Cyclescheme is the UK's most popular cycle to work benefit, creating more cyclists than any other provider.

Cyclescheme 7: Tim

Cyclescheme 7: Tim

Ever wondered how your commuting experience differs to others? Each month we share the story of a real Cyclescheme cycle commuter and ask them seven questions to sum up their experience from their two-wheeled commute. This month, it's Tim.

Each month we feature one Cyclescheme participant and share their commuting story. We ask the same seven questions (hence the name, The Cyclescheme Seven) in a bid to build up a picture of cycle commuters across the UK. From John O'Groats to Lands End we scour the country for the real cycle commuters who take to their bike each morning. If you'd like to feature on our website, just drop us a line on: socialmedia@cyclescheme.co.uk with "I'm in' in the subject line.

This month we caught up with Tim to see how his commute has changed his life.

CS: Where in the UK are you?

Tim: I live in Telford, Shropshire.

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

Tim: Well, until June 2014 it was a requirement for me to have my car at work but in June I started a new job, which was mainly office based. I didn’t have to take the my car to work anymore, so I jumped at the opportunity to get back on my bike and cycle to work as this was something I hadn’t been able to do for about 8 years.  I’m a keen cyclist anyway and take part in rides all over the country so the more I can ride the better fitness-wise, plus I like to think I’m doing my little bit for the planet!

CS: What bike did you get and why?

Tim: I bought the Boardman MX-COMP as it offered an all round cycling experience, which for me is important as I didn’t want another road bike but a bike that gave me some where close to the performance of a road bike but the chance to go off road if I wanted to.

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

Tim: I spent £600.

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

Tim: I commute 4 days most weeks but at the least 3.

CS: Where do you commute from and to?  

Tim: I commute from The Wrekin to Madeley which is 7 miles, so its a 14 mile round trip. It's a mixture of countryside and main roads.  It also has an 18% gradient thrown in near the start which goes up to Little Wenlock and then 15% on the way back (makes it interesting).

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

Tim: Cycling to and from work gives me the downtime I need between work and home which is so important. It has helped me get in better shape, and I feel cycling in the week makes the 30-50 miles at a weekend seem slightly easier.  I‘ve saved money as I’ve gone from putting over £100 of fuel per month in the car to only filling up once every 4-5 weeks so cycling to work is saving me money even after what’s deducted for the bike.

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