Meet The Riders: Luke

How did you get into cycling ?

I first got into cycling when i was around 7-8 ish by riding freestyle BMX in skate parks & Teddington Lock - even as simple as jumping off a curb. Then I think when the Olympics came to Hampton Court that's when I really wanted a race bike but my mum and I could never really afford one so I just stuck with the BMX until I was 17-18.

I got really into fixed gear bikes and liked the idea of not breaking myself. I was working in a Halfords at the time and used to take part in a load of fixie events/races bombing it around recklessly in London - needless to say I was never any good at it because I never had the nerve but it was a good crack with good people. Shortly after lockdown sort of finished, I went to work at the ever so famous and fabulous Birdie Bikes where Adam the owner took me under his wing and showed me the delights of road bikes - at first i was pretty reluctant to it and wearing ever so tight clothing, but I soon embraced it, got myself a road bike and really now really enjoy it.

Then Birdie Bikes became partners with the infamous WALDY WHEELERS ! so I thought i would join - They are very passionate but the most inviting group of people I have met and i know I can be a mental challenge most of the time.

What’s your favourite place to cycle ?

Well it's got to be Spain where the Waldys arranged the Tour! The roads are so smooth and nice and the views are out of this world and not to mention the descents - Oh my Lord! I finally understand why people torture themselveso get up those grueling and horrific hills/mountains. Would happily go there 100 times and 100 times more 10/10

Have you got any cycling goals this year ?

My cycling goal this year is to actually complete the Leith Hill Octopus this time instead of turning up. I have Ride London coming up but I'm confident I'll smash it. Other than that I would like to join the race team but need to get a lot fitter - maybe its a goal for next year.

What’s your go to ride with the Waldy Wheelers ?

My go to ride with the Waldys AKA the squad is probably Staple Crock Box - it's a hard one but as long as its not raining and Fred isn't trying to rip your legs off, it's a fun ride.

What would you say to someone thinking of joining the Waldy Wheelers ?

Just do it ! These guys are awesome, super chill, funny and it's not all that serious. A few of us love a drink as well. Just try not to stay too late and then try to ride the Leith Hill Octopus the next day - it does not end well.

What do you do when you’re not cycling ?

When I'm not on the bike I'm normally at the workshop in Birdie Bikes fixing all your bikes ! If not that, I tend to go to a few gigs or play with my band!