An environmentalist, columnist, yoga master and cycling enthusiast, Ittirit Prakhamthong is green at heart. The proud owner of three bikes is an eco advocate in every aspect of his life. Now in the saddle as managing editor of Cycling Plus Thailand magazine(facebook.com/CyclingPlusThailand, Instagram: @cyclingplusthailand) , the Thai edition of the best-selling UK bicycle monthly, Ittirit is riding off the urban bike culture in Thailand as the first issue of Cycling Plus Thailand recently pedalled its way onto shelves this month.
WHEN DID YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH BICYCLES?
When I was little. I've cycled since childhood and have always loved bicycles. To me, they're not only vehicles, but also good friends. When I was young, I spent most of my time on my BMX. During my studies at Chiang Mai University, I enjoyed riding my road bike and walking to get close to nature. After I started working, I spent my weekends in National Parks riding mountain bikes. These days, I try to cycle in the city as much as possible - to the bank, to the market, to a friend's house.
DO YOU CYCLE TO WORK?
From time to time. The distance from my home to the office is about 11 kilometres. When you bike on main roads, you need to focus the whole time. You may get the adrenaline and endorphins. But if cycling makes you stressful and the ride doesn't allow you to appreciate things around you, I'd rather save it for my down time.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE GROWING ENTHUSIASM FOR CYCLING?
It's a good trend. Maybe because of the never-ending problem of traffic congestion in Bangkok as well as other related environmental issues like global warming, people are being affected directly with climate change and the energy crisis. The use of human-powered vehicles like a bicycle has become an environmentally friendly initiative that greatly benefits our health and resource conservation. It's a simple step to help save the planet. There are some good initiatives in big cities such as the congestion charge zone in London and car-free Sundays in Jakarta. These creative movements can become models and potential policies for other cities as well.
WHAT IS THE DEDICATED BICYCLE PUBLICATION GEARED TOWARDS?
I hope it will encourage cycling in Thailand and help develop infrastructure for urban biking. With its in-depth knowledge, skills and advice, I hope readers will gain more understanding of biking and as a result embrace cycling in all its forms - performance, utility, recreational - in their lifestyle.
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM CYCLING?
There's a saying about a bicycle being a man-made means of transport that is environmentally friendly while more recent inventions [after the bicycle] all harm the environment. A bicycle is so undemanding. It requires neither gas nor high maintenance or a big parking space either, but it allows you to enjoy your own company, to spend quality time with your loved ones and it can take you anywhere. There are those who travel around the globe by bicycle. A bicycle is a small vehicle that can make you achieve a big dream.
WHAT ABOUT THE LACK OF CYCLING FACILITIES IN BANGKOK?
I don't think about it. Maybe it's because I love cycling and I will just bike anyway. To go on a ride, the readiness of the cyclist, the bicycle, the skill and the route all really matter. Biking in the city is a bit of an adventure. You must concentrate and be cautious all the time. For newbies, you need to plan ahead and be well prepared. You can take it step by step by joining a group of cyclists or by biking around your neighbourhood first. If we wait until cycling infrastructure like bike lanes are ready, we may never get to enjoy a ride.
WHAT'S YOUR DREAM BIKE ROUTE?
Bogota in Colombia. The city has been discussed for its network of bike paths. Since I've never been to South America either, it may be cool to cycle from the north to the south of the continent or to follow Che Guevara's motorbike route.G
