Me & My Bike - Mark Bradley

Happy Friday Mark! So, tell us a little bit about your role at Rapha.?

?I joined Rapha in April of this year, as a Clubhouse Assistant in the Manchester Clubhouse, after 30 years in the Police and the last 22 years as a motorcyclist. I’ve had a fascination with two wheels for as long as I can remember, both powered and pedalled!!

?And what bike (or bikes) do you have??

My bikes are all Canyon, bar two. I have an Ultimate for the road, a Cross bike, an Inflite and a new Grizl, which although aimed at gravel, can do pretty much anything!! The Grizl is my go to bike.?

Could you tell us one of your favourite cycling memories??

I have millions of fantastic cycling memories! I would have to say, one of the most notable was a ride from Tbilisi to Azerbaijan. It was possibly the most daunting remote ride I have ever done. Especially as on arrival at the border, I wasn’t allowed to leave Georgia, being an Australian! I managed to get my front wheel over the border line. (which didn’t go down well) But, I count that as getting to Azerbaijan.?

Is there anyone you’ve helped introduce to a life by bike??

My wife started gravel riding just over two years ago, so we’ve had some great rides out together in the UK, Italy and Spain since. It has introduced a whole new dimension to cycling for me, i.e not just smashing it everywhere… I’ve seen things I’ve ridden past for years and never even realised were there.?

Finally, let’s hear your favourite piece of Rapha kit!??

My current favourite piece of Rapha kit is the Pro Team Lightweight Gilet. It just works… I’ve worn it on pretty much every ride this year, including 3 months spent riding in Spain. It’s just so versatile.