Car Free Day 2023: an Interview With Reid’s Commercial Manager Jon on Commuting by Bike
To commemorate World Car Free Day 2023, we’ve interviewed Reid’s Commercial Manager Jon, who gives us his take on commuting by bike. Jon, an avid cyclist, makes it his mission to cycle to work as much as possible, and has shared the countless benefits it can bring to your life.
In the spirit of World Car Free Day, we encourage you to take the leap towards sustainable commuting by replacing a few car journeys with a bike ride. Even if that’s just a short commute to work or a scenic ride through nature, you’ll see for yourself the difference it makes. A few small changes are a great way to kickstart a greener lifestyle.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO CYCLE TO WORK?
For me, inspiration comes from all the other cyclists I see on the road and conversely all the car drivers nose to tail getting nowhere. Those as well as the climate emergency that everyone is part of are big inspirations for me.
CAN YOU SHARE SOME OF THE PERSONAL BENEFITS YOU’VE EXPERIENCED FROM CHOOSING TO COMMUTE BY BIKE INSTEAD OF A CAR?
I’m a keen leisure cyclist so getting in any extra training is a massive boost for me. I have a busy lifestyle with two children and a dog that needs a lot of exercise, so I don’t always find it easy fitting in time for myself. Getting that time to and from work is a huge boost. Not just this, but it also puts £5 of fuel money back in my pocket each time I throw a leg over the bike – each month that’s easily a tank of fuel.
My stress levels have drastically reduced since I’m not subject to sitting in traffic breathing in fumes or fighting for parking spaces. I’ve also noticed the benefit on my waistband!
WHAT DOES CYCLING MEAN TO YOU?
This could be a huge response, but I’ll keep it simple so we’re not here all day! To me, cycling embraces the Four F’s.
- Freedom – Being free from cars, traffic, and pollution.
- Fitness – Cycling is a fantastic way to stay healthy both physically and mentally, which helps reduce stress.
- Fun – Who would have thought that part of your working day could be so enjoyable (yes even when it rains, you just need a decent jacket!) Also, with kids it’s such an enjoyable way to explore your local area, nature, and so much more. It’s great fun.
- Future – We are at a turning point in society with our views towards urban mobility and active travel. Cycling is a huge part of that, and I’m super proud to be a part of that future at Reid. My career now is a true vocation and I’m motivated to help others make cycling a significant part of their lives.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR BIKE COMMUTE, AND ARE THERE ANY MEMORABLE MOMENTS YOU CAN SHARE?
I enjoy the complete freedom from the car, parking problems, and traffic. I’m also blessed to live in Bournemouth (home of Reid Bikes HQ) so I get the option to cycle down the promenade most days, which is lovely. Some of the sunrises and sunsets I have experienced there whilst on my commute are scenes that people live for, and for me it’s just a part of life. For that I feel incredibly privileged.
FINALLY, TO COMMEMORATE WORLD CAR FREE DAY, WHAT MESSAGE OR ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO ARE CONSIDERING MAKING THE SWITCH TO A MORE SUSTAINABLE COMMUTE USING A BICYCLE?
Don’t hesitate, just do it! Most car journeys in the UK are under 5 miles (71% in fact – Gov National Travel Survey 2020). 5 miles is an achievable distance by bicycle for most able-bodied people, it just takes a little courage and motivation. With the accessibility of eBikes at a great price point, 5 miles can very easily become a breeze. Can you imagine how safe and quiet the roads would be if 71% of journeys were done by bike? Regarding the sometimes-unpredictable weather, it’s still possible to stay warm and dry on a bike without getting soaked either from the outside or the inside. Some mudguards, a good quality jacket, and you are sorted! My 10-mile commute is an enjoyable 40 minutes regardless of the weather. What’s stopping you?
Feeling inspired to transform your everyday commute? Our Commuter and Comfort Bikes are a great place to start. Equally, our diverse range of eBikes are tailored to make your daily commutes more enjoyable and efficient.