It's hardly surprising considering the Montague Paratrooper has given the 73-year-old a resting heart rate of 53bpm, not much higher than most of the super fit cyclists who take part in the Tour de France.

"I decided on the Montague Paratrooper because it’s an excellent full sized mountain bike that can also be folded for easy transportation," said Barrie.

ALSO READ: Cycling the New Forest gives me the resting heart rate of a super fit athlete and helps my mental health too

"I believe it was originally designed for the US Marines so they could take it with them when they were required to parachute into missions.

"Mountain biking has had a massive impact on improving my fitness. A healthy blood pressure and a resting heart rate of around 53 bpm is not bad for a 73 year old!

"I wouldn’t swap my folding mountain bike."

Barrie, who purchased his beloved bike from Evans Cycles, believes Hampshire has some of the country's best cycle trails.

He is pictured enjoying a ride at St Catherine's Hill.

"Living in Winchester, we are lucky to have a wide range of easy to moderate off road trails to explore.

"Winchester to Farley Mount is a favourite ride and we have access to the South Downs Way."

Stunning scenery and great climbs are just one of the biking benefits according to Barrie.

"The benefits to health and wellbeing when experiencing the natural environment are well documented.

"Reducing riding on the roads as much as possible also makes mountain biking a safe way to get fit."

Barrie's family are behind his efforts to get fit and enjoy the great outdoors.

He added; "My family are fully supportive because they recognise the benefits of cycling.

"They are also very relieved I don’t own any Lycra!

"My wife does make sure I alway take my mobile with me in case of any mishaps!"

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