24/09/2025
I’m Rhi, a 31-year-old scientist researching infectious diseases at the University of Glasgow. I’ve loved riding my bike since I was a little kid – to me, cycling as fast as you can feels like the closest thing to flying while staying on the ground.
These days, I cycle almost every day to get to and from work. It’s my favourite – and fastest – way to get around the city. I love how it connects all the rivers and green spaces, and gives me time and space to leave the stress of the day behind.
About five years ago, I started using my bike for bigger adventures. It began with short day trips to explore and build up my endurance, and since then I’ve cycled across Scotland, the length of Wales, along chains of islands – and I’m sure there are many more wild trips ahead! These multi-day rides have shown me some of the most stunning places in the UK, and have made me believe that I am strong, capable and belong out on the trails.
This photo was taken on my very first day trying mountain biking. I’d always been a bit too nervous to give it a go, but a day out with Women on Wheels gave me the confidence I needed – and I spent the whole ride through the forest with the BIGGEST grin on my face. I can’t wait to get back out there again soon!
This photo is part of our wider photo series ‘Not just Lycra’. The project aims to boot out the old stereotypes of what a cyclist is and looks like and showcase that cycling is just as diverse as we are. If you are interested in getting involved in the project, please drop us a message.
