Simon Mottram, founder of Rapha, came by the office this week to pick up some bespoke bags we’d made for him ahead of his charity ride in June. On 28th June, he’ll be leading M2L – 220 miles from Manchester to London in a single day, all raising money for Ambitious about Autism, a charity close to his heart that has supported his son and their family for years. We caught up over coffee and asked him five questions before he cycled home.
1. What’s your experience with bikepacking up to now?
None, apart from a mountain bike coast-to-coast trip 25 years ago. I have zero interest in camping or bivouacking – but I’ve always loved the idea of credit card touring and can’t wait to try it.
2. You founded Rapha to make road cycling beautiful and aspirational. Back then, bags on a road bike would have been unthinkable. Has that changed?
I used to be obsessed with having as little as possible on the bike. Even a seat pack had to be as small and discreet as possible. That attitude has gradually changed over the last 15 years or so. First came bar bags – burrito bags, as small as possible. Then we all started riding off road more and had to carry a few more tools. As so often with new products and markets, the change in habits has been accelerated by the proliferation of new brands and innovative new bikepacking products – with Tailfin one of the most notable.
3. What does riding like this give you that a classic road ride doesn’t?
For riders like me who don’t race, marginal speed isn’t important. The huge appeal of cycling is the experience of riding over distance through amazing environments. Being able to ride in comfort for longer, at a good pace, is what lots of us strive for. With the new generation of bike luggage, we can go faster and with more convenience too.
4. You’ve got a 1,200km ride to Mont Ventoux coming up before M2L. Is that your biggest ride to date?
100%. To mark my 60th birthday, I’m treating myself to a 1,200km solo ride – 8 days, one rest day, from my house in London to Mont Ventoux, my favourite cycling destination. I will finally try credit card touring, but I’ve picked a long one to do first!
5. How are you feeling about it?
Really excited about riding the length of France, on those smooth roads, seeing the landscape change and stopping whenever I want – mainly to eat. But a little nervous about 8 x 150km days back to back. I’m sure I’ll ride myself into it.
Want to get involved?
M2L rides from Manchester to London in aid of Ambitious about Autism, supporting autistic young people and their families. Find out more, sign up to ride, or donate.
