet?

Until about two years ago I would never dream of training in a helmet.  I guess I started feeling the pressure and was taking so much sh*t for riding without that I wore one for an easy life.  I can’t stand pro-helmet crusaders though.

The benefits of spinning a low gear compared to mashing a high gear is often discussed. Putting aside the serious, physiological and mechanical aspects, what cadence you think looks right?

90rpm

What do you like to talk about when you are on a ride with friends/team/club mates? Do you prefer to keep the subjects lightweight or get your teeth into something contentious or controversial?

Totally depends on who I’m with, but it’s mostly piss-taking and stories!

Which three words best describe you?

Wilful. Thoughtful. Youthful.

Did you used to listen to music before a race? If so, did you have a favourite tune or playlist?

I often did, but it would always change and depend on my mood. My music taste is all over the place, so it could be something uplifting, or something like Joy Division.  Either way, it wouldn’t affect the outcome.

When were/are you most happy?

Goes without saying really, but when I have no stress and a goal to work at. Now is a pretty good example of such a time.

Who would be your guests at your perfect dinner party (dead or alive)?

Churchill, Ali G, Michael McIntyre, Di Nero. They could bring their other halves to even out the gender ratio.

If you could go back in time, where would you go?

On the assumption I could return to present day? It would have to achieve something, so maybe I’d avert some great tragedy, but that wouldn’t be fair on all the others.  Perhaps I’d go back to a couple of years before Facebook came out. 

When was the last time you cried?

Probably watching some sad film, wildlife documentary or at a funeral last year.

When did you laugh the hardest?

Impossible to say!  I laugh a lot every day.

Are you the type of person who likes to have a plan? Or do you prefer to wing it?

A bit of both: I like to have the outline of a plan there and ‘wing’ the detail!

If you could edit your past, what would you change? 

I don’t believe in changing the past as it would have as yet unknown future consequences.  I’m totally happy with my life’s trajectory and wouldn’t want to alter that.

What single thing would improve the quality of your life? 

Right now?  Fish and chips and a few beers.

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Not So Local Riders Q&A - Carlos Verona

Carlos Verona is a Spanish cyclist who currently rides for Etixx-Quick Step. Whilst on holiday in Lucca, Italy, my good friend Bruno Schooling managed to ride with Carlos and persuade him to answer the Mamnick local riders questions. His answers are below. Big thanks to Carlos (and Bruno) for his time and co-operation and Etixx-Quick Step for providing images. 

As a racing cyclist, which results are you most proud of and why?

At the moment I have limited myself to work for others so I have not had so many chances to ride for myself and get results. If I have to say one maybe is the stage in La Vuelta when I was top 10 last year. 

Which are your favourite stretches of road to ride on locally and what is it that you like about them?

Actually I have been living in so many different places during the last 5 years, Madrid (Spa), Barcelona (Spa), Girona (Spa), Lucca (Ita) and La Massana (And). I always try to find quiet roads, without trafic to enjoy as maximum as possible the ride.

When I am in my hometown in Madrid (San Lorenzo de el Escorial) I love to ride Abantos climb. A long mountain but little traffic and in the forest. It is simply wonderful.

When I am in Barcelona I love to go on training to Montseny climbs. It is just 50km from the big city of Barcelona and you can find a really quiet and long climbs where to enjoy a hard but at the same time beautiful ride.

During my time in Girona I loved to go to the road which goes from Tossa de Mar to Sant Feliu de Guixols. The best road of Costa Brava.

And now that I live in the small country of the Pyrinees called Andorra, I like to ride Coll De Ordino. It is just beautiful and the views from the top are awesome.

The same question for roads anywhere in the world?

That´s a good question. Luckily thanks to my job I have been traveling quite a lot during the last few years around the world. If I would have to choose a place where comeback just for some tourism on two wheels would be Basque-land. It is a cycling paradise.

What is your most memorable moment on the bike or involved with cycling?

Be part of a team victory, it is always beautiful wherever it is.

Has racing affected your relationship with the bike? If so, how?

Yes, it does. At the end ride your bike becomes in a job, and sometimes you have to ride also when you don´t want. But I feel really fortunate to be procyclist, so I try to enjoy always as much as possible my ride. No matter if it is raining or snowing. I love cycling now too.

Do you agree with Mickey Goldmill's advice to Rocky that 'women weaken legs'?

Hahha, not really. In my case my girlfriend just make me stronger. 

We are in the midst of a well publicised boom in cycling in the UK at the moment. Has it affected you? Do you have any thoughts about why it has happened and whether it will continue? Do you see any negatives to the increase in popularity?

To be honest, I don´t know so much about this matter because I don´t visit too often UK. Maybe it is because Team Sky, Cavendish, Wiggins, Froome, Grand Depart of Le Tour... I think this popularity increasing just can be positive.

All cyclists, whether they race or not, seem to obsess over the weight of their bikes. Why do you think this is?

It is normal. As ligheter is your bike, faster you can climb. Everyting is about watts per kilogram.

Do you approach riding, or ride your bike, differently now to when you first got into cycling?

Now it is a job, when I started at age of 12 was just a game. The perspective is different but the feeling is the same.

Who has been your favourite pro riders over the years and why?

Pablo Lastras. He´s still ridding for Movistar Team. For me he always has been an example. Always attentive with the young riders, polite, a good team capitan, with more than 20 years of experience in the bunch.

What was you favourite era of professional bike racing?

The present. Present is always the best.

Do you think Bradley Wiggins looks cool despite his long socks or because of them?

Of course, I think whatever Wiggins does is cool. He is an icon.

Mudguards, mudguards and mudflaps or racing bike with clip on guards through winter?

I don´t use mudguards. I never train under the rain, I live in Spain. And if it rains while racing, mudguards are not a solution.

Do you enjoy a cafe stop or do you prefer to ride straight round?

Actually I love the coffee stops. I always do it on my recovery rides (2h max) and on my endurance rides I always do a coffee stop after 2 or 3h training.

Assos, Rapha or neither?

I have not tried it yet. I always ride on my team outfit powered by Vermac, which by the way is very comfortable too.

What is your favorite piece of cycling kit (either something you currently own or have in the past)?

My first WT jersey from Omega Pharma - Quickstep 2013.

Do you prefer to get your head down on the A6, keep a good tempo going on the B roads or get onto the back wacks? What about the rough stuff on your road bike?

Get onto the back wacks!!

What do you think about Strava?

I love it. I think Strave gives the possibility to share your rides with the others, discover new roads and also is a way to mark all the roads where you have been ridding. 

What do you think about Sportive rides?

I like them. I think it is a good way to combine sport, friends, gastronomy and culture. What else you can ask for?

Do you have any cycling pet hates?

Not really.

Are there any cycling traditions that you think have been, or are being, lost as a result of changing attitudes and behaviour? And are we better off or worse off as a consequence?

I don´t think so... bikes has improved, but the essence of cycling is the same. 

Cotton cap or helmet?

This can not be a question!!! Always helmet, safe first!!!

The benefits of spinning a low gear compared to mashing a high gear is often discussed. Putting aside the serious, physiological and mechanical aspects, what cadence you think looks right?

90 rpm. For me it is the optimal one. 

White, black or coloured socks?

Black!

Frame pump or mini pump?

Mini pump.

What do you like to talk about when you are on a ride with friends/team/club mates? Do you prefer to keep the subjects lightweight or get your teeth into something contentious or controversial?

I like to talk about cycling news, and I always prefer to keep the subjects lightweight...

Who would be/is your perfect tandem partner? Would you ride captain or stoker?

Would be my girlfriend, but I would ride as capitain :-)

Which three words best describe you?

Constant, worker and human.

Did you used to listen to music before a race? If so, did you have a favourite tune or playlist?

I don´t listen so much music. 

When were/are you most happy?

When I am surrounded by my family and girlfriend.

Who would be your guests at your perfect dinner party (dead or alive)?

hahha this would be Mark Cavendish, and alive, of course!!!

If you could go back in time, where would you go?

I like live the present, I would never go back.

When was the last time you cried?

I don´t do it so often, so when I do it is due to personal circunstances that are private.

When did you laugh the hardest?

Listening any history from our sport director Brian Holm... he´s so funny.

Are you the type of person who likes to have a plan? Or do you prefer to wing it?

I love to have a plan, otherwise it costs me everything double. 

If you could edit your past, what would you change?

Anything. Everything happens for a reason.

What single thing would improve the quality of your life?

Have the bakery in front of my home and not down into the valley. I live in a hill and every time I want to go to the bakery by bike I have to climb a climb of 2km at 8%.

images provided by Carlos Verona / Etixx-Quickstep 

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Local Riders - Tom Stewart

Tom Stewart started mountain biking at the age of 14, not racing, just riding. At 16 he got his first road bike and started training with his first club, The Doncaster Wheelers.

After completing his A-levels he moved to Whistler, Canada for a year where he worked as a bellman in a hotel and spent the year skiing and mountain biking. At 19 he moved back to the UK to start a masters degree in Civil and Structural Engineering at The University of Sheffield. 

Tom's first proper season road racing was in 2012 under the guidance of local riders Dave Coulson and Chris Walker of Team RST. At the start of 2013 Tom raced for Team Sportscover and upon completing his degree, started riding as a full time cyclist for his current team Team Raleigh in June of this year. 

 

 

As a racing cyclist, which results are you most proud of and why?

On the second day of the Tour of Reservoir this year I was 5th. I'd placed 4th the day before and finished 4th overall but its that 5th place I'm most proud of. That was a very long tough day and at that point nobody knew who I was. I had to fight every second of that day. All the other key riders had teammates around them but I was alone on the road for the majority of the day. I think it was that ride that first got me recognised.

 

Which are your favourite stretches of road toride on locally and what is it that you like about them?

That's a difficult call. Living in Doncaster I have Sheffield and the Peaks to my West, the rolling lanes of Worksop and Newark to the South and the flat windy gutters towards the River Trent in the East. Its this variety that keeps me keen. But to pick two favourite places. I really love the little lanes around Broomhead Reservoir and the small roads that wind through Welbeck and Clumber. Both very beautiful and quiet. 

 

The same question for roads anywhere in the world?

I've spent a fair amount of time in Gran Canaria over the last few winters. It has taken me some time to find the true gems but I'd choose some of the climbs there as my favourite. The tarmac looks as though its been dribbled over the mountains like honey from a spoon. They twist and wind and climb around. Its a fantastic place.

 

What is your most memorable moment on the bike or involved with cycling?

Another difficult one to answer. Winning the University Road Race Champs last year was especially memorable so that would be up there.

 

Has racing affected your relationship with the bike? If so, how?

I suppose racing does affect that delicate relationship but I certainly haven't lost touch with my love for the sport. I make sure I regularly have leisurely rides with friends that often include a cafe stop. I train as I need to but that doesn't stop me enjoying riding my bike. If anyone finds themselves falling out of love with the sport they need to reevaluate their competitive ambitions. 

 

Do you agree with Mickey Goldmill's advice to Rocky that 'women weaken legs'?

No I don't think so. Before a big race I like to have my girlfriend over for the days leading up to it. I find it calming and a way to take away unnecessary nervousness. She's a big help when I'm anxious or stressed about a race. Partners of cyclists do have to put up with a lot of crap though and so it has to be the right woman.

 

We are in the midst of a well publicised boom in cycling in the UK at the moment. Has it affected you? Do you have any thoughts about why it has happened and whether it will continue? Do you see any negatives to the increase in popularity?

It affects me massively because the health of the UK racing scene depends heavily on the popularity of the sport at amateur level. My team, Team Raleigh, ultimately is funded by people buying bikes and taking an interest in the racing I do and so for that reason I am very grateful for this cycling boom.

I think the recent increase in popularity is due to a wide range of influences. Cycling is the new mid-life crisis sport. I mean that in a good way though. Middle aged guys whose kids are growing up and have a bit more spare cash, they buy a bike to get fit and try something new. Next thing you know they've lost a few pounds and become regulars smashing it on the local chain gang. Its great to see. The government's 'Ride to Work' schemes have really helped bike sales and given people that final excuse to give cycling a try. Of course the success of British riders at the Tour and Olympics has poured fuel on the flame.

I don't see any real negatives to this. However, instead of there being a steady trickle of new riders entering the sport and being brought up on Sunday club rides, there are guys having to fast-track that learning curve. It takes time to appreciate the etiquette and practices of riding in a group. It is absolutely the job of more experienced riders to help newcomers though and I like to think that in the area I ride, we are welcoming enough. That said, there are certainly some characters on these group rides I go on and for someone a little inexperienced it must be a hell of a baptism of fire. Its all part of the fun though.

All cyclists, whether they race or not, seem to obsess over the weight of their bikes. Why do you think this is?

Well the lighter the bike, the faster it is, so long as it stays stiff enough. That's the obvious answer but I think it goes further than that. Cycling isn't just someone's sport, its their passion, and the endless upgrading of bike and kit is as much a part of that as the riding. Some people scoff at guys with bellies riding round to the cafe on £5k bikes with tubs. Well to me that's not the point, the point is they're riding round on a beautiful piece of engineering brilliance and there's just something about that feeling of having a gorgeous bike between your legs.

 

Do you approach riding, or ride your bike, differently now to when you first got into cycling?

There is obviously a lot of training that has to be done now. Training that is specific and not just riding around like it used to be. That's inevitable really but I'm still riding with a smile on my face, most of the time.

 

Who has been your favourite pro riders over the years and why?

 

To be honest I haven't followed road cycling that much until recently. I have admired the pro mountain biker Richie Schley for a while. I got to race against him in Canada. I didn't realise it was him at the time. I'd get a gap on the climbs before he'd rinse past me on any kind of decent. When we'd crossed the line and he took off his glasses and helmet I couldn't believe it. We had a good laugh after that. I like his outlook on mountain biking and the way he rides. He just seems to have this deep routed happiness and satisfaction with his life and I don't think many people truly have that.

 

Following road racing more recently, I'd have to pick Philippe Gilbert as a favourite.

 

What was your favourite era of professional bike racing?

I haven't followed the sport properly for long enough to pick one I'm afraid.

 

Mudguards, mudguards and mudflaps or racing bike with clip on guards through winter?

I've done my time on a blue Ribble with mudguards so nowadays its got to be racing bike year round. Winter riding can be very tough so why make it harder? Do yourself a favour and train through winter on a decent bike that's comfortable and light.

 

Do you enjoy a cafe stop or do you prefer to ride straight round?

Dave Coulson wont approve but cafe stop all the way for me. Get my training done then head to a cafe on the way home for a coffee. Perfect. Chamois time counts as training time after all.

 

AssosRapha or neither?

I'll be frank, both Assos and Rapha are too expensive for me. I know its boring to say this but we're sponsored by MOA and I think their kit is fantastic. The quality is brilliant, as is the fit. That said, I have a couple of Rapha's merino base layers I managed to buy cheap in my collection. 

 

Do you prefer to get your head down on the A6, keep a good tempo going on the B roads or get onto the back wacks? What about the rough stuff on your road bike?

Where I live there is no reason to spend any time on busy roads at all. Understandably this isn't the case for all but you simply put yourself at greater risk riding on busier roads.

I'm a big fan of rough stuff on the road bike. That probably stems from my mountain bike background but I just enjoy the challenge of it and the feeling of adventure it brings.

 

What do you think about Strava?

I hate to admit it but I think its a good laugh. I don't take myself too seriously on there but I'll certainly have a crack when I know a friend has the KOM somewhere.

 

What do you think about Sportive rides?

They're not for me but I do appreciate their appeal to others. I think actually they play an important role within our sport especially for people who I mentioned earlier are newcomers and might not have been brought up in a club. They're a great way for people to challenge themselves, discover new places and to learn. Sportive rides shouldn't be underestimated though. Over the coming years we'll see their popularity explode.

 

Do you have any cycling pet hates?

This whole alleged rivalry between road and mountain bikers. Its manufactured and a gimmick.

 

Are there any cycling traditions that you think have been, or are being, lost as a result of changing attitudes and behaviour? And are we better off or worse off as a consequence?

I'm concerned a little about the state of the industry and the way the larger cycling shop chains behave. Its a difficult subject because we all love a bargain but its going to kill the local bike shop. These big companies slash prices and just rely on a massive turnover to make profit rather than maintaining margins. If I need something though I want it as cheap as possible and if Evans or ChainReaction have it with 40% off its tough to refuse that.

 

My local bike shop in Doncaster is Don Valley Cycles and they are the only reason I am sat here as a professional cyclist. They helped me out no end with parts and advice when I bought my first road bike at 16. The Doncaster Wheelers are based out of that shop. Its a part of the community. Every other Saturday they run a novice ride for absolute beginners. Its a real success story. Russ Downing has his bike serviced there and Graham Briggs even used to work there. Well for me they have something at Don Valley the big websites will never have. They have character and passion.

There are still cracking deals to be had at these local bike shops and they know their stuff too. Like I say though, this isn't a cheap sport and where is the first place you check when your chain needs replacing? Its a tough one...

 

Cotton cap or helmet?

Helmet every time. I've fallen off myself and seen too many others crash to possibly justify not wearing one. 

 

The benefits of spinning a low gear compared to mashing a high gear is often discussed. Putting aside the serious, physiological and mechanical aspects, what cadence you think looks right?

I think a fast cadence always looks better. When a rider's shoulders are solid and their hips aren't rocking, but they're pushing 90 to 100 rpm, I think that's what class on a bike looks like. Something as simple as someone tickling the pedals like that can be such a beautiful thing.

 

White, black or coloured socks?

Either white or black, but never coloured. 

 

Frame pump or mini pump?

Mini pump for me. Bikes should be clean and clutter free. 

 

What do you like to talk about when you are on a ride with friends/team/club mates? Do you prefer to keep the subjects lightweight or get your teeth into something contentious or controversial?

You see there aren't many people who get so much time to just sit and mull things over. Be that in your own head or with friends. In a four hour ride you can cover a lot of ground in conversation and as well as miles. Don't get me wrong, most of the time its just light hearted but certainly there are times when you get chance to get into the serious stuff.

Something that doesn't get touched on often is all the stuff that goes on in races. It would be great to see some helmet cam footage with audio of a race. People shouting mild abuse and what not. Tom Barras in a crit dive-bombing "coming in hot lads". It's hilarious at the time. I remember last year in the Lincoln GP I was in a chase group trying to catch the break. A motorbike pulled alongside and gave us a time check and said "Come on lads you'll catch them, they're not working." To which Matt Higgins shouts back "I know they're not f***ing working, they're all full-timers"...maybe you just had to be there...

 

 

 

Photo credit : From top to bottom.

Tour of the Reservoir - Larry Hickmott @ VeloUK.net

Nationals - Larry Hickmott @ VeloUK.net

Sheffield GP warm-up + race - Jerome Jacob - http://jeromejacobphotography.com/

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Local Riders Q&A - David Millar

Perhaps it's not entirely correct to include David Millar in the Local Riders series, but he did once live in Chapel en le Frith which is good enough for me.

Ever since I started following cycling, Millar always seemed to be a guy who was just as stylish off the bike as he was on it, which always appealed to me. 

He has won four stages of the Tour de France, five of the Vuelta de Espana and one stage of the Giro d'Italia. Millar is the only British rider to have worn all four of the TdF jerseys and one of only five to have worn the yellow leaders jersey.

A big thanks to Tom Southam and Kristian House for making this happen and to Dave for taking the time to answer the questions.  

As a racing cyclist, which results are you most proud of and why?

All of them, simply still being a racing cyclist makes me proud.  

Which are your favourite stretches of road to ride on locally and what is it that you like about them?

The Esponella Loop.  I roll out my drive turn left and have an hour and half of beautiful twisty up and down roads. It's my lap.

The same question for roads anywhere in the world?

Too many to mention.

What is your most memorable moment on the bike or involved with cycling?

See above.

Has racing affected your relationship with the bike? If so, how?

I'm a racer, I only truly fully engage when I have a number on my back, I find it harder and harder to motivate myself any other time.  This is the reason I know it's time to stop.  I need to stop being a racer.

Do you agree with Mickey Goldmill's advice to Rocky that 'women weaken legs'?

So incredibly no.

We are in the midst of a well publicised boom in cycling in the UK atthe moment. Has it affected you? Do you have any thoughts about why it has happened and whether it will continue? Do you see any negatives to the increase in popularity?

I think all these questions have been answered.

All cyclists, whether they race or not, seem to obsess over the weight of their bikes. Why do you think this is?

It's a fun hobby.

Do you approach riding, or ride your bike, differently now to when you first got into cycling?

Very much so.

Who has been your favourite pro riders over the years and why?

Too many to mention, most were a bit mad.

What was you favourite era of professional bike racing?

I've liked mine for better or worse.

Do you think Bradley Wiggins looks cool despite his long socks or because of them?

He looks like a mod.

Mudguards, mudguards and mudflaps or racing bike with clip on guards through winter?

Any or.

Do you enjoy a cafe stop or do you prefer to ride straight round?

Cafe stop for sure.

Assos, Rapha or neither?

Castelli, I'm a racer.

Do you prefer to get your head down on the main-roads, keep a good tempo going on the B roads or get onto the back wacks? What about the rough stuff on your road bike?

Everything.

What do you think about Strava?

Think it's a stroke of genius.  Needs to be used for the right reasons though.

What do you think about Sportive rides?

As long as they're fun for the participants then I think they're great.

Do you have any cycling pet hates?

Bad form.

Cotton cap or helmet?

Helmet while riding, cap for cafés.

The benefits of spinning a low gear compared to mashing a high gear is often discussed. Putting aside the serious, physiological and mechanical aspects, what cadence you think looks right?

High cadence.

White, black or coloured socks?

Plainer the better with height that suits the wearer.

Frame pump or mini pump?

Either or.

What do you like to talk about when you are on a ride with friends/team/club mates? Do you prefer to keep the subjects lightweight or get your teeth into something contentious or controversial?

Depends who I'm riding with. I like to listen.

Who would be/is your perfect tandem partner? Would you ride captain or stoker?

Stuart O'Grady.  I think we'd take turns.

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Local Riders Q&A - Simon Keeton

I'm lucky in that I get to ride by bike with Simon Keeton most weekends as part of the Rutland club runs. He was one of the first people I sent these questions to and although it's taken him nearly eight months to complete them, I always knew his answers and photos would be well worth wait. 

Simon once told me he was like a 'stick-of-rock', in that if you cut him in half he'd be 'Rutland through and through'. He's not ridden for any other club and followed in his father Colin's footsteps by being a stalwart of the club. A rider with a ton of class and great bloke to boot. 

Simon, along with his mate and fellow 'Rutlander' Jon Rickards is a former World Tandem Hour record holder. 

What would you say are the benefits of a new rider joining a proper cycling club?

If you join a proper "Club" that has members who've been riding and racing for years, then you should learn from those members about Club life and all that goes with it, riding skills, road craft, racing, promoting events, how to ride in a bunch and most importantly etiquette when riding in a bunch. What gets me is when people join a “racing team” or a Club that's only been around for about six months, they go out riding with them for a bit and almost overnight they think they’re the next Mark Cavendish and they know everything there is to know about riding and racing a bike.

Mudguards, mudguards and mudflaps or racing bike with clip on guards through winter?

There is absolutely nothing to discuss here, mudguards and the all important rear mud-flap all the time. For the weather that we have in the UK from November through to March and our atrocious roads there is no other option. How people can set off on a ride in the rain with no mudguards is beyond me, they must enjoy getting wet and cold.

Do you enjoy a cafe stop or do you prefer to ride straight round?

I do enjoy a good cafe stop but I'm not always fussed about stopping, just depends who I'm out with, the weather and how I'm feeling. I do our Club’s Saturday morning teacake ride but I don’t usually stop at the café as it’s only a short ride, I prefer to stop at the café on the longer Sunday ride.

 

Assos, Rapha or neither?

Assos is my preferred choice for most of my cycling wardrobe. I wore Assos bibshorts when I raced as a schoolboy and I've never really worn anything else, I’ve tried a few other makes of shorts but nothing beats Assos, they're just so comfortable despite the high price.

Do you prefer to get your head down on the A6, keep a good tempo going on the B roads or get onto the back-wacks? What about the rough stuff on your road bike?

A good tempo on the A and B roads is good in a group or if you're out on the chain gang but most of the time I like to get out onto the back-wacks and get away from traffic as much as I can. As for rough stuff on your road bike, yes why not, it always makes the ride more interesting and you’re not likely to see any cars which is always a good thing.

What do you think about Strava?

It's alright if you're into thatsort of thing but I'm not really a stats and charts kind of person although I do like to look atwhere I’ve been and probably the average speed for my ride. For training I'm kind of old school, its all about riding your bike and hours in the saddle not looking at how fast someone else can ride on a "segment" of a road. When it comes down to it, speed only really matters when you've got a race number pinned on your back.

What do you think about Sportive rides?

They're alright in that they're getting people out of cars and onto bikes so that's a good thing but I’ve never entered one myself. I can’t really see the point of paying between £20 and £40 to ride with a group of cyclists on roads that I ride anyway and then get a certificate to say that I’ve ridden that specific route of 100km in such and such a time. The way that road racing is going in this country I can see that sportives will become more and more popular and will become “unofficial” races, a bit like reliability rides. With the season long Premier Calendar events down to just a handful of racesa year and so many local races and events just disappearing I can see riders turning to sportives in the not too distant future and treating them as races.

Do you have any cycling pet hates?

People wearing shorts in winter, what’s all that about? Just because it’s sunny in November and you can see some blue sky from your kitchen window why on earth would you go out in shorts?Black socks are another one but that’s the next question and sock length is another debate that could go on forever.  

White, black or coloured socks?

This is a bit like the mudguards in winter question, as white socks are the standard issue for road riding. Black doesn’t and shouldn’t really be an option; if they are then they should only be worn in winter under overshoes. White socks with some colours are perfectly acceptable and socks should only be ankle high. If you want to wear socks half way up your calves or up to you knees then you should be playing tennis, not riding a bike. 

Are there any cycling traditions that you think have been, or are being, lost as a result of changing attitudes and behaviour? And are we better off or worse off as a consequence?

Club riding and etiquette is something that’s been disappearing for quite a while. It’s good that there are more and more people on bikes because this hopefully means less people in cars. The Wiggo, Cavendish and Froome boom can do the sport no harm at all, but its basic club riding that today’s breed of new cyclists seem to be missing out on. Going out and buying all the best tackle that money can buy doesn’t just suddenly turn you into a good biker rider / handler.

Cotton cap or helmet?

Up until recently I was still part of the old school of cotton cap wearers. My Dad was killed in 1999 whilst racing anddied from his head injuries but I still didn’t wear a helmet even after that. A couple of years ago we had an older guy come down on one of the mid-week runs and landed straight on his head and we were only doing about 10mph so after that I started to wear one. I was probably one of five out of the forty or so riders on the run that didn’t wear a helmet so I felt a bit guilty at not wearing one. You could say that it was a like being in a race when you’re out with that amount of riders, only you’re not wearing a helmet and everybody else is. Chris Walker also had a dig at me on the way out to watch Lincoln a couple of years ago for not wearing one so I decided it was probably time to see sense. I must admit though if it was scorching hot and I was in Mallorca on a ride with a few others I think it’d be a cotton cap day.  

The benefits of spinning a low gear compared to mashing a high gear is often discussed. Putting aside the serious, physiological and mechanical aspects, what cadence you think looks right?

Everyone seems to think that they can spin gears like Armstrong and Froome and win like them but they can’t, everybody is different. I’ve always kind of been somewhere in the middle myself, big gears if I’m riding a time trial and then obviously when I’m riding a road race it can be a bit of everything. Froome didn’t look the most elegant of riders last year on Ventoux when he jumped away from Quintana with his legs spinning like bees wings, but it worked for him and he’s obviously capable of sustaining that high cadence for a long period of time.

Frame pump or mini pump?

I used to have a frame pump then I went onto mini pumps but now I’m back on a full size frame pump. I always find that frame pumps work and mini pumps don’t. There’s nothing worse than puncturing in winter, stood freezing at the side of the road trying to blow your tyre up with a three inch pump. You can guarantee that whenever you’re in a group and someone punctures they always end up borrowing someone’s frame pump rather than using their own mini pump. Mini pumps do look good and can always fit in your pocket but I’d rather have a pump I know will work when I puncture.  

What do you like to talk about when you are on a ride with friends/team/club mates? Do you prefer to keep the subjects lightweight or get your teeth into something contentious or controversial?

Nothing in particular really, whatever’s in the news, the weather, racing, anything really but nothing too serious. 

Who would be / is your perfect tandem partner? Would you ride captain or stoker?

I would say that my perfect tandem partner has been the one I’ve been lucky enough to ride many events with, my friend and Club mate Jon Rickards. I’ve ridden with a few different people on the tandem but with Jon we just seemed to “click” together when we rode together. We kind of knew how we both felt when we were racing and how well (or bad) we were both going. As for other tandem partners I would have liked to have had a go with my other Club mate Malc Elliott, maybe there’s still time yet before we both get too old and Jens Voigt would be another candidate. 

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Local Riders - Mark Walsham

Mark Walsham was born in Dronfield, his first cycling club was Chesterfield Spire. He turned professional in 1985 for the Raleigh Weinnman team and rode as a pro until 1998, riding for the Percy-Bilton team amongst others. Finally he finished his career with the Linda McCartney Racing Team.

During his career Mark won over 200 races including many stages in the classic and now defunct Milk Race. 

As a racing cyclist, which results are you most proud of and why?

Grand Prix of Wales 1987 – 138miles, won alone by almost 3 minutes.  Manx International 1984.  Around 200 race wins; everybody remembers me as a sprinter, but I always tried to win alone, always more satisfying.

Which are your favourite stretches of road to ride on locally and what is it that you like about them?

We really are spoilt with the Peak District on our doorstep.  The climb up from just outside Hathersage to the Gliding club at Abney is one that stands out for me, hardly any traffic, proper mini Alpine climb. Ann, my wife loves the back lanes and although they are invariably tougher roads, they’re quieter and take us back to our early cycling days when we just rode all day for fun as teenagers, before racing took over.

The same question for roads anywhere in the world?

Would have to be in South Africa, the road around the Cape, troops of Baboons around Simons Town and spectacular views on the road back to Camps Bay & Cape Town, great memories.

What is your most memorable moment on the bike or involved with cycling?

Lots of great moments, but probably travelling, meeting and making friends with people all over the world.

Has racing affected your relationship with the bike? If so, how?

Had some good times racing all over the World, with some great teammates.  I stopped at the end of 1998 when a verbal agreement to manage the LindaMcCartney team the following year was ignored.  That was one flick too many.  I’ve met some great characters through cycling, but also a few bull-shitters/dreamers with their false promises and we all know what happened to the LM team.  So, for 13 years from then I walked away from cycling.  Only started riding again 2 years ago, for pleasure and fitness. I’m just like a kid again, loving it, it’s back to being ‘all about the bike’.


Do you agree with Mickey Goldmill's advice to Rocky that 'women weaken legs'?

He must have batted for the other side, what a load of bull! A good woman gives your life stability and happiness, the foundations for success.


We are in the midst of a well publicised boom in cycling in the UK at the moment. Has it affected you? Do you have any thoughts about why it has happened and whether it will continue? Do you see any negatives to the increase in popularity?

More race coverage on the TV, more bikes on the road! – it’s got to be a good thing.  Lots of the new breed seem to have missed learning cycling etiquette through club riding, seeming to have none of the camaraderie with other cyclists – ‘all the gear & no idea’  But is that their fault?  And does it matter that cycling is attracting a different kind of rider?  More people on bikes has to be a good thing.

All cyclists, whether they race or not, seem to obsess over the weight of their bikes. Why do you think this is?

People sometimes look for easy answers, it’s easier to buy a light bike than ride harder for longer, eat less and lose body weight to improve performance.


Do you approach riding, or ride your bike, differently now to when you first got into cycling?

I’ve regressed back to my youth in my riding, enjoying riding in the lanes.  Ann & our son, Sam both ride, so it’s great to ride together.  Still like to have a blast now and again though.

Who has been your favourite pro riders over the years and why?

‘Big Ted’ has to be my no 1 hero, what an insatiable beast he was, super aggressive on the bike and a modest man off it.

What was your favourite era of professional bike racing?

1980’s


Do you think Bradley Wiggins looks cool despite his long socks or because of them?

Despite.

Mudguards, mudguards and mudflaps or racing bike with clip on guards through winter?

Depends how many bikes you have.  Mudguards and mudflaps work best, especially if you ride with others.  But if you only have 1 bike, clip on guards are fine, at least an effort’s been made.

Do you enjoy a cafe stop or do you prefer to ride straight round?

Both; if its a steady Sunday ride with the family or old friends a cafe stop’s great.  If it’s a tempo ride, then straight round, a lot of people have to get back for family duties nowadays.

Assos, Rapha or neither?

Largely depends on the size of your wallet.  Never used Rapha, Assos is great quality, but loads of good kit out there nowadays.  Some of the stuff direct from China is good and great prices – no need to be a label snob.

Do you, or have you, got/had a favourite piece of cycling kit?

I do like a gillet, great for keeping out the chill, without overheating.  My Garmin Edge is great as well, always used to keep a training diary, but the Garmin makes it so easy to upload and analyse your rides.

Do you prefer to get your head down on the A6, keep a good tempo going on the B roads or get onto the back wacks? What about the rough stuff on your road bike?

The latter two would be my choice, A6 only preferable when it’s icy.  ‘Back wacks’ are great for scenery and getting away from traffic, B roads are great for upping the tempo and getting the average (speed) up.

What do you think about Strava?

Strava’s good as long as it doesn’t become the objective and remains a means to record/anylyse your rides, as an encouragement to try different roads and as a motivation tool to get out there and ride.

What do you think about Sportive rides?

Great for attracting newcomers to the sport, but I can’t help thinking they’re a money making thing, in this country at least; but saying that, anything that gets ‘bums on seats’ has to be good.

Do you have any cycling pet hates?

Ignorant car drivers – very rare that any of them acknowledge you for singling out or sometimes that you even exist!  Still, that’s what road rage was invented for, although these mini pumps are nowhere near as effective against the tin boxes as the longer, heavier ones we used to have ;-)

Are there any cycling traditions that you think have been, or are being, lost as a result of changing attitudes and behaviour? And are we better off or worse off as a consequence?

Most of the big races that were the staples of the British road racing calendar seem to have disappeared; seems odd that there is so little racing for Elites during this current boom.  I’ve been out of it for a long time, but suspect it may be road closures that’s the big issue – correct me if i’m wrong.

Cottoncap or helmet?

Speaking as someone who’s had multiple fractures of the skull and cheekbone, obviously i’m a cotton cap man – old school i’m afraid, freedom of choice, although i’m pleased my son wears a helmet.  Yes a helmet may reduce the damage caused in an accident, but If the aim is to reduce accidents, educating drivers is the priority, not legislation targeting the cyclist.

The benefits of spinning a low gear compared to mashing a high gear is often discussed. Putting aside the serious, physiological and mechanical aspects, what cadence you think looks right?

The tendency now seems to be more towards increased cadence as a more efficient technique and a fluid pedalling action always looks better, classier than the brute force approach of bigger gears, heaving out the saddle.  ‘Froomey’ takes it to extremes though, very effective, but can’t help thinking he looks a right ‘Fred’ with his little gear attacks.  Just goes to show there’s more than one way to get the job done.

White, black or coloured socks?

Contrast’s the key, white socks with any colour cycling shoes, black looks ok with white shoes – not keen on these long socks though.

Frame pump or mini pump?

A frame pump will do more damage in a ‘ruck’, but mini pumps are convenient and lighter for cycling

What do you like to talk about when you are on a ride with friends/team/club mates? Do you prefer to keep the subjects lightweight or get your teeth into something contentious or controversial?

Varies, depending on who you’re with and what the mood is.  That’s why it’s good to ride with different people, to get different opinions, views.

Who would be/is your perfect tandem partner? Would you ride captain or stoker?

Always threatened to do a tandem TT with Ian Sanders – me on the front of course as Sandy’s ‘mince pies’ are not so good – not sure he’d trust me though; he has been in a high speed car accident with me driving and was never a relaxed passenger after that!

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Local Riders - Adrian Timmis

Our local riders Q&A continues with someone that's spent plenty of time on two-wheels across many cycling disciplines. Adrian Timmis is one of only 26 British riders that have ever finished the Tour de France. He has also competed for Great Britain on Road, Track, Cyclo-cross and MTB in both World Championships and World cups. 

He was part of the ANC-Halfords team of the mid-80s, the last British team to be invited to the Tour until Barloworld (2007). Other riders of note from that team being another local Malcolm Elliot and Shane Sutton. 

A big thank you to Adrian for taking the time to answer and for providing the photographs. 

_____________________________________________________________________________

As a racing cyclist, which results are you most proud of and why?

My stage win in Midi Libre 1987 just before the Tour, it was against some of the best riders of the time and riders I read about growing up, I made the front group and as we came into Bezier with 3 km to go Luc Leblanc attacked and got a gap, then with a km to go I attacked catching Leblanc 400-500m to go just as we turned on the boulevard going straight past him for the win .

The Rochester Sky TV crit 1995 as it was unexpected, I'd had a few personal problems the last few years, but had got my act together, changed my diet, had been training really well with Chris Walker doing our 'secret' crit training sessions, we both knew each other very well and a week before he told me I was going to win one of these crits, it was a hard crit with a hill every lap with a hairpin at the bottom, Chris and I spent most of the race off the front together only to be brought back, but with 5 laps to go I attacked on my own to take the win and Chris got the bunch gallop for 2nd, because of what I'd been through the last few years it was an emotional win for me and after the finish there were a few tears from me as Chris hugged me.

Which are your favourite stretches of road to ride on locally and what is it that you like about them?

Birches Valley on Cannock Chase because its a road i grew up training on, always loved smashing up there. While living in Sheffield the decent of the Surprise into Hathersage, just as the decent opens up and you see Hope Valley in front of you, the view says it all. 

 

The same question for roads anywhere in the world?

The decent of the Col d'Izoard into Briancon, because its so much fun and brings a big smile to your face.

 

What is your most memorable moment on the bike or involved with cycling?

Riding up Alpe d'Huez this year with my niece Phoebe Martin, never thought I'd ride up there with one of my nieces, very proud uncle and she did it in an hour and 10min.

Has racing affected your relationship with the bike? If so, how?

Always loved the bike, don't ride it as much as I want these days, but still love the experience when I do.

 

Do you agree with Mickey Goldmill's advice to Rocky that 'women weaken legs'?

Old wife's tale! 

We are in the midst of a well publicised boom in cycling in the UK at the moment. Has it affected you? Do you have any thoughts about why it has happened and whether it will continue? Do you see any negatives to the increase in popularity?

I own a bike shop now so yes, it has bought the main stream to cycling, seeing loads of ladies buying bikes and 'normal' people coming to cycling. Lottery money helped bring the best out of the British cyclist and into the main stream press. There seams to be a steady stream of up and coming racers at an international level to replace the old guard, so as far as that goes it seams good. The only problem is racing and riding on home roads, racing seems harder to organize on open roads and the general public need to be educated more on how to drive with extra volume of cyclists on the road.

 

All cyclists, whether they race or not, seem to obsess over the weight of their bikes. Why do you think this is?

To one up their mates! Easier to buy weight loss than lose it personally.

 

Do you approach riding, or ride your bike, differently now to when you first got into cycling?

Not a mile muncher, happy to get out for an hour if I can, but would love the feeling of going out on club runs, cafe stops and youth hostel trips again, that's cycling to me.

Who has been your favourite pro riders over the years and why?

Sean Kelly because I grew up reading about him, then beating him a few times! But also some of the young pros of today who have better future outlook than some of us in the past and don't have to make the chooses that they may have experienced or seen in the past.

What was your favourite era of professional bike racing?

Now if I was a pro again, I'm not daft enough to think no one is taking drugs but it is a far more level playing field than it was, I/we grew up thinking the English Channel changed things and we weren't as good as the ones the other side, but as we have seen in the last few years it wasn't the sea water that made the difference. But if it was the innocence of youth it was listening to French radio Tour when I started, just listening for the names of the time and the back ground sound of team car horns.   

Do you think Bradley Wiggins looks cool despite his long socks or because of them?

Yes, I'm old enough to be a Mod anyway!

Mudguards, mudguards and mudflaps or racing bike with clip on guards through winter?

Always mudguards and mudflap.

 

Do you enjoy a cafe stop or do you prefer to ride straight round?

Cafe stop, again nearly every ride in Sheffield involved a cafe stop, spent a fortune in cafes over the years.

 

Assos, Rapha, Neither? 

Assos as I stock it!

 Do you prefer to get your head down on the A6, keep a good tempo going on the B roads or get onto the back-wacks? What about the rough stuff on your road bike?

Back wacks. I was doing rough stuff on the road bike when I started, one of my first trips to Sheffield was rough stuff through Clumber Park trying to push each other off, great fun! 

 

What do you think about Strava?

Have to admit I'm on Strava, if it keeps people on bikes I'm all for it, not everyone has time to race, so it allows people to race themselves and other people in their own time.

 

What do you think about Sportive rides?

Again if gives people an incentive ride it's fine, some people need an objective to ride, whether it's a race or sportive.

Do you have any cycling pet hates?

People bringing their dirty bikes in for repair.

Are there any cycling traditions that you think have been, or are being, lost as a result of changing attitudes and behaviour? And are we better off or worse off as a consequence?

Road etiquette, more people are just riding with mates and not joining clubs and road etiquette is not being taught (not that every club teaches good etiquette) and as the more riders we have on the road the more we might antagonize other road users. I've been out with local rides which just seem an ego fest with riders all over the road which can't seem good from behind.

 

Cotton cap or helmet?

Helmet, I know it doesn't guarantee everything, but if cutsthe odds down I'll use one. I had a bad crash a few years ago, broken clavicle and elbow, smashed my helmet and unconscious for 4 hours, may have been worse without helmet. I'm sure some people will say how do you know it helped, I don't but if it cuts odds down I'll always wear one.

The benefits of spinning a low gear compared to mashing a high gear is often discussed. Putting aside the serious, physiological and mechanical aspects, what cadence you think looks right?

Always spun, it was how I was taught as a youngster and has stayed with me today even when not fit, so high 90's looks right to me. 

White, black or coloured socks?

Not coloured, but black or white depends on colour of shoes and tan levels of legs!

 

Frame pump or mini pump?

If I could fit a frame pump I would, but have a mini at the moment.

 

What do you like to talk about when you are on a ride with friends/team/club mates? Do you prefer to keep the subjects lightweight or get your teeth into something contentious or controversial?

When I used to train with Chris Walker it was how we'd spend a lottery win, passed many of an hour on the bike or Chris would recite the whole of the previous nights Young Ones word for word, I had no idea what he was on about as I didn't watch it. Suppose lightweight.

Who would be/is your perfect tandem partner? Would you ride captain or stoker?

My wife Nicola, been MTBing off road on full suss with her in the Lakes, even got out of the saddle together,  it was great cause I had big rucksack on so she couldn't see the downhills ;) 

Paul Swinnerton once tried to get me on the back of a track tandem with him, I refused pointblank, knew how mad he was.

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Adrian is now the founder of Cadence Sport bike fitting, for more information please visit - http://www.cadencesport.co.uk/

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Local Riders - Chris Walker

 

The latest rider to take on our Mamnick Local Riders 'Quiz' is an absolute hitter! 

Chris Walker was born in Sheffield. His first club was Beighton Wheelers. He was the winner of numerous crits and twice British Crit Champion, the winner of the 1991 Milk Race and a load of other single-day races! I'd like to give a big thanks to Chris for taking the time to answer the questions and also for providing me with a load of great photography from his racing career.

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As a racing cyclist, which results are you most proud of and why?

I'd probably have to say my 4 stage wins and points jersey in the '91 Settimana Bergamasca that Armstrong won overall because I remembered watching it on TV when I lived in Italy as an 18 year old so it was great to be racing it and winning in it. I always loved racing on Italian roads anyway.



Which are your favourite stretches of road to ride on locally and what is it that you like about them?

I'm sure if I checked back they'd be a few Yorkshire riders that you've interviewed saying the same route but my favourite has to be the ride from home through to Holmfirth, over the Moss then either left and over Snake and return home via The Strines or straight at Glossop and over Chunal to Chapel en le Frith then back over Rushup Edge dropping down MamNick and through Hope Valley to get back home. I've done this with a number of different training partners over the years including Adrian Timmis, Rob Holden, Steve Sefton, Paul Watson the late Stuart Coles and in my later pro years Russ and Dean Downing and more recently with my kids and also Gabz Cullaigh and Grace Garner. They'll all tell you they love it eh Grace?



The same question for roads anywhere in the world? 

This is a hard one because I've ridden on so many awesome roads throughout the world but as I said before I loved the Italian roads where I lived in Tuscany. We normally head out to CapeTown for the whole of December as thats the only quiet period at work and I love riding out towards Cape Point and the hills around there that they use in http://www.cycletour.co.za The views are breathtaking and the light down there seems totally different to any other place I've been to. The roads and mountains in Mallorca take some beating too. Shall I go on, there's more.....?


What is your most memorable moment on the bike or involved with cycling? 

I'm not sure if its because I'm getting old and I'm losing my memory or not but the things that stick out in my mind are all the great times I've spent with our youth team both in training and enjoying their success over the last couple of years and also seeing how much enjoyment my kids are getting from cycling.


Has racing affected your relationship with the bike? If so, how? 

I've mentioned this a few times in interviews but I was unlucky because my professional career coincided with a bad period for doping and the worse thing for me was that I felt like I had to keep quiet about the things that I saw because the guys that did speak out got a hammering. It still pisses me off when I see the cheats coming out of the woodwork and saying they're sorry when I don't think they really give a shit, they've still got their stolen money in the bank! I became disillusioned with my chosen career because of the problem and just thought of it as a better way of earning money than a normal job because I thought my dreams were unachievable but my manager at the time, and good friend Keith Lambert, pulled me round and I started to enjoy my racing again albeit at a much lower level than I'd planned for myself.


Do you agree with Mickey Goldmill's advice to Rocky that 'women weaken legs'? 

Depends on the woman you end up with, if they aren't totally behind you and interfere with your racing or training then thats bad but if they support you and keep you happy then without doubt its going to make you stronger.


We are in the midst of a well publicised boom in cycling in the UK at the moment. Has it affected you? Do you have any thoughts about why it has happened and whether it will continue? Do you see any negatives to the increase in popularity? 

Cycling's the new Golf isn't it and I've always hated Golf so its all good. Without doubt it's a massive positive that we've got the boom in cycling because there are now lots more professionally run events like SKY rides and sportives but on the negative side of that there are some riders who treat these events as Tour De France stages and ride irresponsibly on open roads. I've even seen it first hand on our local Saturday run when guys jump red lights to try and stay with the bunch. Another positive is that we are getting more facilities likethe new Derby velodrome that opens next year. We are still waiting for our own in the biggest and best county in Britain though! Another point is that because its mainstream a lot of parents are getting their kids into cycling as they want them to be the next Wiggo or Cav so we are getting an ever increasing pool of young riders into the sport. I've seen it at youth races where there are 60 odd U14 girls lining up to race each other whereas my wife had to ride against the boys when she raced at that age and there would only be a couple of other girls to race against.

 
All cyclists, whether they race or not, seem to obsess over the weight of their bikes. Why do you think this is? 

Its called 'The arms race' according to British Cycling youth coach Tim Buckle and I see that first hand too. I'd have a stiff non flexy frame over an uber light one any day of the week. The great thing about our sport is the fact that someone could go to Halfords and get an entry level bike and go out training and if they have the talent they'll be able to keep up with guys on £5K and probably give them a kicking. Even most lower end bikes are good enough to race on these days.


Do you approach riding, or ride your bike, differently now to when you first got into cycling? 

Absolutely, I've got way less time to ride my bike these days but I love it just as much. I still hate getting a kicking as much as before though.


Who has been your favourite pro riders over the years and why? 

I always mention Kelly because I loved the way he raced. In the modern era its Gilbert, Cancellara and Dan Martin for the same reason as with Kelly.


What was you favourite era of professional bike racing? 

Now for the reasons mentioned in one of your earlier questions.


Do you think Bradley Wiggins looks cool despite his long socks or because of them? 

Despite his socks because I'm old school and don't rate his sock or shorts length although my sock length has increased this year, have you seen him in his whistle?


Mudguards, mudguards and mudflaps or racing bike with clip on guards through winter? 

I used to be full mudguards and flaps at the rear as long as possible and use a real heavy winter bike so you thought you were making yourself stronger but things have changed. Winter bikes that most ride these days are better and lighter than our old race bikes and clearances dont allow proper mudguards. I could go against the grain and have an old fashioned shed of a winter bike but I get a big enough kicking as it is without giving myself a weight disadvantage.


Do you enjoy a cafe stop or do you prefer to ride straight round? 

Most of my weekend riding is in winter as I'm at races with the kids in summer so we normally skip the cafes.


Assos, Rapha or neither?

I like them both, nice quality kit but I've only got a short paper round so its too pricey for me, so I stick to great value for money quality with RST.


Do you prefer to get your head down on the A6, keep a good tempo going on the B roads or get onto the back wacks? What about the rough stuff on your road bike? 

Always been a back-wacks man but they're harder to find as there are more car drivers finding our quiet roads and using them as rat runs to shave a few minutes off of their journeys. Before mountain bike we always used to head into Clumber Park/Sherwood Forest on our Dinnington RC club runs and I used to love it but as I mentioned before the bikes we rode were a lot different so I save the rough stuff for my mountain bike rides in Sherwood Pines or Cannock Chase.


What do you think about Strava? 

Not a big fan, I used it when it first came out but then saw times compared to mine on certain climbs that Dan Martin couldn't do. It made me want to contact these guys and say lets meet up, I want to see you drop me by 30 seconds on that 2 minute climb where you are KOM. I suppose its still a great tool to see where you are on a personal level but you can do that with a Garmin without having to tell the world.


What do you think about Sportive rides? 

I covered this in an earlier question but its mainly positive.


Do you have any cycling pet hates? 

Sticking tubs on, thats why I get someone else to do it. Oops that reminds me I owe Dan Storey £20, I always flick him!


Are there any cycling traditions that you think have been, or are being, lost as a result of changing attitudes and behaviour? And are we better off or worse off as a consequence? 

I think the big change from when i started is the grass roots club scene and the great old school advice that you'd receive from the older members whether you asked for it or not!


Cotton cap or helmet? 

Come on Thom, don't go there!


The benefits of spinning a low gear compared to mashing a high gear is often discussed. Putting aside the serious, physiological and mechanical aspects, what cadence you think looks right? 

I prefer to see cadence and save the big gears for the sprint or attack at the end of the race or training ride. There's nothing better than seeing a rider with a sweet pedalling action flicking over the pedals when moving through the bunch. I can always remember being in awe of Adril Van Der Poel when I rode against him in pro races. Its funny because I can remember seeing Tom Stewart for the first time on our Saturday run. I'd asked Russ earlier in the ride if he could recommend anyone locally when we were setting up RST Racing Team and he said 'mountain bike Tom, he's out today' and when I saw him the first thing that I noticed was his classy pedalling action. When it comes to time trailing my wife and I are divided on this one because she's always telling our kids to push bigger gears and I tell them to use more cadence.


White, black or coloured socks? 

White with some colour for me, Black when mountain-biking.


Frame pump or mini pump? 

Can you still buy frame pumps?


What do you like to talk about when you are on a ride with friends/team/club mates? Do you prefer to keep the subjects lightweight or get your teeth into something contentious or controversial? 

Depends what mood I'm in or how stressed I've been at work, sometimes its just nice to chat and clear your head without going too deep.


Who would be/is your perfect tandem partner? Would you ride captain or stoker?

It'd have to be Russ Downing because he finds gaps that aren't there, I'd be stoker going flat, stick with my eyes shut.

Photo credit : Chris Walker @ Monsal HIll climb - Andy Jones.

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Homeroads

For a British rider, racing the Tour of Britain is always great. There is a familiarity, an ease almost, you get when racing at home that you just can’t find anywhere else, no matter how well, or how far you go to adopt another country as your homeland.

Growing up in the UK as a racing cyclist, until very recently, meant that from an early age all eyes had to be focused on other countries. The races here meant nothing. Europe was where the teams were, it was where the riders were, and it was where the races all happened. Your whole concept of racing bikes was based on a European dream. It might well have been a dream that you loved, but it is one that you could never know as well as the people who really truly belonged there.

The real difference was that the European guys don’t start by seeing the roads of the Tour of Flanders or the Tour of Lombardy as part of a race; they start by seeing them as a route to school, or the best way to a friend’s house. Those races, the roads and the landscape are simply part of those riders.

 

For the British rider racing abroad, those places couldn’t exist without cycling; you’d arrive on a foreign shore and see the world through the eyes of a bike rider and you can only ever understand so much when you only have one angle to look from.

It gives the home riders, the Europeans who own the rights to all the really big races, an advantage that no amount of wind tunnels can replicate, and no amount of GPS files can account for. It allows them to understand the area they are racing in so intrinsically that they always have the upper hand.

The same is true for the British riders when the pro peloton comes to them. The tables are turned at the Tour of Britain, and it makes for one occasion in the year when you really feel at home, and you start to see things the way the Italians do at the Giro, or the French do at the Tour.

It’s not just where the road is going to go, or when climbs might arrive. It is knowing that the weather is about to change, or that there will be parked cars in the next town. It is about knowing how heavy the road surface in the country is, and how hard you can hit it. It is about understanding Dartmoor and how tight a squeeze it’ll be through the lanes of Devon or Somerset. It’s about knowing where the topof Haytor is…

 

You understand your roads like no one else because you’ve lived on them. Every road sign, every mile marker, and each painted line – all markings that make clear and perfect sense.

And yet it goes further still, a bike race isn’t just about the four hours of the day you spend racing from one line to the next. It also includes the logistics of getting from one place to another, eating dinner, finding your way around another hotel, and getting some rest.

Knowing where you are, knowing that you don’t have to think twice when you check in, or go to ask how the Wi-Fi works, nor not having to worry about the roaming charges on your mobile phone, makes the whole thing so much easier.

There are the fans too. The fans here are your friends, people you know and who know you. Having a few people from your club come to the start to wish you luck is a thousand times better than the experience of having a demanding autograph hunter thrust six pictures of you in your face and saying “SIGN!”


I used to think that being a British rider at the Tour of Britain was like having the party at your house instead of going to a party at friends: You could enjoy the plaudits for being the host. But it’s not; it is better than that, because when the party is at your place you always have that worry that someone is defacing a painting, or defecating in the garden.

There is none of that stress when the Tour comes to your country. There is no worry that the place will get trashed, because fortunately you know that someone else has it all in hand, and you can just enjoy the rare privilege of racing at home.

 

 

Tom Southam

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