Chris

SPECIALTY

Specialty, as in, what do I specialize in?  Well – that’s a tough question, but I’d say my strengths are vodka martinis, rack of lamb and Bianchi bicycles…Besides that, I like to specialize in making CycleSmith a fun, approachable and service oriented shop where anyone can feel comfortable shopping for everything related to the great sport of biking.

HOW I GOT INTO CYCLING

After 3 knee reconstructions, living a sedentary life style, and growing to 220 Lbs. I knew I had to make a lifestyle change.  So, I trained for a triathlon.  After successfully completing 2 Tri’s, my knees couldn’t handle the running.  I started riding with the Flat City Cycling Club in Minneapolis.  Of course, I was constantly dropped on those group rides for the first season – but I kept after it, the weight dropped off, my self esteem jumped up.   The next season was better and the next was even better – I was hooked for life.

WHERE I’M FROM

While my family roots are from Kentucky, I was raised in good ‘ole Mancos, Colorado…Google it.  I got my undergraduate degree at the University of Colorado in Boulder, moved to New York City for 2 years, then Minneapolis, MN for 8 years.  We moved to UT in 1998.  We also lived in Berlin, Germany from 2003 – 2005, then back to UT – Hopefully for good.

FAVORITE BIKE

Of course, a question like this needs a disclaimer like, “My favorite bike this year.”….is the Bianchi Infinito.  It is a perfect ride for me.  Beautiful, hand laid, Italian carbon with SRAM Red and some Easton EA 90 SLX wheels = light, responsive, comfortable and FUN to ride.

FAVORITE RIDE

Hmmmm….That’s like asking what my favorite place to snowboard/ski is, when we are surrounded by 7 amazing ski areas.  But, if I had to pick, I’d say my favorite road ride is the Morgan Loop.  My favorite mountain bike ride is the Mormon Pioneer Trail. Both rides are out my back door, hard miles on the bike and offer beautiful UT scenery.