How did you start out cycling?
I started off by commuting to work just to save a bit of cash then, I entered a sportive called Ride London. That was all it took to get me hooked on cycling, after that I did a mountain bike race and thought I’d go all in and sign up to something much more difficult.
Which race did you enter?
I entered the French Divide, a 2,500km race across France that is almost entirely off-road and completely self-supported. I really enjoy riding off-road and going completely off grid.
Did discomfort affect you on the French Divide?
That race took me over twelve days to complete. Most of it is off-road so at some of the overnight stops there isn’t to option to grab a shower or wash your bib shorts. You have to be so careful to avoid saddle sores. Luckily, I didn’t have any issues but others weren’t so lucky.
How do you rate the new Explore pad?
I was always a massive fan of Rapha’s bib shorts, having raced across France and Italy in them. The old shorts set the bar very high but the new Explore pad in the Cargo Bib Shorts are noticeably better.
The highest compliment I can pay is that I don’t really notice them while I’m riding. The pad wicks sweat incredibly well without ever becoming damp and provides a level of support that’s great for long days.