I firmly believe that cycling is for everyone. Inclusivity is especially important to me and everyone and anyone can expect a warm welcome at Top Spanner.

I believe that cycling is, first and foremost, a low carbon form of transport. I have a masters in sustainability and understand how cycling and proper maintenance of your bike can make a positive impact to your health, local communities and the wider environment. Timely maintenance can maximise the lifespan of some components, leading to a reduction in unnecessary replacement and the financial and resource cost associated with the production and sale of such parts.

My business functions as such too, I have carefully curated the products I offer based on a number of considerations including their impact on our planet. I have equipped my workshop using second hand items where appropriate and look to lower waste as much as possible, especially wasteful plastic retail packaging which I actively avoid through carefully selecting products. Given the high wear rate of some bicycle parts, it would be impossible to claim that a workshop or shop could be 100% zero waste but I look to minimise waste that goes to landfill as much as possible. The bulk of the waste that I collect is metal waste which is recycled as are tyres and innertubes.

I believe that cycling is primarily a method of transport, not a sport. Comfort and safety are of key importance over performance. I reject ideas and themes from marketing departments of bike and component brands that upgrades can increase your performance as this is not relevant to the average cyclist. I am naturally dubious of cycling fashions, fads and trends, especially when they lead to mocking of those without the latest kit. The bike you already have is, most likely, absolutely fine for your needs.