Cycling name?
Obi-Wan.
Skywalker probably rides a carbon frame but everyone knows Obi-wan rides steel!
Why do you ride your bike?
I really respect and love several things about cycling:
1) I am definitely addicted to the endorphins but it’s more than that.
2) Bikes are the last holdout in mechanical transportation that is truly efficient. Not a skateboard or a scooter…a bike!
3) Cycling brings people together; I love working in a fast peloton where everyone comes together to hold a big pace. Ok, I love the coffee stops too.
4) It takes you places and even pulls you to new places…when I travel for work, I have to take my bike and go for a 30 mile ride at least.
5) I love the challenge to keep my bikes tuned and ready or as I call it “channeling my inner mechanic”. #bikenerd
Favourite place to ride?
This one is tough. King’s ridge and Highway 1 along the California coast is pretty epic. Santa Monica mountains… I had an amazing and tough ride in the Yorkshire dales as well. And pretty much any road that I have not been down (why it’s cool hanging on the wheels of the Baroudeurs).
Up or down mountains?
Yes.
Best moments?
In the past I would have said dropping younger riders who are CAT 3 or better, or completing 100+ miles at 20 mph or faster. But now it is taking in a good 50-60 miles or more on the tandem with Nancy.
How long does it take you to change a flat?
Wow, not sure. I have been riding tubeless for 8+ years. Probably 5 minutes. I am pretty mechanical.
It takes me probably 6-12 hours (spread over a few days) and a few beers to build a wheel set properly. I am slow at that.
Advice to a new cyclist?
Enjoy the ride as much as the challenge. Get to know your peloton. If you have an epic view, take a picture. You will look back at the moment and remember the people and the place (ok, maybe the time).
Steel, Carbon or Ti?
Easy – steel & Ti…weight is overrated…
Grand tours or Classics?
Hmmm. Being a deprived American who has not visited either, I would get excited to visit all.
Gels or potatoes?
Potatoes, I think.
Fav pro, or retired pro?
Tom Ritchey is a friend. Then Jens V…Shut up legs!
Headwind or rain?
Yes and sometimes.
Discs or rims?
Rims on road. Mechanical discs on tandem and gravel
I wish I had been told that…
…these shorts make my thighs big.
What is it like being a Baroudeur? (not a trick question)
it is awesome for a Texan. I have been blessed with great friendship and the benefit of really seeing parts around London. I need to go to a classic with you! Chapeau!
Advice to someone wanting to join the Baroudeurs?
Suffering together builds a tight community where real friendships are built.Respect the sport and people. The relationships should outlast your ability to achieve KOMs. Suffering together builds a tight community where real friendships are built.
What does your cycling future hold?
1) I hope more tandem riding with Nancy.
2) keeping up with the CAT 3s.
3) more rides in the UK with the Baroudeurs.
4) that trip with the Bs to a race in France or some place cool!
GC predictions
I am a big Geraint Thomas fan. I fear Froome will be back for revenge.
:: Meet more of the Baroudeurs
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