When and how did you get into bike riding?

I started bike riding in September of 2016. Originally, I wanted to increase my conditioning for MMA and thought it would be a great way to do it. I figured if my commute shifted to a bike, I could make condition part of day. After about 6 months, it became part of my lifestyle and not seen as part of a workout. Every week, I do roughly 150 miles for commute then any other fun rides I do to enjoy myself.

So, what made you choose Reid and why the Granite 1.0?

I chose the Reid Granite 1.0 because I was shopping for a new bike and was leaning towards the gravel bikes due to the roads being rough on a bike in many areas.

I went to my local bike shop (Big Shark Bicycle Company) and was looking at my options. However, nothing really was popping out to me. Then, the sales associate showed me the granite. I really liked it and leaned heavily towards it. Then, I was told the price and instantly knew I was getting it. Because it’s $400-600 cheaper than anything else and I liked it much better than anything else.

Is this your first Gravel bike?

This is my first gravel bike. I had an ok big box store bike and a nice Giant escape before. Nevertheless, neither quite performed the way I wanted.

How has the Granite 1.0 treated you?

The bike is treating me fantastic. I love the range of terrain I can hit and the ease in which I move on the roads. The bike is very durable as I have had a few wipeouts when riding in bad conditions (probably too fast some of those time lol). Remarkably, my bike even took no damage other than scraped paint when a car not paying turned into me. Actually, the car took more damage as part of its front bumper got damaged. So far, the only thing that has needed replacing are the tires.

Do you have any other future adventures planned?

No adventures planned yet but I am looking at hitting some fun trails this fall once the summer heat dies down. As of now, the big adventure is riding as much as possible to help get myself ready for an upcoming fight.

Finally, what advice would you give to those who have never been on a biking adventure or even a bike?

The advice I would give is to just get on one and ride and see how it goes, even if it’s not very far. Then, do it again and again because it makes you feel great each time. It can be relaxing and exhausting at the same time. Plus, anything that moves you in a healthier way of life is awesome.