Rider of the Month - Mahir Ahsan
Every month I’ll be interviewing a rider, each with a different background, ability, experience, interest and plans for the future. The people interviewed will represent a spectrum of links to the cycling world; some will be racers, some supporters, some mentors or coaches, some new to cycling and some with a long history with the sport.
Tell us about yourself?
I am Mahir, I’m 21 years old and a 3rd year Medical Student at Exeter University.
I have been riding since I was a kid! I moved onto rowing during my school years and then to Triathlon towards the end of Sixth form. Since then, I’ve been racing competitively in Triathlon and would like to get back into racing on the bike again.
I ride both to train and compete at a high level, and to enjoy being outdoors – making the most of good weather and exploring new places along the way.
What is your favourite ride?
It has to be the Coast-to-Coast ride I completed in 2002. It was one of the hardest challenges I’ve taken on, and I’m especially proud to have raised over £1,000 for charity through it.
The day itself was tough – with a snapped chain, some rough weather and severely under fuelling made it even more challenging. Despite that, finishing the ride was a huge personal achievement, especially at 16, and it’s definitely something I’d love to take on again in the future.
Do you have any favourite, or Hero kit?
My favourite bit of kit has to be a gilet. As a fair-weather cyclist, staying warm in UK conditions while still having the flexibility to take a layer off and stash it in a pocket is ideal.
At the moment I’m using the NoPinz Pro-1 Evo gilet and it’s been excellent. Compared to other gilets, it has a much more snug fit which helps keep things aero while still providing warmth. I’m also a fan of the sleek black design with minimal branding – it works well with pretty much any kit.
Performance-wise, it strikes a great balance: it keeps me warm without overheating, thanks to the rear ventilation, so you don’t end up as a boil in the bag! I bought it directly from the NoPinz website, and it’s definitely been a worthwhile addition to my kit.
And finally, tell us about your favourite bike?
It’s the Handsling AR0Evo1. I’ve had this bike for around six months now, and it’s an absolute rocket ship. I’m a sucker for a fast, aero bike that looks good – and this ticks all those boxes.
Despite being designed with aerodynamics in mind, it still climbs really well and feels light and punchy on the road. So far, it’s been a dream to ride. It’s also my first disc brake bike, and the difference is especially noticeable in wet conditions – far more confidence-inspiring compared to carbon rim brakes.
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