Rob Woods, a 34-year-old from Swindon, has been chosen as a Flampion brand ambassador for cycling apparel upstarts Fat Lad at the Back in a bid to get people in and around the Wiltshire area cycling.
Rob will be organising regular social rides that are completely FREE to join and are designed to encourage ‘shy cyclists’ to get out into the fresh air and enjoy a great social activity with like-minded people.
Rob said: “I really want to encourage other people to get riding. At over 20 stone I know I am quite capable of doing 100miles in a day, it doesn’t matter what size you are it’s a state of mind.”
There are many physical, attitudinal and mental barriers that prevent people enjoying all the benefits of cycling – and that’s where the Flampion social rides come into play. One of the biggest reservations newbie riders or those who have had a long hiatus out of the saddle have is whether they will be good enough. The social rides don’t focus on times or distance but rather on enjoying being outside on the open road with a great gang of people. Riders won’t be left behind or fear being a ‘burden’ to the rest of the group.
Safety is a concern that can make potential cyclists reticent, however there is safety in numbers; a group of cyclists are much more visible to motorists. Cycling in a group is a fantastic way to improve your confidence as a road user and there is also back up should someone run into an issue. Likewise, with many experienced cyclists on the ride, irritating break downs like a puncture or a slipped chain are easily resolved. Beginners will also benefit from lots of advice on things like technique or the best way to tackle a hill which will make the task in hand a lot easier.
Another commonly cited concern that stops many people getting on their bike is the way they look, Helen Pidd a female cyclist said: “Cycling gear is not kind to people’s sizes – I’m a size 10 and sometimes I have to wear a large in tops.” The Flampion rides are supported by Fat Lad at the Back, a cycle clothing brand that specialises in catering to cyclists of all shapes and sizes and ensuring that all their garments are flattering, especially to curvier or bigger physiques. Well-fitting cycle wear not only makes the rider feel more confident but can also increase performance.
If you would like to join Rob on his Flampion social rides please ‘like’ the Bristol social ride Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/1328921390528528/about/ or email [email protected]
