y o u b i k e l o n d o n; Paco from Shepherd's Bush

Your favourite Friday interview with London's many wonderful cyclists is back - after a summer break over the month of July, set yourself down, get comfortable and enjoy... It's Friday; it's youbikelondon!

Name and age?
I'm Paco and I am 32 years old.

Where do you live / ride to?

I live in Shepherd's Bush, in West London, but cycle all over the city.

What do you ride?

It's a fixed Charge Plug bike.
How often do you ride?

Every day; to go to work, but I take it everywhere.  I've lived here for 1 year and still don't know the Tube stations yet!

Helmet or no helmet?
No helmet.
What's your primary reason for cycling?
I think, after living in Madrid, London is flatter and cooler and has more opportunities for cycling within it.  That, and because I love to cycle.  It is less time to get to work in the mornings, too.
Least favourite aspect of cycling?
When its raining, but for me the most scary thing is when drivers open their car doors without looking.
Most favourite aspect of cycling?
You really get to know the city by bike - I feel so much more free here as a consequence of cycling - you can stop when you want, get off where you want, it's totally free.
What advice would you give an aspiring cyclist thinking of riding in London for the very first time?
If you are going to buy a bike, don't be worried if it is single speed or fixed, London is totally suitable for these kind of bikes, it's fine.  But try to get the very best quality that you can afford, even if buying second hand. Oh, and don't get anything too heavy!