story of a successful cycling transition

Every early December, Tristan Nitot celebrates a somewhat special anniversary, that of his transition to everyday cycling. With more than six years of practice, tens of thousands of kilometers traveled, and a physical (and mental) transformation, he shares a reflection often heard among those who have taken the plunge: “ But why didn’t I start sooner? ».

Swap the engine for the pedals, Tristan Nitot’s bike transition

Before this successful bike transition, Tristan mainly traveled on a motorized two-wheeler (scooter or motorcycle). This mode of transport, although practical, was incompatible with a sedentary life and did nothing to improve one’s physical condition. “ I was way overweight… “, he confides with self-deprecation.

When a job change presented itself, he saw an opportunity to shake up his habits: “ I told myself that I had to stop the scooter. So I bought an electric bike. “. The choice of the electric bike proved to be strategic: accessible, practical, and facilitating the transition to regular cycling.

However, very quickly, Tristan realized two things. First, that the journey was too short; and secondly, that the practice is very quickly addictive. The initial four kilometers of journey quickly seemed insufficient to him. “ I extended my route. Instead of doing 8 km a day, I was doing 12, even 16. This represented up to an hour of exercise per day. »

The physical and mental benefits of cycling

The benefits were quickly felt. “ Since then, I have gained muscle, lost weight (-16 kg, all the same!), and so I stopped cycling… electric, to move on to muscle cycling », says Tristan with pride. This change demonstrates an evolution: the bicycle, first perceived as a means of transport, is becoming a source of pleasure and a health tool.

For his business trips, he also favors cycling. “ When my colleagues took the company SUV to go to a meeting, I took my bike and always arrived before them, much more relaxed. »

A lesson in mobility

After six years, the results are impressive: more than 24,000 km traveled, a gym membership canceled, and physical shape better than ever. “ With 50 minutes of exercise a day, I burn calories every day, without even thinking about it. »

At the same time, Tristan Nitot adapted his bike park to his needs. He now uses a classic (muscle) bike for his daily journeys and a Brompton folding bike (also muscle) for his train journeys. His VAE Mustache, faithful companion from his beginnings, has taken a well-deserved retirement – “ with rare exceptions ».

A parallel between digital and mobility

This personal cycling story is part of a broader approach. Tristan is now a fervent defender of sustainable mobility, in line with his commitments to responsible digital technology. “ Today, the collective challenge is to succeed in making the climate change “, he says in his LinkedIn bio.

Computer engineer and digital figure in Europe, Tristan Nitot is known for his commitment to the open and accessible Web and free software. Founder of Mozilla Europe and key player in the launch of Firefox, he was for a time interim CEO of the Qwant search engine. He now hosts a podcast on technology and climate (L’Octet Vert), shares his expertise in conferences, and trains professionals on these crucial issues. He was Jérôme’s guest on Rayons Libres, a few years ago, you can listen to him there.