The most decorated British cyclist of all-time,
Bradley Wiggins is an iconic figure from the modern era of the sport. Despite multiple Olympic golds, a
Tour de France Maillot Jaune and an hour record among things though, Wiggins has fallen out of love with the sport in recent years.
Before the month is out however, Wiggins will be back on his bike for the first time in years as the 44-year-old takes part in a 50-mile meet and greet ride in Staffordshire, England, on the 29th of September. "I'm getting back on my bicycle again," he says in a promotional video for the event. "There are going to be some other stars there. I know Russell Downing is riding. So it'll be good."
The phrase "just like riding a bike" is often used to describe something that comes second nature and Wiggins, who as mentioned, has been off his bike for a number of years, will hope his return to the saddle isn't too sore. "It will be the first time in nearly three years for me getting back on a bike, and I'm looking forward to it," 'Wiggo' continues. "I'm a little bit nervous whether I'll get round the whole thing. I think I will, I'm in pretty good shape at the moment. I'm looking forward to it. I hope to see as many of you there as possible."
The main reason Wiggins has avoided the bike in recent years, has, as he succinctly puts himself: "Because I don't like the person I became when I was on it."
"I was the most confident bike rider when I was on it," Wiggins told the BBC recently. "But step off the bike and I had to step back as Bradley Wiggins, because the bike was where I was most comfortable and gave me all my confidence in my life. I can't imagine achieving anything like that now in a sports perspective because I'm not the same person I was. I've grown now. I have all the answers."
After a difficult few months, with administration and reports of homelessness, seeing the 2012 Tour de France back on a bike will be a very welcome sight for the cycling world. At the recent Tour of Britain, Wiggins spoke optimistically about his future. "I'm doing well and on my way back. What's the truth about the stories of bankruptcy? It's a long story. I can't say everything, but I have been screwed by many people. But I will get everything back. At the moment I'm glad to be alive. I've had some dark days, but I'm doing well."