'To be able to do these challenges… it's almost like kicking the ass of mental health': Meet the man riding over 500 kilometres off-road – on a Brompton

James Pocock, a seasoned Brompton rider and long-time Movember Sports Ambassador, is preparing to undertake an extraordinary triple off-road challenge covering over 500 kilometres. His ambitious campaign includes tackling Northumberland’s 200km Dirty Reiver, the Frontier 300, and Gravel Rocks events—all on a Brompton folding bike, a machine not typically designed for such rugged terrain. This final fundraising effort marks the culmination of 17 years of cycling challenges and nearly £19,000 raised for Movember, a charity focused on men’s health. Pocock’s journey with the Brompton began somewhat serendipitously when he joined the Movember London 100 ride after a last-minute team vacancy. Since then, he has pushed the boundaries of what is possible on the compact bike, including climbing the equivalent height of Everest on Zwift and completing a 17-hour ride across Wales. Despite the Brompton’s weight and design limitations, Pocock has adapted his riding style to conquer off-road courses, demonstrating remarkable resilience and skill. Mental health is a deeply personal motivation for Pocock, who has experienced his own struggles but found solace and community through cycling and Movember. He reflects on the stigma and silence surrounding mental health during his youth and credits his involvement with the charity for helping him recognise that others share similar challenges. His rides serve both as a physical challenge and a metaphorical way to "kick the ass of mental health," providing him with purpose and a reason to keep moving forward. As he embarks on his latest challenge, Pocock will be easily identifiable by his bright orange helmet, which signals a willingness to support fellow riders who may be struggling. The ethos of his crew emphasises visibility, mutual support, and positive camaraderie, underscoring the importance of mental wellbeing within the cycling community. Supporters and followers can track his progress through his Movember fundraising page, where his efforts continue to inspire and raise awareness for men’s health issues.