Most people know Lachlan as the young Garmin Sharp neo-pro who in 2013 broke out - Winning a stage at the Tour of Utah and leading the US Pro Cycling challenge for three days as a mere 21 year old kid. But ask Lachy and you’ll find out he isn't too concerned with that.

Lachlan isn't your standard, 22 year old kid, or your orthodox pro. Riding his bike for the places it can uncover and the people you can meet along the way, success in the World Tour is only really a by product of that. In December last year, he opted out of the preseason training camp, the hotel, massage - The ideal training environment. Instead he and his brother headed for country pubs, a tent and the unforgiving desert tracks of outback Australia, doing 2000km of base training across some of most harsh environments in the world, cooking and sleeping with what they had. The reason? Bike riding is about exploring the world, about challenging yourself, about uncovering new roads, engaging with people you normally wouldn’t and about leaving your comfort zone. Not just racing in the World Tour. 

Thereabouts is Lach and Gus Morton, and their idea is about changing the way people look at sport. You can catch the boys philosophy and adventures online at their website www.thereabouts.com.au, or on their instagram (@hereorthereabouts). They have also produced a 25min documentary film, a 52 page publication and a photography exhibition series from their first ride to Uluru which will be exhibited a their launch on April 24th at the Rapha Cycle Club Sydney, Australia. It will be available on the website thereafter.

We produced a handful of custom hip-flasks for Gus and Lachlan to give to the important people who have helped them on their trip. In part, Lachlan also completed the Mamnick Q&A below.

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

Results aren't always a good measure of the ride but on and off paper the stage win in Utah last year.

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

Skip the winter, get some sun on the back. But never guards.

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

Really depends on the ride. I like to train solo, ride with company and explore with a good companion or solo. No coffee stop when I'm training ( comboyne NSW Australia the exception), cafe on the ride, thermos or pub for the exploration. 

Assos, Rapha or neither?

Rapha, I can't dig the ripped dudes in the three quarter knicks in the ads. I think I'd feel like a dentist in Assos. 

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

I bought a neck warmer when I endured my first winter In the USA, 10 bucks at a sports store. It has tiny dinosaurs on it. It's amazing how much warmer I was with it.

What do you think about Strava?

It's cool for guys who get into it. Anything that gets them out for the ride. I wish it was more ride based and less segment based. I don't use it now but each to their own.

Do you have any cycling pet hates?

The judgmental, wankey side. We're all out on bikes, fuck the trend , do what feels good for you. Bike riding is a personal thing that you need to explore and understand for yourself. Aspects of pro racing.

Cotton cap or helmet?

Cap.

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 grew up a Jan fan. Something special about taking the big-blade to places it shouldn't.

White, black or coloured socks?

If I was stuck with the choice for life I'd go white, but I don't discriminate.

Frame pump or mini pump?

Depends on the whip.

What do you liketo 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 get deep on the bike. It's where I think the clearest. 

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

Captain for DZ.

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

Comboyne NSW, out the back of where I grew up. Originally it was the challenge. It's a hard 120km run with the only climb longer that 5km we had. Now it's the nostagia and the scenery. Is green, rolling farmland, volcanic soil, 600m elevation , just cows for company. Perfect.

The same question for roads anywhere in the world?

It's too hard. Majorca for coastal roads. Utah for the desert. Colorado for the high Mountains. Fuck, I could go on. I get excited looking at maps scouting what I think the good roads are, I loose hours on google maps.

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

Again impossible. Finishing a 310km epic at Uluru with my brother. Riding to 14000 ft on mt Evans. Racingthe sunrise through Sydney with my girlfriend coming home from a beach rave. Being lost with no food and water on a mtb trip after a 4hr day turned 9hr in rural NSW and curing in all with a chicken parmi and a few beers. Knocking out 390km solo in 10:15hrs for a bet with only 8 bucks left to my name ha. Dunno there is a lot of moments, I couldn't pick one over another.

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

Defiantly. I grew up wanting to be a pro my whole life. To come the realization your there is tough, it's my job now, there is pressure that goes with that. I hate numbers and pro cycling is now a numbers game. Racing can be grim, fucking painful and scary. It can also but bright rewarding and eye opening. I like the idea of the 50's pro. But I wouldn't trade it. It allows me to go out on my bike and ride everyday and call it work. 

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

No, to the contrary.

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

Yeah. I don't take it so seriously now. I realize I can't live without a bike, but I could live without bike racing. I try to enjoy the ride I do every day and take it for what it is. When I race , I race as hard as I can and prepare as best I can, but I have my eyes open, I try to take it in.

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

I grew up an Ullrich and Zabel fan, cause my older brother was. 

What was you favourite era of professional bike racing?

40-50's, real human characters. Feats of endurance. Sabotage. Rivalry's. I love that shit.

Which three words best describe you?

Temperamental, observant and reserved.

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

favourite tune or playlist?

When I was younge it was all Korn and RATM (Rage Against the Machine) and angry stuff. Now almost exclusively rap. 

When were/are you most happy?

Camping, BBQ, beer, family, girlfriend after a big day of riding. Done.

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

Traveling wilberys (all of them), Jacques anquitoile, shaun white, Bowie, a hells angle and a one of the monks that does that the running.  

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

Maybe back to 1300 to hang out with the Arabs at Alhambra. This week anyway.

When was the last time you cried?

When pardon died. I skipped his funeral to race Thurigen Rundfart in Germany. That was a mistake.

When did you laugh the hardest?

Pffff, again, impossible. I laugh a lot. 

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

to wing it?

Start with a plan, if the plan gets in the way, wing it. 

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

Not much, maybe learn to skate earlier or learn two languages growing up. Maybe race Moto GP. 

What single thing would improve the quality of your life?

An airstream land yatch or if traffic was none existent. No, teleport. Done.

Malcolm Elliott is the most well known local pro rider around these
parts and is the 3rd most successful British male professional cyclist
of all time (based on the number of wins in top international races;
ranking above Bradley Wiggins and Tom Simpson). Malc's professional
career lasted from 1984 to 1997 and then from 2003 to 2011 when he
made a comeback to domestic racing.

Born in Sheffield and an honorary member of Rutland Cycling Club, Malc
was the winner of the green points jersey (and three stages) at the
Vuelta de Espana, 1989. Other major wins include the Milk Race,
Kellogg's Tour of Britain, National Champion and 3rd at the Amstel
Gold Race (1987). Malc still holds the record for the local Monsal
Head hill climb - a record he set in 1981.

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

Winning Vuelta points jersey, the first ever Englishman to win a Grand Tour jersey. Tour of Britain and Milk Race victories, Double gold medallist Commonwealth Games. Amstel Gold Race 3rd, Winning Rutland Melton at 46yrs of age, Tour series winners 2010, etc...

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

The road up Derwent to Kings Tree is a favourite, super scenic and nearly always deserted, and very close to home.

The same question for roads anywhere in the world? 

The back country roads of Santa Barbara County. Also Mallorca and Spain, epic climbs, great climate. I just enjoy going for a big day out there, with nothing else to do and nowhere else to be.

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

Hmm, no one particular moment. There’s been so many, and over such a long time.

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

That’s hard to know, as its been a part of my life for so long now (40+yrs). I really can’t imagine what my life would be like had I not discovered cycling.

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

Somewhat. That, and all that goes with it (ie late nights) was definitely a distraction for me as a youth!  If you really want to give yourself the best opportunity, early nights before the big one gives the confidence you’ve done everything right.

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 think we’re all affected to some degree. We are now part of a sport that has much increased coverage and respect. This came about due to a number of factors coming together in an age of health consciousness, environmental awareness, and austerity, along with unprecedented success at the top of the sport, andnow politicians are starting to take more notice. I hope this will continue to snowball, and and negatives, I believe, are outweighed by the positives.

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

Actually, I don’t find cyclists are quite as obsessive now as they used to be about bike weight. Perhaps they’re finally catching onto the idea that exercising a bit of discipline when at the fridge door has way more benefit to their performance than sweating about a few grams difference on their bikes weight.

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

Well, nowadays I don’t get to ride anywhere near as much as I’d like, and I’m not into going out in the cold and wet when I don’t need to. That’s about the only things that has changed. Regardless of fitness, I still try and batter myself when I’m out alone, always have, I can’t help it.

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

Eddy, and Freddy Maertens, so stylish. Also for the reasons outlined in the next question...

What was you favourite era of professional bike racing?

I suppose the era of my formative years, the seventies and eighties, hold the most interest for me, when I was first starting. Back then, I could rattle off all the winners of pretty much every classic and World Champions of the previous 20 years. 

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

For all his merits, I wouldn’t hold Bradley up as any paragon of style. However, I do find it difficult to imagine him wearing anything else.. he’s made them all his own!

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

Full mudguards, plus front and rear mudflaps, out of consideration for others in the group. Nothing says clearer “ I don’t give a **** about anyone else” than showing up on a group ride in winter without mudguards. 

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

Usually straight round. If its good weather, maybe a stop. Otherwise I just get cold and don’t really enjoy it.

Assos, Rapha or neither? 

Obviously Assos, followed by Giordana, which isn’t far off Assos quality....and don’t get me started on Rapha!!

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

A Lycra skull cap, to wear beneath the helmet. The only thing to wear there, racing caps etc are just wrong.  

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?

I always try to keep a good tempo, I always want to make good progress and don’t see the point in dawdling around...keeps you from getting cold too. I do enjoy going on the trails on a road bike, always makes a refreshing change. Preferably in summer though as it beats the crap out of road bikes riding them in mud and sand. Thats probably why I’ve never ridden Cyclo Cross.

What do you think about Strava? 

Great idea. I haven’t personally got into it yet, but may start this year. I did download the app a while back, but I always forget to start it, and only remember when I’m almost done! 

What do you think about Sportive rides? 

They’ve been a huge help in fuelling the current upswing in popularity of cycling, and satisfy a certain demand. For some longtime established riders, their view can be rather different, preferring to ride alone or very small groups. I’m going to be riding many of the Cycling Weekly Sportives this year, so watch this space.  

Do you have any cycling pet hates? 

When its pouring down before the start of a long race, having to brave it and get soaked and cold right from the off. Its never so bad it it rains during, but hated those wet starts.

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 sure there are, although I can’t put my finger on any one right now. I think we need to take these things in our stride, and move on. 

Cotton cap or helmet? 

For 95% of the time, Helmet. The other 5% I’ll go without, if its very hot, which usually means I’m in Spain or Mallorca. I feel a little safer there due to better attitudes towards cyclists. I’m always aware I’m more vulnerable when not wearing, the same feeling you get in a car without a seatbelt, and take extra care. 

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 better spinning, but not ridiculously so. Some newcomers do take spinning too literally. On the flat, I think 95-105rpm looks right. However, uphill, lower, say 80-85rpm. 

White, black or coloured socks? 

Invariably white, unless there’s a VERY good reason for anything else.

Frame pump or mini pump? 

Mini pump, but frame mounted. I don’t like my pockets too full.

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? 

A bit of everything, if you train a lot with the same people the conversation wanders all over the place, from serious, right through to silly.

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

I couldn’t stand riding a tandem, tried it once, didn’t get it. Not for me.

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.

The two roads I like riding most leaving Hathersage are Abney and this one, Sir William Road. A single lane back-wack that leads up and snakes around Leam farm. 

Once you've taken the B6001 out of Hathersage and dropped under the bridge you pass the David Mellor Museum and the football pitch to your left. You'll then pass the road to Abney on your right, the next road, the one before you reach Fallcliff Wood is the severe Sir William Hill Road and one that boasts ace views and interesting architecture.

It does have it's moments of intense unpleasant gradient where I had to use my 23 sprocket (42.23), especially the two semi-switchbacks. The first goes past the perishing roofs of the farm house which then levels out for 100 yards before it raises again, swinging left as the road forks. I suggest you go wide as the inside-line of the road is rather strenuous. 

The second part of the climb as you pass Leam settles into an easier gradient before rolling through Home wood and Sherriff wood. There are a few trees down up there and you'll notice an ever changing den on your left. It was ti-pi made of wood in summer, yesterday it was a full-bown plastic-covered shed made from broken bits of trees with a rope swing, perhaps made by the children who live in the farm. 

Once your through the over hanging trees, at the end of the road turn right - the last part of the the climb and another drag before your at the top. You'll be greeted with panoramic views, looking back down into Grindleford and over to Bretton Brook. From there you can start the fast decent to Eyam or the take the ridge road that leads to Hucklow or Bretton. 

John Tanner was born in Doncaster. He first joined the CTC before joining his first proper cycling club, The Doncaster Wheelers. John competed in the 1996 and 2000 Olympics and has won the BC Premier Calendar five times. In 1999 and 2000 he won the British National Road Race Championships. Other notable wins include the prestigious Lincoln International GP (1997 and 2001) and the Tour of the Cotswolds (2001).

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

Winning the Commonwealth Bank Classic stage race in Australia in 1995. It was a nice ending to the season, especially being in Australia. National Titles two time road race - 1999 and 2000. Also the Crit Championship in 1996. It stays with you forever that you are an ex-national champ.


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

Where I live is we are spoilt, you can go into East Yorkshire where it's really quiet roads and flat or you can go into Derbyshire for the hills so a mixture of both.

The same question for roads anywhere in the world?

I'd say same answer as last one.

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

There are loads to choose from and it's hard to answer. Probably touring round Holland the first year I started cycling aged 11 with family - that got me into cycling. It gave me a sense of freedom travelling and seeing new places.

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

Not really. It's different when when you're racing though. There comes a time in the year when you've had enough of the bike and need a break but when I don't have a full season I can't get enough of it. 

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

Yes definitely.

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 work part time in a bike shop (JHL Bikes) and have seen the increase of people on bikes. It's good that they are all car drivers, so it makes people aware more of what it's like on a bike. The way British Cycling has turned around since the lottery and medals won over the years has put cycling in the limelight. It just gets people thinking "I'd like to try that or bet my kid wouldbe good at it".

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

It's more the new comers to cycling that are more obsessed, I think they forget about what they weigh personally.

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

Yes obviously with computers that are available now you get to see how hard or fast you're going. 

Who has beenyour favourite pro riders over the years and why?

It would be from today's era Mark Cavendish , Ian Stanard and Dan Martin. 

What was you favourite era of professional bike racing?


It's a mixture of the British pros from the 80s with all the TV crits, to today's era with the success Britain are having.


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?

Clip on guards with flap on a racing bike.

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

I enjoy both if I'm in a group. I like a cafe stop for social or when I'm on me own I'll go straight round.

Assos, Rapha or neither? 

Both over priced!

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

A cycling computer.


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?


Keep a good tempo on B roads definitely. I hate anything off road on any kind of bike.

What do you think about Strava?


I think it's great. Not so much bothered about the segments but like to see what everyone's been up to and find it interesting. 


What do you thinkabout Sportive rides?


They're a good idea to get people on bikes but personally I'm not interested in them.


Do you have any cycling pet hates?


Puncturing! 


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?


No can't think of any.


Cotton cap or helmet?

Helmet. Having done most of years riding without one I can't go out with out it now. 


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?


Being on top of the gear from 85 -100 revs.


White, black or coloured socks?


Depends on the weather. Socks are expensive so black in rain and white in sunshine.


Frame pump or mini pump?


Mini pump with canister.


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?

There's not much talking with group I go out with - we are all on t'rivet!

Hi Thom

A friend of mine has just forwarded me a link to the shoe on your site.

Ian was my uncle & we always used to look forward to him visiting us from his trips with more great stories about his adventures.

I have to say that looking at what's on show on your website, it looks exactly as I remember the shoes he used to wear, both on and off the bike.

It’s really touching to see something like this named after him, he had very exacting standards on his equipment, always Campagnolo Nuovo or super record for example and always leather shoes in that style(this was even carried over to his casual clothes as well, remember the exasperation he caused my mum in getting him his polo shirts as they had to have three buttons, no more no less) and I can see that a lot of care has gone into making the shoes.

He’d have liked that, he’d probably have tried to get a pair off you for free mind “to test them out on one of his trips”, he used to get a lot of kit that way, but he would definitely approve.

Hope they are a success for you and thanks

David Hibell

Kit Gilham has been a racing cyclist for 10 years. His previous teams include Clifton CC, Kinesis UK, Sigmasport Specialized, Herbalife, Metaltek Knights of Old and is currently riding for KTM road-and-trail.com

Kit is now living in York with his wife and two children but by his own admission is "still missing living in Sheffield!".

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

Winning the mountains jersey in the 2008 Irish Ras. It made me realise I could be competitive at a reasonable level. I spent the whole race constantly checking where the nearest airport was as my first child was due on the last day of therace - luckily she was born five days after it finished!

I'm also proud to have won the Yorkshire Div Champs - definitely the hardest divs inthe (God's own) country.

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

In the Peak District I love some of the long, iconic climbs like Holme Moss and Snake Pass because they're as close as you can get to proper Tour de France climbs in the UK. The long descent down Mam Nick and Edale with a tailwind is great too and the ridge road up from Windmill to Sir William Hill has fantastic views over Eyam and the Hope Valley. Anywhere in the Peaks really!

The same question for roads anywhere in the world?

The Pyrenees, especially the Basque end. Brutal climbs, beautiful scenery, unpronounceable place names and massive vultures.

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

Some of my best memories are just riding around on mountain bikes as a kid with all my mates. I can also still remember first learning to ride with my Dad running behind me holding on to the saddle and the feeling of terror and exhilaration when he let go.

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

Yes it has. I used to ride only for pleasure, now some rides are definitely for training and there's not much enjoyment. Four hours in the rain holds no appeal but sometimes it has to be done. That said, I still enjoy the vast majority of my time on a bike.

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

'Women' in the plural, perhaps, but having one woman support you is a good thing!

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 the more cyclists the better, and not just racing and leisure cyclists. I'd be very pleased to see a Dutch/Danish style bike revolution where people commute, shop and take their kids to school by bicycle and car use is restricted in city centres.

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

Because alight bike makes cycling uphill easier without having to train more and eat less.

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

Yes. I no longer stop at the top of every hill to get my breath back and I don't spend as much time building jumps. And I know what a Watt is.

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

Igrew up with only a passing interest in road cycling - my heroes were Jason McRoy, Rob Warner, Missy Giove and Nico Vouilloz. When I started following the road then Indurain, Ullrich and Iban Mayo (before he got fat, slow and positive for epo). Needless to say I soon realised that having heroes in pro cycling was a shortcut to feeling betrayed and disappointed...

What was your favourite era of professional bike racing?

I enjoy watching most eras, with the proviso that a lot of what I'm seeing is entertainment rather than sport with its implications of clean-living athletic ideals.

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

No.

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

Full length mudguards front and rear with a flap that almost scrapes the ground. Anything less is just rude.

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

I prefer not to stop unless it's a recovery ride, the temperature is at least 20 degrees and there's a sea view.

Assos, Rapha or neither?

I ownneither so don't feel qualified to say.

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

The first pair of SPD shoes I got for my mountain bike. They were Nike Ngubas in some fairly lurid early 90s colours and they revolutionised my cycling, once I'd stopped falling off at every set of traffic lights.

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?

I like a bit of everything, it depends on what kind of ride it is. I'm always happy to be shown new roads and back wacks I didn't know about - I like to build up a mental map of an area so I have multiple route choices rather than riding the same few roads over and over. The old road up Mam Tor is a good one for a bit of everything, I can usually get up on a road bike without dabbing.

What do you think about Strava?

Use it if you want but remember: it's not racing.

What do you think about Sportive rides?

Great for challenging people to stretch themselves and to train for something they wouldn't normally do.

Do you have any cycling pet hates?

People who come on group rides in the winter on their summer bike with no mudguards.

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 I've been around long enough to comment - the cycling clubs near me seem more popular than ever, still mostly full of grumpy old men but maybe that's changing?

Cotton cap or helmet?

Cotton cap unless racing or mountain biking.

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 it's more to do with what the upper body is doing, so as long as you can sit still without rocking your head, shoulders or pelvis then any cadence from hummingbird to albatross.

White, black or coloured socks?

Not black. And neither too long nor too short.

Frame pump or mini pump?

Frame pump. My arms aren't strong enough to get more than about 40psi with a 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 enjoy discussing almost anything whilst out riding. It's a great way to not notice the miles and maybe learn something new. The people I ride with are at best erudite, at worst opinionated and always garrulous so I just have to nod in the right places.

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

I tried a tandem with the wife a few years ago, it was a nightmare! We wanted to pedal different cadences and she didn't agree with my braking point before each corner. So not her. Maybe Malcolm Elliott if he'd let me - I'd ride stoker because I trust his handling skills, his was always a good wheel to follow downhill: fast but safe.

Fitness is specific. Someone who is fit for 100m sprinting won't be fit for marathon running. Less obviously, a top classics rider won't be fit for GC contention in a grand tour. Unless they are Eddy Merckx. I thought I understood this concept well enough but I had a rude reminder as to how specific fitness is this weekend when I turned out on the teacake ride for the first time in months. 

The teacake is Rutland CC's Saturday morning road ride into the Peak District. It's a fast ride by my standards and almost always includes a tear up on the climb through the small village of Cressbrook.

I have been getting out regularly this winter; doing about 200 miles most weeks including a long, steady ride of 60-70 miles most weekends. I considered myself 'bike fit'. Until Saturday morning. 

I noticed how many people had no mudflap and I didn't want to take a gamble and end up sitting on one of those wheels so I accepted an invitation from T to ride on the front. It was windy so the going was tougher than it might have been if I'd declined the invitation. While I'm looking for excuses, my winter bike, weighing in at nearly 30 pounds, didn't help either. The same inconsiderate buggers who had no mudflaps were on skimpy summer bikes with clip on mudguards. 

I'm not deluding myself though - it was the pace that did me. It started fast and got faster until my legs came apart on Cressbrook where I had to settle into my own rhythm and surrender any ideas I had of hanging in with the fast lads.

I'm sure that if I had some of the class of any of the those who have answered Mamnick's 'local rider' questions, my steady miles fitness would have been enough to see me through the ride unscathed. But I don't. So I am left with sore legs and a lesson learnt. 

The lesson isn't all bad though. I might not be 'any kind of ride' bike fit, but I am 'my kind of ride' bike fit thanks to the specificity of fitness. I'll take that. Along with a kicking on the occasions I'm daft enough to turn out on the teacake.

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. 

The Local Riders Q&A continues with Russell Downing, who is quite literally a very local rider. Born in Rotherham (my hometown) Russell's pro career started back in 1999 and has ridden for a number of notable teams including Linda McCartney, CandiTV-Marshalls Pasta, Team Sky, Edura Racing and this year (along with his brother Dean) he will be riding for new outfit - NFTO Pro Cycling. 

'Fonzy' was British National Road Race Champion in 2005 and other notable results from a great career so far include the Tour de Wallonie (2010) and the Tour of Ireland (2009). 

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

Winning the National Road Race Championships. 

Winning Tour of Ireland because of the conditions and the teams I beat.

Becoming the 1^st British rider to win a race for Team Sky (Stage of Crit International). 

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

The Strines towards Sheffield; I just love the views and road whatever the weather. 

The same question for roads anywhere in the world?

Would probably have to be any road with the ocean to one side of me. It feels so special. 

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

Would probably say the Tour of Ireland because it proved to a lot of people that I was capable of beating the worlds best riders and it got my contract at Team Sky. 

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

I don’t think so, I still love the bike and always will.

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

I don’t agree with it but it’s a great saying and the Rocky movies are a great motivator.

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?

Cycling is at high at the moment and its great to still be part of it , I just wish I was 10 years younger so I get more out of my career .more people on bikes is surley good for healthy living and making people fitter.

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

Probably because the fitter and lighter you are the better you will go on your bike. Power to weight ratio etc. 

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

Yeah a little bit but not loads. I just used to ride my bike whenever and with whoever, but know I have more structure and specific training for big goals and races during my season.  

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

Would have to be Sean Kelly as he was a true racer and I've been very privileged over the years to become friends with him, which is great. 

What was you favourite era of professional bike racing?

I would have to say the current era is the best.

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

Longs are cool and we started them before Brad, back on Team GB with Jamie Alberts , Charly Wegalius  and Tom Southam.

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

I like to train when training and have coffee stops on easy days. 

Assos, Rapha or neither?

Neither. 

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?

I'd always choose the back-wacks as its safer and normally better roads. Save the rough stuff for the mountain bike.  

What do you think about Strava?

Only used it once, I'd get addicted if I used it more. 

What do you think about Sportive rides?

They are growing in strength and are a great way of getting all abilties of riders on bikes and to challenge them.

Do you have any cycling pet hates?

People on bikes not wearing helmets. Stay safe folks.  

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 to 100rpm is probably a good cadence.

White, black or coloured socks?

White for sunny days black for rainy days.

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?

Normally short and sweet on the bike, get the job done.

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

Chris Walker - I reckon he’s a beast , I'd ride back and put my feet up because  he’s so strong.

___________________________________________________

Notable results from Russ Downing's career

TOUR OF OMAN 

88^th OV 

62^nd TOUR OF FLANDERS 

35^th SHEDLDEPRIJS

115^th PARIS ROUBAIX 

BAYERN RUNDFAHRT

12^th NATIONAL ROAD RACE