It’s still warm outside, the schools are still on holiday, and it’s still August – which means it’s still summer – just about!

When we asked you what’s the best thing about cycling in the summer for a recent competition, we had some brilliant comments. So inspiring, in fact, that we thought we would share some of them with you.

If this doesn’t make you want to hop on a bike this weekend, we don’t know what will!

Wendy Collard was our lucky winner, and she’ll be riding off with a sturdy steed courtesy of the Edinburgh Bicycle Cooperative.

For me, cycling in the summer provides the perfect chance for our whole family to get out together, explore and most of all have fun! We cycle at every opportunity possible – My youngest has just got his first bike this year and he rides it everywhere he can, he absolutely loves it!

I still have his kids bike seat attached on my bike so we can all enjoy long rides together at a slightly faster pace! It’s all about heading off and finding new places, feeling the wind on your face experiencing life first hand! I genuinely believe our little family of all ages (4,8,32 and 51) is closer, happier and fitter thanks to our love and appreciation of cycling.

Whether you’re a lover of long road rides, dusty single track, a dry and sunny commute or simply bimbling about on your bike at the weekend, there’s no doubt that summer cycling is a special experience.

Soft wind kissing your cheeks and the whole world smiling back at you.

Bianca

I love the impromptu late evening rides with friends after work. Not having to think about layering up clothes and checking for lights makes riding distances so much easier – water, sunscreen, money for tea stop.

Michelle

In Summer the days are longer, and there are lots of events like the Sky Ride. What I really love most though is to go for a picnic; I put all my food in the pannier and cycle until I find the perfect spot beneath a huge tree.

Angela Leon

Getting a tan whilst enjoying the fabulous British countryside and trying to avoid eating too many bugs.

Helen Grimster

It’s the feeling of freedom and happiness being on my bike gives me. I am more inclined to cycle further and explore more. I’ve only been cycling since April and I have fallen in love with it big time! The summer weather is the perfect excuse to go everywhere on my bike.

Cynthia Edwards

I know it’s wrong but the feeling of superiority when seeing people stuck in traffic jams in their cars on my journey home from work, as I cycle past,makes up for all those horrid winter days …..oh and it’s nice to get to work without a wet bum!

Sam Blakemore

The cyclist tan!

Suzy Hawkins

I get top take my kids with me more as it’s the holidays and we have great adventures!

Sarah Arnett

Being able to cycle in a skirt.

Janette Wynne

Getting away from the crowds and into the country and doing it at my pace and in my time!

Anthea Holloway

Going for a glorious cycle on the South Downs and falling asleep on the beach mid cycle for hours!

Fionnuala Collins

Following friends through the forests, It’s the dust you see in the air above the trails when the sun shines through the trees. Pure beauty.

Amelia Taylor

To finish up with, Mary Heald has captured her vision of summer cycling in poem form. Enjoy!

The best thing about cycling for me
Is the Derbyshire countryside I see
Up and down the hills, pedals turning
Out of breath, red face, legs burning
Oh the joy, finished and relaxing
Drinking in the pub, nothing too taxing!