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 Rikki.

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 Rikki to see how his commute has changed his life.

CS: Where in the UK are you?

Sandford, Dorset which is located In a very beautiful part of southern England close to the Purbeck hills.

CS: What was your main motivation for getting a bike through Cycle-Scheme?

I had the option of riding two bikes. One being my weekend full suspension, or my Hybrid commuter bike which I used to cycle 10 miles a day at my previous job on the road through town. Upon moving closer to my new job, I started commuting 1.5 miles to work along forest tracks. I wanted to be able to get a better bike for less money and be able spread the payments over a certain period. The cycle to work scheme was great because it let me get a brilliant bike for the money and took the money direct from my monthly wages.

CS: What bike did you get and why?

I bought an On-One 4650b (a mouthful I know!) on looking around many local bike shops which accepted this cycle scheme, I could not get the type of bike and build quality I wanted to. It needed to be a strong, fun bike which always puts a smile on my face when I ride it. I have been riding mountain bikes for 20 years and go riding every weekend either locally or at Trail centres across the UK. I used to use my full suspension Yeti for the weekends, but since getting this bike I am using this more and more and it is so much fun to ride. I have upgraded parts as an when I have felt necessary. Generally with a lot of parts I already had. But the wheels where the biggest improvement.

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

I spent the whole £1000, plus added a bit extra to get the exact build I wanted to. The bike only came with a shimano deore groupset but after using shimano XTR, hope and avid brakes, I have to admit the deore equipment has been excellent.

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

Every day. Rain or shine. The only time I don’t is if I have to bring anything large into work or if I am travelling that day. We have shower facilities at my place of work which is perfect.

CS: Where do you commute from and to?

I commute from my home in Sandford, through the woods which enters straight into the industrial estate where my work is. This trip is 1.5 miles, which isn’t far but I do sprint it and have a little trail I ride which consists of root sections, jumps, log rides and stream crossings. On some days after work I go the longer way home which i cover around 10 miles around Wareham Forest.

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

I feel a lot healthier and always feel set for the day. I wasn’t un-healthy before, but just being able to cycle the short distance everyday doesn’t mean I am lazy sitting in the car. It also improves my riding skills by doing all the obstacles I pass on my daily commute. I never use the car during the week unless I have to go out in the evenings. If I have to take anything large to work I generally walk.