London Cyclist December 2008-January 2009

■ NEWS ■ RIDES & EVENTS ■ PRODUCT REVIEWS ■ BOOKS ■

www.lcc.org.uk December 2008/January 2009 £2/free to members

FreewheelReport and photos

■ NEWS ■ EVENTS ■ PRODUCTS ■ BOOKS ■ ZOE WILLIAMS

PLUSUrban Urban clickclick

Christmas Christmas gift ideasgift ideas

Alan Bennett Alan Bennett on riding in on riding in

Regent’s ParkRegent’s ParkCycling caught Cycling caught on cameraon camera

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Contents

Features12 Putting bikes in the frame Cycle photo competition winners

16 Engineering changeLCC's CPEC advisory group

18 Roller racingThe latest craze

Technical21 How to... deal with collisions

23 WorkshopsMaintenance courses across the capital

LONDON CYCLIST December 2008/January 2008 3

london Cyclist

Product reviews24 See and be seen

Lights and other high-viz kit

26 Christmas gift ideas Something for everyone on your list

Regulars4 News plus director's column

Includes a special London Freewheel photo page and Alan Bennett interview

9 Opinion Rob Ainsley says putting the fun into

cycling holds the key to its promotion

10 Your letters plus Zoe Williams

29 Members’ pagesMake the most of your membership

32 Local group newsReports from your part of town

36 Diary Rides and events for all cyclists

40 Books ’n’ things plus Ken WorpoleIncludes Christmas gift ideas

45 My Way Two routes from Walthamstow

46 Outward BoundFrom the villages of Wales to Bath

49 DispatchesChristian Wolmar cycles in Sydney

50 My bike & IDesigner Jeff Banks

Editor Lynette Eyb Product reviews Ian Cleverly Design Anita Razak Marketing & proofing Mike Cavenett Advertising Mongoose Media, Anthon Linton (020 7306 0300 ext 112, [email protected]) ■ London Cyclist welcomes voluntary contributions, including photographs. All work is accepted in good faith. Content may be edited and reproduced online – see www.lcc.org.uk/londoncyclist You can contact the editorial team via 2 Newhams Row, London, SE1 3UZ (020 7234 9310, [email protected]) All views expressed in London Cyclist are those of the authors and are not necessarily endorsed by the editor, nor do they necessarily reflect LCC policy. Editorial content isindependent of advertising. All material is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the written permission of the editor. London Cyclist is printed by Wyndeham Grange on paper made from 100% de-inked post consumer waste. London Cycling Campaign is a charitable limited company, reg no 1766411; charity no 1115789 See page 29 for more on London Cycling Campaign

Cover: Tom de Gay

December 2008/January 2009My daughter had been eyeing my new bicycle ever since we let her sit in the basket as we wheeled the bike down a backstreet on the way home from the shop. Today she got her wish: her very first ride on a bike, sitting proudly behind me in her own sky blue seat. She absolutely loves it, and

so do I – her giggles of excitement have added a whole new dimension to my own enjoyment of riding.

I have always supported a cyclist's right to the road and have never been shy of staking my claim to my bit of it. Without my little one sitting behind me, I rarely thought twice about joining mainstream traffic in London or anywhere else. But now I have a little person on board, I think more than once before taking on rush-hour traffic. It's not my ability to handle the bike I'm worried about but that random driver who puts me in a situation I wouldn't be able to get out of. And this concern for safety is why groups like LCC's Cycle Planning and Engineering Committee (CPEC) are so important. They are instrumental in fighting the cyclist's corner when it comes to the planning of streets and the implentation of cycle facilities. Work by groups like CPEC ensures I can find a quieter (possibly safer) route when I have my daughter on board. We pay tribute to CPEC in this issue (see page 16) – and we hope to bring you coverage of more LCC quiet achievers in 2009.

In the meantime, we wish everyone a happy Christmas – see the books and products pages for gift ideas, and Diary for Southwark Cyclists' annual December 25 ride. Lynette Eyb

Issue 114

COVERSTORY

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WIN!a Solo Equipe

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LCC’s chief executive Koy Thomson sat on a Q&A panel of experts at a leading transport industry conference in London in October.

‘Delivering the Vision: Cycling and the Sustainable Door-to-Door Journey’ examined plans to implement the Government’s Cycling Strategy, promote cycling at regional level and enhance cycling-rail links.

I heard a funny thing about Geordies and buses recently. The head of a Tyneside bus company told me that Geordies see the bus as a social place for meeting and chatting. He had a neat approach to promoting his buses: he is selling the bus trip as a social activity, and fitting his schedules, promotions and stops around the social things people want to do.

The space between buildings – the street – should be a social place, too, but streets don’t invite social interaction.

The London cycling culture is not that jolly either, is it? When did you last smile or say good morning at the traffic lights? It’s just not social etiquette. This is sad because one of the tragedies of the growth of the car culture is that it has destroyed social interactions along streets. Cars, like mobiles, interrupt conversations and neighbourliness.

One side of my street has no pavement, so when neighbours gather to chat, we stand on the street. Sometimes the interruptions, noise and rudeness of drivers is too much and we give up. A study of Bristol streets concluded that friendships on busy streets are cut by 75%. Typical comments in the busy streets were “the traffic’s like a mountain range cutting you off from the other side of the street”, or “people just go from their houses to their cars”.

Busy streets destroy social cohesion, which is another reason to be less car-dependent. Can you therefore say that bikes makes London friendlier? Not necessarily. I must admit at times to acting like a bicycle rude-boy, pulling up at the lights, eyeing the Brompton riders and seeing them as adversaries to be beaten to the next lights. And come on, Brommies, that’s how you see me too.

I have always been an admirer of the slow food movement. How about a slow cycle movement? Once in a while, why not strike up conversation at the lights? Mahatma Gandhi used to say “be the change you want to see”. If you want to see more convivial streets, get friendly. For once, this is a barrier that is within your control to dismantle.

The nicest part of my morning ride is my “good morning Vicar” and wave to the priest at St George the Martyr in Southwark as his stands on his steps surveying his flock. I even slow down to catch the red light – it seems unfriendly now to rush by.

For more news, go to www.lcc.org.uk

Director’s columnKoy Thomson

Mayor Boris Johnson asked for views on whether the western congestion charge zone extension should remain as it is; should be removed; or whether it should be altered. The consultation is over now, but LCC is still pushing Transport for London to implement a plan that’s good for the future of London.

LCC is convinced that none of the alterations suggested in the consultation will reduce congestion, and some might even increase it.

“London is renowned globally for its political courage in introducing congestion charging,” says LCC director Koy Thomson. “We must not allow things slip back and see worse conditions for cycling and growth in motor traffic, congestion and pollution.”

LCC is calling on the Mayor to retain the western congestion zone and strengthen its impact on reducing congestion. LCC wants:◆ Retention of the western extension and of the current operating hours;◆ Action to reduce congestion caused by travel between the western extension and the central zone. This means separating the two zones, charging separately for each zone, with a discount for drivers and zone residents travelling across both zones;◆ Measures to capitalise on the road space freed up by congestion charging, such as reallocating the space to cycling, walking and making streets and public spaces people-friendly.

Congestion zone threatWestern extension could be abolished

NewsAN LCC CAMPAIGN

LCC chief sits on expert transport panel

Matthew House of Leytonstone will soon have a very special set of wheels after his entry was selected at random to win a hand-built Witcomb bike produced to mark LCC’s 30th birthday and the Deptford bike builder’s 80th.

Matthew plans to visit the shop soon to be measured, and his frame will then be custom-built to his exact specifications.

“My grandfather grew up in Deptford, and worked in the docks there many years ago, so I’m looking forward to visiting the Witcomb shop,” says Matthew.

“I cycle to work every day, and use my bike to make visits as part of my work for the health services in Hackney. A new set of wheels will be most welcome.”

Matthew joined LCC at the Cycle Show in October after meeting members of the Waltham Forest LCC group at a car-free day in the borough.

The Witcomb family has been building frames for 80 years, and has had a bike business in Deptford since the 1940s. Similar off-the-peg models are available from

Matthew wins LCC birthday competition

LCC NEWS

Speakers included Lord Berkeley, secretary of the All-Party Parliamentary Cycling Group and secretary of the All-Party Parliamentary Rail Group; Alex Veitch, senior strategy analyst at the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC); and Philip Darnton, chairman of Cycling England.

Matthew House with one of the hand-built Witcomb bikes produced to mark LCC’s 30th birthday and Witcomb’s 80th

LCC NEWS

£1,500, while made-to-measure examples cost £1,900. For each of the limited-edition LCC bikes sold, Witcomb will make a donation to LCC.

The limited edition replica bikes feature the racing colours used in the 1958 Tour de France – the last time a British handmade bike entered the Tour.

See www.witcombcycles.com for more details.

4 December 2008/January 2009 LONDON CYCLIST

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News


Motorbikes could use ASLs Kingston Cycling Campaign fights trial proposal

Send items for the news pages to [email protected]

or write to the address on page 3

The Kingston Cycling Campaign (KCC) picked up an ‘information’ item in the agenda for a council neighbourhood committee on October 1 about a proposed ASL experiment. The item was to let councillors know that TRL Ltd, formerly the Transport Research Laboratory, had asked Council if

it could carry out surveillance of a junction which has Advanced Stop Lines (ASLs) on all its arms. The study could lead to council redesigning the ASLs to allow motorcycles to use them.

TRL Ltd is conducting a study on behalf of the Department for Transport into the effects of

allowing motorcycles to use ASLs and will use the research to, it says, inform new Government guidance on the topic. TRL has been seeking 12 junctions nationwide to monitor.

The KCC raised concerns with the council that an earlier ‘trial’ in the borough to allow motorcycles to use bus lanes had never been properly appraised. The problem of motorcycles and cyclists competing for the same space within the ASL reservoir was hotly debated by Council.

Chair of the neighbourhood committee, Cllr Chrissie Hitchcock, a scooter rider, declared that it was difficult for her to comment on such proposals because she had never seen a cyclist stop at a red light.

The KCC is expecting to learn whether TRL will ask the Council to permit motorcycles to use ASLs before the end of the year.

in brief

Christmas gift idea Are you stuck for a Christmas gift for a friend or relative? Fed up with buying something that you know will be gathering dust before New Year? Then buy that special someone a year’s gift membership of LCC and, as well as the great member benefits, they’ll also get a free limited-edition LCC T-shirt (while stocks last).

Lower speed limits Lower speed limits and stricter policing of drink driving are two of the measures needed to reduce the unacceptable death toll on Britain’s roads, according to recommendations in the latest the House of Commons transport committee report.

Record summer The summer of 2008 broke all records for the number of people volunteering with LCC at cycling events. The increased frequency and popularity of cycling events in the capital, such as the Tour de Hackney and the second Freewheel mass bike ride, meant loads more opportunities for LCC staff to get out and about, and for members and friends to get involved too. More than 300 volunteered at Freewheel, and 50 at the Tour de Hackney.

Bikes in focusInspired by our photographic spread in this issue? When LCC asked snapper Kevin Meredith (aka Lomokev) if it could use one of his Flickr photos, he confessed to being a fanatical cyclist, and offered his services for free for other campaigning work. Kevin lives in Brighton and regularly cycles in London. His first photography book is called Hot Shots, and it’s available online at Amazon.co.uk for £9. You can see a sneak preview of the book in the News section of www.lcc.org.uk.

London Mayor Boris Johnson has announced that in January 2009, there will be an 18-month trial allowing motorbikes to use bus lanes in London. The decision has caused anger due to the lack of public consultation with either of the two groups, cyclists and pedestrians, facing the greatest potential danger from the measure.

LCC is calling on cyclists and pedestrians to write to the mayor (contact details below) to ask him why he isn’t carrying out a full public consultation, and why there hasn’t been a proper study of the impact of motorbikes in bus lanes on all road users and the environment.

LCC’s chief executive Koy Thomson said there had been no attempt to assess the impact of the decision on all street users. “This is a decision that’s been taken not only against the advice of transport officials and without the input of cycling and pedestrian groups, but also in the face of a warning that it could adversely affect the safety of cyclists and pedestrians,” he said.

Following its own report on motorbikes in bus lanes, Transport for London said that there was no evidence of significant safety benefits for motorcyclists but “potential disbenefits for both cyclists and pedestrians”.

A further study of motorbikes in Westminster bus lanes, released earlier this year, said that there were

indicators of concern for cycling and pedestrian safety. The same study raised concerns over reduced motorcycle safety when using some bus lanes.

There has been no study of the impacts the measure might have on the environment nor on the mayor’s targets for growth in cycling and walking.

Last summer, a petition signed by more than 3,500 cyclists was presented to Mayor Johnson. The petition asked him to reconsider his plans for putting high-speed motorcycles in bus lanes.

Responding to a question from London Assembly Member, Val Shawcross, on October 15, the Mayor listed several dozen organisations that were being consulted about motorbikes in bus lanes; the AA, the RAC and taxi drivers were all on the list, but not a single pedestrian or cycling organisation was mentioned.

Anger at lack of bus lane consultation

Motorbikes may soon be able to use ASLs in Kingston if a new

study gets the go-ahead

AN LCC CAMPAIGN

AN LCC CAMPAIGN

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Mayor Boris Johnson

HOW TO GET INVOLVEDContact the Mayor with your views about motorbikes in bus lanes, or any other issue: email [email protected]; write

to Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, City Hall, The Queen’s Walk, SE1 2AA; call 020 7983 4100; or fax 020 7983 4057.



News


New supporter membership package launchedThere is now a new way of contributing to LCC’s campaign efforts. Supporter membership is designed for people who want to support LCC’s work, but who don’t require the LCC member benefits that come with full membership (see page 29).

Supporter membership costs £25 (as opposed to £32 for full membership), and is popular with those who live outside the capital but still feel strongly that London

should be made a more cycle-friendly city.

LCC can claim Gift Aid on all supporter memberships, increasing the contribution of the member by some 25% at no extra cost. Supporter members who are UK taxpayers are encouraged to take part in the Gift Aid scheme when they join. For more details, contact the LCC

membership team on 020 7234 9310 or email [email protected].

Alan Bennett has expressed the modest wish to be allowed to cycle through Primrose Hill and Regent’s Park without fear of prosecution in his lifetime.

The writer, Camden cyclist and National Treasure normally shuns publicity, but joined Camden Cycling Campaign’s Anne Boston recently on Regent’s Park Broad Walk to welcome cycle access and encourage safe and considerate cycling through the park.

Cycling on the Broad Walk is currently permitted as part of an 18-month shared-use trial with pedestrians. An earlier trial was discounted because not enough cyclists had used the route. Regent’s Park/Primrose Hill is the last of London’s Royal parks to permit cycling.

Alan Bennett, a lifelong cyclist, said he enjoyed cycling thorugh the park. “I like the bit going downhill from the fountain towards the Inner Circle, that’s very nice,” he said. “There’s plenty of room for everybody on the Broad Walk and I’m a very gentle cyclist, so speed limits don’t apply to me. I go through the park on my way to the BBC.” He expressed a further wish that access would further improve for cyclists. “I hope they’ll open the last bit through Marylebone Green.” This would allow cyclists to continue through the park to Marylebone Road.”

He said he found the speed of motoristsaround the park “shocking”.

“Well, it is dangerous,” he said. “The speed of motorists shocks me really, more as I get older. Even the traffic on the Outer Circle round Regent’s Park is often speeding. But a friend of mine who cycled across the empty park at 7.30am. was stopped and fined. It’s monstrous and inequitable. Also you’re up against motorists who don’t understand about cycling, don’t care really. But I think that will change, I think it’s gradually got to change.

Mr Bennett also backed calls for 20mph speed limits across the capital.

“I can’t see why that can’t apply in central London, certainly,” he said. “I’d like to see a more imaginative attitude towards cyclists. I was in Sweden recently, and the primacy given to pedestrians and cyclists was amazing, without it being grudging. All the response here about dangerous cyclists, you know, that people get mown down by cyclists ... the notion that cyclists are fractionally as dangerous as motorists is absurd.” An extended version of Anne Boston’s interview with Alan Bennett will appear in a future edition of London Cyclist.

Bennett backs park accessWriter interviewed by Camden Cycling Campaign

Cooke backs LCC

Beijing gold medal-winner Nicole Cooke added weight to LCC’s campaign for cycle-friendly streets by signing a petition at the Cycle Show in October. Signing copies of her new book, Cycle For Life, Cooke took time out to add her name to the LCC petition. LCC members can get a third off the usual price for Cooke’s book by following this link at www.lcc.org.uk/memberoffers. Cycle For Life is reviewed on page 40 of this issue of London Cyclist.

LCC's video messageLCC took along a film crew to October’s Cycle Show to ask the public what it thought of cycling in London. A copy of the video will be sent to Mayor Boris Johnson so he knows he has to work harder to make London a cycle-friendly city. You can view the video at www.lcc.org.uk/cycleshow. If you’d like to help out with future video campaigning projects, email [email protected]

Don't miss newsletter A second email newsletter was sent out to LCC members in October, carrying news, campaigns, events and offers. To make sure you receive it, add the following email address to your contacts list: [email protected]. You can choose not to receive emails from LCC by emailing [email protected] or by clicking the unsubscribe link on any email you receive.

Numbers go online LCC’s 2008 financial accounts and the Chair’s report prepared for the November AGM are available online at www.lcc.org.uk/AGM.

in brief

LCC NEWS

Lifelong cyclist Alan Bennett enjoying

Regent’s Park

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Support membership is a new way to help encourage more people to enjoy London by bike



News

The Department for Transport (DfT) has told LCC there will be no delay in implementation of new safety mirrors on lorries.

European Union legislation requires lorries over 3.5 tonnes registered from 2000 to have safety mirrors fitted by March 31, 2009.

“All vehicles are required to be compliant by March 31, 2009 and confirmation of compliance will begin through the annual test on April 1, 2009,” the DfT told LCC.

LCC responded to a DfT consultation – which ran from June to October 2008 – on mirrors which asked questions about

whether the cost of the improvements was reasonable.

The campaigns team argued that the consultation should have taken place in 2007 as originally intended by the minister, and that any delay in implementation could cost lives.

LCC also told the DfT that the legislation should be extended to lorries registered before 2000 – there are some 100,000 pre-2000 lorries on the road in the UK.

You can find the full LCC response to the consultation at www.lcc.org.uk/HGV

LCC NEWS

‘Needs of cyclists an afterthought’ Westfield’s parking promises fall flat, says local coordinator

It was a dreamy vision of shopping heaven, but cyclists’ needs have been sorely neglected in the development of the new Westfield shopping centre in Shepherd’s Bush, according to the coordinator of Hammersmith & Fulham Cyclists, John Griffiths.

“The shopping centre is the largest urban mall in Europe, but the needs of cyclists in the area have been woefully neglected,” he said.

“Westfield has appreciated that cyclists will come and spend money, and has promised nearly 600 cycle parking spaces. However on the opening day, less than 200 of these spaces were installed. This compares

terribly with 4,500 high-tech car parking spaces which were all ready on time.”

When the new main line station and the refitted Central line station were opened at Shepherd’s Bush, no cycle parking was initially factored in. It was intended that the cycle parking at the shopping centre would also service the rail interchange – a confusing scenario for cyclists. Regardless, much more cycle parking is needed to service the stations, says John Griffiths.

“Westfield says the surrounding roads are ‘not recommended’ for cyclists because the roads around Shepherd’s Bush Green aren’t shown as cycle routes

on cycle maps,” he says. “This is despite the fact that this is a major cycling route into London, and is supposed to be part of link 73 in the LCN+. The result is that the planners of the road network – Westfield itself – have only considered cyclists as an afterthought. Turning buses and trucks and cars come first.”

He says the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham and the highway authority have gone along with Westfield’s plans. “Some aspects of the design may fall short of the standards set by the London Cycling Design Standards,” he says. “Let us hope that cyclists get through the confusing space safely.”

AN LCC CAMPAIGN

AN LCC CAMPAIGN

LCC continues fight for mirrors on all lorries

With times tough for property vendors, it’s worth knowing that having cycle storage in your home might help you sell it.

It’s now compulsory for all sellers to provide Home Information Packs (HIP), which include a sustainability index (from zero to six), rating the property’s environmental friendliness. The index works on a points system, and cycle storage can earn credits. If you have cycle storage, make sure you make full details available to your HIP provider and real estate agent.

Cycle storage can add value to your home

LCC chief executive Koy Thomson has made a high-profile list of London’s top movers and shakers.

The 1000: London’s Most Influential People list appeared in the Evening Standard’s free magazine supplement in October. The list covers all sectors of London life, from business and campaign work through to sport, the arts, and politics.

Koy Thomson said the honour reflected well on the organisation as a whole, and provided LCC with excellent mainstream media exposure. “To be named as one of the year’s influentials is great publicity for the organisation, and a tribute to the hard work the staff have put in over the past 12 months,” he said.

The magazine featured a full-page photograph of Koy and several LCC staff members riding across Tower Bridge. The picture was taken several weeks prior to publication, with the photographer sitting in the boot of a car that was driven in front of the group of cyclists.

The honour is the second time the head of LCC has made a list of influential Londoners. Koy Thomson’s predecessor as LCC chief executive, Simon Brammer, made a similar list, published in Time Out magazine, last year.

LCC boss is named one of the capital’s most influential people

Leona Lewis performs at the star-studded opening of the new Westfi eld shopping centre in west London. The complex was offi cially opened

by Mayor Boris Johnson on October 30

Cycle storage could help sell your home

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For more news, go to www.lcc.org.uk LONDON CYCLIST December 2008/January 2009 7


More than 50,000 cycle FreewheelMass bike ride attracts riders from communities across the capital

Send items for the news pages to [email protected]

or write to the address on page 3

The second annual London Freewheel mass bike ride on September 21 attracted more than 50,000 cyclists from across community, cultural and economic boundaries.

Cyclists of all ages and abilities enjoyed a leisurely cycle from their borough to a central London bike zone where roads were closed to motorised traffic. The 2008 event, sponsored by Sky Sports, was London’s second largest mass participation event of the year after the London Marathon.

LCC organised led rides from the boroughs, with Freewheel hubs at the Emirates Stadium, Clapham Common, Victoria Park and Ravenscourt Park providing rest and refreshment points on the way to the central route around London.

Uniting Londoners from diverse communities was a focus of this year’s event. LCC sponsored cyclists from various community groups, including youths from warring postcodes; Asian women riding with their veils on; victims of domestic violence; refugee kids; and obese children fighting the flab with pedal power.

Mayor Boris Johnson and a host of celebrities took part, adding star power and profile to an event that promises to grow bigger and better each year.

LCC director Koy Thomson said he hoped events such as Freewheel would remind Londoners what the capital could be like if it was made more “liveable” by giving more consideration to the needs of cyclists and pedestrians on an ongoing basis.

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LCC NEWS

The Islington LCC Freewheel ride stops at Smithfi eld

A family of Freewheelers at Trafalgar Square

Champion British cyclist Chris Hoy and Mayor Boris Johnson

LCC director Koy Thomson shows Mayor Johnson ideas for a more liveable London

Londoners enjoying

Freewheel

Bikes of all shapes and sizes made it out for Freewheel

A view from the handlebars

Riders make their way down the Mall

For more news, go to www.lcc.org.uk8 December 2008/January 2009 LONDON CYCLIST

News

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Opinion

One good reason to ride

I’m all for promoting cycling, but when I see some well-meaning leafl ets or magazine ads trying to do so, I groan. Because, like the traffi c lights at Morley College cycle crossing before they rejigged the timings last year (thanks, guys), they’re sending out unhelpful signals.

Typically, such ads bang on about cycling being Good For You (ie It’s Painful). Good For The Planet (ie We’re Smug). And Cheap (ie We’re Poor). It’ll show a pair of fragile-looking kids, carapaced with helmets despite being in a grassy park with no vehicle in sight (ie It’s Dangerous).

No, no, no. And no. First, cycling is not dangerous, unless you try doing it with your eyes closed like my dad did when he was 14. (Asked if he was hurt, he apparently said “yeth”.) It’s the traffi c that’s potentially dangerous; but that’s another article.

Second, nobody cycles because it’s good for them, good for the planet, or it’s cheap. Some might say that. Some might even believe it. And there’s something in some of those factors. (It will make you healthier; it might just offset a scuttle of coal in a Chinese power station; and it’s free at the point of use, but like the NHS or hotel toiletries or dinner at your mum’s, you do pay for it, only elsewhere.) But they’re not why.

It’s the fastest and most reliable way to get across London. Yes indeed, but that’s still not the reason. It’s simpler than that. It’s because cycling is fun.

Real reasonsThe journey to work isn’t a chore: it’s an exhilarating scoot across a bridge, breathing in the world’s most thrilling big-city riverscape. Going shopping isn’t tedious: it’s a sightseeing opportunity for that funny back street or quaint old mews en route. Finding your way to a friend’s place for the fi rst time isn’t a bewildering drag of buses and tubes: it’s a series of discoveries that colours in your mental map of the city.

The basic practicality of moving from A to B on a bike is intrinsically enjoyable. Cycling is its own

entertainment. You’re a participant in life, not a spectator. Shorn of status symbols, you encounter people and places naturally. Small things make you feel big-time good: jokes with a stranger, chats with locals, café and pub refuelling stops, a picnic lunch with a view. The simple business of being alive is enhanced.

The trip is invariably its own reward, but you need an excuse to get out there in the fi rst place, or else you wander in aimless frustration like a Saga coach party stopped to fi nd the toilets are closed. The good news is, any excuse will do: a sightseeing trip to that local landmark or new artwork; the premiere of a new cycle facility; one of London’s limitless free outdoor events; the Woolwich ferry; a street named after you; the Monopoly board... whatever.

In fact, the more arbitrary the reason for riding, often the more serendipitous the outcome. Two pals cycled a joint 40th birthday

route whose endpoints were defi ned by the Ordnance Survey grid references of their initials and date of birth, and had a fantastic week’s trip. (SH671130 to SW671208, as it happens.)

Borough groups know this, of course. Glance at the website of your local group, listed in this magazine. You’ll see endless reasons to ride, from the worthy to the gloriously pointless. (Southwark Cyclists recently sang Happy Birthday to the Rotherhithe Tunnel on its 100th. In the tunnel. It was brilliant.) Evening or weekend trips, not to trim carbon footprints, tone up thigh muscles, or avoid topping up Oyster cards; just for plain enjoyment.

Ever seen the sun rise on midsummer’s day? Join the ride that does that. Hate Christmas? Join the December 25 morning trip round Hyde Park. Love Christmas? Ditto. Like music, pubs, picnics, countryside, cityscapes, socialising, just that London-buzz thing? There are rides for all this. And you don’t hear people talk about saving the planet on them. They’re too busy having a good time.

Such rides – organised or self-organised – encourage lapsed, fi rst-time, or nervous cyclists onto their bikes, and occasional cyclists onto them more. The prospect of pleasure is more enticing than guilt or sacrifi ce. Discovering such pleasure, these new riders are more likely to fi t two wheels into their lifestyle. In the 21st century the driver of social change is not stick, but carrot cake.

So this is the message that needs to get through to those earnest promo ads more. It might just help dispel the invented cliché of the ‘smug cyclist’, invariably used by people whose knowledge of ‘cyclists’ comes only from those ads. Because cycling is interesting and fun. Like cyclists themselves.

Forget the environment, forget saving money – Rob Ainsley says cycling should simply be promoted as a fun thing to do

ABOUT THE AUTHORRob Ainsley is the author of 50 Quirky Bike Rides In England And Wales (Eye Books, £9.99, www.bizarrebiking.com).

HAVE YOUR SAYShare your thoughts by emailing us at [email protected] or writing to the address on page 3.


Dec Opinion 9.indd 9Dec Opinion 9.indd 9 8/11/08 23:46:178/11/08 23:46:17


Letters Have your sayEncouraging more women to rideOver the years there has been endless debate about how to encourage more women to cycle. Favoured solutions focus on training, fashion and propaganda in schools. Nobody seems to listen to what the women who don’t cycle are saying: cycling on the road with motorised traffi c is just not on their list of things to do.

It’s not that they are lazy or don’t want to cycle – they know the vital role of cycling in the sacred endeavour of maintaining the pert buttock. (You haven’t tried ‘spinning’?) They spend a lot of money on hats and handbags and hair styles and high heels in order to be chased by a man and you want them to wear helmets and get chased by a bus?

There are lots of cities where more than 30% of trips are by bicycle and in these places there are nearly always more women cyclists than men. How do these cities differ from 2% London? They provide safe, wide, dedicated cycle routes and do not force people to cycle with lorries.Ann Warren, Southwark

Changing police attitudesA few weeks ago, I was forced off the road by a motorist pulling out in front of me at a roundabout. Luckily, I saw the driver wasn’t paying attention and managed to brake, so avoiding serious injury – though it might have been a different story if there were any cars behind me when I came off.

The driver did not stop but I had the presence of mind (this time!) to get her registration and reported it to the police. I was not shocked when they wrote to me saying they were taking no action, but I did fi nd their reason – that I was not seriously injured – amusing. It would be interesting to consider whether they applied the same criterion to other traffi c violations; jump a red light - no-one injured? No problem! What amazed me the most was the police had the cheek to send me the letter with ‘working for a safer London’ across the top. Perhaps we don’t count as Londoners. Perhaps the logo should have the words ‘as long as you’re not a cyclist’ added.

The question is, how can we get them to take our safety seriously? The main reason more people

don’t cycle is their fears for their safety. Until we can change police attitudes, drivers will continue to treat us with contempt. I’ve written to my MP and London assembly representative – what else can we do?John Nunn, by emailLCC response: This isn’t the fi rst instance where a cyclist has been ignored when reporting dangerous driving. We live in a city that is designed around the car, and one where transgressions of the law by motor vehicles tend to be tolerated unless a cyclist or pedestrian is injured or killed. You’ve done the right thing: made some noise. Want to do more? Make a donation, join your local group, volunteer at events... we’re always looking for more people to help put cycling on our decision-makers’ agenda.

A note about BromptonsOn page 25 of the Oct/Nov issue, you picture a Brompton above the caption and text for handlebar bags. Standard Brompton bags as shown in the picture mount on the frame, not the handlebars – a big difference and a big advantage to handling the steering.Colin Newman, Barking

Grassroots activismGary Cummins’ article in the Oct/Nov issue highlighted one of the perennial problems of activism: once your head pokes over the parapet, everyone expects you to do the work. Grassroots activism is about the grassroots acting, not just the blades of grass above ground doing all the work.

Another article by Gary on cycling and traffi c management would be very interesting.Duncan Hibberd, by email

Freewheel feedbackMy wife, myself and our eight-year-old twins enjoyed this year’s Freewheel very much, but the increased numbers did raise a few issues that we feel need to be discussed ahead of next year.

Amongst the high density of cycle traffi c, the behaviour of riders determined to weave through at high speed was intimidating, unpleasant and totally inappropriate.

Groups of inexperienced riders frequently stopped in the middle of the traffi c fl ow, oblivious to the

hazard this represented. It would be awful if someone were to be hurt at this event simply because of the cycling community’s inability to regulate a density of cycle traffi c very few of us have previously experienced. Jonathan Holloway, Merton

I attended Freewheel along with members of my family (all novice cyclists) and a great time was had by all. However, I can’t help thinking that the route had been reduced since last year, which seems a pity. Given the increased interest in cycling, there is surely a sound argument for lengthening the circuit. Could the views of the organisers be sought on this?Mick O’RorkeEd: LCC will pass all feedback it received onto the organisers. See p.7 for our Freewheel picture page.

The helmet debateI am sorry for Robert Myrie (Letters, Oct/Nov), who obviously needs a nanny state to govern our cycling. As a (former) cycling instructor, I took care to take the stance that “if your parents buy you a helmet, you should wear it” – however I never refused to teach a child who was not wearing a helmet, for all I know, his/her parents might object to compulsory helmet-wearing, just as I do.Taking Robert’s stance further, perhaps we should ban beds because more people die in bed than elsewhere. Let parents decide what their children should wear, not some know-it-all in government.Sian Charlton, by email

Motorbikes in bus lanesI agree with David Kelly and Donald McCready and their letters in the Oct/Nov edition. I enclose a copy of an Institute of Advanced Motorists’ leafl et that shows cyclists and motorcyclists joining forces to try and reduce diesel spills on roads, and the associated dangers to two-wheeled users.

I joined LCC to promote cycling – some LCC members do seem very mean-spirited towards motorcyclists. I fi nd most two-wheeled riders more aware of other

Technical

LONDON CYCLIST October/November 2008 25

How to... carry things on your bike

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See www.lcc.org.uk/info

for advice on buying

bikes and accessories

A bike can be a fantastic way of

transporting heavier loads, and

thanks to the range of equipment

now available, you don’t have to

carry your wares on your back.

Here is an overview of the best

ways of carrying things with you

on your bike, whether you’re going

touring on your bike or just down to

the road to do the shopping.

The LC Bike SurgeryI’ve convinced my employer to install

bike parking at work, but we’re not

sure how many spaces we will need to

put in. How do we make an educated

guess that will be suitable for current

levels of cycling, as well as for any

projected growth in cycling among

employees (which will hopefully be the

result of our efforts now)?

Rachel Walton, Ealing

Congratulations on getting your employer

interested in encouraging people to cycle

to work. It may be worth carrying out a cycle

audit to work out how much cycle parking

you’ll need. LCC can arrange a cycle

audit for you – just call the office (details

page 31) for more advice.

Alternatively, in the case of workplace

cycle parking, Transport for London

suggests providing parking for everyone

who already cycles to work, plus another

50%, followed by another 20% every time

bike stand occupancy levels reach 80%.

Before going any further, you should

carry out a survey among employees to

find out who already cycles and who is

likely to start cycling to work if parking

(and possibly other facilities for cyclists

eg showers, lockers, etc) was made

available.More advice is at www.lcc.org.uk/info

– just follow the ‘Guide for employers’

and ‘Parking and storage’ links.

MORE INFORMATION

There are more details on each of these

options in the ‘Travelling with your bike’

section at www.lcc.org.uk/info

HOW TO SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS

If you have a question on routes, campaigning,

maintenance, safety or any other topic, send

your question to [email protected] or

write to the address on page 3, and the LC team

will answer it for you.

Bags and backpacks

While they might not

be as comfortable as

letting your bike take

the weight, cycle

bags often have a

very large capacity.

Handlebar bags

Handlebar bags are similar

to the old-style basket

on the front of a bike, but

with added security and

convenience.

Racks and panniers

Fitting a rack on which you can

carry bags or panniers means

you’ll have plenty of room to

carry your belongings with you.

TrailersTrailers are easy to load, and can carry heavy loads safely and without

affecting the balance of the bike. They may not be appropriate for use

in heavy traffic or tight spaces, but can be ideal for quieter roads.

Seatpost bags and larger

saddlebags

Seatpost bags can be a good

solution if you don’t have too

much to carry and don’t have a

rack or panniers on your bike.

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Congratulations to our Oct/Nov prize-winner: Steve Watkin from Orpington won an Iron Horse Transit 1.0 bike courtesy of Jim Walker.

LONDON CYCLIST August/September 2008 13

OpinionMaking a difference

Poachers make good gamekeepers; they also say the pen is mightier than the sword. The inspiration came in a fl ash: “a shortage of transport planners”, said the man presenting the London Cycle Network+

coordinators’ meeting. “If any of you are considering a career change, consider becoming transport planners.” I was, and I did. I had already warmed to him as he had not shied away from disguising his disappointment in Transport for London (TfL) – specifi cally its decision to scrap the whole London Cycle Network as it was then proposed. It later made a volte-face and re-instated a smaller, less ambitious version while adding the advantageous codicil to the name.Why the sudden change of heart? Was it the result of a night’s fretful sleep and softening of the corporate heart? Unsurprisingly no, it was the angry outpourings of a formerly semi-active membership and semi-aquiescent LCC secretariat, galvanised into action by one fi nal straw on the back of the then limping camel of cycle lobbying in London, and that’s my point.

Pitching in to helpI’d been an LCC borough co-ordinator, good at some things – setting up events, writing letters, lobbying to keep cycles where they belong (on the highway), however, rotten at others – building a core of activists from the existing membership. This was in the days before the internet, but that was really no excuse as other boroughs had bigger and more active groups than mine. Part of the problem was probably my tendency to be a bit too spiky when confronted with the c’est la vie of much of our membership, and my frustration that for some folk, activism meant complaining about something, and then waiting for me or another coordinator to try to resolve the issue, which we generally tried, and frequently failed, to do.

Of course, we all are empowered to write and to lobby; our (broader) society allows and positively encourages this, but our tendency to take the easy option and let other

people do the work (I don’t believe it is human nature, but human idleness) means we don’t.As an example: in London I used to lead evening history rides by bike. I have a qualifi cation in archaeology and the subject interests me. On one ride, a woman drew level with me and suggested “the East End is full of pop stars’ homes – you could do a pop stars’ homes tour”. Having spent countless sunny weekends researching my ride in the local library, my response was a curt “you could do it yourself – put the ride together, and we’ll give you all the help you need”, this while snapping my head back and forth, checking we had lost nobody at the lights ahead or the junctions behind. My old spikiness has just punctured the new soft me again.

Getting involvedTo my lobbying chums, I keep quoting: “10 letters infl uence a councillor, 100 letters infl uence an MP”, but was recently corrected on this point by a colleague, who argued that it takes a lot less than 100 letter to get to an MP. Twenty or so letters on a single subject will make an MP take note of an issue.

Aside from the fact that some folk are too lazy to lobby, others appear to be intimidated by the thought of challenging an elected member, a councillor, or local authority offi cer’s opinion on an issue. But this is exactly what the LCC and its representatives at borough level have to do all the time. Lobbying is hard soul-eating work, but it can be incredibly rewarding when an issue passes the point where things are changed for the better and the cancerous bile of frustration is somehow magically cleansed.LC publishes interviews with cycling personalities who query why ‘so and so’ is the way it is. Have these somebodies ever written a letter to ask why things are the way they are, or do they believe there is a magical osmotic process where those in power are expected to absorb the collective complaints of the celebrant electorate?

Put it on paper or email, and copy in your borough coordinator. How hard is it to write one letter each month to your councillors? Even better, get along to a meeting of your group, get a consensus and get writing on a single issue. Letters from a series of individuals carry far more weight than letters from a borough coordinator’s pen on the same issue. So, ‘on you go’, as we say, get writing. By the way, if you were the lady on my history ride, I’d like to say sorry for my curtness on that day. But you really could do that pop stars ride yourself with, as Lennon and McCartney sang, a little help from your friends.

Former LCC group coordinator Gary Cummins argues that it really is easy for LCC members to help influence change

ABOUT THE AUTHORLondoner Gary Cummins was a graphic designer for 22 years and borough co-ordinator of Tower Hamlets Wheelers from 1994 to 2001. In 2006, he took an MSc in Transport Planning and now works for JMP, a transport planning consultancy. He still lobbies on cycling issues and as a hobby organises package tours by cycle in his adopted country of Scotland.HAVE YOUR SAY ON THIS ISSUE

Email [email protected] or write to the address on page 3.

Gary Cummins argues there is much LCC members can do to help their local group’s campaigns

HOW TO GET INVOLVEDFor larger campaigns, LCC makes writing letters easy by providing templates online for members to fi ll out. In addition to writing letters and emails, you could also:– support an existing LCC campaign by signing petitions at www.lcc.org.uk;– encourage friends and family members to join LCC;– volunteer to help out on stalls, to marshall rides during events or to help LCC with its member mailouts.For more information, see the ‘get involved’ link at www.lcc.org.uk or call the LCC offi ce.

READYAug Opinion 13.indd 13READYAug Opinion 13.indd 13

12/7/08 22:59:31

Feature

Most cyclists love bus lanes because they

offer refuge from mainstream traffic, but that

refuge is under threat from plans to allow

motorcycles and scooters – both faster and

more unpredictable than buses – into bus lanes. More

than 3,500 people signed LCC’s petition in June

asking Mayor Boris Johnson to reverse his election

pledge to add motorised two-wheelers to the

bus-cycle mix.

Over the past decade there has been a dramatic

increase in cycling in London, with a 91% increase

on Transport for London (TfL) roads since 2000. An

improved network of bus lanes has given cyclists the

opportunity to use major, direct routes with a reduced

fear of being pushed off the road by faster traffic. Bus

lanes are by no means the perfect solution to cyclists’

needs but, in conjunction with other routes, they allow

a far better choice of routes for each and every trip.

Organisations representing motorcyclists have

lobbied for access to these enhanced route networks.

That presents LCC with a dilemma. Cyclists have a

lot in common with motorcyclists: we share the same

vulnerability to poorly driven cars and lorries, and

we share the ability to bypass congested traffic and

make journeys faster than other forms of transport.

Motorcyclists say there are environmental and

congestion benefits from increased motorcycle use

and that motorcyclists’ safety would be enhanced by

being able to use bus lanes. When LCC was invited

to join the London Motorcycle Working Group and

support policies favouring motorcycles, we looked

for the evidence behind these assumed benefits but

without success.

While other LCC campaigns – such as campaigns

for safer HGVs and 20mph limits – have the byproduct

of also improving motorcyclists’ safety, the LCC

campaigns team was unable to see any mutual

benefit in supporting a campaign that would boost the

number of motorised two-wheelers to the detriment

of cycling. Most debate so far has focused on what

will happen with bus lanes, but this ignores the wider

impact of increased motorcycle use on all streets. Just

as the Congestion Charge exemption led to increased

motorcycle use, access to bus lanes will do the same.

Campaign background

In 2000, one of (previous mayor) Ken Livingstone’s

election promises was to run trials to see if there

LONDON CYCLIST August/September 21

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was a safety benefit in allowing motorcycles in bus

lanes. Motorcycles were allowed to use bus lanes

on sections of the A23, A41 and A13 for 18 months.

From the outset it was clear to LCC that no statistically

reliable casualty data could come from such a small

trial, and there were concerns that this ‘no real data’

outcome would be presented as ‘no real problem’. In

2004, the traffic orders were made permanent and the

trial was extended in the search for more data.

The 2004 and 2006 reports on the trials showed

no significant safety benefit, and a third report tried

to analyse casualties against vehicle flow data. That

data was so poor that no reliable conclusions could

be made, and the report was never published by TfL.

When a summary of it was leaked, it was assumed

the report had been suppressed for political reasons.

When the report was finally published in April, TfL

stated that the earlier (leaked) report had not been

released because outcomes were unreliable and

misleading. Scenario testing of the statistically

insignificant data suggested that any safety benefit to

motorcyclists might be outweighed by increased risk

to pedestrians and cyclists. The increased casualty

numbers on the A13 trial were excluded because of

extra congestion resulting from road works.

Mayor Johnson’s transport manifesto reproduced

a selection of findings from the unpublished report,

suggesting the study showed a safety benefit for

motorcyclists. The official reports outlined the

unreliability of all the data and stated that “there was

no clear evidence to suggest that permitting P2Ws

(powered two-wheelers) in bus lanes provides safety

benefits”.A study for TfL and the Department for Transport

(DfT) found no congestion benefit from motorcycles in

bus lanes. A significant proportion of new motorcycle

trips are likely to be shifts away from cleaner

transport such as rail, bus or cycling. Despite their

small engines, motorcycles put out more dangerous

hydrocarbons than cars; even if fitted with catalysers,

they still fall behind car performance, and larger

motorcycles use more fuel than small cars. Noise

pollution is another real problem; it is very difficult to

enforce rules against excessive noise produced by

some motorcycles.

The Mayor (see our interview on page 16) relies

on the discredited safety data to justify his decision.

Regardless, he has promised to listen to all views

during a forthcoming consultation. He needs to

consider that not only are his targets for road casualty

reduction at risk, but so are his targets for improving

air quality, reducing noise pollution and increasing

cycling in London.

Life in the fast laneCharlie Lloyd of LCC’s campaigns team

explains why LCC opposes moves to allow

motorcycles to use bus lanes

HOWTO GET

INVOLVEDSee page 7 for more on how to get involved in

this campaign

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Dec Letters10,11.indd 10Dec Letters10,11.indd 10 8/11/08 23:43:548/11/08 23:43:54


Letters can be sent to [email protected] or to the address on page 3. Letters may be edited for legal or space reasons (please keep them short and concise)

Perhaps as things change we should consider separating the behaviour of two-wheelers and pedestrians into highways and byways. On the roads (highways) all current regulations should apply to all who use them. This includes the attitude of cyclists and pedestrians to red lights. Off-road (on byways), pedestrians and animals must at all times have priority, including on cycling tracks.Leigh, Putney

Lower Thames Street. Never an easy place to ride. Olympic-size potholes, lorries thundering inches from your frame and a laughable attempt at a ‘cycle lane’ (the odd bike on broken tarmac and an occasional square of green lane).

That’s par for the course on many roads, but what makes life harder are the motorbikes who ‘share’ the bike lane. Stay out! Sharing the ASL is one thing, but the small space from the kerb is our last refuge. If you really need to get from A to B so fast, take the train. Or even better, buy a bicycle!Tim Free, by email

450

I remember the fi rst bad winter after I bought a bike. I’d had my steed long enough that I’d bought a jacket and some gloves. I wasn’t still trying to cycle along with

alternating hands under an armpit. Down to a certain temperature, there’s a graph of

some sort: you take the temperature, you multiply it by your layers, you divide it by x and this is how many minutes of cycling it takes before you’re warm enough. This is known as the Williams Long John Equation, and it’s in use across south London.

However, it doesn’t work when things get really cold. All that works then is swearing. I would think London Cyclist has a pretty strict policy regarding printed expletives, so here you will just have to imagine me, sitting at traffi c lights, repeatedly saying a very rude word. Bikes are like cars in one respect: because you are moving, you think you’re in a private space, you think you are inaudible and in all important respects invisible. However, in a car you pretty much are inaudible and on a bike you defi nitely aren’t. So there I am, at lights, with my stupid fi ngerless gloves and bright pink fi ngertips, going ruderuderuderuderudeWORD, and blowing on my fi ngers. And the pedestrian, rather than looking round to think “poor cyclist. Putting all that work into making London a safe, carbon-neutral place to live! I only wish she weren’t so cold”, is instead thinking “why is that nutjob swearing at me?” And thus begins a circle of pedestrian-on-cyclist hate that will continue into the spring.

There has got to be a better way, because the one thing you cannot do, on pain of morbid obesity, is give up your bike until the weather gets better. The cold snap is bad enough without the extra sluggishness of arriving everywhere after half a miserable hour on a tube. Plus, you think you’re just giving up for a fortnight, but it never is just a fortnight. It’s a month before you’ve even noticed it’s a bit warmer. Then you can’t fi nd your gloves, your bike has a puncture, blah, blah, oh I’ll have to get it out of the garden, it’s probably got mud on, blah; they mount up these tiny inconveniences. Your subconscious logs each diminution of fi tness, and factors this into your reluctance. So while you think you’re getting a bus because you can’t fi nd your helmet, the truth is you never had a helmet.

The next time you’re gonna see the ground whizzing past from bike-height, it will be June. The more you enjoy it, the more you will hate yourself for having spent nine months away.

I think the only real answer is proper arctic clothing, the stuff so hardcore that everything comes with an inner and an outer layer. Anything fi ngerless or footless, bin it. You want every square inch covered in the same weird garment, like a Tellytubby outfi t only more breathable. Let Gor-tex be your guide and fl eece, in your hour of need, be at your side. Unless you have a really nice bike, you want your outfi t to cost more than your bike. And if you have a really nice bike, do you really want it to spend Christmas in the garage? Well, do you?

Zoe Williams

road users than any four-wheeled driver. Naturally there will be exceptions to this, but I have never in 17 years of cycle commuting had an incident with a motorcycle

Come on LCC – don’t be mean-spirited about your fellow two-wheeled travellers. It may mean that some of your LCC members may feel that this organisation is something with which they no longer wish to be associated.Richard Symonds, Bexleyheath

I am against our motorised two-wheeled friends using bus lanes. Motorbikes are not the problem; it is scooters – they are delinquents.

Boris Johnson was fed bad information before concluding that there are no statistics relating to motorbikes/scooters being a safety issue. Passenger and commercial vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists have improved their safety records; motorbikes/scooters haven’t.

The danger is that cyclists do not know what is happening behind them and are unprepared for sharing space with faster two-wheelers competing for space.

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I attach a photo of a T-shirt which I’ve had since, well, 1978. I think this was on sale at around the time LCC was being launched, and I have a sticker with the same logo from the same time, which

is on my guitar. Needless to say, the T-shirt doesn’t fi t any more – it seems to have shrunk or

something... Andy Bebington, Croydon

Clements bikesI greatly enjoyed the articles on London bike brands by Mark Mitchell and Tom Bogdanowicz, though neither mentioned Pat Hanlon’s shop in Tottenham, where this truly original woman cyclist sold her own frames and wheels, still much sought after. As well as owning a Pat Hanlon, I also have a Clements bike, bought second-hand about 20 years ago, which I was told was made in south London, but have been unable to verify this. Does anybody know anything about Clements bikes?Ken Worpole by email

Ken, an LC columnist (see page 41), also sent in this chap, photographed near Manningtree on the Essex/Suffolk borders

Letters

Dec Letters10,11.indd 11Dec Letters10,11.indd 11 8/11/08 23:44:098/11/08 23:44:09

Feature


And, as a result, cycling presents us with opportunities to capture on camera things that motorists, or bus and tube commuters would never see.

Transport for London (TfL) asked cyclists over the summer to send in sights of the city captured on commutes and leisure rides, or photos taken to capture the photographer the essence of cycling in the capital. The competition was run as part of the Mayor’s Summer of Cycling campaign, with the winning entries on display in the photographic gallery on TfL’s cycling website, www.tfl.gov.uk/cycling. More than 1000 entries were received, and judged according to their originality, their relevance to the cycling theme and the quality of the photography.

Judging panelPeter McBride, Head of Cycling, Walking and Accessibility at Transport for LondonKoy Thomson, chief executive of LCCKerstin Hacker, lecturer, photojournalist and author

Cycling has a habit of giving you an insight into a city that being stuck inside a car never could. Maybe it’s because the world passes by at

a slower speed when you’re riding. Or perhaps it’s because you go places on your bike that a car could never reach; hidden passages, parks, canal towpaths. It could of course be the open air; the smells, as much as the sights, of the city. And then there are the sounds, loud and direct and unhindered by windows or doors. My guess is it’s a little bit of all of these.

In the frame Transport for London ran a photography competition over the summer asking cyclists to send in their take on cycling in the capital. Here, we publish some of the winning images

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Feature


Reflections by Oliver Blaiklock Winner, West London category“I was cycling in Walpole Park when a thunderstorm broke,” says Oliver Blaiklock. “After the rain had stopped and the sky had cleared, my eye was caught by this reflection in a puddle. I had my camera with me andI was able to take a picture of it before cycling home.”

What the judges said Kerstin Hacker: “This image captures what we all love about cycling. A clear autumn day in the park, in this case after some heavy rain. The composition gives a dynamic to this well balanced image and the silhouette adds a graphic element.”

Enjoy the summer? by Richard Butler Winner, South East London category“I keep thinking that we didn’t really have a summer this year but, looking back at my photos, that doesn’t appear to be true,” says Richard Butler. “I can also remember trying to carry furniture up four flights of stairs to my new flat on an incredibly hot day. And, they turned the fountains on outside City Hall, so it must have been warm at some stage.”

What the judges saidKerstin Hacker: “I enjoyed the energy captured in this image. For me, this image is about modern London and people enjoying themselves in public places.”

Paul’s Bike by Roh Hathlia Winner, City of London category“I take pictures quite regularly along the South Bank, but had avoided taking one of St Paul’s as there are already so many images of it,” says Roh Hathlia. “Then I chanced upon this solitary bike parked to the rail and instantly knew that it was going to make a good image. I wanted to capture the tranquility of the river, which, hopefully, I achieved.”

What the judges saidPeter McBride: “The famous London icon of St Paul’s towers in the background in contrast with the simple engineering that is the bicycle. You can’t blame the cyclist for dismounting to enjoy one of London’s finest views.”

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Syon Park by Phil Cohat Winner, South West London category“This photograph really sums up how I was feeling when I took it on a beautiful summer’s evening - the sense of happiness and freedom which I think comes with cycling,” says Phil Cohat.

What the judges said Koy Thomson: “This is the type of magical view that you see regularly when cycling around London. I was once transfixed at a junction in central London by a rose bush covered with bees and I can’t count the number of times that beautiful views have stopped me in my tracks. This photo powerfully reflects an experience that can grab you any time, anyplace as a regular cyclist in London.”

The Queen’s Arms by Tom de Gay Winner, West Central category“Cycling opens up a whole new London, its patchwork of side streets revealing the city’s more reticent character,” says Tom de Gay. “This is my partner, Keiko, in Queen’s Gate Mews, South Kensington. It was the end of summer and the end of a long day exploring; time for the long ride home.”

What the judges saidPeter McBride: “The setting sun and long shadows remind me how great it is to be out and about on summer evenings. It’s a really peaceful scene, which depicts all those hidden gems that can be discovered when cycling around the city.”

Graffity love by Alexandra Manea Overall winner“I’m quite happy I captured this shot,” says Alexandra. “It took me a while to wait for the right person to pass by to add to my picture, but I think I have been quite lucky in the end.”

What the judges saidKoy Thomson: “Everyday cycling in London is different if you chill out and notice what is going on around you. This photograph typifies the chance encounters with people, places, buildings, plants, weather, creatures – real or imagined – that make cyclists say ‘my ride to work is the best part of my day’.”

SEND US YOUR PHOTOSThink you can do better? LC wants to see your photographic take on cycling in London. Send your contribution in high resolution format to [email protected] by December 24 and we will publish a selection of the best ones in our next issue.

Feature


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Feature


Have you ever ridden across the new bike lane on Blackfrairs Bridge, or wondered why bike lanes that are just one metre wide are no

longer implemented, or used some of the bike cut throughs in Islington, Hackney or Ealing? Members of a little-known group called CPEC were involved.

The LCC’s Cycle (Land and Transport) Planning and (Highway) Engineering Committee, or CPEC, works closely with Transport for London. The group’s purpose is to support LCC’s vision to make London a world-class cycling city. With the letter ‘P’ for planning being key, CPEC advises not only on transport infrastructure, but also on improving the built environment – everything from the design of streets and the implementation of cycle facilities to influencing planning guidance, working mainly with local authorities and TfL.

The group – comprising a cluster of experts and ordinary members with a special interest in the

ENGINEERING CHANGEfields of planning and engineering – also helps and advises other LCC groups responsible for campaigns concerned with cycle parking, heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), and parks and canals.

CPEC’s collective depth of knowledge has influenced many changes, including recommendations following a fatality on Blackfriars Bridge in May 2004. In daylight hours, Vicki McCreery, who was cycling north over the bridge, was hit by a bus and died from her injuries. The incident attracted much media, political and public attention, and CPEC was subsequently involved in discussions relating to infrastructure changes that ultimately made the bridge safer for cyclists. The outcome included re-routing the traffic flow at the end of the bridge to give cyclists priority and wider cycle lanes.

CPEC’s work goes back a long way, but the largest important initiative the group has been involved in is the London Cycle Network Plus (LCN+), a project inspired by LCC campaigners from as far back as the 1980s under the GLC. LCN+ aims to substantially increase the use of bicycles in the capital by making it easier to get around. It is a planned network embracing 900km (559 miles) of London-wide radial and orbital routes for cyclists, and it was due for completion in 2010.

Via an incarnation as the London Cycle Network in

In the first of an occasional series of articles on LCC’s advisory groups, Mark Mitchell looks at the role and achievements of the Cycle Planning and Engineering Committee

The cycle facilities on Blackfriars Bridge were the result of prolonged

discussions between Transport for London and

relevant stakeholders, among them LCC’s Cycle Planning

and Engineering Committee, which was instrumental in the fi nal design of the cycle lanes

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the 1990s, a full funding programme for the LCN+ was established in the early 2000s, along with a suitable new methodology for getting the best knowledge to inform planning and implementation. This is called the Cycle Route Implementation and Stakeholder Plan (CRISP) method.

Described as ‘an enhanced feasibility study that supports scheme planning, programming, design and implementation of improvements for cyclists along a Link’, it simply means that, once a route has been identified, a cycle route inspection meeting (CRIM) is organised. The local highway authority, a consultant who writes the final report, and relevant stakeholders, most importantly local LCC campaigners, examine the proposed route together, usually on bikes. They recommend how improvements may increase use, estimate a budgetary cost, and propose an action plan. All this information is compiled in the CRISP Report, and subsequent work arising from it is monitored by the LCN+ team.

Clare Neely chairs CPEC. “The CRISP plan was written by TfL and we helped develop it,” she says. “We were also involved in the London Cycling Design Standards, which is to do with the width of cycle lanes, signs for road humps and so on – this is the actual bread and butter of highway engineering. In general, highway engineers are more concerned with providing for vehicles, but they need to think about walking and cycling, not just cars, and we’ve been quite influential there.”

IMPROVING CYCLE ACCESSAnother very important area of work is improving ‘permeability’, which can be defined as ‘maximum route choice, minimum diversion’. This is a the jargon term used to describe the conditions in which cyclists would preferentially travel around the urban environment and highlights how beneficial the removal of barriers such as big roundabouts, heavily trafficked one-way systems, or dual carriageways would be. Cyclists’ worries about safety, for instance, can

usually be addressed through greater permeability. One of CPEC’s aims is to keep the local highway

authorities under pressure, not only about spending money on the right developments for cyclists, but also to help improve the quality of highway engineering measures that give cyclists priority and benefit the community at large.

On the transport planning side, successes are legion. “There are specific commitments in our local transport plans for ‘softer’ measures, not just ‘hard’ highway engineering,” says Clare Neely. “For example, working with community groups to implement cycle training.”

STILL ON THE AGENDAWhat are CPEC’s next priorities? Gyratories, or large, circular one-way systems are a target: “Local people hate them; pedestrians stay on one side of the road and don’t cross, and it makes cyclists take indirect routes,” says Clare Neely. “The other major agenda item relating to permeability is making cycling a priority by introducing 20mph limits.”

Mayor Boris Johnson’s move to allow motorcyclists to use bus lanes poses a more immediate challenge. “When you ask people why they don’t cycle, it’s because traffic goes too fast. And motorcycles go fastest of all,” she says. “If motorcycles are allowed to use bus lanes, it may put people off starting to cycle.”

The diversity of its agenda makes CPEC is a vibrant market for the exchange of information. Through LCC staff, CPEC gets involved in transport consultations and gets feedback from TfL. “Without CPEC, London’s cycling policies would be weaker and less effective,” says LCC campaigns manager Tom Bogdanowicz, “and without CPEC’s wealth of knowledge, LCC’s local groups would lack the resources to tackle cycle route design based on expert advice.”

Neely also regards CPEC as a source of deep knowledge. “Anyone can turn up to a CPEC meeting, it’s a very loose network and structure,” she says. “We help each other out. Someone will post a problem on the forum and they will be inundated with responses. It’s an extremely valuable knowledge resource. The knowledge is within the whole group. It’s about the value of that network and sharing it so others can benefit.”

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Bike lanes, bus lanes and signage issues all fall within CPEC’s remit

HOW TO GET INVOLVED■ The best way of getting involved in engineering and planning issues is through

your local group (see page 32), with whom you will be able to work on local issues. If you already have experience or are a professional in these areas, your borough coordinator will be able to put you in touch with the chair of CPEC.

■ To get involved in CRISP studies in your borough, also contact your local LCC group, which will usually be consulted on studies being carried out within its borders. See also www.londoncyclenetwork.org.uk

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Feature

It’s a Saturday night in a trendy bar in Southwark and the atmosphere is electric. A DJ is pumping out frenetic music and top-hatted burlesque

girls strut their stuff. A commentator called Buffalo Bill whips the crowd into a frenzy. On a low stage, two spotlighted racers are getting ready to cover a simulated 500 metres in around 20 seconds. They sit next to each other on track bikes fixed to roller racing stands. Behind them is a large circular dial, marked out in metres, carrying two red and blue indicator hands to display each rider’s performance.

At the start signal they spring into action – heads down, tense hands clamped to the handlebars, their legs a blur of speed. The red pointer is inching ahead

and the crowd is bellowing encouragement. Seconds later, it’s all over. The winner flings up his arms; both riders have given their all.

This is roller racing in a form that transcends sport. Tonight’s entertainment – London bike messengers versus Lycra-clad racers, male and female – has been organised and presented by that flagship of ultra cool cycle clothing, Rapha, with a London-based enterprise called Rollapaluza providing the roller package. The latter’s roots are in the bike messenger world, where a few years ago couriers began holding roller races in the upstairs rooms of pubs such as the Horseshoe in Clerkenwell.

“The early London events were organised by a small and dedicated group of enthusiastic couriers, with the proceeds used to help the Bicycle Courier Emergency Fund and the London Bicycle Messenger Association,” says Therese Bjorn of Rapha. The London scene was influenced by Goldsprints, extreme roller racing events born out of the 1999 Cycle Messenger World Championships in Zurich. From Europe, the action spread to championships held in New York, later expanding into other cities in the USA.

Getting kitted outRoller racing equipment is specialised and not easy to get hold of. Although similar in principle to the type used for training and warm-ups at road and track events, rollers used for competition are heavy duty and need mechanisms to drive the hands of the dial. As the events now attract wider audiences, including children, for safety reasons a bike’s front wheel is removed and the forks clamped into a frame to provide better stability.

“For the first couple of events, we used borrowed kit. Then we bought equipment in Holland, brought

Roll up,Roll up, roll uproll upWhere can you be within feet of live cycle racing that boasts the atmosphere of a fairground? The answer is roller racing. Mark Mitchell is hooked

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Nathan Germain and Stirling Bovell on Bec CC’s roller

racing bikes at a Wandsworth

Borough Council’s Bike Week event

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it over here and developed it,” said ex-courier Paul Churchill of Rollapaluza. The combination of fast-paced racing, music, a bar, keen participants and an expanding audience meant a more formal organisation was required, and at the end of the 1990s it became a business. At the 2007 Tour de France event in the capital, it featured on the London Cycling Campaign stall, where over 350 people tried the rollers over two days. Since September last year, over 5,500 riders have rollered their way to winning or losing in events organised by Churchill and his business partner, another ex-courier, Caspar Hughes.

“We’ve been working on a schools programme this year. Kids love getting on the bikes and having a go. It’s not just about beating their mates, it’s also about setting their own best time,” says Churchill. He adds that roller racing on smaller bikes offers a way for children to express their competitive instincts in a highly physical activity, but safely and without huge expense, or having to go to a special venue.

A step back in timeIf Rapha and Rollapaluza represent the modern side of roller racing, the Bec Cycling Club in south London represents its traditional side. As a boy, Garry Beckett, a lifelong member, says he remembers going to the clubroom and seeing roller racing: “There was a lot going on, especially at the end of the road and track racing season and during the winter. Much inter-club competition took place, and the social side of the events drew many people.”

The sport was especially popular in post-WWII Britain. According to Beckett, it was recognised in awards held at the Royal Albert Hall in the 1950s and racing took place up and down the country, in bingo halls and sports venues. It became a serious part of the cycle sports calendar. “The Grand Prix of London was the big thing, the FA Cup Final of roller racing. Riders from all over Britain came to compete in it,” he says.

The bikes were not attached to a frame and once under way, the riders either chose to balance themselves, or to rely on a ‘holder’: one or two

assistants to hold the bike firmly. Races would include from two to six riders. Halls were packed, with the atmosphere every bit as exciting as today’s courier-orientated events.

In the 1980s, to replace ageing kit, Bec CC bought a new set of Birelli competition rollers, still in use today. The South London Roller League was resurrected and remains active, supported by the Bec, de Laun, Surrey Road Club, Addiscombe, Norwood Paragon, and other local but no less distinctive clubs. It usually begins after the hill climbing season ends, around October, and runs through into late winter.

Garry Beckett says rollers were taken to local shows and festivals. “The Southwark show was good, but the best one was the Irish Festival at Peckham Rye,” he says. “In the afternoon, after several fair-goers had been sampling the Guinness, a gang would turn up and members would want to race each other. Five hundred metres would finish them.”

During Bike Week this year, Bec CC worked with Wandsworth Borough Council. A spokesman for the latter says the club’s roller racing stands are a good way of generating ‘buzz’ at events held to promote cycling: “We’ve used the kit at numerous events over the past few years. It can get very competitive, especially among schoolchildren.”

Roller racing is not exclusive to London. It features in many cycle club activities throughout the country and it’s a healthy part of many schools sports activities. The British Schools Cycling Association (BSCA) includes national and regional championships. The governing body of cycling, British Cycling, says it is pleased to see the resurgence in the sport, which it regards as a cycle racing discipline in its own right. Could it become an Olympic event? Go along to a race near you and see for yourself. Better still, try it.

Roll up, roll up

Far left: Ron Beckett of Bec CC in action during the ’50s Left: Jim Pentecost, also of Bec CC, and Ron Beckett

Page opposite, left and above: Competition at a Rollapaluza night

MORE INFORMATIONRapha: www.rapha.ccRollapaluza: www.rollapaluza.comBec Cycling Club: [email protected] Schools Cycling Association: www.bsca.org.uk

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How to... deal with a collisionSee www.lcc.org.uk/info

for advice on buying bikes and accessories

The LC Bike SurgeryI want to buy a bike and start cycling but I’m a bit intimidated by bike shops and have no idea about the various types of bikes on offer. Can you help? Name withheld by requestFirstly, bike shops should be there to help – they are, after all, businesses and should be aiming to please their customers. Ask other cyclists if they know a good shop, or contact your local LCC group (see page 36) for a recommendation in your area.

In the meantime, here’s a very brief overview of different bike types.

All Terrain Bike (ATB): A bike with chunky tyres and gear levers on the handlebars; what most people call a mountain bike. Not particularly suited to city riding. Hybrid: Like an ATB, but usually with narrower tyres and a lighter frame. Recumbent: A bike on which the rider lays down, with his/her legs out in front. Road bike: A lightweight machine with high gears and narrow wheels.Town bike: Built for comfort rather than speed, with straight handlebars and an upright riding position. 3 Speed: Has three gears in the rear

wheel hub – an old-fashioned town bike.Whichever you choose, don’t forget to

factor in a good lock and theft insurance. There is more advice on buying a bike

at www.lcc.org.uk, where you can also download a free booklet on the subject.

MORE INFORMATIONMore advice: LCC members are entitled to free legal advice: call 020 7234 9310 for more information.Compensation: There is more infornation and discussion on whether you should take legal action in the ‘advice’ section at www.lcc.org.uk.

Stress and anxiety: If you experience ongoing stress and anxiety as a result of a collision, the following organisations can offer you support, as can your GP: Roadpeace (0845 4500 355); the Trauma Aftercare Trust (01242 890 306); SANE, a mental health helpline (0845 767 8000).

HOW TO SEND US YOUR QUESTIONSIf you have a question on routes, campaigning, maintenance, safety or any other topic, send your question to [email protected] or write to the address on page 3, and the LC team will answer it for you.

Here is a guide to what to do immediately after a collision, whether it’s with another road user or as a result of poor road surface.

Collisions involving another partyIt is important to do the following:◆ Note the other party’s name, address and registration number;◆ If possible, note the name, phone number and address of at least two witnesses;◆ Make a rough sketch of the collision while it’s fresh in your memory;◆ If you have a camera, take pictures of the aftermath of the collision, particularly where the other party ended up. Otherwise, come back later with a camera;◆ Report the incident to the police or ask someone else to do so. Note the name of any police officers attending the scene, their station and, if applicable, a CAD (Computer Aided Despatch) or CRIS (Crime Reference Information System) number;◆ As soon as possible after the collision, write down or record a message on your phone describing what happened;◆ See a doctor, even if you feel OK. Injuries sometimes show up later and a doctor’s examination can provide vital evidence.◆ Do not to admit responsibility (or say sorry) as this may count against you in any compensation or insurance claim. Do, however, note any admission by the other party.

Crashes not involving any other peopleIt is important to do the following:◆ Note the names and addresses of any witnesses;

◆ Ask local people if they have seen any other similar incidents at the same place;◆ Take photos as soon as possible, before the road can be repaired;◆ Write down what happened;◆ Report the incident to the local authority, unless it is a major road such as a red route, in which case report it to Transport for London;◆ Even if another road user is involved, you can still have a claim against the highway authority where there is a surface defect or negligent road design.

Damage to your bikeAfter a collision, always inspect your bike carefully for damage, even if it appears to be fine. Some damage can only be seen on close inspection and structural damage could prove dangerous at a later date. If you are not sure what to look for, take your bike to a bike shop. If there is damage and you decide to make a claim against the other party, you will need to get a quote from a bike shop.

If your bicycle is damaged and you have cycle insurance, you will need to contact your insurance company or broker. They may then decide to follow up the case on your behalf with the other party’s insurance company. The more information you provide, the easier your claim will be.

Technical


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Technical

7.15pm-9pm. Call to confirmAt: Armada Centre, Armada Court, 21 McMillan St, Deptford SE8 6PWContact: Julian Dobson (07771 692 344, 020 8463 0801, [email protected]) or see www.greenwichcyclists.org.uk

HackneyWhat: Twice monthly two-hour workshops sponsored by Hackney Cycling Campaign. Work on your bike with advice from expertsCost: No charge – run by volunteers (donations to pay rent appreciated). Additional volunteers welcomeWhen: 7pm-9pm on first and third Tuesday of the month At: The Kings Centre, Frampton Park Baptist Church, Frampton Park Rd, off Well Street, E9 7PQContact: Hackney Cycling Campaign (www.hackney-cyclists.org.uk), Adam (07940 121 513), Ross ([email protected]) or Paul ([email protected])

HammersmithWhat: One-day cycle repair and maintenance workshopsCost: £40 (5% off for LCC members) When: First Thursday of every month and last Saturday of every monthAt: Emerald Centre, 2 Beadon Road, W6 0DAContact: Gordon (07983 949 559, [email protected]) or Jon (07507 496 212)

IslingtonWhat: Bicycle maintenance courses When: On demandAt: Based in Islington but can travelContact: Jonathan Edwards (07946 261 165, [email protected])

What: 2.5-hour, self-help workshopCost: £1 (50p unwaged) When: Fourth Wednesday of month (not August/December); 7pm-9.30pmAt: Sunnyside Gardens, cnr Sunnyside and Hazellville roads, N19 Contact: Adrian (07810 211 902)

KingstonWhat: Maintenance to help keep bikes in good order. One-day courses cover bike checks, brakes, punctures, gears. Evening course includes chains, bearings and transmissionCost: One-day Saturday course is £26; evening course is £50When: One-day course: 10am-4pm on January 31 and March 7, 2009; evening course: six Mondays 7pm-

Workshops

BexleyWhat: Roadside repair and maintenance courseCost: £35When: Phone or email for datesContact: Sidcup Cycle Centre (020 8300 8113, [email protected])

BromleyWhat: Hands-on beginners’ session. Bring your own bike. There are two courses: Basics (punctures, cleaning and lubricating); Brakes and Gears (tuning, cables, brake pads). A session on disc brakes may be run on demandCost: £20 – includes a maintenance pack worth at least £9. When: Call for details At: Hayes Old Church School, Hayes, BR2 7BAContact: Big Foot Bikes (020 8462 5004, [email protected])www.bigfootbikes.com

Central LondonWhat: With the support of London Borough of Camden, the Camden Cycling Campaign is running courses covering punctures, brakes, chains, tuning gears and cleaningWhen: Series 08-C: November 15 (Part 1), December 13 (Part 2))At: Velorution, 18 Great Titchfield Street, W1W 8BDCost: £50 for two sessionsContact: Stefano (020 7435 0196, ([email protected])

What: Basic maintenance. Work on your own bike – no knowledge is assumed Cost: £72 (£66 for LCC members)When: Saturdays 10.30am-5pmAt: Bikefix, 48 Lamb’s Conduit Street, WC1N 3LJContact: Patrick Field (www.londonschoolofcycling.co.uk, 020 7249 3779)

EalingWhat: Ealing Cycling Campaign runs ad-hoc courses throughout the year covering maintenance and repairContact: See www.ealingcycling.org.uk or email [email protected]

GreenwichWhat: Year-round maintenance classes by Greenwich Cyclists. Covers tyres and wheels; intermediate class covers brakes and gears. Bring your bike and partsCost: £5 per two-hour class. See www.greenwichcyclists.org.uk When: Tuesday or Wednesday,

9pm from June 1At: North Kingston Centre,Richmond Road, KT2 5PEContact: Kingston Adult Education ([email protected], www.kingston.gov.uk/adulteducation, 020 8547 6700) or Rob (020 8546 8865, [email protected]). See also www.kingstoncycling.org.uk

LambethThere are no plans for classes at the moment, but contact Janet Paske at [email protected] or on 07740 457 528 if you would like to be kept informed of any future developments

What: Basic maintenance course Cost: £60When: Call for datesAt: BrixtonContact: Paul Lowe (020 7733 3070) www.cyclinginstructor.com

NewhamWhat: Workshop for Newham cyclistsCost: A donation to Cycle Club fundsWhen: Saturdays, 9.30am-12pm during term timeAt: New City Primary School, New City Rd, Plaistow, E13 9PRContact: Liz Bowgett ([email protected])

RedbridgeWhat: Redbridge Cycling Campaign’s course covers all aspects of basic maintenance (punctures, brakes, gears, etc)Cost: £30When: Please get in touch to register for the next course in the new yearContact: Terry (07795 981 529, [email protected]) or Jim ([email protected], 07949 883 747), or see www.redbridgelcc.org.uk

SouthwarkWhat: Southwark Cyclists’ four-evening course includes maintenance and cleaning, punctures, cables, brakes, truing wheels, when to get professional help, and when to replace what. Uses On Your Bike’s workshop and professional mechanics. 10% off purchasesCost: £48 per course. Pay online via Paypal after confirming placeWhen: Tuesdays. 6.30pm-8.30pmAt: On Your Bike, 52-54 Tooley St, SE1 2SZContact: Barry (07905 889 005,[email protected]), or www.southwarkcyclists.org.uk

What: Cycle Training UK’s one-day courses. Basic and intermediate; one-to-one or small group sessions; puncture masterclassCost: £60/one-day course; £30/hour bespoke tuition; £20/puncture masterclass. 5% off for LCC members. Subsidised training available for those living, working or studying in Ealing, Brent, Lambeth or the City When: Phone or check websiteAt: CTUK, Unit 215, Building J100 Clements Road, SE16 4DGContact: Call 020 7231 6005 or check www.cycletraining.co.uk

SuttonWhat: Basic bicycle maintenance class plus free Dr Bike cycle checkCost: £10 per head (family discounts) When: Call/email for datesAt: Sutton West Centre, Robin Hood Lane, Sutton, SM1 2SDContact: Chris Parry (020 8647 3584, [email protected]) orShirley Quemby (020 8642 3720), or see www.cyclismsutton.org.uk

Tower HamletsWhat: Hands-on workshops with Tower Hamlets Wheelers Cost: Free. Donations welcome!When: Last Saturday of the month(except December); 11am-3pm At: Boxing Club, Limehouse Town Hall, 646 Commercial Rd E14 7HAContact: Owen Pearson (07903 018 970, [email protected])www.wheelers.org.uk/workshop Waltham Forest

What: Maintain or assemble a bike. Bike donations very welcome Cost: £3. Tea/coffee providedWhen: The workshop (when staff available) opens 10am-3pm Saturdays except the first Saturday of the month (when there is a bike sale) and the second Saturday of the month when the workshop is run by Waltham Forest LCC and therefore open 11am-1pm to members. Fridays it is open for volunteers only, 9am-4pm, to recondition bikes At: Council transport depot, Low Hall Depot, South Access Road, Walthamstow, E10 7A6. Stop at security for directionsContact: Christopher Rigby ([email protected], 07910 235 149) or call 07948 060 473. Also keen to hear from volunteers who are able to help keep this excellent service running

Want to know how to maintain your bike? Try a course or workshop near you

Visit www.lcc.org.uk/info for more on bike maintenance. To list a workshop on

this page, please email [email protected]

Technical

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Kamasa high visibility vests

Product reviews Bright ideasIan Cleverly tests products to be seen in this winter

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Energizer Advanced headlightHead mounted lights are a great idea. Having an extra beam above (most) traffic will greatly increase visibility. An adjustable elasticated strap keeps the light unit firmly attached to a helmet or forehead, while a padded backing keeps the unit comfortably snug on the head should you not be of the helmet persuasion. The two white LEDs throw a powerful beam, or turn it round 180 degrees and switch to the single red bulb.

VerdictMissing a flashing option, which is a shame. Not a cycling-specific design but one that works well and will get you noticed, which is the main thing.£19.99, Energizer (www.energizer.co.uk)

You can’t argue with the price of these vests. They come as a two-pack, one adult and one child size. However, the adult version is absolutely massive, so unless you are built like Brian Blessed, it will not be a good fit. A small Velcro strip fastens the front so there is no adjustability.

VerdictCheap and cheerful but, due to the lack of adjustability, will only fit very big or very small people.£5.99 for two, Tool Connection (www.toolconnection.co.uk)

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Product reviewsProduct reviews

Endura Luminite jacketA well constructed waterproof in ultra-bright luminous yellow with copious reflective piping and panels, pit zips for ventilation and drawcord adjusters. More pockets than are strictly necessary and a heavy-duty fabric make it a bit bulky for packing away in your bag, but it certainly keeps the rain at bay very well. Here’s the clever bit: Endura has incorporated a flashing LED into the rear of the jacket – not the brightest light you will ever see but every little helps.

VerdictA seriously good commuting jacket for those foul weather days, but a bit warm for all but winter riding. The built-in light could be brighter. £69.99, Endura (www.endura.co.uk)

Altura Night Vision jacketThe Altek fabric used for the Night Vision is the not the most breathable in the Altura range but still coped admirably when our tester worked up a sweat. Zipped side vents and one at the back help keep things cool. A fleece lined collar, drawcord drop tail, waterproof zips and chunky rubber pulls for the adjustable cuffs add to the all-round comfort. And the reflective panels and detailing, combined with the bright yellow material, make this jacket an all-round winner for winter commuting.

VerdictA great fitting, highly reflective waterproof that does everything asked of it. Highly recommended. £64.99, Zyro (www.zyro.co.uk)

Altura Night Vision glovesWaterproof, windproof and breathable, the Thinsulate insulation used for the Night Visions means warm hands without fat gloves, with the added bonus of reflective panels for night riding. Gel pads and hard wearing Amara palms add to the comfort factor.

VerdictComfortable, waterproof, reflective and warm without being bulky. They are not cheap, but they are worth it. £29.99, Zyro (www.zyro.co.uk)

Two great products from Respro, the masters of all things hi-viz. The stretchy Scotchlite helmet band increases visibility up top, while the ankle bands take care down below. The adjustable neoprene ankle bands can also be positioned on the arms, but rotating reflectors will always attract attention better than static, so they’ll work best on the legs.

VerdictSimple safety solutions that will make more of your body stand out in the dark. Money well spent.£14.99 each, Respro (www.respro.co.uk)

Respro ankle and helmet bands



LCC T-shirt

Easy Rider ClassicWhat better begin junior’s life on two wheels than with an Easy Rider, the coolest bike in town? With a birch veneer frame, big fat tyres, laminated forks and no distracting pedals, learning to balance should be a piece of cake. Jack Nicholson started out on one of these…probably.£99.99, Early Rider (www.earlyrider.com)

Pasta di BiciPasta and cycling – what could be better? Combine the two with this bike-shaped Italian pasta from Foska. Those four-spoked wheels will trap lashings of sauce at the post-ride Boxing Day lunch. Bravissimo.£4.50, Foska (www.foska.com)

These top-quality cotton T-shirts worn by LCC staff and volunteers are now available to the general public due to popular demand. The T-shirts come in chunky unisex sizes (s, m, l, xl, xxl, xxxl) in red, orange, black and green, and in a sleeker women’s cut (s, m, l, xl) in pink, red, black, light blue and dark blue. To order, call 020 7234 9310 to check your size and colour are in stock. You can pay over the phone using a card, or send a cheque or postal order (payable to ‘LCC’) to 2 Newhams Row, London, SE1 3UZ.£10 (plus £1.50 p&p), LCC (020 7234 9310)

Product reviews

Product reviews Ring the bellsStill not found that elusive Christmas present for your two-wheeled loved one? Ian Cleverly plays at being Santa’s little helper

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WIN A SOLO EQUIPE JERSEYLC has a sleek and stylish medium-sized Solo Equipe jersey to give away courtesy of Mosquito Bikes (www.mosquito-bikes.co.uk). This pleasingly simple retro design from New Zealand company Solo is made from ‘Mapp Matrix’ material, combining a polyester front with merino wool backing to give a wind and water resistant jersey. Two large button-fastened pockets, full length zip and merino wool knitted neck and wrist bands complete the look. To enter our prize draw, please send an email to [email protected] or a postcard to LCC (address listed on p.3), marking your email or postcard “Solo prize draw” and including your full name, telephone number and postal address. Deadline for entries is December 23, 2008. For LC prize draw terms and conditions, please see www.lcc.org.uk

WIN!

Corinne Dennis ladies’ glovesDouble-stitched cycling gloves from this quality British clothing producer. With synthetic leather palm, stretch Spandex back and a towelling edge – to wipe away the recipient’s tears of gratitude.£19.99, Corinne Dennis (www.corinnedennis.co.uk)


Product reviews


Rapha silk scarfHand made in England from 100% pure silk, the Rapha scarf is designed to be worn neckerchief-style and is sweat and shower resistant. Black with a small sprocket print and subtle Rapha logo, it is pure class and ‘reassuringly expensive’, as the saying goes.£50, Rapha (www.rapha.cc)

Rouleur photography annual 2008A sumptuous collection of photos and musings from regular contributors to Rouleur magazine, celebrating the riders, terrain and fans that make bike racing so unique. Covering all the major races, from Paris-Roubaix to the Tour de France, and some less traditional but equally photogenic locations the peloton visited this year, from Ireland to the marshes of Essex.£37, Rouleur (www.rouleur.cc)

Bicygnals junior bike lightsBritish designed LED light set with magnetic fixing and interchangeable clip-on accessories. The perfect stocking-filler for the young – and young at heart.£12.95, Bicygnals (www.bicygnals.com)

Muc-Off Nano Tech bike cleanerWhat cyclist is not going to appreciate a bottle of bike cleaner on Christmas Day? Fully biodegradable and water soluble, Muc-Off is the best around for shifting grease and grime. Not a gift for your nearest and dearest, perhaps, but better than slippers. £6.99, Muc-Off (www.muc-off.com)


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LCC members’ pages

These pages provide all you need to know about how to get the most out of your LCC membership


meetings, workshops and rides. See page 32 to find out what your local group is up to.

MapsLCC, in partnership with Transport for London (TfL), has produced free cycle maps that cover all of London. These can be ordered via www.lcc.org.uk or by phoning TfL on 020 7222 1234.

London Cyclist magazineThis magazine is sent to members every two months. It is packed with news, features, cycling tips, products news and all the latest on our campaigns. It has been voted the number one member benefit.

Who needs eBay?Members who have bikes or accessories to sell can advertise in London Cyclist free of charge – see page 35). Your short and concise ads should be emailed to [email protected]. Free business ads are not accepted.

LCC’S VISIONLCC’s vision is to make London a world class cycling city

STRATEGIC AIMS ■ To involve people from all

communities in cycling■ To improve the quality of

life in London by increasing cycling

■ To bring about the best possible services for people who cycle or want to cycle in London

■ To be leaders in urban cycling

CONTACT LCC2 Newhams RowLondon SE1 3UZt: 020 7234 9310f: 020 7234 9319e: offi [email protected]: www.lcc.org.uk

Contact the LCC Board: [email protected]

Registered charity number: 1115789

You can contact the membership team on 020 7234 9310 or

email [email protected]

HOW TO HELP LCC GROWAsk a friend to joinIf you recommend us to a friend and they join, you’ll receive a limited edition T-shirt. The more members we have, the greater our campaigning voice, plus more cyclists get to enjoy the benefits of LCC membership. Ask your friend or colleague to call 020 7234 9310 and quote ‘recommend a friend’, and to give us your name.

Christmas gift membershipIt’s never too early to be thinking about Christmas. A gift membership to LCC will enable your friend or relative to enjoy year-round benefits. You will also receive a limited edition LCC T-shirt – keep for yourself or give it away as part of the gift. Call 020 7234 9310, and quote ‘gift membership’.

Volunteer with usMuch of LCC’s work would not be possible without volunteers. Much of our membership, administration and campaigning work is carried out by volunteers – if you have any spare time and and would like to put it to good use, phone Julie on 020 7234 9310 x 215. LC also relies on voluntary contributions.See www.lcc.org.uk/londoncyclist

How to join LCCIf you like LC but you are not a member, why not join the campaign to receive the magazine every two months? Members also receive other benefits listed on this page. You can join on 020 7234 9310 or via www.lcc.org.uk/join Turn the page to find out about more members’ discounts

Have you been involved in an incident on your bike?Contact our partners, Levenes Solicitors, for free legal advice:

020 8826 1329 www.cycleinjury.co.uk Kevin O’Sullivan, head of Levenes’ Cycle Injuries Department, regular London cyclist and LCC member says: “We have been successfully providing legal advice for LCC members for eight years and are proud to support their campaigning and provide this free cycling incident helpline for the members’ benefi t.” Levenes are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and your case will be dealt with on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis.

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIPLCC is a campaigning charity mainly funded by your membership. We work to improve conditions for cyclists and to promote cycling throughout London.

INSURANCE & LEGALThird party insuranceIf you cause damage to a person or their property while cycling, they may make a claim against you. As a member of LCC, you are covered for up to £5 million. If such an incident occurs, phone the LCC office for immediate advice and assistance.

Free legal adviceIf you need any legal assistance on cycling-related issues, please phone the LCC office and we will put you in touch with a cyclist-friendly solicitor.

Theft and damage insuranceThe new LCC urban cycling theft and damage insurance comes with a benefit unique to LCC members. If your bike gets stolen, vandalised or accidentally damaged, there is up to £50 ‘getting you home’ cover. Theft insurance costs about 10% of the value of your bike. For a quote, see www.urbancyclinginsurance.co.uk or call 01514 279 529. Have your membership number to hand.

INFORMATION & CAMPAIGNING Local groupsLCC has a local group in every borough, plus the City of London. Groups campaign on local cycling issues, and also organise events,


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LCC member discountsAnyone who joins LCC can cash in on a range of ongoing benefits open only to members.

MaintenanceCycle Training UK (CTUK) offers LCC members a 5% discount on bike maintenance training. Call Araxi Djian on 020 7232 4398.

Breakdown coverLCC members get 50% off membership of the Environmental Transport Association (ETA), a breakdown service for transport users who care about the environment. For details, phone the ETA on 0800 212 810 or see www.eta.co.uk. You will need to quote your LCC membership number and reference 1061-9001.

Bike shopsLCC members also get discounts on bikes, accessories and servicing at the following bike shops in the capital. Remember to show your membership card before you make a purchase or book your service.

MAIL ORDER / ONLINE50Cycles Ltd (www.50cycles.com) Quote LCC + m’ship no. ■ ➔ Exceptions: not on second-hand or ex display; not in conjunction with other offers. Corridori Cycle Sport (01737 373227, www.corridori.co.uk) ▲ ✔Cotswold Outdoor Quote ref 2115 at www.cotswoldoutdoor.com ♣Loads Better Mail order only. Suppliers of xtracycle and Kronan bikes (0845 8682459) ▲ ✔ Mon-Sat 9-5 Old Bicycle Trading Co Mail order only. Hub gears new and vintage parts (020 8306 0060) ● ✔ www.oldbiketrader.co.uk Outdoor Indoor Ltd Mail order clothing supplier. ● ✔ www.outdoorindoor.co.uk

CENTRALAction Bikes Dacre House 19 Dacre St SW1H 0DJ (020 7799 2233) ✔ ▲ Mon-Fri 8-8 Sat 9.30-5.30Action Bikes 23-26 Embankment Place Northumberland Avenue WC2N 6NN (020 7930 2525) ✔ ▲ Mon-Fri 8-8 Bikefix 48 Lambs Conduit St WC1N 3LJ (020 7405 1218) ● ➔ Mon-Fri 8.30-7 Sat 10-5Condor Ltd 51 Grays Inn Rd WC1X 8P (020 7269 6820) ● ✔ Mon-Tues Thurs-Fri 9-6 Weds 9-7.30 Sat 10-5 Cavendish Cycles 136 New Cavendish St W1W 6YD (020 7631 5060) ● ✔ Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 10-5 Cotswold Outdoor 23/26 Piccadilly W1J 0DJ (020 7437 7399) ♣ (quote L2115 and show card) Mon-Fri 10-8, Sat, 10-6 Sun 11-5CycleSurgery 3 Procter St Holborn WC1V 6DW (020 7269 7070) ▲ ✔ Mon/Weds/Fri 8.30-6 Tues/Thurs 8.30-7 Sat 10-5 Sun 11-5Evans Cycles 51-52 Rathbone Pl W1T 1JP (020 7580 4107) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 8-8 (Closed Thurs 11-12) Sat 9-6 Sun 11-4 Evans Cycles 69 Grays Inn Rd WC1X 8TP (020 7430 1985) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 8-8 (Tues closed 11-12) Sat 9.30-6 Sun 12-5 Evans Cycles 178 High Holborn WC1V 7AA (020 7836 5585) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 8-8 (Tues closed 11-12) Sat 9.30-6 Sun 11-4 Fluid Cycles Mobile repairs and servicing in Underground zone 1 and the Docklands (020 7021 0742) ● ✔ (on servicing and repairs) Mon-Fri 8.30-6 Weekends by arrangementPaul’s Custom Cycles 38 Mount Pleasant WC1X (07960 987 887) ▲ 10-4 Mon-Sat 11-4 SunVelorution 18 Great Titchfield St W1W 8BD (020 7637 4004) ● ✔ Mon-Fri 9-18.45 Sat 10.30-18.30 Also sells secondhand bikes

EASTBicycle Magic 4-6 Greatorex St E1 5NF (020 7375 2993) ■ ✔ Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 10-5Bikehut 3-4 Ave Maria Ln EC4M 7AQ (020 7332 4160) ▲ ✔ Mon-Fri 8-8 Sat 9-6 Sun10-5Brick Lane Bikes 118 Bethnal Green Rd, E2 6DG (020 7033 9053) ✔ Mon-Fri 9-7Sat 11-7 Sun 11-6 Chainlink Cycle Centre 140 Hornchurch Rd Hornchurch RM11 1DP (01708 470 007) ■ ✔ Mon-Sat 9-6 Cotswold Outdoor Ground floor, St Clements House, Leyden St E1 7LL (020 7655 466) ♣ (quote ref L2115 and show card) Mon-Fri 10-7, Sat 10-5 CycleSurgery Brody House Strype St E1 7LQ (020 7375 3088) ▲ ✔ Mon/Weds/Fri 8.30-6 Tues/Thurs 8.30-7 Sat 10-5 Sun 10-4 CycleSurgery 12-13 Bishops Sq, E1 6EG (020 7392 8920) ▲ ✔ (excludes Marin bikes. Full SRP items only. Excludes Selfridges concession.) Mon-Sat 10-6 Sun 12-6Ditchfields 792/794 High Rd Leyton E10 6AE (020 8539 2821) ▲ ✔ Not on promotional products. Mon-Sat 9.15-5.30E A Cycles 783 Romford Rd, Manor Park, Newham E12 5AN (020 8478 2540) 5% bikes; ■ ✔ 10% servicing Mon-Sat 9-6 Sun 10-4 Discounts not on promotional or sale itemsEvans Cycles The Cavern 1 Market St (Off Brushfield St) E1 6AA (020 7426 0391) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 8-8 (Closed Thurs 11-12) Sat 9.30-6 Sun 12-6 Evans Cycles 1 Farringdon St EC4M 7LD (020 7248 2349) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 18-8 (Closed Thurs 11-12) Sat 9.30-6 Sun 11-5 Evans Cycles Cullum St EC3M 7JJ (020 7283 6750) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 8-8 (Closed Mon 11-12) Sat 9.30-6 Sun 12-5 Evans Cycles Unit B, Reuters Building, 30 South Colonnade, Canary Wharf E14 5EZ (0870 164

4037) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 8-8 Sat 9.30-6 Sun 12-6 Fluid Cycles Docklands See ‘Central’Heales Cycles 477 Hale End Rd Highams Park E4 9PT (020 8527 1592) ■ ➔ Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 9-5.30 London Fields Cycles 281 Mare St E8 1PJ (020 8525 0077) ● ✔ Mon-Fri 8-6 Sat 10-6 Wharf Cycles 21-23 Westferry Rd, E14 8JH (020 7987 2255) ✔ Mon-Fri 8-7; Sat 10-5; Sun 11-4

NORTHBike and Run 125 High Rd N2 8AG (020 8815 1845) ● ✔ Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 9.30-5.30 Bike Mech The Castle Climbing Centre Green Lanes N4 2HA (07762 270 616) 10% discount on servicing only Mon-Fri 9-7, Sat 10-5Bikes R Us Mobile repairs in north London (020 8882 8288, 07949 066 889) ● ✔ on servicing and most repairs Mon-Sat 9.30-5.30CycleSurgery 70 Holloway Rd N7 8JG (020 7697 2848) ▲ ✔ Mon 9-6 Tues 9-7 Weds 8.30-6 Thurs 9-7 Sat 10-6 Sun 11-5Cycle Store (The) 201 Woodhouse Rd Friern Barnet N12 9AY (020 8368 3001) ▲ ✔ Mon-Fri 9-6 (Closed Weds) Sat 9-5 Sun 11-3 Holloway Cycles 290 Holloway Road N7 6NJ (020 7700 6611) ▲ ✔ 10% servicing/labour Mon-Fri 8.30-6.30 Sat 9-6 Sun 11-5 Mosquito Bikes 123 Essex Rd N1 2SN (020 7226 8841/020 7226 8765) ● ✔ Mon-Fri 8.30-7 Sat 10-6 Sun (summer only) 11-4 S & S Cycles 29 Chapel Market N1 9EN (020 7278 1631) ● ✔ Mon-Fri 10-6 Sat 10-5.30 Sun 10-2.30Shorter Rochford 27 Barnet Rd Potters Bar EN6 (01707 662 332) ▲ ✔ on RRP Mon-Fri 9-6 (Closed Weds) Sat 9-5Shorter Rochford 65-67 Woodhouse Rd N12 (020 8445 9182) ▲ ✔ Mon-Sat 9-6, Weds 9-7 (Closed Thurs)

ARE YOU MISSING OUT ON THE LCC EMAIL NEWSLETTER?NEXT ONE OUT DECEMBER 10

Add ‘[email protected]’ to

your email contacts to make sure you

receive your email containing all the

latest LCC news and member offers




Many of these shops have email and websites.

For details, see www.lcc.org.uk

Blackfen Cycle Centre 23 Wellington Pde Blackfen Rd DA15 9NB (020 8303 3761) ▲ ✔ (Incl labour) Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 9-5.30 Sun 10-3Bromley Bike Company 27 Widmore Rd BR1 1RW (020 8460 4852) ▲ ✔ Mon-Sat 9.30-5.30 Thurs 9-8 Comptoncycles.co.uk 23-25 Catford Hill SE6 4NU (020 8690 0141) ▲ ✔ Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 9-5 Deens Garage 439 Croydon Rd BR3 3PP (020 8650 0630) ▲ ✔

Mon-Sat 8.30-5.30Edwardes 221-225 Camberwell Rd SE5 0HG (020 7703 3676) ▲ ✔ Mon-Sat 8.30-6 Evans Cycles 111-115 Waterloo Rd SE1 8UL (020 7928 2208) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 10-8 (Closed Thurs 11-12) Sat 9.30-6 Sun 11-5Evans Cycles 77-81 The Cut SE1 8LL (020 7928 4785) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 8-8 (Closed Weds 11-12) Sat 9.30-6 Sun 11-5 Evans Cycles 6 Tooley St SE1 2SY (020 7403 4610) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing. Mon-Fri 8-8 (Closed Thurs 11-12) Sat 9.30-6 Sun 11-5 Herne Hill Bicycles 83 Norwood Rd SE24 9AA (020 8671 6900) ● ➔ Tues-Fri 9-6 Sat 10-5 (Closed Sun & Mon)London Recumbents Rangers Yard Dulwich Park College SE21 7BQ (8299 6636) ● ✔ Variable discount on bike hire. Mon-Sun 10-6 On Your Bike 52-54 Tooley St SE1 2SZ (020 7378 6669) ▲ ✔ Sat 10-6, Sun 11-5 Also has bike hire. Discounts don’t apply to sale items or cycle scheme bikesReCycling 110 Elephant Rd SE17 1LB (020 7703 7001) ▲✖ Only sells catalogue returns, renovated and secondhand bikesRobinsons Cycles 172 Jamaica Rd, SE16 4RT (020 7237 4679) ■ ✔ Mon-Sat 9.30-6; Thur 9.30-2pmSidcup Cycle Centre 142-146 Station Rd DA15 7AB (020 8300 8113) ✔ Mon-Fri 9-5.30; Thurs 9-7; Sat 9-5 Witcomb Cycles 25 Tanners Hill, Deptford SE8 4PJ (020 8692 1734) ■ ✔ Mon closed; Tues, Wed, Fri 9.30-5; Thurs, Sat 9.30-4Wilsons 32 Peckham Rd SE15 5EB (0207 639 1338) ▲✔ Mon-Fri 10-6; Sat 10-5Xadventure Bikes 25-29 Perry Hill, SE23 2NE (020 8699 6768) ▲✔

Mon-Sat 9.30-5.30 No discount on servicing

SOUTH-WEST Action Bikes 221 The Broadway SW19 1SD (020 8540 0313) ▲ ✔Action Bikes 437 Upper Richmond

Rd SW14 7PJ ✔ (020 8876 5566) Mon-Sat 9-6 Sun 11-4Bicycle Warehouse 214-216 Kingston Rd TW11 (020 8977 2925) ▲ ✔ 10% servicing Mon-Sat 9-5.30 Sun 10-4Bonthrone Bikes/SBR 917-919 Ful-ham Rd, SW6 5HU (020 7731 5005) ● ✔ Mon-Fri 11-7; Thurs 11-8; Sat 10-6; Sun 12-5Brixton Cycles 145 Stockwell Rd SW9 9TN (020 7733 6055) ● ✔ Mon-Wed & Fri-Sat 9-6 Thurs 9-7Cowley Security Locksmiths (Locks and key cutting) 146 Colne Rd TW2 6QS (020 8894 1212) ● ✔ Mon-Fri 8-5 Cyclopedia 256 Fulham Rd SW10 9EL (020 7351 5776) ● ✔ Mon-Fri 8-8 Sat 9.30-6 Sun 10.30-5Dialabike 30 Strutton Ground SWIP 2HR (020 7233 4224) ■ ✔ Mon-Fri 9.30-5.30Evans Cycles 13-15 Jerdan PlSW6 1BE (020 7384 5550) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 8am-8pm (Closed Mon 11-12) Sat 9.30am-6pm Sun 11am-5pm Evans Cycles Clapham Unit 2 65-79 Clapham High St SW4 7TG ▲ ✔ Mon-Fri 8-8 Sat 12-6 Sun 12-6Evans Cycles 320-320b Vauxhall Bridge Rd SW1V 1AA (020 7976 6298) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 8-8 (Closed Tues 11-12) Sat 9.30-6 Sun 11-5 Evans Cycles 48 Richmond Rd KT2 5EE (020 8549 2559) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 9-6 Thurs 9-8 (Closed Thurs 11-12) Sat 9.30-6 Sun 10-4 Evans Cycles 167-173 Wandsworth High St SW18 4JB (020 8877 1878) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 8-8 (Closed Thurs 11-12) Sat 9.30-6 Sun 10-4 London Recumbents Staff Yard Battersea Park SW11 (020 7498 6543) ● ✔ off hire only. Open weekends and school holidays Luvbikes.com 175 Widmore Rd, BR1 3AX (020 8460 0433) ▲ ✔Mon-Sat 9.30-6Luciano Cycles 97-99 Battersea Rise SW11 1TW (020 7228 4279) ■

✔ Mon-Sat 9-5.30 Sun 10-3.30Mend-a-Bike 19 The Arches 33 Munster Rd SW6 4ER (020 7371 5867) ● ✔ Mon-Fri 9-7 Sat 9-6Mike’s Bikes 27 Aberconway Rd SM4 5LN (020 8640 1088) ▲ ✔

Mon-Fri 8-5.30 Sat 9-4

Moore’s Cycles 61 London Rd TW1 3SZ (020 8744 0175) Mon, Sat 9-5.30; Tue-Fri 9-6; Sun 10-4 ▲ ✔Moose Cycles 48 High St SW19 2BY (020 8544 9166) ● ✔ Mon-Fri 9.30-7Pitfield Cycles 137 Kingston Rd KT3 3NX (020 8949 4632) ■ ➔ Mon-Sat 9-5.30Prologue 232 Upper Richmond Rd SW14 8AG (020 8878 6266) ▲ ✔ 15% servicing Mon closed Wed 8-8 Tue/Thur-Fri 9-6 Sun 12-5 Discount applies to BH brand bikes onlyPsubliminal 17 Balham High St, SW12 9AJ (020 8772 0707) 5% off servicing. Tues-Fri 9-6.30 Thurs 9-7 Sat 9-5.30Putney Cycles 337 Putney Bridge Rd, SW15 2PG (020 8785 3147) ✔

Mon-Fri 8-6.30 Sat 9-6 Sun 10-4Siecle 789 Wandsworth Rd SW8 3JQ (020 7978 2345) ❋ ✖ (only to bikes) Mon-Fri 9.30-5.30 Sat 10-4Smith Brothers 14 Church Rd SW19 5DL (020 8946 2270) ▲ Also has bike hire Mon-Sat 9.30-5.30South Bank Cycles 194 Wandsworth Rd SW8 2JU (020 7622 3069) ● ➔ Mon-Sat 9-6Stratton Cycles Ltd 101 East Hill SW18 2QB (020 8874 1381) ● ✔ Mon-Sat 9-6Triandrun 53 Wimbledon Hill Rd SW19 7QW (020 8971 2065) ■ ✔ 10% labour/servicing

WESTAction Bikes 101 Uxbridge Rd W12 8NL (020 8743 5265) ● ➔ Mon-Sat 9-6 Sun 10-4Action Bikes 176 Chiswick High Rd W4 1PR (020 8994 1485) ● ➔

Mon-Sat 9-6 Sun 10-4 Bikewise 61 Swakeleys Rd UB10 8DQ (01895 675376) ■ ✔ Mon-Sat 9-5.30 Sun 10-2Cyclopedia 262 Kensington High St W8 6ND (020 7603 7626) ● ✔ Mon-Fri 8-8 Sat 9.30-6 Sun 10.30-5Evans Cycles 548-550 Chiswick High Rd W4 5RG (0870 060 5489) ▲ ✔ Mon-Fri 8-8, Sat 9.30-6, Sun 11-5Moore’s Cycles 3-5 St John’s Rd TW7 6NA (020 8560 7131) ▲✔ Mon, Sat 9-5.30; Tues-Fri 9-6; Sun 10-4WIZZBIKE.com 113-114 High St TW8 8AT (020 8326 2819) ▲ ✔ Mon-Sat 9-6; Sun 11-5Woolsey of Acton 281 Acton Ln W4 5DH (020 8994 6893) ▲ ✔ Mon-Fri 9.30-6.30 Sat 9.30-6 (Closed Wed)

Top Rider 210 Baker Street, Enfi eld EN1 (020 83638618) ✔ Closed Wed & Sun Mon-Sat 9-5.30Two Wheels Good 165 Stoke Newington Church St N16 (020 7249 2200) ● ➔ Mon-Sat 8.30-6 Sun 11-5 Two Wheels Good 143 Crouch Hill N8 (020 8340 4284) ● ➔ Mon-Sat 8.30-6

NORTH-WESTBroadway Bikes 250 West Hendon Bwy NW9 6AG (020 8202 4671) ■ ✔

Mon-Sat 9.30-5.30, Sun 11-1Broadway Bikes 5 York PdeNW9 6BE (020 8202 4671) ■ ✔

Mon-Sat 9.30-5.30, Sun 11-1Chamberlaines 75-77 Kentish Town Rd NW1 8NY (020 7485 4488) ■ ✔ Includes shop discount Mon-Sat 8.30-6 Cycle King 451-455 Rayners Ln Pinner HA5 4ET (020 8868 6262) ■ ♣ Mon-Sat 9-6 Sun 9-4.30 Cycle King 173 Hillside Stonebridge NW10 8LL (020 8965 5544) ■ ♣

Mon-Sat 9-6 Sun 10-5 Cyclelife Mill Hill 8 Bittacy Hill NW7 1LB (020 8346 5784) ▲ ✔ Thur-Fri 9-5.30 Sat 9-5 Sun 10-3 Mon 9-5.30CycleSurgery 44 Chalk Farm Rd NW1 8AJ (020 7485 1000) ▲ (except Marins) ✔ Mon/Weds/Fri 9-6 Tues/Thurs 9-7 Sat 10-6 Sun 11-5CycleSurgery Hampstead 275 West End Lane NW6 1QS (020 7431 4300) ▲ ✔ Mon/Weds/Fri 9-6 Tues/Thurs 9-7 Sat 10-6 Sun 11-5 Evans Cycles 240 Watford Way, NW4 4UB (0870 142 0108) ● ✔

Mon-Fri 8-8, Sat 9.30-6, Sun 11-5Simpson’s Cycles 114-116 Malden Rd NW5 4BY (020 7485 1706) ▲✔

(Birdys ■) Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 9-5.30Sparks 5 Bank Buildings High St NW10 4LT (020 8838 5858) ●✔ Mon-Sat 9.30-6

SOUTH Bikes Plus 429 Brighton Rd CR2 6EU (020 8763 1988) ▲✔ Mon-Sat 9-6Cycle King 26-40 Brighton Rd CR2 6AA (020 8649 9002) ■ ♣ Mon-Sat 9-6 Sun 9-4.30Evans Cycles 5 London Rd CR0 2RE (020 8667 1423) ▲ ✔ Incl servicing Mon-Fri 9-6 Thurs 9-8 (Closed Thurs 11-12) Sat 9.30-6 Sun 11-5

SOUTH-EAST Bigfoot Bikes 50 Hayes St BR2 7LD (020 8462 5004) ● ➔ Inc servicing; exc labour Tues-Sat 9-5.30 Bike Shop (The) 288-290 Lee High Rd SE13 5PJ (020 8852 6680) ▲ ✔ on items over £10 Mon-Fri 9-5.30 Sat 9-5

BIKES ACCESSORIES

0% ● ✖

5% ■ ➔

10% ▲ ✔

15% ❋ ♣

• Show your LCC card to claim your discount.

• The discounts vary and are not negotiable. ● ➔ means no discount on a bicycle and 5% discount on parts and/or accessories.

• Discounts don’t usually apply to special offers or sale items.


BARNETBack in September we attended the student induction week at Middlesex University to promote cycling. How many students we ‘converted’ to the cause is unclear but a FAQ was ‘where can I get a very cheap bike?’ Relations with Barnet Council may be improving from their historic low. Maybe it’s because it has some Transport for London money to spend and need to be seen to consult with cyclists. It is also possible that money may be spent next year on upgrading the two ‘greenway’ cycle routes along the Dollis Valley and Pymmes Brook. These routes lie on opposite sides of the borough and are quiet and ideal for those such as families who particularly want to avoid traffi c. Our group’s 25th anniversary collection, raising money for bikes for health workers or children in developing countries via UNICEF, fi nally closed having raised enough for 27 bikes. Christmas lunch is on Sunday, December 14 but I’m afraid by the time you read this the meal will be fully booked, but if you feel like coming along for the preceding ride and some elevenses, we’d be pleased to see you. Meetings: The last Thursday of the month, 8pm at Trinity Church Hall, Nether Street, N12 7NN. Contact: Jeremy Parker (020 8440 9080)Website:www.barnetlcc.org

BROMLEYWe may have cycling facilities in the borough, but we need a shift in culture to have cyclists using them, so we continue to move on the project to create cycling opportunities for children. We have brought together reps of the traditional cycling clubs, the Council’s road safety team, a bike shop, a specialist sports college, and the British Cycling Go-Ride team; identifi ed four venues across the borough; and set target dates for a schools’ competition day and clubs, beginning in mid-summer term 2009. Two people have volunteered to be trained as coaches, and we are looking for more. Get in touch if you are interested. Within Bromley Cyclists, we have added another rides leader and occasional introductory rides – watch the website for details.Meetings: 7.30pm on the second Wednesday of the month at Bromley College, London Road, Bromley BR1 1PE.Contact: Charles Potter (07951 780869, [email protected])Website: www.bromleycyclists.orghttp://groups.yahoo.com/group/bromleycyclists

CAMDENWe were pleased to have escorted over 100 riders to the Freewheel event in September. Participants we spoke to said it had been a great day. We hope the authorities are encouraged by the success of the event and plan an even better one next year. Would it not be great to have a circular Freewheel route that reaches more areas in London? Following the opening of the Regent’s Park Broad Walk for an 18-month trial of shared use, the Royal Parks Authority held a shared-use cycling day to promote safe and considerate cycling. We felt our presence was useful in that we met many people who knew

nothing about LCC. We knew that Dervla Murphy would be a popular speaker, and were delighted that more than 50 people turned up to hear her at our October meeting. She presented her views on nearly half a century of travelling and writing between her fi rst book, Full Tilt: Ireland To India With A Bicycle”, and her latest book, The Island That Dared: Journeys In Cuba. Meetings: December 8 and January 12 at Primrose Hill Community Association, 29 Hopkinsons Place (off Fitzroy Road), NW1 8TN Contact: Stefano Casalotti (020 7435 0196, [email protected]) or Jean Dollimore (020 7485 5896, [email protected])Website: www.camdencyclists.org.uk

EALINGNetwork Rail has agreed in principle to install wheeling ramps at Ealing Broadway station. This has been a campaign issue for the group for over a decade, and it is thrilling that real progress is fi nally being made. At the September meeting Ealing Council’s cycling offi cer provided us with a list of LCN+ link schemes funded in 2007/08. Of the 11 schemes, one has been completed, and two are close to completion. Still plenty more campaigning to do then! David Lomas led a marshalled ride to the West London hub of this year’s Freewheel. Over 200 riders took part, including groups from Hillingdon and Hounslow. At one point the peloton stretched down Chiswick High Street as far as the eye could see. A smaller group (phew) was led from Hyde Park Corner back to the hub, and through to Ealing, using a favourite quiet route through West London. The traffi c levels on this route are mercifully a world apart from the inward route along Kensington High Street chosen by the Freewheel organisers. The ‘cycle into autumn 2008’ project has diversifi ed into helping a local cub group obtain cycling badges. We are looking to expand this project, as it provides a fun and positive way to encourage kids to get on their bikes and to do so safely. Meetings: The fi rst Wednesday of the month (see website for venue details)Social ride: The fi rst Sunday of the month, meet 10am Ealing Town Hall (details on the website)Contact: David Lomas (020 8579 0805, [email protected])Website: www.ealingcycling.org.uk

HAMMERSMITH & FULHAMWestfi eld is now open, with less than 100

Local groups News

cycle stands available on the opening day, compared to the 285 promised in the planning documents. You can’t expect our shoppers to spend their millions if they have to wheel their bikes through Tiffanys and de Beers. With a vast amount of money spent on the transport infrastructure, you would expect cycling to be safe and a dream as you pedal into Central London through Shepherd’s Bush. Let us see. In spite of concerns about the massive shopping mall causing gridlock, there were no problems on the opening day. The bright side of gridlock if/when it happens is that it may encourage a few more to take the easy option and cycle. Join us for a ride to the Christmas lunch in Richmond on Sunday, December 14. Always a great event and pleasure to meet cyclists from other groups. And check our website for our meetings and other rides.Meetings: The fi rst Tuesday of the month – see our website for details or call the co-ordinatorContact: John Griffi ths (020 7371 1290, 07789 095 748, [email protected])Website: www.hfcyclists.org.uk

HAVERINGFollowing the successful experiment in June, our October Cycle Liaison Group Meeting took the form of another Inspection Ride; this time to the north of the borough. The main feature was the proposed route between Collier Row and Harold Hill. TfL intends that Lower Bedford’s Road should be adopted, but its heavy traffi c fl ow makes it a challenge for the less experienced and confi dent. The group met at Rafael’s Park main entrance near Central Romford and headed north through the park, inspecting the crossing at the A127 Southend Road before moving on through Rise Park. This has extensive broken path surfaces that need immediate attention. We turned into Lower Bedford’s Road and on to Collier Row Centre (where the fi rst pair of ‘tall & narrow’ parking stands are installed.) Our route was retraced, this time to survey the full length of Lower Bedford’s Road, ending at the Havering transprt planner’s offi ce, where the Council had laid on refreshments. With our fi ll of sandwiches, we headed for Harold Hill Shopping Centre to discuss cycle access, then on to Central Park and Dagnam Park. The group continued to inspect the park routes then returned to the Whitworth Centre for a fi nal cuppa. It was gratifying to see fi ve Council transport planners out on bikes. Terry has approached the library

Bromley LCC’s ride to Freewheel stops at Ladywell Fields


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Local groups

See the ‘local groups’ section at www.lcc.org.uk for more contact

information and news from your area

>>

service staff to raise the question of the new parking stands being installed at the rear of Hornchurch Library. The response has been less than satisfactory. If cycle-users perceive that the concealed location is insecure, they’ll ignore the new stands and continue to park randomly on street furniture at the front of the library anyway. A core of councillors opposes cycle infrastructure as a money-wasting exercise – despite having adopted a Borough Cycling Strategy – and we need to tackle them head-on. The Offi cers have acceded to the request for advance notice of schemes going to acrea committees, so that we can: a) offer suggestions to enhance the impact of presented reports, and b) try to get along to the relevant meetings to support proposals. Glen, the senior offi cer and liaison group chair, intends that the theme of the next meeting shall be discussion of potential Sustrans Greenway Routes and improvements. Next Liaison Group Meeting: December 16 but this may move to December 8 to allow more time to discuss the Greenway Proposals. Please check in case of late alteration. Normal meetings: From 4pm in the ninth fl oor meeting room, Mercury House, Romford. Borough of Havering: Daniel Douglas, (01708 432850, [email protected])Havering Cycling Campaign: Bernie Curtis (01708 347 226, [email protected])

ISLINGTONThe death of local campaigner Lisa Pontecorvo on Holloway Road (near the Fieldway Crescent/Madras Place junction, by the public library) in September again focused attention on this

crossing. Its limitations have been raised regularly, but like several key cycle routes in the borough, it is on a Transport for London road which makes introducing changes even more diffi cult. A motion committing Islington Council to oppose allowing motorbikes in bus lanes on borough-controlled roads was passed at the full council meeting on October 9. Our local petition, although directed to Boris Johnson, was read out and thanks to councillors Andrew Cornwell and Katie Dawson for proposing and seconding the motion respectively. The ranger for Whittington Park N19 has contacted us about several complaints from park users/pedestrians regarding the high speed at which some cyclists ride through the park. We are hoping to work with her to hold awareness-raising events similar to those we’ve done with British Waterways on the canal. Talking of which, the new towpath ranger will be attending our December meeting – all welcome. Meetings: 7.30pm on second Wednesday of the month (December 10, January 14 and February 11) at Islington Town Hall, Upper Street, N1 2UD Contact: Alison Dines (020 7226 7012, [email protected])Website: www.icag.org.uk

KENSINGTON & CHELSEAFor the past few months we have been trialling joint meetings with the Westminster LCC group which has been very successful. Meetings and venues now alternate each month between the two groups – details are posted on our website. Over the summer we’ve been helping with the ‘Two Tings’ campaign to promote better

awareness of shared use issues on the canal towpaths. Recent initiatives have included a meeting with the Council’s new Road Safety and Travel Plan Manager on ways to promote safer cycling. Hopefully we’ll repeat some of the nice rides we’ve had this year but this won’t be until well into next year.Meetings: Thursday, December 4 (Westminster hosting) at 53-54 Haymarket, SW1Y 4RP – see web page for map. Meetings next year to be confi rmed on our website (see below).Contact: Philip Loy (07960 026 450, [email protected])Website: www.lcc.org.uk > Local groups > Kensington and Chelsea

KINGSTONKingston Town Neighbourhood committee has approved the creation of a segregated cycle path from the wide footpath between the Fairfi eld and St Joseph’s School, a new path by-passing the College roundabout and realignment of the cycle route from Kingston town centre to Cambridge Road via Bonner Hill Road. Also of use to cyclists will be a new zebra across Richmond Road between Latchmere Road and Bank Lane. The ‘Pegasus’ crossing of the A3 at Robin Hood Gate got the nod from the Maldens and Coombe councillors, but concern was expressed that cyclists shouldn’t have to wait an inordinate length of time to cross this busy road. It emerged recently that Kingston has offered to assist TRL with a ‘trial’ allowing motorcyclists to use Advanced Stop Lines. Proposed locations are the junction of Richmond Road/King’s Road and Maple Road/Brighton Road. Whether or not

WANDSWORTHAbout Wandsworth Cycling Campaign (WCC)Wandsworth is a south-west London borough anchored by the rivers Thames and the Wandle, which gave its name to Wandsworth. It has a high proportion of mobile younger people, as well as a more settled group of longer-term residents (who seem to do most of the campaigning). The foundations of WCC are lost in the mists of time, but the group was very active at least as far back as the late 1980s – and one member was at the founding meeting of LCC in in 1978. Some 660 LCC members live in Wandsworth.WCC campaigning: “There are currently four main strands to WCC campaigning,” says long-time member Susie Morrow. “Winning hearts and minds on Wandsworth Council and in the London Assembly (and TfL) is the fi rst. Secondly, we try hard to keep up with large local developments to ensure that sustainable transport is integrated into schemes from the outset – Clapham Junction station and streetscape proposals, the Ram Brewery redevelopment and proposals for redeveloping Battersea Power Station are three major ones. If these schemes are designed properly, they all have enormous potential to improve conditions for cycling in our borough. We also work with local community groups to encourage cycling, and then there is the long, hard slog of contributing to LCN+ and local Greenways.”Campaign highlights: “We have achieved better cycling access to green spaces in Wandsworth – notably on Wandsworth and Tooting commons, and inWandsworth Park,” says Susie. “We ran the award-winning ‘Movers and Shakers’ project with London

community cycling project funding in 2007 – see www.movers-shakers.btik.com. Other LCC groups have considered adopting this model and it look slike a similar project may get off the ground in Nottingham. Another campaign highlight was our 2005 Trafalgar Square presentation of ‘the Ring Cycle’ as part of Bikefest. It was in collaboration with the Wandsworth-based National Opera Studio.”How to get involved: Anyone willing to help out – even if only now and then – is very welcome. WCC usually meets monthly at 7pm. Anyone with an interest in promoting cycling in the borough is welcome to attend meetings or join the Yahoo group, which is a good way of fi nding out what’s going on locally and to share information. Or you could join a monthly ride. For more details on WCC, see www.wandsworthcyclists.org.uk, email [email protected] or phone co-ordinator Simon Merrett on 020 8789 6639.

LOCAL GROUP PROFILE

Young WCC cyclists at Tooting Cycle Corner during Bike Week 2008

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Local groups News

the necessary changes will be made isn’t yet clear. Rob Parsey, Kingston’s cycling offi cer is taking up a job at Richmond. We hope this does not mean that the council will take the opportunity to axe the role. We thank Rob for the good work he has done. KCC member Martin Birley won the Green Champion award from the local newspaper recently for his outstanding contribution to the local environment – congratulations to him. Meetings: 8:30 on December 9, and January 13 at the Wagon & Horses Pub Surbiton Hill Road, KT6 4TW Contact: Rob James (020 8546 8865) Website: www.kingstoncycling.org.uk

LAMBETHHopefully you will have noticed our change of meeting venue. We now meet upstairs at the Priory Arms in Stockwell. We will be having a more ‘festive’ do on December 16 – all welcome so do come along. Recent initiatives of Lambeth Cyclists include the launch of our ‘permeability’ campaign which aims to obtain access for cyclists where currently there is a barrier such as one-ways. If you have any suggestions please do tell us. Our Architecture Rides will continue next year so check our website for some new ideas for rides, and come along.Meetings: Tuesday, December 1 (Xmas do) and January 20, 7.30pm at The Priory Arms, 83 Lansdowne Way, SW8 2PB.Contact: Philip Loy (020 8677 8624,[email protected])Website: www.lambethcyclists.org.uk

MERTONCycling is safer than not cycling – one of my favourite mantras. On average, cyclists live 10 years longer than non-cyclists. The pros of cycling outweigh the cons 20:1. These headline outcomes of a 1992 British Medican Association report bear repeating. While tens of thousands die of heart disease and other couch potato ailments, “only” tens die on bikes in London. But don’t try telling that to the families of the 10 cyclists who have died in the capital so far this year as a result of collisions with lorries, the most recent (as I write) just outside our borough boundary in Tooting High Street on October 20 – the very day that Greater London Assembly members unanimously agreed a motion calling on the Department for Transport (DfT) to ensure all lorries are fi tted with safety mirrors – without delay – to help prevent serious collisions involving cyclists. LCC is lobbying for the implementation of a European Union directive on full safety mirrors for all HGVs. As members will be well aware, we are also campaigning for lower speed limits. A recent article in the local paper gave cause for optimism here, though the headline suggested that adopting 20mph zones will be expensive – £500,000 was the fi gure given. This is a small price to pay! The DfT values the prevention of a road accident fatality at around the million pound mark. A single saved life in Merton would therefore pay for the proposed safer streets twice over. Roads will be safer for cyclists as well as all other road users,

and other benefi ts will include, paradoxically, quicker journey times for motorists, because traffi c fl ows will be smoother. Noise, pollution and CO2 emissions will fall with smoother driving styles, and more people will feel safer about trying cycling for short journeys around the borough. To sum up, cycling in London these days is much safer than it looks, but not as safe as we’d like it to be. We can with a clear conscience still campaign to get more people cycling. And we can promote safer cycling with three timely messages: NEVER EVER ride up the left-hand side of a lorry at a junction; avoid Martin Way for the time being (still not sorted – more on that next time); and read the new edition of Cyclecraft (www.cyclecraft.co.uk). Meetings: Usually 8pm on the fi rst Thursday of the month, please email or phone for details Contact: Richard Evans (020 8946 0912, [email protected])Website: www.mertoncyclists.org.uk

REDBRIDGEComing up: The Santa Ride and Santa’s Christmas Party, both in aid of Whizkidz, both on Saturday, December 6. Come to one or both and meet your fellow cyclists. Details on website and in Hubbub. The next group meeting on Tuesday, January 13 will be about our proposed ‘Movers and Shakers’ campaign, which is based on the successful project by Wandsworth Cyclists to get top people in the borough into cycling. We hope to make this a cross-borough campaign for East London groups. Come along and see what this exciting initiative is all about – and tell us who your top people are. Other news: the working party composed of representative cyclists, offi cers and councillors is now working again on the delayed Borough Cycling Strategy, which is in draft form written up by consultants Atkins.The 10 targets were passed by Redbridge Scrutiny Committee in 2006 and we now have to push for their implementation.Meetings: Usually 8pm on the third Tuesday in the month (next one January 13) at Wanstead House, 21 The Green, Wanstead E11 (near (Wanstead tube). Drinks in the bar afterwards.Contact: Gill James (020 8989 4898,[email protected]) and Chris Elliott (020 8989 6285, [email protected])Website: www.redbridgelcc.org.uk

RICHMONDCouncil has fi nally appointed a cycling offi cer who starts on November 10. Rob Parsey comes from Kingston and has worked closely with Kingston Cycling Campaign. Hopefully, this will mean the start of some good things for cycling and cyclists in Richmond. More news next time when we hope to have met and discussed the future with Rob. Another change: our rides organiser, Sue Higham, has had to step down because of the pressures of work. I would like to thank her for making sure our rides are organised and advertised. Without her, our rides would not be as popular as they are now. Her replacement, Paul Luton, has taken on the job and is already settling in. Look out for our rides on the blog and in the magazine listing. Fancy leading your own ride? Want to take part in a growing success? Get your maps out or goto www.bikely.com, plot a route and get in touch. Not sure you can lead a ride? We have trained marshals who can help you on the day. More news next time. Meetings: Second Monday of the monthContact: [email protected], 07976 294626Website: www.richmondlcc.co.ukGeneral blog: http://richmondcc.blogspot.comRides blog: http://richmondccrides.blogspot.com

SOUTHWARKAt 72 storeys high, Renzo Piano’s Shard at London Bridge will be ready in 2010. It’s Europe’s highest offi ce building and destined to be one of the most technologically advanced structures in the world with a relatively tiny footprint next to a busy mainline railway station and over tube lines. With at least 4,500 people working in the building and the same number of visitors a day to its hotel, fl ats, restaurants etc, the developers are of course providing the amount of cycle parking demanded by the local planning authority, Southwark Council. The Shard will have 150 cycle parking spaces for staff in the building. Say one space for 30 workers then. By the time the Shard is ready, it’s reasonable to expect that most north Southwark offi ce blocks will have at least 10% of their staff and visitors arriving on bicycles. Many offi ces have much better ratios than that now. And where will all the visitors park? It’s not unreasonable to

The Lambeth Cyclists Freewheel ride passes Buckingham Palace.

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FEBRUARY/MARCH DEADLINE: noon, Wednesday, December 24 Email news to [email protected] – photos are

welcome and will be published if space permits

BARKING & DAGENHAMContact: Colin Newman (07761 577 255, [email protected])Website: www.stibasa.org.uk

BEXLEYContact: Frances Renton (01322 441 979, [email protected]) or Dave Reynolds (01322 525 481)

BRENTContact: Ben Tansley (07941 050 161, [email protected])Website: www.brentcyclists.org.uk

CITY CYCLISTSWebsite: www.citycyclists.org.uk

CROYDONContact: [email protected] Website: www.croydon-lcc.org.uk

ENFIELDContact: Richard Reeve (0870 321 3717, [email protected])Website: www.lccenfi eld.fsnet.co.uk

HACKNEYContact: Trevor Parsons 020 7729 2273,[email protected]: www.hackney-cyclists.org.uk

HARINGEYContact: Adam Coffman ([email protected])Website: www.lcc.org.uk > Local groups

HARROWWebsite: www.lcc.org.uk > Local groups

HILLINGDONContact: Sarah James (020 8868 2912) or Steve Ayres (01895 230 953)

HOUNSLOWContact: Liz Trayhorn (020 8751 5430,[email protected])

LEWISHAMContact: Ian or Paul ([email protected])Website: www.lewishamcyclists.net

NEWHAMContact: Bernie McDonnell (07947 236 965)Website: www.lcc.org.uk > local groups

TOWER HAMLETSContact: Owen Pearson (07903 018 970, [email protected])Website: www.towerhamletwheelers.org.uk

WALTHAM FORESTContact: Robert Vaughan, (020 8520 8858, [email protected]) Website: www.wfcycling.org.uk

OTHER LOCAL GROUP CONTACTS

Members’ adverts◆ FOR SALE: Brompton Standard Seat post only £5. 1/3 price of new. Call Richard on 020 8301 4768 eves/weekend or email [email protected]. Can deliver. ◆ FOR SALE: Bell bike trailer. A little battered but in good working order. Will fi t two small children, up to 100lbs, or one larger child. £30 ono. Pink Ammoco child’s bike (Coco) aged 5/6-8 yrs old. Hardly used. £30. Sharon (SE London) 020 7732 0434.◆ FOR SALE: Red Altura cycle jacket, women’s size medium. Scarcely worn, perfect condition. £20. Call Angela 020 7701 9820 or email [email protected]◆ FOR SALE: Gent’s Altura hi-viz small yellow jacket. Underarm zips, rear pocket and lamp holder. One-year-old but not worn. Cost $49, will sell £20 plus postage (or collect from Kingston). Don 020 8549 3769.◆ FOR SALE: Gent’s KHS mountain bike in very good condition. Recently serviced. 17” Cro Moly double butted steel frame and forks. 24 Simano Deore gears. £880 new but will sell for £280 ono. 01992 718 486 (Waltham Abbey.)How to advertise Small, non-business ads are free to LCC members. Email [email protected] or write to the address on page 3, including your short advertisement, name, address and LCC membership number. The Feb/Mar issue deadline is 6pm, December 23. For larger advertisements, contact Anthon (020 7306 0300 ext 112 or [email protected])

estimate then that this building alone will be 1,000 cycle spaces short in an area notoriously short of cycle parking. A major aim for 2009 then must be for us to do even more work to ensure that new developments must put in one in six cycle parking and that as many existing developments as possible retrofi t such parking into basement carparks etc – as TfL has done at Palestra opposite Southwark tube station and as Southwark Council is doing in a railway arch behind its new fl agship at 160 Tooley Street. And we need more and more partnerships to stamp down on bike theft (two good locks), arrange more diverse and inclusive rides, get more novices into everyday cycling, get the Healthy Lifestyle advocates onto bikes, deliver safer cycling routes, and improve the behaviour of all road users, and sent TfL the bill for all those deaths and injuries on its 30mph roads than bully through our increasingly 20mph borough. As our response to Southwark’s draft road safety plan says, there are seven times most deaths and injuries per kilometre on the 30mph roads in Southwark than the 20mph ones and TfL doesn’t pay that bill. But probably our most effective local partnership is with Southwark Living Streets. Pedestrians and cyclists should work together on a whole range of projects, and we do in Southwark. See you 25/12.Meetings: 7pm-8.30pm, the second Wednesday of the month at Better Bankside Community Space, Great Guildford Street, SE1 0TF. Contact: Barry Mason (07905 889 005,[email protected])Website: www.southwarkcyclists.org.uk

SUTTONMany thanks to the Dr Bike team at our most successful cycle maintenance where 21 bicycles were checked. Wallington Station forecourt is to be restyled with cycle parking on the central island. Decluttering Sutton High Street has begun but cyclestands are being damaged and contractors installed a “No Entry” sign in the middle of the contrafl ow cyclelane. Shared paths in Rosehill Rec will be lit. Feasibility studies are planned for December for Elm Road Rec, and Glenthorne Rec/Angel Hill/Bushey Road. Non LCN: Wrythe Lane/Muschamp Road cycle facility to be installed in November. Redford Avenue contrafl ow needs councillor agreement. LCN+: Fairlands Park, N. Cheam shut due to youth problems, so cyclists told to carry a map. Meetings: The second Tuesday of the month (December 9 and January 13) from 8.30pm at the Robin Hood Pub, at junction of West Street and Robin Hood Lane, Sutton.Contact: Chris Parry (020 86473584, [email protected])

WANDSWORTHThere’s plenty of bounce in Wandsworth Cyclists’ step at the moment with two other groups thinking of running their own version of our ‘Movers and Shakers’ project. Members of WCC have been to tell them about it and show our video, and they’re looking keen – just what we were hoping for! The whole idea is for the scheme to be duplicated by anyone

wanting to help local decision-makers become more cycle-friendly. We’re also pleased about the success of the public meeting we helped coordinate with the Putney Society. It was a great opportunity to get our voice heard by local people (some of whom have been quite vociferously anti-cyclist in the past) – and also by Putney’s MP, Justine Greening. We’re hoping we enthused her enough to ensure she puts our case strongly in any transport debates in the House of Commons. One of our other big focuses is on the redevelopment of Clapham Junction station. We continue to press for good cycling provision in and around the station, and have been invited to some planning meetings. We’re determined the planners won’t forget us, so we keep doggedly on their case. We would love any new people interested in this area to join us, so do get in touch to help us keep the developers on their toes.Meetings: The second Tuesday of each monthContact: Simon Merrett (020 8789 6639, [email protected])Website: www.wandsworthcyclists.org.uk

WESTMINSTERAfter a gap of some two years, a meeting was held in September between the council and representatives of cycling organisations. There were presentations on cycle parking, London Cycle Network Plus, education, training, publicity and safer cycling. Although the council was making steady progress with cycle parking and cycle training, there was a still a lot of work to be done on the cycle network. Cyclists were particularly impressed by the enthusiasm for cycling of the two councillors present and looked forward to further contact with them. Look out for the opening of new toucan crossings around Marble Arch. These should make a number of local journeys easier to make, especially between Hyde Park and the area to the north-east. Meetings: Thurday, December 4 at 7pm at Heart of London Business Alliance, London House, 53-54 Haymarket, SW1Y 4RPContact: Colin Wing (020 7828 1500,[email protected])Website: www.westminstercyclists.org.uk

Local groups




RIDES AND EVENTSThursday, December 4 ◆ Southwark Cyclists’

Afterworker. 6.30pm most Thursdays. Contact: Barry (07905 889 005)

Friday, December 5 ◆ South London Critical

Mass. Peckham Library6.30pm for 7pm start

Saturday, December 6◆ Thames Path to Erith. Meet

11am John Ball Primary School, SE3 0TP for family ride. Contact: Tom Crispin (07899 757 257, [email protected])

◆ Dulwich Paragon Ride. Every Saturday. www.dulwichparagon.com

◆ Climate Bike Ride. See rightSunday, December 7◆ Leeds Castle. 9.30am John

Ball Primary School, SE3 0TP for ride aimed at people aged 10-15. 32 hilly miles. Bike loan for kids. Contact: Tom Crispin (020 8318 1004, [email protected])

◆ Bike Polo. Sundays 1pm in the football court, cnr Brick Lane and Shacklewell Road. Details: http://myspace.com/bricklanebikepolo

◆ Weekly ride with Pollards Hill Cyclists. 9.30am Pollards Hill Library. www.pollardshillcyclists.org.uk, [email protected]

Wednesday, December 10◆ LCC retention evening.

Help LCC with member mailouts during a fun evening. Contact: Julie Tublin ([email protected], 020 7234 9310 ext 215)

Thursday, December 11◆ Southwark Cyclists’

Afterworker. See December 4 Sunday, December 14◆ Bread Pudding Xmas

Special. 10.30am at Kingston Market Place for Kingston Cycling Campaign ride. Contact: John Dunn (020 8397 1875, [email protected])

◆ Richmond Christmas Ride & Lunch. 10.30 am at Little Green Richmond for a quick ride around the park then back to the White Cross for lunch. Meeting other LCC groups. Contact: Paul Luton ([email protected], 020 8977 4016)

◆ Richmond Christmas Ride & Lunch Feeder Rides. LCC members are invited to join various groups from south-west, west and north-west London at the White Cross pub in Richmond (see above). For details of the Wimbledon start, see http://tinyurl.com/68dcac; for the Kingston start, see http://tinyurl.com/698l3e; for Hammersmith,

Diary Rides & EventsYour guide to events and rides that are open to all cyclists

What you need to know about social rides Unless stated, train-assisted rides meet at the relevant ticket office. Lunch is at a pub or take sandwiches if you prefer. Don’t forget: water, lights, a spare inner tube and tools.

Armchair riding To keep up with late changes and extra information, subscribe to the London Riders email list. Send a message to [email protected]

Organisers To publicise your event, enter details onto the LCC database (www.lcc.org.uk/rides). To get events in the February/March issue, upload by noon, Wednesday, December 24, or email [email protected]

Danube Bike Trail guidesThis series of guides to cycling the Danube by the Bikeline cycle publishing team is a perfect companion for anyone wanting to explore all the varied reaches of the almighty river. From Germany through Austria and onto Hungary,

Slovakia and Slovenia, the series covers, in excellent detail and with quality maps and advice, all you need to know. A perfect size for your pannier, the guides are available from all good bookshops or online at www.cordee.co.uk

Long-time London cyclist Rebecca Bogue has started a ‘yoga for cyclists class’.

“Having cycled regularly for 14 years, practised yoga for 11 and taught anatomy and physiology for five, it made sense while doing my yoga teacher training to bring all disciplines together,” says Rebecca. “What started off as simply a written assignment, gradually developed into a programme specifically designed to help cyclists.

For class information, dates and prices, email Rebecca at [email protected]

Yoga for cyclistsExploring the WandleWhile The Mills Of The River Wandle by David Saxby provides some wonderful inspiration, excellent historical references and some useful maps for anyone wanting to explore the Wandle. Some 49 mills are catalogued alongside fascinating insights into the river and the people who toiled along it. “[The booklet] is for cyclists and walkers and anyone interested in the River Wandle’s Industrial history,” says David. The booklet (£3) is available from Wandle Industrial Museum (020 8648 0127) or send a cheque to David Saxby, 46 Eagle Wharf Road, London, N1 7ED.

Discover the Norfolk Broads by bicycle – new booklet available

The Broads Bike Hire Association has produced a free booklet and an accompanying leaflet, The Broads By Bike, featuring nine circular routes along quiet country lanes in the Northern Broads area. Aimed at cyclists of all ages and abilities, the rides range from 5.5 miles around Hickling to 22.5 miles around Stalham, Lessingham, Honing, Worstead and Dilham. There is also a 58-mile orbital route around the whole network. This ride has links to the off-road routes of the Bure Valley Railway path and the Weavers Way, and also links with National Cycle Route 30.

Peter Howe, of Broadland Cycle Hire, says the aim of the booklet is to encourage cyclists of all ages to discover the region. “We have noticed a steady growth in the number of families and other groups out and about on their bikes in The Broads area, and we hope that our booklet will encourage even more people to discover the superb cycling on offer,” he says.

The Broads By Bike can be picked up at the

information centres at How Hill, Hoveton, Potter Heigham and Ranworth Staithe, or at local bike shops. Routes can be downloaded from www.thebroadsbybike.org.uk.

Dec Diary36-7.indd 36Dec Diary36-7.indd 36 9/11/08 00:30:069/11/08 00:30:06

Diary


For last-minute rides, contact your local group (details page 32) or see www.lcc.org.uk/rides

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meet 10.30am at Furnivall Gardens – contact John (020 7371 1290, [email protected])

Tuesday, December 16◆ Lambeth Cyclists’ Festive

Party. 7.30pm onwards, upstairs at The Priory Arms, 83 Lansdowne Way, SW8 2PB. All welcome. Contact: Phil Loy (020 8677 8624, [email protected])

Sunday, December 21◆ Wandsworth Cycling

Campaign Winter Warmer Ride. Ride along Thames. 12 miles. Meet Clapham Junction Station foyer 10.30am. Details: Martin Ireland (07946 354 852)

◆ Little Green Ride. Meet 9.45am Finsbury Park mainline station ticket hall for easy paced ride in Hertfordshire. 30 miles. Contact: Stephen Taylor (07977 235 735, [email protected])

Thursday, December 25◆ Southwark Cyclists’

Christmas Day Ride. See leftFriday, December 26 ◆ Critical Mass. 6pm National

Film Theatre on South Bank. See www.criticalmasslondon.org.uk

◆ ICAG Feeder Ride to Critical Mass. 6.15pm from Islington Town Hall. Contact: Chris Ashby (020 7609 5093)

Friday, January 2 ◆ South London Critical

Mass. See December 5Sunday, January 11◆ Alpine Hill-Box Hill. 10.30am

Teddington station. Partly on tracks but OK on touring bikes. Contact: Paul Luton (020 8977 4016, [email protected])

◆ Bread Pudding Ride.See December 14

Tuesday, January 13◆ LCC retention evening.

See December 10Saturday, January 17◆ Richmond Rides For

Everyone. Meet: Strawberry Hill Station at 10.45 for ride to the Crane Park Nature Reserve. Contact: Paul Luton (02089774016, [email protected])

Sunday, January 18◆ Wandsworth Cycling

Campaign City Ride. Clapham Junction Station foyer 10.30am. Details: Martin (07946 354 852)

◆ Little Green Ride. See December 21

Sunday, January 25◆ Bread Pudding Ride.

See December 14Friday, January 30◆ Critical Mass.

See December 26◆ ICAG Feeder Ride to

Critical Mass. See December 26

A ‘one-stop’ community-based website for London and the South East’s racing cyclists and cycle sport enthusiasts has been launched. Cyclesportlondon.com is an independent, user-generated site that club secretaries, race

organisers/promoters, photographers, reporters and keen cyclists can use to post news stories, results and photos. There is also an events calendar for future rides. Anyone can

register to leave comments and use the forum and, as the site grows, it is hoped that all the information you need about bike racing in London and the South East will be found on the site. See www.cyclesportlondon.com

Cycle sport website details events and rides

South London now has a Critical Mass ride the first Friday of every month. Cyclists are encouraged to meet at Peckham Library, Peckham High Street, at 6.30pm for a 7pm departure. Cyclists from across London are invited to attend this free-flowing bike ride aimed at promoting the use of public space by non-motorised vehicles and climate change awareness. Above, all it’s intended to be a fun gathering of like-minded cyclists. There is also an after-party.

New South London Critical MassLCC’s monthly socials happen from 6.30pm on the third Wednesday of each month upstairs at the Leather Exchange pub, 25 Leathermarket Street, SE1. The evenings are open to all LCC members and those who want to fi nd out more about the organisation. People who may not previously have considered getting involved can meet staff and active members to chat about LCC and cycling in general. For more information, call the LCC offi ce (contact details page 29).

LCC’s social nights

Southwark Cyclists lead the way with rides programme

Campaigners at Southwark Cyclists have become experts at organising rides that inspire Londoners to get on their bikes. Whether it's an annual programme of eclectic architecture rides, a calendar of healthy rides, weekly afterworkers or unique one-offs, there is something in the Southwark group’s events diary for every cyclist. Here are just two examples.

◆ The Border Patrol Solstice Ride Sunday, December 21 is Winter Solstice, the shortest darkest day of the year. There will be only seven hours, 49 minutes and 40 seconds from the 8.04am sunrise to the 3.54pm sunset. Then the days get longer. Peckham-based artist Ana Laura Lopez de la Torre asked Southwark Cyclists to help create this unique ride to explore almost every inch of Southwark’s 17-mile border, starting at 6pm and, after some creative diversions en route, ending at Ana’s studio at 9pm for a bring-a-bottle party, food and some films until late. Numbers are limited to 30, so book early.

◆ Spend Christmas Day on your bikeSouthwark Cyclists’ Christmas Day ride through the near-deserted streets of London has development a cult following of sorts in recent years. With public transport shut and the Christmas exodus from London (almost) complete, December 25 is one of London’s most peaceful days. The 2008 Christmas Day Ride will be Southwark’s seventh, and will again be a slow and sociable meander around central London. Meet at Cutty Sark Gardens at 10am or the

Southwark Needle at 11am (see website below for maps); drop out whenever you want or stay for a pub lunch around Edgware Road (if there’s a pub open).

For details of these and other Southwark Cyclists’ rides throughout the year, see www.southwarkcyclists.org.uk or call coordinator Barry Mason on 07905 889 005.

For more on how rides can help promote cycling, see Rob Ainsley’s opinion article on page 9.

The 2008 Climate Bike Ride – part of a global day of protest timed to coincide with UN climate talks – starts at Lincolns Inn Fields at 10.30am on December 6. The ride will follow a route around central London, with stops to listen to speakers on cycling and climate change issues before finishing at Grosvenor Square at 12.30pm to join up with the National Climate March. For further details, visit campaigncc.org/bike

Climate ride returns

Southwark Cyclists’ Thames Barrier Ride passes through Greenwich

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The marketplace

To advertise on this page, please phone 020 7306 0300 ext.112or email [email protected]


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To advertise on this page, please phone 020 7306 0300 ext.112or email [email protected]

The marketplace


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Books ’n’ things Christmas gift ideasCycle For Life, Nicole Cooke (£14.99, Kyle Cathie Ltd) Written by one of the most successful professional cyclists with an Olympic gold medal to her name, this book is mainly aimed at novices, or those simply curious about the sport. Chapters cover bike/equipment choice and set up, various cycling disciplines, health and nutrition, and riding in groups. It also has insightful sections on both touring and commuting. The photography is razor sharp and conveys the excitement of the sport convincingly, although it does tend to be a little stylised sometimes. The images of women are very positive, depicting competent and competitive riding, although the author’s preva-lence smacks of self-promotion. Chapters are well-written and accessible to absolute beginners while not alienating experienced riders looking for a quick reference tool. While this is an excellent guide, the market is saturated with comparable manuals. That said Cycle For Life remains a worthy stocking filler for anyone developing a taste for cycling. Michael Stenning

A Woman’s Guide To Bikes And Biking, Julie Harrell (US$9.95, Van Der Plas Publications) Books like this can go one of two ways. Either they pigeon-hole women and reinforce stereotypes that women can’t fix a puncture/move a seat/oil a bike and need special instruction, or they cater for that slice of the female bicycling community that is perhaps intimidated by the technical side of cycling and appreciates a little individual – possibly female – tuition. Of course some-times men also need a little special attention, but you would never see a book entitled ‘A Man’s Guide To Bikes And Biking’ – that one would be just called ‘Your Guide To Bikes And Biking’, and be marketed at everyone. None of that, of course, is the fault of Harrell, who has provided a well-rounded and detailed guide, written for women and about women’s cycling. It is thorough and intelligently compiled for women of all ages and abilities. Lynette Eyb

Himalaya By Bike: A Route And Planning Guide For Cyclists And Motorcyclists, Laura Stone (£14.99, Trailblazer)For the more adventurous cyclist in your life, Himalaya By Bike, like other niche market travel books from Trailblazer, is an exceptionally detailed and researched guide to cycling (and motorbiking) one of the most challenging regions of the world. Laura Stone has spent much of her life in the saddle, and her love of riding and knowledge of bikes shines through in a guide that anyone game enough to comptenplate a journey through this part of the world will find indispensable as they head for the hills. Lynette Eyb

“It is not necessary to understand things in order to argue about them.” – Pierre Beaumarchais (1732-1799)

Start point: Silverdale, USA. Mile: 2,935. 24th October.

It was obvious that Mum, Ted, and Lucy had come out to pamper me. When I announced I was going to attempt cycling across two continents, a year before heading to Alaska, the whole family looked a bit bewildered perhaps even a tad exasperated.

“You’re going to do what?” had asked my elder sister, Helen.

‘It’s a personal challenge and we are raising money for charity.”

“How long have you known about this?” she continued, gathering herself.

“For a year but I didn’t want to say anything until it became more than talk.”

With nearly 3,000 miles in the bag they were starting to appreciate the scale of what we had asked of ourselves. This translated into VIP treatment as swish hotels and restaurant dining replaced my mildew-infested tent and cooking on Stu. I could hardly contain myself. A couple of nights in Vancouver were followed by three more nights in equally salubrious digs back in Victoria, where upon Ted and I snuck off for a day’s fishing on the western side of Vancouver Island. All too quickly our time together came to an end and they returned to England, leaving me with a few days to kill before meeting up with the lads and continuing the ride. There was no better option than taking Ray and Joan up on their offer of some accommodation.

“It works best on massage setting you know,” said Ray, as I jumped into the hot tub.

“I think it’s doing the trick already, Ray!” “Are you ready for another beer?”Time alone made me ponder the forthcoming

leg through America and reflect on the awe-inspiring beauty of Canada. The scale of the country and its humble citizens had made a big impression on me. Although I longed for the sunshine of California our Canadian experience had been nothing short of exceptional. The temperate environment, golden colours of autumn and intelligence of the country’s people resonated strongly with me. Penning a letter each to Zin, Brian and Karen to update them on our progress, it was time to dig deep, concentrate on the task ahead and get cycling again. Riding The Biscuit Highway, James Wilson (£9.99, Arima Publishing)

Fine linesExtract from Riding The Biscuit Highway by James Wilson

Bicycle design100 Years Of Bicycle Component And Accessory Design: The Data Book (US$39.95, Van der Plas Publications) Bicycle nerds listen up: the ‘Authentic Reprint Edition’ of ‘The Data Book’ first published in 1983 to the delight of Japanese bicycle fash-ion victims is now back on the shelves. Noguchi-san, president of Joto Ringyo Co Ltd, explains that he gathered the hundreds of line drawings of every conceivable European bicycle component made between 1877 and 1959 for the greater pleasure of cycling enthu-siasts. It includes pages and pages devoted to brake levers, bizarre gear mechanisms and even a whole side on the left hand cranks of 1910 and 1935. Nerdy it may be but there is a certain fascination in seeing that so many so called new ideas like suspension and saddle grooves were tried decades ago. Catalogue illustrations of early bikes are also intriguing. With the current craze for retro components and skinny steel frames this could be the cult book of the year. Tom Bogdanowicz

NB: All books are widely available in the UK unless otherwise noted. American books by Van der Plas Publications and Cycle Publishing featured may be diffi cult to fi nd in some bookshops. They are, however, distributed in the UK by Orca Book Services (01202 665 432, [email protected])

Dec Books40,1,3.indd 40Dec Books40,1,3.indd 40 9/11/08 00:35:219/11/08 00:35:21

Book ’n’ things


The Unknown Tour de France, Les Woodland (£9.95, Van der Plas Publications) There are many well-researched books about the world’s toughest bicycle race. The difference here is the result of 10 years gathering diverse and little-known stories. If you have wondered why the race has certain characteristics or features, the chances are this book will have an aswer for you. London-born author Woodland covers the circumstances leading to the Tour’s introduction, notable riders over the decades, the glory years of the 1950s, and the organisation behind the machine the modern event has become. An appendix lists 100 things you didn’t know about the Tour, and this sums up the book’s value: it’s an entertaining read that puts today’s race into perspective. Mark Mitchell

Ascent: The Mountains of the Tour de France, Richard Yates (£25, Van der Plas Publications)A picture is worth a thousand words and those from the early 1900s say it all in this book, capturing the extreme hardship and suffering of riding steep roads little more than goat tracks on the classic cols of the Tour de France. The gaunt faces of riders, covered in dirt and sweat, stare out of many sepia-tinted photographs, a stark contrast with later images that take the reader to the end of the 1970s and the beginning of

the sanitised, televised Tour. Dedicated solely to the mountain stages, this is one of those books that US publishers excel in producing: a bold format, with 150 historic photographs and illustrations, complemented by excellent text from London-born Yates. It includes a King of the Mountains list from 1933 (when the title began) to 2005, a bibliography and a comprehensive index. Mark Mitchell

The Birth Of Dirt: Origins Of Mountain Biking, Frank J Berto (US$18.95, Van der Plas Publications)Berto, a bicycle engineer, historian and author, examines the beginnings of mountain biking and the evolution of a genre that has influenced and dominated the cycle industry for a quarter of a century. Berto places much emphasis on the period between 1972 and 1977, as well as the early 1980s, when larger, mainstream manufacturers began adopting the mountain bike. Quality photography and sketches feature throughout, capturing some fascinating concepts that didn’t translate into commercial success. While far from groundbreaking, The Birth Of Dirt is a compelling and accessible book that should appeal to cycle historians, mountain bike enthusiasts and casual observers alike. Michael Stenning

Essentials: Trailriding Tips & Techniques From Glentress, Emma Guy and Tracy Brunger (£6.99, Pocket Mountains)This pocket-sized guide to fundamental mountain bike skills covers braking, cornering, gear selection and anticipation through to more advanced techniques such as wheelies and jumping to clear obstacles. The conversational style, coupled with razor-sharp photography makes an extremely accessible

and engaging book. It represents excellent value for money. Written by women, this book might help encourage greater female participation in a male-dominated sport. Michael Stenning

London cyclists – why so serious? And why so fast? Just as the world is discovering the slow food movement, it’s time for a slow cycling movement too. At least in big cities. What I used to like about cycling in Amsterdam, when staying there with friends, was

that bikes were regarded as a means to an end – taking children to school, going to work, going to a bar or restaurant in the evening. Most were old, all had vast panniers permanently secured at the rear, step-through frames, and sit-up-and-beg handlebars. Until very recently mountain bikes or racing bikes were rarely seen in Amsterdam. The sturdy bikes people used suited a life that was less frenetic than ours. These particular friends lived over a rather chic restaurant in Beethovenstraat near the Rijksmuseum, and in the evenings it was astonishing to see most customers arrive, smartly dressed, by bicycle. Imagine people turning up at The Ivy, The Caprice, or any other fashionable London restaurant on a bike.

A lot of London cyclists now terrify me and other Londoners too it seems, judging from the letters pages of the London press, and in the last edition of this magazine (as well as comments by Zoe Williams). In Hackney it is not uncommon every morning to see a phalanx of cyclists, dressed like crash test dummies, hurtling towards the City as if escaping from a forest fi re. More puzzling is why so many carry all their luggage in rucksacks, rather than in panniers, adding unnecessary stress to back muscles and joints. Even more disturbing is the way in which some of these fugitive souls – usually the younger men – hurtle in and out of parks and pedestrian concourses on their route, scattering other pedestrians to the winds. They ride as if they were alone in the world, in the grip of some terrible impulse to be anywhere but where they actually are. Such cyclists destroy the very qualities which most people enjoy about cities – a sense of delight in the life of the streets and human conviviality and vulnerability.

This kind of cycling also contributes to a sense of insecurity and danger. There are two statistical things we know about cycling in cities, both counter-intuitive. The fi rst is that there is an inverse relationship between wearing cycle helmets and accident rates: only 1% of Dutch cyclists wear helmets while enjoying one of the best cycling safety records in the world. Secondly, the more cyclists there are on the road, the safer they all are individually, becoming part of the everyday road traffi c. So the more cyclists dress up as urban warriors, the less other people will be prepared to join them, consequently adding to the much needed critical mass. Lighten up, people, and come and go as you are. Ken Worpole’s study of radical popular fi ction, Dockers & Detectives, has been published. More details of that and other books atwww.worpole.net

BackpedallingKen Worpole

Cycle sport

Heroes, Villains & Velodromes: Chris Hoy And Britain’s Track Cycling Revolution, Richard Moore (£11.99, HarperCollins)This updated edition, which takes in the Beijing Games, is a sound modern history of UK cycling, concentrating on Chris Hoy. As admirable as Hoy’s achievements and those of his British teammates are, however, the story is a rather mundane overview that trawls through training sessions and provides a sanitised backgrounder on Hoy’s success.

Unfortunately it doesn’t make for as interesting a read as some of the drugs-tainted tomes with which it shares the shelves. Anthony Costa


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Book ’n’ things


Campagnolo: 75 Years Of Cycling Passion, (£27.50, VeloPress) For once the marketing blurb doesn’t lie: “As Leica is to cameras and Ferrari to racing automobiles, so Campagnolo is to cycling.” History tells the story that after the mechenically minded rider Tullio Campagnolo came fourth in the Gran Premio della Vittoria in 1927, he blamed his gears: in those days, changing gears meant getting off and manually moving the chain to a different sprocket. “Something in the rear must change,” he uttered after he crossed the finishing line, vowing to devise a way of changing gears without having to dismount. Three years later, he registered a trademark for a ‘quick-release hub’. It was the birth of modern cycle mechanics, and it sparked the growth of a

company that has become synonymous with bike technology. This book pays homage to Campagnolo and all that his passion for improving bicycle mechanics inspired. It is a glorious mix of history and images and technical drawings, and will be at home on the coffee table (or in the bike shed) of any cyclist with a love for the traditions of cycling or an appreciation for what it takes to achieve perfection. Lynette Eyb Campagnolo: 75 Years Of Cycling Passion is available from all good bookshops, at branches of Waterstone’s or direct from Cordee (01162 543 579, www.cordee.co.uk)

Sally Jean, the Bicycle Queen, Cari Best with illustrations by Christine Davenier (US$16, Farrar, Straus and Giroux) Sally Jean has wonderful parents: from an early age they have encouraged her to explore the world on wheels, be it from the back of her mum’s bicycle or on her own first bike. Then comes the day she realises she has outgrown her beloved ‘Flash’, and there simply isn’t money to buy a new one. Fortunately, Sally Jean’s family has shown her over the years how to repair her own bike, giving her a wonder-ful bank of knowledge to pass on to other kids – for a price. Soon enough she saves some money for a few bike parts, finds the remainder second-hand and builds her own new bike. This is the book for every campaigner who is trying to inspire a child to ride. I hope Santa has a stash of these so he can scatter one at the wheels of every new bicycle he leaves for new cyclists this Christmas. Lynette Eyb Available from Red Fox (www.redfoxbookstore.com)

For the kids

Books ’n’ things Christmas gift ideas

Painfully honest, this is a revealing insight into one of the decade’s top British track and road racing cyclists – to date, six Olympic medals and an OBE. Born in Ghent, Belgium – where his Australian father was a notable cycle racer – Wiggins was later brought up by his mother and grandparents in London. Generous in spirit, it’s a real up and downer, telling much about the sport and the man. The first half is a good read, but it really comes alive for the 2007 Tour de France. That chapter – and London’s vibrant role – is inspiring, and followed by

dramatic events later, when drug cheats ruined his Tour chances (about which he has admirably strong views). Culminating in the spectacular achievements in Manchester and Beijing, the well-illustrated story reflects a momentous year where Wiggins played a key part, and promised more to come. The publishers, Orion, moved fast to get this timely book out so quickly after the Games, but it was worth the effort. Mark Mitchell

AutobiographiesIn Pursuit of Glory, Bradley Wiggins (£18.99, Orion)


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My way

RADOSTINA KAZMIN“I’m 29 and Bulgarian. I deputy manage a community-based day service for adults with learning diffi culties. Besides cycling, I play badminton and go windsurfi ng. I like Banksy, parks and house music. I’m learning to be a better photographer.”THE JOURNEYDistance: 3-4 miles Time: 40 mins to Hackney; 50 mins to Islington Low point: The junction at Manor House tube High point: Emerging into Walthamstow Marshes from underneath the bridge after the Thames reservoirs

Walthamstow to Hackney or Islington

I started cycling regularly when I came to London fi ve years ago. Before that I’ve done a few commutes in my home town on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, but nothing serious.

I currently have two routes to work; depending on where I’m based for the day. I live in Walthamstow and cycle to either Hackney or Islington. Both rides share the fi rst leg of the journey and separate at the Riverside Café.

I suppose I am lucky as both of my routes are almost car-free. For half the way I go through Walthamstow Marshes and for the rest I try to use residential streets and cycle paths. I cross a couple of busy junctions, but since a van hit me at Finsbury Park, I make a point in getting off my bike and crossing at pedestrian traffi c lights.

Another thing I like about the ride is that the same people tend to use the space, come rain or shine. For the last two or three years I meet the same dog owners, mums with prams, joggers and cyclists.

I start at the top of Walthamstow market – allegedly the longest in Europe. Seeing the stall keepers setting up their stalls and hearing the occasional ‘alright love’ in a Cockney accent makes me feel less grumpy that I have to get up at this ungodly hour.

I go down Copper Mill Lane and between the Thames Water reservoirs. That part of the journey is always full of different odours, depending what time of year it is: lakey and sea-planty in the summer, metal cold and fresh in winter.

I go under a bridge – often with the Stansted Express passing above me – and emerge in

Walthamstow Marshes. This is my favourite part of the journey. I have the marshes spread out in front of me and a small canal on my left where a heron has his breakfast as I pass each day. In spring, I see the fi rst wild daffodils there; in winter there’s fog rising from the marshes.

Then I cross the river Lea at the Springhill Marina and reach the Riverside Café. It is an establishment in its own right, together with the Lea Rowing Club next to it.

The road to HackneyThis is where my route splits in two. For Hackney, I continue following the Lea, past Springfi eld Park, old factories, new developments, canal boats and old pubs.

At the beginning of Chatsworth Road, my car-free journey ends and I fi nd myself following the numerous cycle paths in Hackney. I usually go past the police station, round the library, and through London Fields on an emblematic cycle path through the middle which is always such a pleasure to ride on.

My offi ce is at the end of London Fields. It has designated space for bicycles inside the building, so it’s safe and convenient to park there.

The road to IslingtonThe other place I work is in Islington, so after the Riverside Café, I make that gruelling climb of Spring Hill to Clapton Common, and say ‘hi’ to the dog owners on the bench under the magnolia tree.

From there I sink into a labyrinth of residential streets in Stamford Hill in an attempt to avoid the bendy buses on the main roads. It’s not entirely a designated cycle

route, though some parts of it are sign-posted.

Between delicious smelling Jewish bakeries, water reservoirs and council estates, I emerge at Manor House. From there it’s through Finsbury Park, past the Park Café and athletic track (Haringey Mencap run really good cycling sessions for adults with learning diffi culties there) and through the Oxford Road exit. As I pass the bridge over the rail tracks, Emirates Stadium looms majestically in the distance.

Stroud Green Road is a more car-fi lled section. It’s not too bad as I’ve chosen to make my route a bit longer but safer by opting to sink back into the residential parts until I get to the Odeon cinema on Holloway Road. My work is two minutes from there. I lock my bike in the garden, next to bikes belonging to colleagues. My employer supports the cycle to work scheme and two people have bought bikes this way.

My job tends to be emotionally challenging, so cycling there helps me arrive charged with energy. Cycling back gives me time to unwind. And even though I cycle quite slowly, it takes me less time that catching the tube would.

Pho

tos:

Rad

ost

ina

Kaz

min

Left: The Lea and its canal boats, and, right, Radostina and her bike

Most people have one regular route to work, but Radostina Kazmin’s job is based in two areas of London, meaning she gets to enjoy the capital twice as much as the rest of us


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Outward bound


Lôn Las Cymru, otherwise known as Sustrans NCN (National Cycle Network) route 8 or ‘Wales’ ultimate cycling challenge’ runs for 251 miles from Holyhead on Anglesey to Cardiff in South Wales. It also runs right through the village of Penrhyndeudraeth in Snowdonia where my parents live. My partner Jeremy and I had joked about cycling all the way back to London from there at some point. In the end we didn’t do that, but we did cycle from Penrhyndeudraeth to Bath over five days and, despite my reservations beforehand about cycling in such hilly areas, I’d thoroughly recommend it to any keen, and reasonably fit, cyclist. We had the roads to ourselves for much of the route and the biggest hazard was the occasional farm dog which ran out barking at us, clearly surprised to see anybody else about.

We spent a couple of days cycling around Penrhyndeudraeth at the start of the trip. It’s possible to do day rides here using sections of route 8 (for example, you could cycle to Dolgellau and back via Coed-y-Brenin Forest), but you’ll need an OS map to make the most of the area. Porthmadog, three miles up the road, has a range of accommodation and eating options.

After leaving Penrhyndeudraeth, we headed south on a minor road above Harlech and its castle, before descending to join the A road along the coast and into Barmouth, where we crossed the Mawddach estuary toll bridge (£1 for an adult plus bicycle).

On the other side, an old railway line has been converted into a motorised traffic-free cycle route that runs along the river. Not only is this scenic, but it provides flat and easy cycling, and is clearly popular. Despite the fact that it has the most awkward gates I’ve encountered on any cycle route, it was the only place on the whole route where we saw more than a couple of other cyclists.

After lunch in Dolgellau, we headed off up into the hills again. A long, steep ascent over a pass below Cader Idris was followed by a speedy (and chilly) descent. Shortly before arriving at our B&B in Machynlleth, we passed the Centre for Alternative Technology, which is worth a visit if you have time.

We woke the next morning to beautiful sunshine and the knowledge that we had to cycle up the large hill we could see from the bedroom window. From Machynlleth the route ascends to 510m, the highest point on Lôn Las Cymru (although not the highest point on our route, as we later discovered). The scenery here was spectacular, with rolling hills in all directions, and although the cycling was tough, the views made it all worthwhile. At the top, we stopped to take photos and put on extra layers before a thrilling descent into Hafren Forest and on to Llanidloes for lunch.

We were now in Powys, whose symbol is the Red Kite and we saw several of these impressive birds

It took Ruth Bradshaw five days to cycle from Penrhyndeudraeth in Wales to Bath, a journey of significant beauty along Sustrans route 8

Snowdonia to the Severn: A cycle ride through Wales

Below: The view towards Snowden from above Harlech

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Outward bound

circling overhead as we cycled along in the afternoon sun. Our last 10 miles that day followed the River Wye into Rhayader.

The weather turnsUnfortunately there was very different weather the following morning – grey and damp with the threat of heavier rain in the air. After a fairly gentle start on minor roads (still following the River Wye), the route took us on to part of an ancient coach road for a couple of miles. This is unpaved and described on the map as “rough and muddy when wet”, but after a boggy section at the start, it proved possible to cycle and although it was slow and bumpy, this was more than made up for by the sense of adventure. Shortly after we reached tarmac again, the heavens opened and by the time we arrived in Builth Wells, we were more than ready for lunch and the chance to dry off in a warm café.

After Builth Wells, there was a short section on a busier road which we covered very quickly because it was flat; it was still pouring with rain but we had the wind behind us. The wet weather also gave us an excuse to stop for afternoon tea at the very welcoming River Café in Glasbury. We needed the extra calories to give us strength for the next section of the route.

Just south of Glasbury at the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, cyclists have a choice of routes: route 8 heads through Brecon and Merthyr Tydfil to Cardiff, while route 42, which we took, goes via Abergavenny and Usk to Chepstow. First, however, it goes over the Gospel Pass which, at 540m, was the highest point on our trip.

The initial ascent was very steep and I was soon pushing my bike, but after a while the gradient became gentler and we cycled slowly up into the mist. Luckily the wind was still behind us and although the poor weather meant we didn’t get any views, it also meant there were very few cars on a road which can attract a lot of sightseers.

MORE INFORMATION:Maps: The route maps can be bought at Stanfords or ordered from Sustrans (www.sustrans.org.uk).Accommodation: We planned a route based on cycling around 45-50 miles a day and booked our accommodation in advance. There are a range of B&Bs to choose from in Machynlleth, Rhayader and Chepstow, but more limited options in Llanthony, where you would definitely want to have something booked as it’s a long way from anywhere else. We’d recommend the Half Moon Inn, which was comfortable and very friendly (www.halfmoon-llanthony.co.uk/hotel.html). It’s always best to check that B&Bs have somewhere to store bikes. Transport: We travelled to Penrhyndeudraeth by train via Birmingham New Street. It’s a long journey (six hours), but very scenic, and it would take at least as long to drive from inner London. We booked tickets in advance for both this journey and our return journey from Bath. You have to do this as you need reservations for the bikes, but it also means you can get tickets quite cheaply – we paid a total of £22.50 each for all our rail travel. See the National Rail website (www.nationalrail.co.uk) for further details. We booked our train tickets on the internet, but organised our cycle reservations in person at Euston station.

This was our longest day’s cycling and it was after five by the time we reached the top where our only company were a few damp sheep. We wrapped up in preparation for the long descent into the tiny village of Llanthony, where we’d booked a room at the Half Moon Inn. We were somewhat alarmed when we arrived to find the doors and windows shut, but all was well when we found a note from the landlord explaining that he’d be back shortly. All was even better an hour later when we were able to enjoy a couple of pints and a delicious meal next to the Half Moon’s log fire.

The sun returned the next morning, providing us with great views over the Wye Valley as we cycled past Llanthony priory and the crooked church at Cwmyoy on our way out of the Brecon Beacons. The ride was mostly gentle and followed quiet back roads through a series of small settlements. After lunch in Usk, there was one last hill before we descended into Chepstow to reach the border with England and our final B&B.

The following day we left Wales with a memorable ride across the Severn Bridge in strong winds, and cycled to Bath where we caught a train to London.

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Above: South of Machynlleth,

heading towards the highest point

on Lôn Las Cymru

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Dispatches


A letter from London

When I travelled to Sydney to talk about cycling, I borrowed a bike and headed off to the suburbs, with the help of an experienced local rider. It was an eye-opening experience. I had no idea how far behind Sydney was compared with most European cities in terms of accommodating, let alone encouraging, cyclists.

There seems to be an almost overt hostility to cyclists, not only from many motorists, but more importantly from the planners and highway engineers who create the street environment.

It may be only a small thing, but even the drains in gutters can easily catch a cyclist’s wheels because the grooves run parallel to the road rather than at right angles, as is the case in most other cities. When I was cycling on Parramatta Road, a major artery into the city centre, I desperately needed the safety of those gutters to have a reasonable chance of surviving the rush-hour traffi c, but found that I had to swerve out into the car lane to avoid being felled by the storm drain.

Sydney has the occasional bit of good infrastructure, such as dedicated paths over bridges, the lanes laid out by more supportive local councils such as Leichhardt in the inner-west and the cycle parking hoops that have started appearing in the central business district, but clearly there is no overall policy supportive of cycling.

Contrast this with London, where the number of cyclists has doubled over the past fi ve years. Having cycled in London for 40 years, I fi nd that motorists are far more accommodating and courteous towards me now than they have ever been, quite possibly because many of them occasionally jump on bikes too. London has a long way to go, but cycling has reached the critical mass stage which makes it safer and easier to ride there.

Sydney can get there, too. Sure, there are diffi culties with the number of roads with fast, heavy traffi c, the occasional hill and, in summer, the climate. But despite these obstacles, cycling could grow rapidly with political goodwill and concerted effort.

Lessons from LondonIt is impossible to pinpoint precise reasons why cycling in London has increased so much. It is a combination of factors, ranging from overcrowding on public transport to the imposition of the Congestion Charge, but undoubtedly the initial trigger was a pro-cycling attitude from local authorities which in the past had been negative or even hostile to cycling, as are some politicians in Australia. Now, support for cycling is virtually universal among elected offi cials since they see that it combines the benefi ts of a healthy lifestyle with an environmentally sustainable form of transport.

To make progress, however, does not mean immediately spending millions of dollars on heavily engineered cycle routes which may, in any case, be in the wrong place or badly designed. Sure, money will eventually be needed to create these facilities, but fi rst hearts and minds have to be won over. At the moment in Sydney, it is only the hard-core Lycra-wearing cyclists who take to the roads, and the fi rst task is to show ordinary people they can occasionally jump on their bikes, even if it is just to go to the shops.

Oddly, one of the key catalysts for the improvement in London was also one of the cheapest: painting a green area at every traffi c light which only cyclists had the right to enter when the light was red. Immediately, this sent a message to

all road users that cyclists not only have a right to be there, but they even have priority at junctions.

To put it bluntly, Sydney is where London was about 20 years ago when there were virtually no cycle facilities and one local council, Kensington and Chelsea, was so hostile it ripped up one of the few lanes that had been laid out by the Greater London Council on the grounds that cyclists got in the way of cars. Now that council, with the same Conservative party in control, has not only relaid the cycle lanes, but has even created special ones in one-way streets to allow cyclists priority access.

None of what needs to be done is rocket science. It can be done, as London has begun to show.Christian Wolmar, one of Britain’s leading transport commentators, is on the board of Cycling England. He is also the author of Fire & Steam, a new history of the railways in Britain (£8.99, Atlantic Books). His website is www.christianwolmar.co.uk

Sydney needs to wake up to the benefits of pedal power, says leading transport commentator Christian Wolmar, and learn a few lessons from London

The car is king in Sydney, despite the odd leisure cyclist enjoying the sunshine along the waterfront

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My bike & I Jeff BanksOne of the UK’s leading fashion designers is a prolific cyclist, pedalling more than 1,000 miles each year for charity

Vivienne Westwood and Paul Smith are two that come to mind. Why do you think it is that creative people tend to be among the most likely to cycle?It sorts the brain out. It makes you focus and think. It’s like active meditation. When I fi nanced Vivienne, she always used to come round our house on her bike and let it drip on the pale grey carpet in the hall. Any chance of Jeff Banks throwing his lot in with the London Cycling Campaign to design a T-shirt to help us raise the profi le of cycling in the capital? I don’t see why not.If you could do one thing on two wheels, what would it be and why?I would have liked to competed in RAM (Race Across America), but I think I’m getting a bit past it now.

Can you tell us about your bike?Condor Leggero carbon fi bre, Campag carbon hyperon wheels, Campag Record groupset, Cinelli Ram carbon bars, Fizik saddle. I’ve had this frame for three years but I keep upgrading bits.Where do you most enjoy riding it?The Alps.Do you remember your very fi rst time on a bike? My dad bought me a bike when I was about 11 years old. It was a full spec racing bike, a Felman Mondiale, which was a French bike-maker.What’s the best thing about being a cyclist?The camaraderie: it doesn’t matter who you are, it all levels out on the road.Do you consider yourself a good cyclist? Not bad. I cover a lot of miles given the constraints of work. I know how to handle a bike in most situations.Do you ride in London much? I don’t ride in London much but my favourite ride is lapping Regent’s Park.Do you take your bike away with you on weekends or holidays? Always! I normally get up early before the family is up and get in the miles before 10am, then I can relax and enjoy the holiday. I’ve ridden in Borneo, Mauritius, Australia, Barbados, Grenada, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Germany and Switzerland.You are prolifi c when it comes to charity rides. Can you tell us a bit about how you fi rst got involved in these.I started charity rides about 15 years ago – Land’s End to John O’Groats for the British Heart Foundation with a crowd of mates. We then determined to do a 1000-mile ride each year, which we do. I’ve also ridden London to Brighton six times, Capital to Coast, Manchester Blackpool and so on. I’ve ridden for NSPCC, the British Heart Foundation, Sports Relief, MAG and Spinal Research.What’s been your favourite charity ride and why?I think 10 countries in 10 days for the British Heart Foundation. We shot across Europe in 10 days from London to Lake Como over the Stelno Pass – awesome.Has your love of cycling rubbed off on your family and friends?No, most of them think I’m nuts.You designed the outfi ts for the Grand Depart committee when the Tour came to London in 2007. Can you tell us a bit about that?Transport for London contacted me – it was a real honour to be making clothes for about 60 offi cials. I had all the accreditation for the two days the Tour was in London, but unfortunately I was riding the nine stages of the Tour from Paris to Marseille four days in advance of the Tour, so I missed all the action in London.Have you had involvement in any other bike-related design projects?I was asked to do the clothes for the offi cials for the 2008 Tour of Britain.A lot of designers seem to also be cyclists –

“It doesn’t matter who you are – it all levels out on the road”

Interview

ABOUT JEFF BANKSJeff Banks is one of the UK’s leading designers. Among his charity ride benefi ciaries is the Mines Advisory Group (MAG), an international charity that works in more than 35 countries to help clear the remnants of confl ict and enable the recovery and development of affected communities. For more on MAG and its charity rides, see www.mag.org.uk. For more on Jeff Banks and his work, see www.jeffbanks.co.uk

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Documents

London Cyclist December 2008-January 2009