Every.Day.Ride #6 with Tim Wiggins

Tell us a little about yourself?

I am an endurance athlete and outdoor adventurer from the Isle of Wight, who enjoys exploring the road less travelled.

I have always loved spending time outdoors. I grew up sailing, cycling, rowing, hiking, and kayaking – at home on the Isle of Wight, and across Europe. That passion has never dwindled but has developed even further as I realised how far (and sometimes how fast) you can travel under your own steam. Whether by foot, bicycle, kayak, or sailboat; it is the best way to see and experience the world and natural environment around you.

How and when did you get into riding?

I started out mountain biking orienteering in my early teens, but then switched to sailing and coastal rowing when I was in high school. We had immense success in the rowing team—becoming Junior National Coastal Champions, but then the team disbanded as we all went separate ways to work and uni. I took up cycling again because it was quick and easy to get a good workout and an adrenaline buzz; then that evolved into competitions, and I discovered that endurance events were my forte—I have a real 'diesel' engine.

What are the best and worst things about riding?

• Pros: Getting outdoors, exercise, freedom to think, staying fit, socialising
• Cons: Continuous bike maintenance in the winter months

Tell us about your most memorable ride to date?

Copenhagen to Andorra, via the Swiss and Italian Alps, and the Pyrenees. Read about it here!

What's the best piece of riding advice you've ever been given?

"Ride as much or as little, or as long or as short as you feel. But ride." 

Eddy Merckx

What do you bring with you on every ride?

A handlebar bag full of snacks, tools and spares. My phone always goes in my pocket – it is the best safety device in case something happens.

How do you keep your bikes secure at home and on the go? Share your best tips to help others keep their bikes safe.

Always lock both wheels of your bike and your frame to an immovable object.

When someone asks what kit you recommend, you say?

Get a gravel bike – it really opens your horizons.

What's on your riding bucket list?

Tour Aotearoa – New Zealand North to South.