I interviewed David Betts and Peter Finch, both in their 90s, about what it is like to be a more mature cyclist.
David is still cycling, using his trusty tricycle (see picture). I tried sitting on it, and it felt very secure. Its many features enable better visibility, not only because it takes up more space on the road, but David can also sit back and take his time to look where to go. He also has installed a big shopping box on the back and was keen to point out the ‘fat tyres’ which aid stability.
Peter only stopped cycling regularly in December (once he turned 90). He regretted this was due to declining health, lack of balance and getting a bit forgetful (according to his wife). He used to cycle regularly to the pub, but now only goes as far as his allotment. However, he was pleased to announce his three grandsons regularly cycle, passing down his interests accordingly.
Both nonagenarians relayed the delight they had going on cycling holidays, mostly abroad, including the La Semaine-Federale in France, a community of cyclists meeting up for a week of cycling events at varying levels. It is obvious cycling had been a major part of their family lives, which had contributed towards their cycling longevity. Peter only stopped holidaying abroad five years ago.
Using a bike to commute to work was preferable to both men. David worked at the University of Reading which was very close to his house. Peter cycled to Twyford Station from Woodley to catch his train to his job in the city.
Retirement also contributed towards an increased cycling lifestyle, especially with group rides like the CTC. David noted he still can ride his trike at least 15 miles out and back as a veteran member. Both men said joining a cycling club helped with making friends and getting necessary advice to keep cycling safely.
David admitted he gave up driving when he turned 80, having become anxious about causing an accident due to heavy traffic and bad weather. After two of his friends had serious accidents on their bikes, his family bought David an almost new electric tricycle from eBay. He soon learned through intuition how to steer it properly (by leaning the other way) and hasn’t looked back!
I asked them about the benefits of cycling. Both men said cycling was an excellent way of getting out and keeping active, fit and healthy. Cycling also protects the environment, which makes it a worthy reason. David said cycling made it easier to get to where he wants to go, and using a D-lock as well as the built-in electrical lock increased parking security. Peter said a lightweight electric bike is imperative as it provides the necessary assistance to keep going.
I asked them if there was anything they didn’t like about cycling nowadays. Both moaned about bad weather, potholes, fast traffic and increasingly busy roads. Peter also noted the lack of protection for bikes on the road, and both vehicles and pedestrians not checking before turning or venturing into the road. Also the lack of maintenance of hedges on country roads caused bramble injuries to thin skin.
David noted the bad manners of other cyclists, their lack of safety and inappropriate clothing, and the legality of their bikes. More effort should be invested into cycling; however, the Government treats cycling well, but other cyclists fail to use the facilities adequately.
Advice for other mature cyclists? David recommended getting a tricycle after the age of 80, as a visible, reliable and secure source of pleasurable transport. A trike also provides a ready-made seat on the touch line at the University rugby and hockey matches! It is also a talking point or a conversation opener when chatting with other people.
Peter was not so keen on tricycles.
Alice Elliott
When we interviewed David and Peter to celebrate veteran cyclists, both mentioned the benefits of group rides.
Group rides not only provide the benefits of being part of a community, but can also give cyclists confidence on the road and the chance to explore new routes and localities.
Locally we have Kidical Mass groups in both Reading and Wokingham, which focus on short group rides for families, particularly those with younger children. Kidical Mass is a grass roots movement that has taken off across the country in recent years, and is clearly meeting a demand for family friendly rides that was previously not being catered for.
We also have Cycling UK Reading (still known by some as Reading CTC), which organises a variety of rides for different tastes and schedules. These include on-road and off-road rides, weekend and evening rides, and also weekday lunchtime destination rides, which are often popular with the more mature cyclist.
Keith Elliott
