It’s not just a bike, it’s so much more. The It’s Not Just a Bike competition reminds us why our bikes are such an important part of our lives and what they really mean to us. Last month, we shared a few awesome stories from people whose bikes bring so much more than just transportation. Whether it’s about strengthening relationships, making memories, or making the daily commute easier, these stories show how connected we all are to our bikes.
Throughout September we’ve continued to hear lots of great stories. But the winner of the £250 Hiplok gift voucher for last month is Roy and his cycling friends, Charles and Emily. For this father and daughter duo, their bike is a chance to explore and experience new places together.
“Charles’s passport to freedom in the outdoors”
I am a British Cycling Guided Ride Leader and regularly lead this inspirational pair on their tandem over ever increasing distances. Charles started to lose his sight at 7 years of age and can now only differentiate light and shade. While he makes an effective stoker, his fearless 12 year old daughter, Emily, acts as pilot. The bond between father and daughter is very special to witness as she talks him through road conditions and the special places we visit on rides. If this wins the prize, it will go to Charles and Emily to enhance their enjoyment of cycling, which is Charles’s passport to freedom in the outdoors.
While the winner has been decided, we’d love to share more stories and images that caught our attention…
“My bike is more like a friend, always able to turn to it and get out to help with problems”
My bike is more like a friend, always able to turn to it and get out to help with problems! I’m 2013 I had a brain tumour removed, previous to that I had 8 years of epileptic fit stopping me driving. I ride to and from work for seven years until I wasn’t able to work any longer. Brain tumour removed, I went back to work but still rode. I have two years ago had a Ebike. This has made things a lot easier and now ride with a local group, the cycling oldies. We meet once a week, and ride all mtb. Rain shine summer winter starting at 18:30, so is dark to start in the winter. Cold wet I’ve snow we still go. With a pint at the end. There years ago we had all the families bikes burgled from our home! Mtg down hill and trail mtb give in all. So we started again building our collection, but still get out there! Moral don’t let them get you down!
“It’s a way of life”
Its not just a bike, it’s a weekend away with friends. It’s a time out from life. It’s a way to connect with family. It’s a means of bonding with my son like no other. It’s my escape. It’s a hobby which brings so much joy. It’s a way to extend life through fitness and experiences. It’s a way to get to work and leave the car at home. It’s a way of life.
“My road bike is not just a bike, it is literally a life saver for me”
Now it’s your turn!
If you have any stories and photos to share with us about your bike, we’d love to see them!
What does your bike mean to you? Why did you decide to get one? Share your story for the chance to win a £250 Hiplok gift voucher in October’s competition!