On my bike: John Franklin

Why do you cycle?

As my principal means of transport and for pleasure.

How far do you ride each week?

Perhaps 50 miles on a stay-at-home week. Up to 400 miles on tour.

Which of your bikes is your favourite?

My touring bike, a Spa Cycles D’Tour, as it enables me to go to so many wonderful places.

What do you always take with you?

Such tools and supplies as are necessary to make me self-dependent.

Who mends your punctures?

Me! But I haven’t had one for more than a year now; modern tyres are so robust.

It’s raining: bike, public transport or car?

Bike. I don’t mind cycling in the rain – a strong wind can be much worse.

Lycra or normal clothes?

Lycra for long distances. Normal clothes for local trips.

If you had £100 to spend, what would you get?

Train tickets to tour further away.

What’s your favourite cycling journey?

I prefer wilder, more remote places, like Scotland.

What single thing would most improve matters for UK cyclists?

More self-confidence among cyclists and less exaggeration of ‘danger’. Cycling on roads is actually a very safe activity.

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