BMX UNION

If you have ever actually met Vince before, you would know he is a real good guy. I am sure he won’t mind me telling you all that the first time I met him was in Las Vegas. We all went out partying, and I let him and a few of the Give D! guys crash in my hotel, and as we were just getting settled in he started yelling the song It’s raining men! It was pretty much the funniest thing ever. However, today he just happened to have a little elbow surgery from a recent crash. He had some down time to get an interview for you guys to check out. Leave him some get well soon love in the comments!

Photos by: Jarred Souney, Kevin Conners, Spencer Mcabe, Dave Reuss, Fat Tony

Name:
Vincent Kroff

Location:
From Portland Oregon but living in San Diego California

Sponsors:
Subrosa, Lotek, Profile, GOODS and Team Shralp

Years riding:
since the training wheels came off

What was it that first got you into BMX in the first place?
Boats and hoes… anddddd seeing the X-games on the televison!

You broke your elbow the other day. How did that happen, how long will you be out, and what’s the surgery situation looking like these days?
Yep, its broke, get surgery this Thursday(jan 29th). Getting some metal shit up in there and i’ll prob be out for 2 or 3 months. Oh yeah, I was riding the park in north San Diego with Kyle Hart and Hoang Tran. We were shreding all day and this was the last stop of the day. I just droped in and stared riding, you know, not really thinking about never riding there before. Second run, when to 540 this quarter in the back of the bowl, hung up front wheel. Now i got a jacked elbow.

You just got bumped up to Profile flow, how’s that going for you? Do you have any trips, or filming going on once you are kicking ass again?
Dude, im still kicking ass! haha.. Profile is AMAZING! Matt Copland is a super chill dude and Im stoked to be apart of it. But yeah, im always traveling, it seems like my whole life is just one big trip. But i’d like to make a trip out to FL and I think there are some Subrosa trips that are going over sea.

How about Subrosa and the rest of the sponsrs, anything awesome going on with them and you?
Subrosa is the best fucking thing EVER, there are like three companys in bmx that kick ass(Subrosa, Solid and Metal) and im stoked to be involed with the most ass kicking one! The team is amazing, they make great stuff and my Ryan Sher is my dad is you guys didnt know. Haha.

I know the Goods DVD is in the works, will you have a full part in it?
I would really like to but prob wont, i’ll prob end up having a split section with someone. The video will be sick!

I’ve noticed you are always traveling. Where have you been the last few months? Do you have a “home” anywhere?
Im gonna go ahead and say my home is just the west coast. I love Portland but when that rain comes around I need to bail. I just end up traveling between Ptown and SD all winter. San Diego is pretty much just like Portland. Good food, good music and good people, so thats why I spend the winter months down here.

Where are some places you would really like to travel to someday?
Ive always missed out on going to Vancouver Britsh Columbia, so there, Spain, Austin Texas, New York, Florida and pretty much anywhere else that I havent been. I love new places and people. You only live once, get up off your butt and go experience something new and different.

Photo: Jarred Souney

If you could go on a trip anywhere, with only 5 people. Who would you pick, where would you go, and why?
I would bring along my good friend Eddie Cleveland, Ben Kauffman(BFC), Hoang Tran, Kyle Hart and Jon Peacy. All those dudes cause they are all a great time and good ass riders, def make for a good trip. Oh and we would prob just jump in a bus and start heading somewhere, wouldnt matter where we ended up it still be amazing! Prob bring Rich Hirsch along with as well!

Where are your top 3 favorite spots you have had the chance to ride?
Chandler Skatepark in AZ, Roseburge park in OR and pretty much any ditch/hip/tranny combo.

When it comes down to it, what is the most important thing to you when it comes to BMX?
Kicking it with the homies and having a fun ass time! FUN FUN FUN, duh!

You work at Woodward in the Summer, when did you start doing that, and what’s your favorite part about working there?
I started working there the summer of 07. The best part about working the is def just kicking it with rad kids and getting to shred with them and show em what BMX is all about.

I know there are some people who blame your talent on being at Woodward all the time. Do you feel like because you get to be there so much that is true? Or was it something else that got you to your ass kicking status?
I think being at Woodward all the time makes me really comfortable on my bike but i’ve only learned a few dif tricks with the time I’ve been there. I just like living that free life there and riding the concrete and the Interprise park all the time. The night sheshes at those parks pop off!

Where would you like to take BMX in the next year or two?
Just keep progressing and riding faster! haha. I’d really like to start a clothing brand but not just some lame bmx tshirt company, more fashionable clothes of all kinds with just a bmx team and artists who will all be contributors to the brand. Bmx clothing companies are such a joke its funny, the only one who actualy tries is Rich Hirsch and all you nerds out there hate, its great. hahaha

Photo: Fat Tony. Vince, me (Kurt), and Spam at Nora Cup on the Red Carpet

What is the craziest thing you have experienced because of BMX?
Just being able to travel and stay with all sorts of rad people with pretty much no money. Im a nomad if you didnt know.

If you could change anything about BMX what would you change and why?
I dont think I’d change anything, it is what it is and it can only get better from here.

What do you think you would be up to if you never got into BMX?
Prob be going to school all the time and be one of “those guys.” Pretty stoked I ride bikes!

Your hair is pretty wild. I know when I asked you when you were going to shave it like Dirt Ron and Kyle you said no way. Do you have an emotional attachment to it or something?
Yeah man, I’ll never shave this shit. Well I might if I was to start UFC fighting but that prob wont be for awhile. haha

What would it take to get you to shave your head?
just give me a TAPOUT shirt

You have been to a few “gentlemens clubs” in your day. What are your top 3 that you have been to and why are they so great?
All the good strip clubs are in Portland. Anyone thats been to one in Portland knows this. Casa Diablo in Portland, they have two girl Tuesdays. These chicks get down on eachother, its rad. Union Jacks in Portland, so many babes and last would have to be the Cabaret in downtown Portland, i really dont know why its coolbut it is and we always go.

Have you ever hooked up with a stripper or hooker before?
Na. not my kind of girls

What’s the coolest thing you bought recently?
I bought my girl some flowers the other day and just seeing that smile on her face was amazing, so I guess that.

What are some things that really influence your life?
people that shred and have a good time and good weather.

How do your parents feel about your lifestyle? With the BMX, traveling all over, and everything?
Im not really sure how they feel, I think there just kinda whatever about the whole thing, but whateves. Im having an ass kicking time and thats all I care about. BOOM!

If you had to settle down and live in one place, where would you pick and why?
I really think it would be San Diego, this place is straight paradise.

You are in the Side Kick club… What is the most text messages you have sent in a month?
Thats a good question. Too many thats for sure

What kind of music are you into? If you could see any band live right now, who would you pick?
I like anything with the good ol’ guitar. Metal, Folk, classic rock pretty much anything you can think of. I def see Motle Crue before their album Too Fast for Love came out. It was back when they were just playing music, rockin and didnt give a fuck. That would HIT!!

What is the weirdest thing you have ever experienced in your life?
being born

If you could live like anyone in the world, who would you pick and why?
Vince Kroff, DUH! that dude lives it! HAHHAHA

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Kicking ass, running my clothing brand and still shreding!

If you could be sponsored by any non-BMX related company, who would you pick?
American Apparel

What is one thing you wish was legal to do and why?
BMX and skate anywhere and everwhere, no questions asked.

Have you ever been arrested for anything before? Any close calls?
Na man, im a good kid

If you could relive any day of your life, when would you pick and why?
Last Friday when I broke my elbow. I’d spin that 540 first run instead of second.

What are the things you cannot live or travel without?
My bicycle, is that even a question

If you could change anything about the world, what would you change and why?
Def all the war and violence

What is the best advice you could give somebody?
You only live once, retire when your young. Work when your old and it doesnt matter because your old and your not going to be doing anything anyways.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
Thanks to Ryan Sher for letting me ride for the most kick ass bike company ever, Shad Johnson at Goods, Matt Copland at Profile, Rich Hirsch and Lotek, Team Shralp/Dean Dickenson, my girlfriend Crystal for putting up with my crap and taking care of me with my broken ass elbow, Aaron Huff at Solid, Ben Kauffman, Kyle Hart, Jon Peacy, Eddie Cleveland, Hoang Tran, KC Badger, Adam Perez, Nick Kirkland and the Lord(Dave Volker not the man upstairs) haha

Anything else you want to say?
HAVE FUN!!!!

Without a doubt, you have probably heard of Shad. If not from his ability to kick some ass on a bike, maybe from all of his appearances in different Props videos, or most likely because of his shop Goods BMX in Portland. I finally got the chance to shoot him some questions and this is what came from it. Check it out, and leave some comments!

Photo: Aaron Foley

Name:
Shad Johnson

Location:
Portland Oregon

Sponsors:
Solid bikes and Goods BMX… Well I dont know if owning it counts as being sponsored but whatever.

Years riding:
22

What was it that first got you into BMX?
Well when I was real little I remeber helping one of my cousins with his paper route and he had a sick sidehack that I would ride in and throw the papers for him. I always thought it was so cool when we would hit some curb jumps or just pop wheelies. So then my parent purchased me a schwinn predator and I think that was about 83′. So I would just do the normal kid stuff just hit some wheelies and skid all the time. It wasn’t till I saw Rad that I knew that is what I wanted to be doing. So around 87′ my dad got me a used Sterling freestyle bike! I was so happy! So about a mile up the street all the cool freestyle kids had a 7 foot tall, 8 foot wide half pipe with PVC coping cut in half and just nailed on! It was sick. So me and my buddy Raymond would wake up each morning before sunrise go sneak onto the ramp ride till we saw the lights in their house turn on from them waking up and then we would split. We finally were caught but after that they were cool with us and we would just go after school.

How are things going over at Goods these days? Any big shop news or team news at all?
Things are good at the shop. Im really excited for this year. We have got the video, we’ll be working on all year and it should be out around Christmas or a lil earlier. Im hoping to get a team page all dialed in for the shop soon. I know on that end its always been so vague, but yeah, just working on this video, change the website up a lil, and the most important part is just to keep getting the shop better.

The new Goods video is in the works. Who all has parts, whose filming and edting, where all have you guys been, any good stories from it, and finally, when will it be available?
Well like a said earlier I am hoping the end of this year. As for sections shit who ever pulls thru. A few of the guys will have to be filming for other video projects this year so we may have to be creative with them. Expect to see stuff from Eddie C, Bruce Crisman, Ben Hucke, Justin Inman, Dakota Roche, Roman Tencza, Vince Kroff, All of Team Shralp, BFC, BFP, Chet Blacksmith, Ryan Sher, Caleb Quanbeck, Jesse Leske, John Bristol, Sheesh man I dont know just our crew of guys. You’ll see.

Photo: Mark Rhaina

With so much going on, keeping the shop and team covered, and working on this new video, do you find much time to ride?
Man I dont get to ride as much. Im here 6 days a week but when the weather is nice Ill be riding. In the winter im lucky to ride once a week. In the summer though that all changes. It stays daylight longer so I can go cruise the streets or hit a park after work. We did have the Goods mini all last winter so I rode that but we just took that out a few months ago to make the back room work better for us.

Where is your usual spots to hit up when you get a chance to ride these days?
Mainly the skateparks around here. Id love to say street all day but I would be lying. We have so many parks nowadays that allow bikes, it just gives you so many options. Its real good though because as I find myself getting older its great to just go to the park and go fast and hit airs. My favorites around here are the new Vancouver park, Tigard, Burnside, and the Hood River bowl when I get a chance. I really like riding stuff that is like eight feet or taller.

The scene around your area must be getting pretty big. Is there any up and comers people should be looking out for?
Ya the scene has grown a lot since I was younger here. It used to be about ten of us in the whole city that rode and we had only one skatepark to hit and that was Burnside. Now there is hundreds of riders and around twenty or so parks in the area. There is a new crop of guys coming up though, Caleb Quanbeck, Jesse Leske, Roman Tencza, BFC, BFP, and Steven Boldt. All those guys are so good and are super rad to ride with.

Do you still do much with Props? You used to appear on like every trip.
The last trip I did with them was euro meagatour. If they need me to help film they know I’m down.

Speaking of that, out of all the trips you have gone on. What are your top 3 favorite and why?
UGP Roots contest 2000 or 2001 I cant remember what year it was, RF 15 because all the NW guys were on it and Megatour with Failure.

If you could go on an all expences paid trip with only 5 people. Who would you bring, where would you go, and why?
John Bristol, Andy Merrall, Aaron Huff, Chester Blacksmith, and Vince Kroff. Any of the big cities of the world. Just cruising new cities and mobbing traffic is the best thing ever.

If you could relive any moment, session, or day. What one would you pick and why?
I would have talked Chester out of trying that gap to wallride that he broke his leg on.

When your first started getting a little more serious with BMX, did you ever imagine you would have had the chance to do all the things you have done from traveling to owning your own shop and everything?
Nah man. I grew up staring at magazines that seemed worlds away. Im so happy with where riding has taken me. Ive been a long way from Prineville Or.

How do you feel about the way BMX has been going these days? Anything you would change at all?
I would like to see some of the guys who helped push the sport still get some coverage. I think I would just like to see the people who are in charge of the media focus on the past as much as the future.I dont know maybe thats me being old but I feel like it helps give bmx more texture and helps people see the lifestyle. I mean everyone starts riding for the speed, or the air.You know the simple aspects of riding your bike. Then as you start to get better you push your self harder and harder. I think we all end up where we started just trying to find the simple pleasures of riding BMX. Man really I just like hearing stories and thats what makes magazines fun to read. From the young to the old if you have a good story and are shredding in your own right I would like to see it in print.

Photo: Ben Kellgren

What do you think you would be doing if you never got into BMX?
I would be a redneck or a cowboy working in a mill,logging, or working at Les Schwabs.

When your not at work, or riding, what can you usually be found doing?
Chilling with the babe.

You have had your moments of manly ass kicking power. About how many fights have you been in? Have you been arrested for anything at all?
haha! Man im not even like that. I really hate fighting. Honestly I’ve never even punched someone in my life. If I do get in an altercation I just choke them or choke slam them. I dont know why but thats what happens. Ive been arrested for a warrant for running a red light. Spent a night in jail. I dont know man jail is lame. My brother was in for a long time and its not a cool place so im just trying to never got there.

Kill one, fuck one, marry one. Barbara Walters, Sarah Palen, Katie Couric.
Ick to all three of them! No on all those levels.

You are offered a job to do porn. Do you take it? The only catch is you don’t know if it’s straight, gay, bi, or something nasty like german scheisse porn.
NO

Did you ever go to college at all? How do you feel about that whole thing?
I went for almost two years. College is great I just didnt really know what I wanted to focus on. Learning is always cool though.

If you could see any band live right now, who would you pick and why?
Dinosaur Jr.

You are given 24 hours to live… What do you do?
Go hiking with people I love. I dunno. weird question.

I heard from Vince Kroff there is a real good strip club in Portland. Do you have any idea what he’s talking about and why it’s so good?
He is talking about the Acropolis. It has been voted for having the best steaks in Portland a few times. So you get some good food and watch the girls. It also has a drive thru just for the food.

What is the craziest thing you have ever experienced in your life? (guns, drugs, hookers, midgets, explosives, cops.. just a few keywords to spark your mind)
Nah I really dont want to air myself or my friends out…You know the usuall stuff though.

Photo: Allan Parker

I would imagine the shop can get a little slow at times. Any favorite websites?
Oh i dont know bmxmuseum.com, vivaradio.com, os-bmx.com, ebay, I usually just go down the list of all the bmx sites each night.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Just grow the shop and the scene up here in the NW. Buy a house and be happy with my girl. That would be enough for me.

If you could commit any crime and get away with it. What would you do and why?
I have no idea…Get money?

How do you feel about Obama being president?
If he fixes things I’m stoked!

If you could change anything about the world, what would you change and why?
Tolerance. It would be nice to see a lil more.

What is the best advice you can give a person who is just getting into BMX or wants to start their own shop?
Have fun,Dont get over your head with terms.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
My family, Mandy, God, The Goods Bmx crew, PDXBMX crew, Team Shralp crew, NW crew, anyone who helps support the shop. I appreciate it so much.

Anything else you would like to say?
Anything else you wanna ask?

Trailer from the first Goods video.

The attention the interviews I did with the companies about the CPSC lead testing were good. Infact, it drew attention from places I didn’t even know co-existed with BMX. Tung Luong contacted me with an idea that couldn’t be passed up. Tung is a chemist, who rides BMX also. Yeah, who would have imagined? Basically, because I am far from a chemist, I decided maybe we could see how he feels about the whole situation, and this is what Tung had to say.

I’m sure people are wondering, maybe if they had to ask a lab to do the work what they should be asking and who they turning to. You can ask your readers if they have any tech questions. Or you can throw out some. I’ll put down a few I think people in the bmx industry want to know. I put a few Q and A below. Feel free to ask whatever.
-Tung Luong

If you have any questions from this, just leave it in the comments and I will get it to Tung to answer.

What type of laboratory should I be looking into?
Well you would want to either go either a lab at is EPA accredited, or a lab that is ISO certified. Choosing either a contract laboratory or an environmental laboratory would be best. Somebody who has experience looking into materials would work as well.

How exactly do they do lead testing? What’s the best method?
There are several methods that can be done to analyze Lead in various materials. Depending on material testing can vary. As you may know many people use handheld XRF (X-ray-Fluorescence) devices, however the people who are using those normally are consumers and people who are not trained to used the device properly, therefore incorrect reading can be obtained, thus possibly giving you a passing result when you are really failing or vice versa. Most analytical labs will either perform ICP-AA, ICP-MS, or AA (Atomic absorption), what my laboratory uses to test these. I’m not going to bore anyone with what those test involved, but I will say that any legit lab will be using one of these techniques. If a lab ask for a method you would like to follow you can tell that you need to either test by AOAC lead in paint, or ASTM protocols.

Can the lab help me determine if my product is safe for release? Can they help me make changes to my production?
Generally labs will only release a report, with the guidelines and passing criteria you specify. All records will be kept for likely a minimum of 2 years just in case. But you would want to hold onto your report for years to come in case of a court case, audit whatever. Labs will not make decisions for you on what is safe and what is not, or how to change your production, they may give suggestions to help, but will never tell you how to make your product pass, as that would make the laboratory liable.

Can a lab help me determine what parts to test or interpret the law?
As many of the labs out there now are learning about the law themselves it is up to the manufacturer to already know what parts of the bike need to be tested. With the law changing constantly over the last few months and interpretations changing it is up to the client. I would recommend getting an attorney if possible to look into the new law as most of the time a lab will not want to get involved with interpretations.

How much will the testing cost?
From what I’ve seen anywhere for $5-35 a component, with likely a minimum of 5 components. My laboratory has not set up pricing yet as we are gauging the market to be competitive. Most labs will likely do a scaled pricing scheme where the more components you need tested the lower the price. Again it is up to the client to deterimine which components need to be tested. I personally don’t know how that exactly works, like a stem, if each part needs to be tested separately, like the body, faceplate, and bolts separately or if it can be tested all together.

Hopefully Tung has given you a few more indepth responses that will help some companies or industry dudes out there. I know this isn’t exactly directed towards the consumer, but the more you know about the topic, the better understanding you will have when it comes to purchase time. I would like to thank Tung Luong to take the time to do this, I appreciate it!

With the number of videos I end up seeing everyday it seems like the names and riding all just starts to mix together, and like everything else forgotten the next day. There is one name that has stuck out, and I have always been impressed with, and that name is Matty Long. The guy produces some real good videos of himself, and a positive vibe. When I saw all these people talking bad about him when his bio he did for his brother came out, I knew I needed to interview him so people could get a better feel for him. So here it is, check it out, and leave Matty a little love in the comments!

Photo: Jody Stoddard

Name:
Matty Long

Location:
Billerica, Ma .. just outside of boston.

Sponsors:
My Mother haha and Jody and Christine at Timeless Bmx always help me out a ton

Years riding:
I’d say since I was about 7, that’s when I got my Haro Zi

What was it that first sparked your interest in BMX? What is it that keeps you going day after day still?
What really got me into riding was my older brother, I copied everything he did. So when he picked up a bike I did the same as well. What keeps me going is the same thing that keeps every other kid who rides everyday going. It’s just the love of riding your bike. For me it’s all I really know to do in my spare time because I never really got into sports or anything like that.

Your recent video bio dropped and it was real good. However, there were a few kids out there calling you out saying that you are “too hungry” to get sponsored. Care to explain yourself? You don’t really seem too worried about that.
Thanks a lot for being into it man. For the whole hungry thing .. People can think what they want I shouldn’t let it bother me. Although I do understand where the people are coming from about the hunger because of the way I talk and the words I chose haha. I had to explain myself to people who have no idea about riding in any sense. Since the documentary was for my brother’s teachers. Everyone has their own dreams, goals and opinions.

Photo: Matty Branscombe

You have travelled all over the Northeast because of BMX. What are your top 5 favorite spots that you have had the chance to ride?
My top 5 favorite spots to ride in the Northeast. That’s pretty tough haha! I’d have to say Boston being the first and best for me. So much riding that people have no idea about and Timeless has been a huge part of Boston’s growth and bringing people together for things like video premieres and pro teams coming by the shop to hang out. For the next 2, I have a friend who has taken me on a few trips with him which I am so fortunate to have gone on and some of the places I’ve gone with him are amazing. Like Philly and the LD warehouse on the last day it was open to the public. Before it got taken down. I know that it’s not technically “the Northeast” but close enough. It got me hooked to go to Philly a few more times after that haha. For the 4th I’d say CT. Connecticut has so many little hidden gems. Some of the best spots I’ve ever rode. Plus I have a ton of awesome friends down there which keeps me going back almost every weekend to ride, hang out and goof off. Lastly I’d have to say Hadley Park every summer night. The place is only 10 minutes from me. It’s a tight little tiny tiny pre-fab park but the people there are awesome and everyone gets along really well. Skater’s and Rider’s alike. A22 actually did a little Hadley edit this fall which was pretty funny and sweet.

If you could travel more and farther, where are some places you would really like to go?
If I could go anywhere, and anywhere being farther. The first place I’d travel to is Europe. I’ve always been fascinated with the UK so that would be my first stop. Then maybe head to Germany and or Barcelona. I wouldn’t want to narrow it down if I was over there. Just go to as many places as possible and see all the different culture on and off my bike. But here in the states, Texas before anything. Especially if I could go in the winter. I hear it’s really good down there. Plus some of the best rider’s are from Texas!

Do you feel like the ability to go out and ride all these different spots and places has made you progress faster than normal?
I never really worry about my progression as much anymore now that I’m a little older but I would agree that riding all these different spots has definitely helped me progress a little bit faster. I honestly don’t think I really learn as fast as some kid’s I see cause everyones different. What helps me the most with my riding is being with a lot of positive people and friends. Then I never stress anything and just have fun riding. That’s what Im supposed to be doing anyway .. rather than beat myself up over new tricks. But there are times I like to set goals for myself to learn things that I would like to film or just learn because I like the trick.

Photo: Matty Branscombe

If you could go on a trip with 5 people, and one photographer/filmer. Who would you pick, where would you go, and why those picks and places?
Aw man you gonna put me in that situation? Haha. If I could go on a trip with 5 people and one photographer or filmer .. I’d say for a filmer my brother, of course. A photographer would be Jody from Timeless. The 5 riders I’d bring discluding myself would be Mike Mastroni, Rory Ellis, Chris Childs, Brian Hunt and Aaron Smith. Brian would be the dude with the stories and making everyone laugh. For places to ride I’d just say travel the UK. It’s still a dream of mine to go over there and I just have a fascination with the culture and architecture.

It’s pretty apparent that you’re riding is real solid. What is one trick that no matter how many times you have tried, it just hasn’t worked out for you?
Wow thanks man. A trick I’ve tried a lot and hasn’t worked out for me I’d say are .. well .. for me it doesn’t work that way. I try things for a while then I’ll sit on them then go back to it. Some tricks I try I’m fortunate to learn quicker than others. I try not to frustrate myself too much.

Are you more of a person who once you try something, you have to do it, or have you been known to give up on a trick from time to time?
I never give up, but I definitely always take breaks on tricks. Some days you are just feeling better, you know?

Who are some pros, or maybe even non-pros, that you look up to?
I feel like a tool saying this haha but a pro I’ve looked up to forever is Aaron Smith. I used to jock him so hard when I was younger haha. He wasn’t pro then but he sure is now.

How do you feel about the way BMX has been going lately? Would you change anything about it at all?
I don’t really pay too much attention to the Bmx Industry. I don’t know if thats a bad thing or not. I just try to ride and not worry about things that I have no control over.

Have you been filming for anything lately? Any web videos or even video parts dropping soon?
Towards the end of the summer I started to go to Philly to meet with Larry Rhodes. He’s filming a video with younger/ less known riders and I was asked to be apart of it. It’ll feature riders such as JJ Palmere, Ben Hittle, Garrett Reeves and more. Amazing. As for web videos I want to try and do as many as I can. Ever since the one I did with Mike Mastroni I absolutely love filming, who knows maybe they’ll be another Mike Mastroni/ Matty Long edit.

Photo: Sven Reed

What is the craziest or weirdest situation you have been put in because of BMX?
The craziest situation I’ve ever been because of my bike was in Philly recently. We were in a real bad part and didn’t realize it. We got cornered in a fenced in school court with one entrance/exit by about 10 to 15 ghetto kids. They said they had guns and took my friend Corey’s brand new bike and this kid Jesse’s bike as well. Not sweet at all.

Have you ever got any form of attention from a girl due to BMX? Phone numbers all the way to the good stuff.
Haha nah none of that, I’m a shy kid. But I did meet my girlfriend at a skatepark hah.

It seems like most kids who ride BMX pick up interests that mix with it like photography. Have you gotten into anything like that at all?
No my brother did though, he goes to school for film production and stuff. Me on the other hand, I play Halo 2 for hours on end.

What do you think you would be up to if you never got involved with BMX?
I honestly don’t know what I could be doing. I guess I wouldn’t be the same person in any form because riding has made me who I am today. Looks and attitude wise. Maybe in college or something if I never go into riding.

What are you doing when you aren’t riding?
When I am not riding I’m either with my girlfriend or playing an endless amount of Halo. haha

You seem to be a really chill dude. What are some things that really stress you out?
Not much stresses me out but I’d have to say money and bills probably stresses me out the most. But I think they do for everyone as well.

Photo: Matty Branscombe

I know you said in your video bio that your dream and goal would be to become a pro. If you couldn’t do that, what do you think you would like to do?
I understand that professional bike rider’s don’t really make a lot of money so even with that I’d probably need a part time job. But if that never happens I would like to be involved with the industry in some way or another. It’s just good to be doing something that revolves around things you love to do. I really don’t know though. Maybe just go to school and weigh my options there.

In your own opinion, what is the most stupid thing you have ever done?
The stupidest thing I’ve ever done was steal. I got caught for stealing and I got arrested.

Who or what are the biggest influences in your life?
The biggest influences in my life are brother and my friends. Also whatever big rider I’m way into at times.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few months? How about the next few years?
Some things I’d like to accomplish are just getting my life on track future wise. Figure out what I want to do for the rest of my life and maybe look into some schools. I don’t know if that’ll take months or years to figure out, I just take the days as they come and live happy.

If you couldn’t live in the Northeast anymore, where would you move and why?
Texas or California. The biggest reason is warmth!

What’s the first movie to come to mind and why did you think of that first?
Green Street Hooligans, because it’s my favorite movie.

If you could be sponsored by any two companies, BMX or Non-BMX related, who would you want to be riding for and why?
2 Bmx companies would be Mutiny or Sunday. I love the products and the riders and the feel of the companies. Non-Bmx would be Xbox Live and Subway. Free Xbox Live and free food is key haha.

If you could spend the day with anyone, alive, dead, or ficticious, who would you pick and what would you do?
Probably some mega star that the paparazzi stalk as soon as they leave their house. Just to see how hectic that all really is.

Do you have any good stories involving booze, hookers, midgets, homeless people, or crazy girls at all?
Sean Burns wallriding over a homeless guy sleeping, to rail.

What is something you do, but probably shouldn’t?
Sleep until 2 everyday hah.

What is the worst purchase you have ever made? Why did you buy it in the first place?
Probably all the snowball things from hostess I buy from gas stations. I’m addicted.

Kill one, fuck one, marry one. Paris Hilton (now, not before), Tara Reid (after the drugs, alcohol, and slutting around), and Sarah Palin.
My girlfriend told me “Kill Tara, Ef Paris, Marry Sarah”. I don’t even know who Tara Reid is.
The hot chick from Van Wilder?

You are able to committ any crime and get away with it. What do you do and why?
Any way that gets me some serious money real fast, because a lot of money makes life a little bit easier.

If you could change anything about the world, what would you change and why?
Using fuels, I’m easily swayed so I believe all that global warming stuff.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
First off I’d like to thank Kurt for asking me to do this interview. I’d just like to thank Jody and Christine at Timeless, my brother, my mother, all my friends Rory Ellis, Yum Yums, TJD, Mike Mastroni, Denny, Jeff DuPaul, Chris Childs, Corey Godfrey, Boston kids, Jake Frost, Abdul, Little Dave, New Hampshire kids, B Hunt, Zak Early, Aaron Smith and Larry Rhodes.

Anything else you would like to say?
2006

I can’t help but get a little too excited about this interview. It’s not everyday you can ask one of your favorite pros since the first time you got into BMX questions. Colin has been a well known name for a long time, and he’s also the first of the Australian invasion that hit the U.S contest scene. Sure, if being really good at BMX isn’t good enough, he knows his way around a camera. After the interview check out his photos. I know I enjoyed this one a lot, and I hope you do too. Leave Colin some love in the comments!

Name:
Colin Mackay

Location:
On a flight from NC to San Diego

Sponsors:
Haro Bikes, Vans Shoes, RockStar Energy Drink

Years riding:
Since I was about 13.

What was it that first got you into BMX?
I skated a bit at first, The first time I went to a Skate park was on a Skateboard, Then when I went to High School BMX was really popular, My brother helped me do up my BMX I had and I was jumping off curbs in no time.

Seeing as you were the leader of the Australian take over here in the U.S, how do you feel about the current Aussie reputation these days?
Well thanks… I’m really proud of the guys, they do so well; and to top it they’re all really nice blokes. I would never have thought there would be that many successful riders from Australia in the States as there are. I’m sure some people might be pissed when half the guys in the final are Aussies.

Photo from: Haro

I have to ask this, what is it about Australians that causes you guys to all kill it on a BMX?
I don’t really get it because the trails, parks and “training facilities” are better in the States. I guess once you learn how to ride and have control in Australia, then you get to the States and ride better stuff, it only makes you a better rider.
Initially we all saved up a lot of money to come to America (which isn’t a cheap flight), so were sending it to make it worth it. Were passionate and determined to live the dream.

How are things going with the sponsors these days?
Haro’s going great. The new website’s going good and they just picked up Nasty so that should be good having him around in 09. They have Dennis Enarson, and Garret for Premium, that’s the top 2 riders right there. For me I’m happy riding for them and they look after me, I dreamed of riding for Haro! The bikes are looking really good. I want to hang around the office more when I move to San Diego.
Vans is amazing, I just got a package today and I get a crazy feeling opening the box, I always wonder what the boss chucked in there. I have 2-year deal still, and I’m proud to be part of such a great team of friends, nuts riders, and a family atmosphere. Vans Shoes are so fashion, so getting them for free is crazy!
I just met the staff at Rockstar Energy Drink in Hollywood and they seam like they have a cool thing going on. The Rockstar deal for me came because Dennis and Nyquist were riding for them, and lucky for me they wanted to sponsor Haro as a team, so I scored there. I heard it might not be a team deal for too long, so we have to pull our weight and keep it one. Have you tried the Latte flavor? Way better than Monster! I’m addicted. One a day…

When you first started getting paying sponsors, did you ever imagine it getting to the point that it has over the years?
My first year in America, I told my Mum I’d be away a few months, then I came home and said I might be in America a couple of years max, and currently I’m finishing up my 10th year in America. Time flies.
Some sponsors I had back in the day I honestly did for the money. I’m stealing someone’s quote here, but it’s the best one…”If you want to eat out, you have to sell out”, but these days I still have to try and do well at Dew Tour to get some cash to pay the bills. The other contests I just try to represent my sponsors and myself.

Photo from: Haro

You recently took a trip to Cuba, how was that and what did you do down there?
Getting the email about Cuba was exciting. It came about because at the bottom of Cuba, USA has a Navy Base, and on the base there is a Navy Exchange that’s sells Vans. Its pretty much like a Wal Mart. Whitton, Harrington and Myself traveled to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba for a box jump demo as part of the customer appreciation weekend the Navy organized. While we were there we were guided all over the base checking out the Cuban boarder and the Prison Camps. We definitely had a great time.

You have been pro for quite a while now, so you have been around the world. Where are some of your all time favorite places you have had the chance to go to?
I’d have to say all I wanted to do was travel when I was younger, and I ended up being a Pro Biker, and I’ve traveled way more as a Pro Biker than I could have if just decided to travel. And someone else is paying for it. I got lucky for sure. Id say a few places would be Singapore, Brazil, The Euro Vans trip this year from France to Spain, Germany, Malaysia, I went to Montreal, Canada in the summer and it was nice. And I just went to Jakarta, Indonesia, which was the craziest place I’ve seen. I wish I could spend longer in places and especially Europe, but I usually have to be back in the States for something.

Where are some places you haven’t had the chance to go to yet?
Africa! Somebody line it up over there!

I remember reading somewhere that you were leaving Greenville for San Diego, when will this take place?
What are you looking forward to living out there? I am in the process of moving. The one thing that holds me in Greenville is my house that is for sale. I need that to sell before I hit the road. Greenville rules, its been fun. But my wife and I need to check some more stuff out in this country. I have a soft spot for San Diego… The beach, the Street Spots and Parks, the lifestyle and hanging with Dennis Enarson, Gary Young and Justin Kosman.

Photo from: Haro

Who is your typical riding crew these days?
Guettler, Darren Bouldin, Dillewaard, Diogo and Ali Whitton

If you could go on a trip with 5 people, who would you bring, where would you go, and why?
5 is a bit tough, Im adding a few more seats. Shoe-G, Robo from Oz, CatFish, Ali W, Guettler, Dillewaard, Nyquist and the Bad Boy before he gets married. The place? Europe.

If you could relive any trip, session, or moment in your BMX career, what would you pick and why?
Winning that CFB series back in the day was nuts. All the trips have been epic except the 2 that I came home hurt on. Memorable one’s are the Dave Mirra Super Tour in 2001, Vans Euro trip this year, “Sweet As” fuel TV show in 07, Singapore Metro/PIG. Brazil in 04

How are you feeling about the level of progression BMX has been taking lately? How about how mainstream it has been getting?
Progression level is up, so is the whip count, Id rather see some more boosting and clicking than a 4 trick combo. Main Stream is ok, as long as we look cool. I don’t know about that super ramp stuff on TV. Kids can’t relate to that.

If you could change anything about BMX, what would you change and why?
Flat tires suck, we need to figure that out. Talent should be scored higher over tricks.

What do you think you would be doing if you never got into BMX?
Working in Brisbane. Probably still doing Cabinetry.

If I remember right you got into photography a while ago, what kind of a set up are you using these days?
Yes I’m still right into it. I still shoot a bit, not loads, but Ill shoot more now the contests are done. I have a dusty Hassy that needs using. Flickr.com/photos/mackayshutter/

This is a photo I grabbed from Colin’s Flickr. Check his Flickr from the link above to see more!

What are you usually up to when you aren’t riding?
I’m usually on this Laptop, doing housework, hanging at the local or chilling at home.

How is the married life going? Any additions to the family any time soon?
I’ve been married 5 years now, its been great, Kel Rules. All my friends are having kids at the moment, it’s so not cool to have kids right now…

Who or what are some of the biggest influences on your life?
Mum, Dad, Brothers.

Do you ever plan on permanently moving back to Australia?
Yes for sure, My Wife is from Australia also, I’m not sure when though.

What is the first song or band to come to mind?
David Bowie, Im a big fan…

What are some movies you are into?
Australian Ones (Ned Kelly, Chopper, Bra Boys) English ones (Green Street Hooligans, The Business, The Rise Of The Foot Soldier)

Do you spend much time on the computer? Any favorite websites?
Defgrip.net, VitalBMX.com, ColonyBMX.com.au, Harobikes.com, vans.com/bmx, B&H, flickr.com see

What is a typical day like for you anyways?
Wake up about 8:30am get online, do stuff, ride after lunch, chill with Kel after 5.

Have you ever been in a fight or arrested for anything?
Close a few times, it’s coming. I have rough friends…

This is a photo I grabbed from Colin’s Flickr. Check his Flickr from the link above to see more!

What is one of the craziest experiences you have ever had?
I would say almost being killed and arrested hanging with Nick Cooper in Berlin, Germany.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Live in SD, Help more in the office with Vans and Haro.

How do you feel about Obama being elected as president?
A Change in president is good; I didn’t look into it too much.

If you could change anything about the world, what would you change and why?
Have Australia a lot closer to me; Id love to go home this weekend.

What kind of advice do you have for the people out there?
A good table is better than a double whip.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
Haro Bikes – Joe, Tony D, Pete, Chris, Derrick, Vans – Badders, Rockstar, Heath P, Guettler, Nyquist, Ali and Kelly.

When Jeff K suggested I do an interview with Lil Jon, it was one of those “why didn’t I do that yet?” moments. I met Lil Jon about 2 years ago pretty breifly. Everyone always says hes a super chill, laid back dude. It is pretty obvious from his responses too. There are a few responses that made me laugh pretty hard too. So check out what he had to say, and leave him some love in the comments!

Name:
Lil Jon

Location:
The open road / Milwaukee WI

Sponsors:
Kink bicycles,Sun Ringle, Vinyl, Division

Years riding:
7 or 8 I think

What was it that first got you hooked on bikes, and did you ever imagine it would get to where you are today?
I don’t really know, I just enjoy the freedom of it all, and its just been a wild ride ever since.

You have been on Kink flow for quite a while now. How do you like it, and is there any plans of moving up to pro? Do they have any trips, or cool things going on with you planned at all?
I love Kink and it has been nothing but good things, as far as moving up I don’t know or care really. I have it really good ethier way, as far as trips I have no clue ha ha.

You are one of the many guys who have come from the 4 seasons crew that kill it. What is it about that area that produces so many good riders?
I really don’t think of are scene as any different than anyone else we are all good friends who happen to be alright on bikes and i think thats because we never were competeing it was just friends ridin.

Photo: Luke M.

Who is your typical riding crew these days anyways? Any up and comers people should be looking out for?
No crew really anymore just friends all over never in a place long enough anyway haha.

I know you have been doing a bit of traveling lately. Where all have you been, and where are some places you really need to go to?
I’ve been on the road for like 5 months now, and in that time I’ve been to New York, PA, France, Greenvile NC, Austin TX, Tulsa OK, then back to the Mill.

Have you been working on filming or anything like that recently?
No, I’m lazy. I just enjoy riding and dont really care to film.

How are you holding up with this Midwest winter riding wise?… I would imagine there has been a lot of sessions at 4 seasons?
Yeah, lots of seasons seshs since I’ve been home. Its only been 2 weeks now and I’m off to canada for two months hahaha.

What is your dream spot or set up? Have you found it yet?
Anywhere I can hit a soul carve.

Do you plan on hitting up any contests at all this year?
Nah, that shit just aint me

If you could go on a road trip with only 5 people and a photographer. Who would you pick, where would you go, and why?
Ashton, Ryan Melia, Micah Kranz, Mike Wotrowksi, Mikey

Do you have any crazy stories from trips or contests you have been to?
One of the wildest things was last year when I was in Hawaii with my boy Ryan. We were living in a van and I walk up to some dude fuckin this chick on the ground behind our van on my towell. I opened the van door and I was like what the fuck are you guys doing and they both sprinted away half naked and the chick screams to the dude “Are you still gonna buy me milk?” bizzar……dirty hooker ha.

I’ve noticed you really don’t do much with barspins or tailwhips. Is that just something your not into or is there other reasons?
shit hurts the shins and the fingers, I stick to manuvers

I get a lot of questions about “how to get sponsored” lately for some reason.. What do you feel it takes or makes somebody deserving of getting sponsored these days?
fashion haha psyche…. I have no idea.

Who or what are some of your biggest influences on your riding as a whole?
Chicago crew, those dudes do it right holla.

Is there anything in the world that would change your style? (example: Haro offers you $50,000 a year to start doing flips, whips, and cirucs tricks)
Nope, if I’m not happy with wat im doing then im not into it

If you could change anything about BMX at all, what would you change and why?
Theres nothin worth changin.

In your eyes, what is BMX all about?
Friends, Traveling, Experinces, lots of money hahahaha psyche!

What do you think you would be up to if you didn’t get into BMX?
Trouble.

When you aren’t riding what are you usually up to?
Hanging out at the beach swimming, drinkin with friends, dabblin in surfin.

I’ve always wondered this, how did you get the name “Lil Jon” in the first place?
Well till I was about 16 or 17 i didn’t start growin and i was like 5’2 or some shit so every buddy just called me that and it just kinda stuck

Do you go to school or work at all?
Not really, maybe like 3 or 4 months out of the year I do shows for Micah kranz (TAKE IT!) the fucking dude. Then I just live off that for a while.

Photo: Luke M.

Tell us a story about you being completely hammered?
To many stories not enough time ha.

Have you ever been in any fights or arrested?
Yes two both.
Last year in Austin I was ridin home from the bar and I decided it was a good idea to skip this one road. So I rode on the side of the freeway and a cop drove by and was waiting for me at the next exit. So I proceeded to hide in a bush and he saw me go into it so he rushed me with gun drawn yellin at me and shit. I come out and he searches me and I only had a fake id on me and he spelled my last name wrong. I didn’t know my social so I got taken in for tampering with government records and spent 4 days in jail. Bail was $2500 clams. know your social ha.
And too many fight storys to tell.

How do you feel about strippers and prostitutes? Have you ever misplaced a dollar or two?
Just know Micah is way better at strippers than me.

If you were offered to do porn, would you? What if they didn’t tell you if it would be gay, straight, bi, or really kinky weird stuff?
Hell yeah I would, just straightt porn and big asses thats my shit!

If you could be sponsored by any company that has no ties to BMX at all, who would you pick and why?
whole foods free dank food.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Live loose

What is your perfect meal?
free

A perfect night of partying consists of…
Friends, booze, women, good music to dance to. I shred the floor!

Name the first song that comes to mind? Why did that happen?
Bob dylan Blowin in the wind cause thats what im listenin to.

What is the last thing you bought?
chinese food.

You are told you have 24 hours left to live. What do you do?
Go on with my day.

Who or what are some of the biggest influences on your life?
People that always question, friends I meet along the way, new citys

If you could change anything about the world, what would you change and why?
People would ask questions about what’s going on and not just follow shit so blindly.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
I would like to thank all who have ever let me sleep on their couch or hooked me up with a meal or a van haha. Thanks to Neal and everyone at 4 seasons for giving me a place to grow on my bike. Ashton, Jeff k, and Edson for being the true homies from the Mil. Micah Kranz for always keepin green in my pocket and just for being g. Jay and evryone over at Kink much respect, Every one at Vinyl, Jon Wells for being Jon and just anyone who has helped me out Thanks.

Anything else you want to say?
Step outside of your box!