RIDER SPOTLIGHT

Tell us a bit about yourself

I am Peter Wotherspoon I am a retired Chartered Engineer and I belong to two cycling clubs, Southend 40 plus and Cycling UK South Essex Member Group.

How long have you been riding, and how did you get into cycling?

As an adult I have been riding since 1976, when a friend encouraged me to ride on two tours in the Netherlands

What bike are you riding, and why did you choose this frame?

I am currently riding my ‘winter bike’ which is a 2002 Vincitore Special custom built for me.

What’s your favorite feature of the bike?

My favorite feature of the bike is the ornate lugs on the head tube and BB. It’s a versatile bike with clearance for 28 mm tyres with mudguards and mudguard eyes. In addition there are bosses for mounting a rear rack.

Where’s your favorite place to ride?

North Essex and Suffolk.

What type of riding do you mostly do?

I enjoy relaxed rides in the countryside with friends and a long lunch including beer halfway through. Usually around 50 miles or more in the summer.

Do you have a cycling goal you’re currently working towards?

My only goal is to keep riding as long as I am able.

What’s the most memorable ride you’ve ever been on?

Riding back from a tour of Suffolk during incessant rain and flooding but still enjoying the ride.

If your bike had a name, what would it be?

My latest Mercian is a Strada Speciale and that’s what I call it!

What advice would you give to new riders?

My advice to new riders is always to use a ‘proper’ bike shop to obtain a bike which is the correct size and suits their riding style. It may be tempting to buy an internet bike at a bargain price but if it’s not suitable or set up correctly then it may put the new rider off the hobby completely.

What’s your post-ride ritual or treat?

Coffee then a shower or bath if it’s been a cold ride.

If you could ride anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Peter?… you still here or gone out riding?

Thanks Peter for our second Rider Spotlight post, we hope you all enjoyed reading this as much as we did!

If you would like to feature your Mercian on the Rider Spotlight, download the questions here and email us at press@merciancycles.com

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