Every. Day. Ride #29 with Nacho

How and when did you get into riding?

Like most folks, as a kid, I grew up riding bikes around the neighbourhood. But as I grew older, I rode less and less. It wasn’t until about 2017 when a friend from work asked if we wanted to go mountain biking. Having never done so before, we were nervous but said yes. From that point on, I‘ve been hooked and have been biking as much as I can. All the way to the point we are now living car-free and commute almost exclusively by bike. 

What are the best and worst things about riding?

To me, there is no better feeling than cruising through the mountains or the city on a bike. The feeling of freedom and ability to completely forget about everything and clear my mind and focus solely on the ride cannot be beat. Even if it’s just for a few miles. 

The worst thing about riding is the fact that all rides come to an end, and I’m just counting down the days until I can get back out again. 

Tell us about your most memorable ride to date?

My most memorable ride to date would have to be when my wife and I got caught in a heavy rainstorm in Sedona, which eventually led to us getting kind of lost and needing to cross a couple of flooded creeks. Once the storm passed, we did end up on a trail that, while it was a “blue trail” was literally on a cliff of a mountain.  This was about 3 years ago, and we will talk about it till this day. 

What’s the best piece of riding advice you’ve ever been given? 

Since I like racing both running and MTB, a good piece of advice I got and I now share often is, “start slow, and back off from there”. 

How do you keep your bikes secure at home and on the go?

Part of living in a car-free community(Cul-de-sac), we are fortunate enough to have a good amount of indoor bike storage areas.

When on the go, my LITELOK X1 is mounted on my bike; this ensures I never leave without it. Along with my X1, I also carry a cable loop to ensure my wheels are secured too. For extra peace of mind, I also have an AirTag.  

Best tips to help others keep their bikes safe?

Buy the best lock you can. For me, I can’t recommend the X1 enough. The price, ease of carrying with the tactical mount, and anti-angle grinder protection can’t be beat. 

When someone asks what kit you recommend, you say?

A great lock is a must ,so my X1 never leaves my bike.  A good bike specific multi-tool. If possible, go tubeless, I live in the desert, so thorns and cacti are everywhere. As a bike commuter, I’m a firm believer in riding in normal clothes. You don’t need anything special. And last but not least, a good helmet. 

What’s on your riding bucket list?

Currently on my bucket list is completing a 6-hour team race with my wife. We are planning on getting it done this summer up in Flagstaff.