Garth

Photos: Ian MacPherson.

Name: Garth
Bike: Coventry Eagle Reynolds 531 frame, Sturmey Archer 3 speed hub gears, Dynamo lights
Occupation: Architect
How many days a week do you commute by bike?
Everyday.
Why do you commute by bike?
Always have, grew up in the country riding to school still going. All the new bike lanes make it a bit safer which is good.
Do you have any rain strategies?
Bike has full mudguards front and rear, these make a huge difference, no stripe up the back, no road filth sprayed all over legs and shoes.
Advice for new cyclists?
Give the bike lanes a go, they might go around the world a bit to get to where you want to go but it’s safer and less stressful. Plus if they don’t get used they might go away.
Name your dream bike.
Sorte Jernhest cargo bike.  I saw one of these in Copenhagen, it’s a rear wheel steer box bike, looks more or less completely mad, but seems to operate quite reasonably. Not sure how it would go on the hills around Sydney.
Favourite cycling shop/website?
Sheldon Brown, for more information than you could ever need on anything to do with “older” bikes. Disraeli Gears, for a vast array of info on drivetrains.
Bikeclub in Redfern is a great place to meet up and build or repair your bike. Monday and Wednesday nights in the car park near the corner of Philip and Cope St. Just turn up…
Would you recommend commuting by bike?
For sure, it’s the best way to get around, keeps you fit is fun and might be good for the planet.
Favourite café?
Cafe Sophia at Erskineville.
Additional Comments?
Get an old bike and fix it up, they seem to last longer than the new ones. Plus if you fiddle around enough you get to really know the thing. Also baskets are better on the front than the back. If stuff to fall out on the back it’s gone forever, on the front you can try and beat it all back down as you’re riding along.