20 Questions – Shimano

What achievement of the company are you most proud of?
“Personally speaking its anything that helps people get out on their bikes more often. That extends to things like disc brakes, Di2 shifting, smoother gear shifts and wider gear ranges”.

What has been your company’s biggest product development?
“In recent years electronic shifting has been a game changer”.

What was the brand working on 20 years ago?
“On the face of it, 8-speed cassettes, triple chainrings and V-brakes, although behind-the-scenes… “

What is the direction of the company setting up for the next 20 years?
 “We really couldn’t say…”

What influence has Dirt had on your company?
“Dirt has been incredibly influential in contributing to the growth of the sport. It’s hard to imagine what the sport would be like now if they weren’t around.” 

What would you like to see from Dirt over the next 20 years?
“As the sport of mountain biking diversifies and broadens ever more, I’d like to see Dirt doing the same”.

How were you first introduced to Dirt?
“Well-thumbed hand-me-down copies from other Swansea Uni MTB riders”

What has Dirt taught you over the years?
“Repeatedly I get the sense I’m not a good enough mountain biker!”

Press releases or journalism?
“It depends who’s doing the job! Ultimately I read to be informed, second is to be entertained.”

Who have been your favourite riders of the past 20 years?
“I remember seeing one of Martyn Ashton’s first videos filmed in the Bristol and being amazed at the unrideable stuff he was riding”.

What Rider has most pushed the boundaries over the past 20 years?
“Collectively the Athertons have really raised the bar. Rachel in particular has raised the profile of DH women’s racing beyond all recognition”.

What has been your favourite or most memorable race?
“The atmosphere at the DH World Cup rounds is like no other. The WC races on the continent provide some spectacular scenery but in terms of actual racing the variability of the Fort William weather really tests riders’ skills”.

What’s your opinion on E-Bikes?
“Anything that helps people get out on their bikes more often is a good thing. And they’re bloody good fun too!”

What life lessons has Mountain biking taught you?
“Don’t scrimp on quality. Less time in the workshop means more time riding”.

Who doesn’t get the credit they deserve in the industry?
“The industry is full of un-sung heroes. Race organisers and trail builders deserve some love”.