All in Bikes
I've been pretty quiet on the debate that's unfolding around the lack of women at Red Bull Rampage this year. Mostly because I believe in developing a well-informed opinion before speaking. And partly because, as a woman in the outdoor industry, I see parallels that make me uncomfortable. However, I think in order for things to move forward, we need more advocates in this space and should welcome hard-conversations.
Coming Summer 2023, The Engine Inside tells the stories of six everyday people from all over the globe who reveal the unique power of the bicycle to change lives and build a better world.
Leo Smith is a bodge job. And a proud one at that. Hailing from the streets of Manchester in the North of England, Leo—known to his thousands of Instagram followers as @Landosteezy—is a self-proclaimed helper of the people. Forging his own path in the bike industry, Leo is creating space in the sport for everyone.
During the 200 years since its invention, the bicycle's popularity has ebbed and flowed. For almost a century, we've suffered the unforeseen consequences of a car-consumed culture. But now, because of a global pandemic, the transformative power of the bike is starting to take hold.
As Robin Wall Kimmerer says, plants mirror changes in culture and ownership of land—and this has long been true for the UK, where pushing out nature has been seen as a means to an end. Now we wonder: can we advocate for better management and restoration of the landscapes we ride in?
Reaching the top step of the UCI Downhill World Cup circuit is no mean feat. Staying there? Even harder. But for one of the world’s fastest downhill MTB racers, Marine Cabirou, injury and setback are all just part of the sport—one that’s worth pursuing in order to unlock her full potential.
This journal’s piece is about diversity, inclusion and equity in mountain biking—both within our community and the industry at large. Ultimately, mountain bike culture is what we make it.
Press in Misspent Summer’s publications Hurly Burly and Spent for Anthill Films new feature documentary Long Live Chainsaw.
Typically, in the US, it takes around 8-10 years to get a bike lane built(!) By lobbying local and national government, PeopleForBikes is trying to ensure bikes are prioritized to improve Americans’ health, connect communities, boost economies and protect the planet.