When did you first consider buying a cargo bike, and why?
About 10 years ago. I was working in Central London between 2009 and 2015 and I saw cargo bikes zooming around London. Coincidently, my youngest daughter had moved to London and spoke of them fondly whilst she worked as a coffee cycle courier back in 2015. The cargo bike seed was sown.
Why Bullitt?
In 2017, I was working at the British Antarctic Survey in Cambridge. My daily commute from my rural digs to work was 7 miles across fields and along country roads; on my iconic 1999 ‘Clockwork’ ORANGE MTB, which I still have. Cambridge is a great cycle-friendly city, so there were many bikes in the rack; only one stood out. It was an original Bullitt, bright blue in colour and so the ‘Bullitt seed’ was sown.
In summer 2021, I was approaching the end of a short contract wondering what my next move would be. Previously, I served as an engineer in the Royal Navy for 25 years. I completed the Gold Bike Mechanics Course a few years back and I have cycled and commuted by bike all my life. Impending unemployment got me thinking. In my mid 50’s, I was fed up of working for other people and needed to stop running up the down escalator. It was time to become self-employed doing something where I was the ‘product’. COVID has forced us all to reassess our priorities. As empty nesters, it was time to enjoy work again.
How would you rate your Bullitt out of 5 on the following:
- Sheer Enjoyment [5]
- Drive my car less [5]
- Save Money [5]
- Save Time [5]
- Save the planet [5]
What does riding your Bullitt feel like?
It is like riding a ‘stealth bike’. I own a ‘RACE’ Original Bullitt fitted with Shimano Alfine 11-speed hub and a Gates belt drive.
When was the last time you rode your bullitt?
I ride my bike at least twice a week. This will increase in Spring 2022 when I launch my mobile bike repair/tutoring business once we have settled in our new house and I have built myself another bike workshop
Have you always cycled?
Yes ever sin
I had a Chopper bike when I was 7 years old in 1972! Including my Bullitt, I have owned 8 bikes. I still have the four bikes I purchased since 1999 – Clockwork ORANGE, GIANT MTB AX 880 (first generation hydraulic brakes), Beach Cruiser from a year living/working in Chile and my ‘RACE’ Bullitt.
What would you superpower be as a cyclist?
To glare at vehicles and bring them to a stop!
You can change one thing. What would it be?
The ability to put the AluBox into the cargo area without having to remove the side panels. In time, I shall upgrade to a Brooks leather saddle.
What makes you unhappy?
Cloudy days.
How do you relax?
Cycling down the Taff Trail. I live in North Cardiff and the trail is 5 minutes from my home. It runs along the river Taff and passes through the heart of the city, away from the hustle and bustle and gives access to many parks, green spaces and coffee stops.
What single thing would improve the quality of your cycling experience?
Making cycling the first choice of transport for journeys under 5 miles. Spreading the word that cycling has positive health benefits, is easier than people realize and allows you to join the cycling community.
