Dennis is amazing. Litterally, when I was his age I couldn’t handle getting my homework done. This kid is all over the world and still has school. I figured it would be cool to catch up with him and see how everything has been going for him these days. Maybe some of you people out there can leave some comments for him. If you hate on him, you are just jealous and need to accept that. Enjoy!

Name:
Dennis Enarson

Location:
San Diego CA

Sponsors:
Rockstar Energy Drink, Generation Max Snacks, Nike 6.0, Haro Bikes, Demolition Parts.

Years Riding:
About 7

What was it that originally got you into BMX?
My Dad took me to the race track and i loved racing, but eventually i learned i really only liked racing because of the jumps so i stopped racing and only rode freestyle.

You have had some injuries lately that kept you out for a bit. How are things treating you these days and are you at full speed now?
Ya this year has been my roughest year so far. I broke my foot, my elbow and my shoulder poped out of socket. I’m doing really good right now though, hopefully i can stay this way.

You have had some big sponsor changes over the last year or two, how are things going with Haro these days? Any signature parts, videos, or anything cool like that?
Yup, i went from volume bikes tis year to Haro bikes. I loved Volume, but how could anybody say no to Haro? It’s the biggest bike company in BMX haha. All the guys there are awsome and the opportunities they give me are amazing. Were not doing any videos right now, but hopefully some signature stuff will start coming.

Photo: Ryan Fudger

How about Nike, isn’t there a video in the works with them? I imagine you will have a part in that? Also, do you have any signature shoes coming out?
Nike is rediculous! it’s probably the craziest sponsor you can have. ya the video should be out in a couple months and were all almost done with our parts. It’s going to be amazing we’ve been going all over the world filmig for it so i can’t wait to see how it turns out.

How about the rest of your sponsors like Demolition, Rockstar, and Ogio. Anything cool going on with them involving you?
Rockstar is amazing and going to keep having awesome jams all year long. We also just started filming for the new Demolition video this month, so I’m pretty excited to start working on that. And i got this new candy sponsor called gen max. It’s abrand from snickers 3 muskateers, and twix so im so stoked! Free candy!!

With contest season slowly coming to an end, how do you feel you have done this year and what contests do you still have left to get to?
Ya contest season is winding down, only two more dew tours and some jams and LG contest left. I felt like I’ve done pretty well accounting the injuries that kinda held me back this year. Going into every dew tour this year something has been hurt on me so I’ve been kinda bummed about that, but hopefully the last two I’ll be %100 so i can ride how i want to you know.

Your travel schedual is pretty crazy. Where all have you been this summer and do you have any big trips planned coming up soon?
I’ve been so many places this summer. The first day i got out of school i went to San Fran for a week, Then Woodward East for two days, then the first stop of the Dew Tour in Baltimore Maryland, Then to Germany for a week, then to Portland for a week, then to the second stop of the Dew tour in Cleavland Ohio, then to woodward west for two days then to LA for x games and a nike trip right after, then to Reno to start filming for the Demolition video, Then back to portland for the third stop of the dew tour. I dont have too many trips planned out right now besides Barcelona to finish filming for the Nike video, and the last stops of the dew tour.

Where are some places you haven’t had the chance to go to that you would like to go to someday?
I’ve never been to Barcelona, but I’m going next month so I’m really excited!

It always seems like you have something new and crazy trick wise going, what are some tricks you are working on these days?
Hah that’s funny because i never really sit there and work on the trick i usually get pumped up in practice at contest and just try stuff haha. I’ve been thinking of a couple tricks lately and hopefully I’ll feel good at these next couple Dew Tours so i can get them done.

Photo: Mark Losey

If you could only ride one place for the rest of your riding days, where would you want to ride and why?
Clairemont Skatepark, Because it’s the funnest park ever and all my local buddies go there.

What are some things BMX could use less of and what could it use more of?
More hot chicks riding, and less weirdos.

Outside of riding what are some things you are into?
I like snowboarding and skating a lot, and i surf when it’s really hot.

With summer coming to an end, will you be going back to school or what?
Ya i already started school. I still go to public school so the teachers hate me because i miss like 50 days a semester haha.

Photo: Corey

What is your best story involving you and Kyle Carlson?
One time at Chipotle he was saying how many burritos he could eat and i bet him $500 dollars he couldn’t eat 11. He sat there for 4 hours while we rode the parking lot and finished all of them and two bags of chips.

Since your a pretty well known dude, have you ever had stalkers or anything?
No just wierd myspace girls haha.

What is the key to hookin up with the ladies? How many girls have you hooked up with on the Dew Tour or X-Games?
Just be chill haha. Ummm….

This chick is way too hot, I don’t think he hooked up with her haha maybe he did.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Keep filming good video parts, do good in contest, Buy a house, and get done with school.

How weird is it to have an ad of you in pretty much every magazine?
I think its really cool, but really wierd because last year i think i only had one photo in ride, and this year it seems like theres been a bunch. I’m really stoked about it though!

Have you ever been in a fight and did you win?
Ya middle school this dick head thought he was way tougher then everybody, and one day after school he was talking crap and it ended up he was a big pussy because i only hit him one time and he freaked out and stopped fighting haha.

What is the first song to come to mind?
Painted by number, The Sounds

First movie to come to mind?
Big Daddy

What are some of your favorite websites?
Vital, The come up, and Myspace of course.

If you could be sponsored by any non-BMX related company, who would you choose and why?
Jack In The Box! Because I could live off that stuff and my friends would be stooked!

If you could change anything about the world what would you change and why?
People Hating People Cuz that sucks.
One rule for this team! Everybody Love Everybody… Sorry good movie

What kinds of advice do you have for kids just getting into BMX?
just have as much fun as you can and dont worry about anything.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
All my sponsors, My parents for always being there and helping me with everything, and all my friends.

Anything else you would like to say?
Keep on having fun!!

There are a lot of things that can go wrong when doing interviews over the internet. The person may forget they have it in their inbox, the message might not get sent right, or just other random things. In this case, the interview was attempted three times due to it not getting sent back right. However, third times the charm and this is one of those crazy Australian dudes who you know kills it. This is probably the funniest interview just because he admitts to being drunk while doing it and it shows.

Name:
Tom Stretton

Location:
Deception Bay, QLD, Australia

Sponsors:
Tempered Bikes and Harmonybmx.com.au

Years riding:
i dunno…3 4??

Your on the Tempered Bikes team, how are things going with that and is there any signature stuff coming around for you?
yeah its going really welll. im actually pretty drunk right now so i probably sound like a dick but i got in trouble cause this interwiew hadnt been done even though i did it 3 times nd it didnt work any of those times and each one was different but yeah…no signature stuff i dont think. i love you kurt im sorry haha

Is there any filming, road trips, or fun stuff that you have planned with the Tempered crew at all?
we went to gladdy ages ago but now im just chillin. hopefully more roadies soon ehhhhhh Matty!

You seem to kill it on parks, is that your favorite stuff to ride or are you into street and trails also?
Thank you Kurt hah…i used to ride dirt each weekend when i started but that kinda faded…i like riding anything man…park, street, dirt, dick…you know haha….nah park just easy cause theres sooo many here…and its more fun with a million friends on bikes.

You appear to be very dialed when it comes to tricks on your front end of the bike, what are some tricks you could never get sick of?
hangers definitly! and barspins….best feeling ever! and thanks again Kurt.

What are some tricks you get sick of trying to figure out?
TAYBOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSS!!!! fucking style cats….teach me! i lived with the best cunt in the world and i still suck dick.

Who is your typical riding crew and where can you usually be found riding?
Morayfield australia….best dudes ever…drink beers and ride every arvo alllll arvo! Batcho, Kershaw, Danoz, Nato, Cheezy, Ando, Doylo, all the boys lol.

What is it with Australian kids riding like champs? It isn’t normal!
yeah this 12 year old the other week was doing double whips like 80 feet high..its ridiculous! hah but i figure its the same everywhere. you see US kids destroying shit constantkly and i just lost a 50 buy in poker game to 55 with trip queens fucking piece of shit!!

Where are some places you have had the chance to ride over the years?
Basically the best place is Sydney with John and Pigot and all the guys..couldnt wish for more fun…

Where are some places you would really like to ride someday?
ANYWHERE IN US! ANYWHERE IN EUROPE! lol basically anywhere there are sweet people keen to drink, party and shred no handed suicides!

Who are some pros you look up to for influence on your riding?
Definitly CLINT MILLAR. dudes pretty much a fucking God! Dave Dilleward, Nick Cooper, Tobias Wicke and maybe even a little Benn Pigott if hes lucky. Thai party homo…

I couldn’t tell if you were brakeless or not these days, how do you feel about that trend anyways?
im brakeless. have been since ages. i dont care… 2 sets 1 set no set….do a fucking WHEELIEEEEEEE BURN!

What do you think is the most challenging thing about BMX is as a whole?
Waking up on sundays and getting motivated. we’ll se how i go tomorrow.

How do you feel about contests? Do you have any plans to hit up any this year?
fun with heaps of mates but im not a dew tour rat…unless you pay me….thats not gunna happen but!

What do you think you would be up to if you never got into BMX?
Crack….anything life threatening lol

Outside of riding what are you up to?
POKER…missed a 200 dollar bubble about 5 mins a go because i type shit and do internet interviews

I noticed you got some tattoos, do they have any meaning or is it just something that looks cool?
they all have meaning to me but clearly i look like a pretty tough cunt aswell hahahaha im weak and tiny

What is your criminal record like? Are you much of a trouble maker?
haha

If you could spend the day with anyone, alive, dead, fictional, who would you pick and why?
Dude…has to be dave mirra and Matt Hoffamn…im not a fucking homo!

What are some bands you are into and think people should check out?
if i had to say any…Art of War and the amity affliction. different as hell but both killer.

How about movies? Any your really into?
heck yeah….everything. just watched the pick of destiny for like the millionth time tonight..soooooo good!

Who or what are some of the biggest influences in your life?
Mum. best woman alive, hands down!

If you could have any super power, what would it be and why?
Walk through walls and x ray vision..fuck i wonder why!?

Do you spend much time on the computer? What are some of your favorite websites?
hate the computer…this has seriously taken me about 2 months to do this interview…sorry. but check diversitybmx and harmonybmx.com.au. its worth it.

Do you work or go to school at all?
i work when im not sick and i seem to get sick a lot which works out great because i hate work! but yeah, life basically consists of me getting up and thinking wether i should play poker at the casino for a couple of bucks that night or go riding.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
go overseas definitly…guarantee it wont happen but haha. im too lazy to try and make money and i love riding too much to go to work

What is some of the best advice you have ever been given?
dont say sorry more than once!

What can you give out as advice for kids just getting into BMX?
dont quit…if your friends give you shit call just get a big friend to beat the shit out of them and then take their bike. they no longer can rip on you because while they are better on a bike than you…they dont have one to ride…fucking gay kids

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
thanks for the interview kurt..this time better work cause im fucked and going to bed hhahaha…and thanks Matty from Tempered Bikes…Dudes done so much for me and bmx in general in Australia…your a fucking ledgend and i want you first born

peace xx

Andrew is one of those kids I had never heard about. From time to time I will get emails from people who have a friend who they feel really deserves coverage. Sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn’t. In this case I gave it a shot and it turns out that he is a very talented kid who is very content with what hes got. Enjoy and leave him some comments.

Name:
Andrew Dubicki

Location:
Manchester Maryland

Age:
16

Years riding:
about 4

Sponsors:
none

What was it that originally got you into BMX and what keeps you going today?
well i cant really remember a time where i wasn’t jumping my bike but i guess i really started to get into it because a few guys in my neighborhood would always ride after school so it kind of just became a habit after awhile.and what keeps me going today hmm…its just fun haha i love just cruisin around and being outside always seeing and experiencing new things.

I am sure the majority of the people who will see this are going “who the hell is Andrew Dubicki?” Your a real talented kid, how come your so low key?
haha im not really sure. i guess because i just kinda stay around my area and when i do go to farther places i do a lot more watching than riding.

Did you grow up racing or riding trails much or has it just been park and street for you?
I started racing but only stuck with it for a few months. the closest track was in york PA which is an hour away so it was a drag to go there every week. after racing i was really into dirt for a few years but now im normally just riding park or street but i definitely like a trail sesh every few weeks.

Your real dialed when it comes to street riding, what are some of your favorite set ups and what is a dream spot for you?
thanks man. my favorite set ups are probably rails and railhops. they are real fun but are still pretty scary. and my dream spot would just be somewhere where you can do little nib jib things and find new lines. i really like to ride at colleges and places like that because everything looks cool and makes normal spots different.

What is the longest rail you have gone down, and what is the biggest you have gone up?
haha well i think ive gone down an 8 or something. maybe 9. i hate going down rails i always seem to fall. ive gone up a 12 or something like that.

What is the scene like from where you are from?
i live in the middle of 2 groups of riders which is awesome. there are always people who are down to ride.

Have you had the chance to travel much at all?
a little bit. i really like to travel but im perfectly happy being home. on my bike ive gone to a lot of places in PA like philly, erie, and lancaster just to name a few and i get the chance to go to baltimore and college park a few times a month. off my bike ive gone to Grenoble in france and canada.

Where are some places you would like to go?
i wouldnt mind going back to europe again. i saw tons of places to ride and the food was really good.

This seems to be a popular question, what is your best story of something crazy happening while out riding involving cops/security/homeless/hookers/etc?
i really cant seem to stay out of trouble whether im riding or not. the cops in my town are pretty ridiculous when it comes to riding were constantly being chased and hassled. a few stories that stand out is when we were riding the harbor in baltimore and my friend got into to a fist fight with a cop. it was awesome. apparently he thought it was a security guard and didnt think he would do anything. another was about a month ago we thought it would be a good idea to go camping and drink in a state park. it wasnt a good idea. the rangers ended up coming but were pretty cool and only called my parents because i was under 18.

What are some of your biggest inspirations when it comes to BMX?
i get really pumped when people do something big that they arent sure they can do.

If you could change anything about BMX what would it be and why?
i cant really think of anything i would change. a little less bitching and caring and more variety would be nice.

Outside of riding what are you up to?
in the past few months ive really gotten into photography. i also like to go fishing every once in awhile and just hanging out. music is good too.

Do you work or go to school at all?
nah i dont work. im about to go into my senior year of highschool. im home schooled which is pretty cool get to sleep in a little and ride pretty much whenever i want to.

Have you ever been in a fight or arrested and why? If not, why not?
no because im a bitch

I noticed you are into filming and editing. What kind of a set up are you using from cameras to editing?
im not really big into it but i really do enjoy it. i only have a little $200 video camera. but to edit i use final cut i dont really know how to use anything on it though just the basics.

If you could be professional at any sport other than BMX, what would you choose and why?
hm thats hard. ive never really done anything i enjoyed doing other than bmx but probably racing 4 wheelers. i dont get to ride mine that much but its always a good time when i do.

In your opinion, what is the best band to ever exist?
oh man there are so many.lately ive been real into have heart and modest mouse.any indie stuff and most hardcore stuff.

Seen any good movies lately?
i dont watch too many movies but the last one i saw was national treasure 2 which was ok.

Have you ever had a pick up line work on a girl?
all the time but they are definitely not attractive.

If you could commit any crime and get away with it, what would you do and why?
be able to ride in a parking lot and not get a $200 fine. that shit gets expensive.

A good night of partying consists of…
friends music shane powell high life all after a long day of riding.

If you could have a life-time supply of anything, what would it be and why?
camera batteries. there is nothing worse than setting up for a picture and running out of batteries.

Do you spend much time on the computer? Any favorite sites?
when im home im on the computer about 50% of the time.i only really get on 2 websites. the come up and myspace.

Who or what are the biggest influences on your life?
my family and friends. my parents are always pretty cool with me going riding and helping me out with bike parts when i need them.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
i would like to go to school for photography after high school and hopefully still riding and being happy.

What is the best advice you could give a person?
have fun.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
garrett reeves, carlos veliz, chris and colby richard, bryan heiser, gary eaton and everyone else i ride with for keeping it sweet

Anything else you would like to say?
thats a lot for reading!

Dave is one of the many very talented Australians who have came over to the U.S and dominated. Making stuff look good and riding like a champ. He has been on the disabled list for a little while now and I had the chance to shoot him over some questions. So check it out and leave Dave a little love in the comments.

Name:
Dave Dillewaard

Location:
Greenville NC

Sponsors:
GT Bikes, Famous Stars and Straps, Demolition, Etnies, 661, Electric

Years riding:
10

What was it that originally got you into BMX?
My brother and his friends were into motos and shit but couldn;t afford them so bmx was the way to go. I just ended up running behind them to the jumps and would use their bikes and huck myself.

How are things going with GT? What can we expect to see out of them these days? Anything new?
GT is goin good. Just got the new gt project team goin and you should be seeing some videos and trips next year.

What do you got going on with Demolition. Any signature stuff, trips, videos, or anything like that in the works?
No sig stuff at the moment but maybe something comin up soon.. we are working on the demolition video right now for next year, but i haven’t got one clip yet. I had wrist surgery in May then when I just started riding again for x games I broke my elbow there and now im out for another 2 months. So as soon as im health will be hitting up some trips with the team for sure.

How about the rest of the sponsors, anything big going on?
I just started gettin flow from povah at etnies so im stoked about that.

When I talked to you last you were on a cross country trip to Greenville, any reason in particular or just going to chill?
I have been planing on coming out here for a while now and I finally made the trek out. I got a lot of good friends out here and I like the town so it should be good. gonna miss cali though.

Your wrist was pretty messed up not too long ago, how is that treating you these days? Are you pretty much 100% now?
As I said above was just gettin good and then broke my elbow. I suppose it’s good for my wrist so it has some more time to heal.

How has the contests been treating you these days? Any big ones coming up at all?
I have missed all the dew tours so far cause of being hurt. rode X-games got hurt. so no contests for me.. I might be able to ride in orlando for the last one.. but a soon as I’m heathly I’m just gonna be tryin to work hard for the demolition video.

Once winter up here in the U.S sets in do you have plans of moving back to Australia or is California going to stay warm enough for you?
I’ll be in greenville till around november/december then head back to Australia for the xmas holidays and stuff. I dont mind a bit of cold.

You obviously have had the chance to ride all over, where are some of your all time favorite places you have had the chance to go to?
I loved Hawaii when I went there like 4 years ago, I would love to go back there, and wistler in Canada where they had red bull elevation a few times, I love that place.

Do you have any big trips in the works anytime soon? Where are some places you would like to go someday?
No trips planned at the moment, but I would like to go to Spain one day, I haven’t been out there and it looks like a good time.

Who is your typical riding crew these days? Do you feel like your riding progresses better because of all the influences you have around you?
When i was riding 4 months ago it would usualy consist of biz, bohan, heath pinter, brett walker, and parslow every now and then. Now I live in gv and when I can ride again I’ll prob ride alot with Josh harrington and darden.

What is the craziest story you have that involves cops/security/homeless people/hookers/or just pissed off people while out riding?
This one time I was in germany with a bunch of people for a contest and we were at an after party… one of my mates smashed up a security guard and we left the party.. as we were walkin up the street about 5 massive german dudes with battens started chasing us. I was drunk and the slowest and this guy cause me and grabbed my neck. I thought I was about to get slammed but he let me go and just went after the rest of the crew. I was pretty scared there. what happened to everyone else is a long story but no one got messed up.

You were one of the first of the Australians to come over and dominate, do you know of a few more who should be getting some coverage soon or any that are deserving of it?
Jaie Tooey is a good up and comer, he boosts airs and has some big tricks to go with it so I think he is gonna do good in some comps. Dane Searls is a sick dirt jumper and is always dominating.

Do you ever get burned out on riding all the time and having to travel and be all over ever? What do you usually do to mix things up and keep BMX fun?
I do sometimes, but right now I am burnt out on doing nothing. Sitting around just wanting to ride sucks a lot.

What are some things BMX could use less of and what could it use more of?
More trails and less trends.

What do you think you would be doing if you never got into BMX?
I would probably be polishing bullbars at ecb back home in Aus.

Outside of riding what are some things you are up to?
I dont mind the odd game of poker, and I like wakeboarding when I get a chance to. table tennis too.

What is the key to success with the ladies other than the Australian accent? Do you ever hit up Corey Bohan for a little advice since apparently hes with that one hot chick?
Fucks me I have been on a dry spell for a while now ahah. I don’t think I have ever asked corey for advice on how to pick up chicks… Maybe I should of along time ago haha.

How many girls have you hooked up at a Dew Tour, X-Games, or other contest?
Wouldnt have a clue. not many haha. It’s hard when theres usually a bar with 40 bmxers and 3 chicks.

If you could see any band ever to exist play live, who would you pick and why?
Saves the Day. I have seen almost every band I have wanted to see live except them.

Have you ever been in a fight and did you win?
Nah I try to stay away from the meat heads.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Try to do some shit for the Demolition video. Get heathly and stay healthy.

Do you spend much time on the internet? Do you have any favorite websites?
I spend a lot of time on the net.. Pretty much if I’m in the house im on the net, usualy play poker, lookin at thecomeup, bmxonline, vitalbmx, myspace, facebook, and pocketfives in rotation.

I can’t imagine you have to work much these days, what are some jobs you did before things with BMX worked out?
I worked at East Coast Bullbars for 2 years saving up to come to the states. That job is a lot harder than it sounds,I would come home black head to toe from all the polish and alloy from the bullbars.

If you could be sponsored by any company that has nothing to do with BMX who would you pick and why?
Bud Light. I spend too much money on beer.

A good night of drinking includes…
Beer bongs, 3 card, chillin with the mates and then a sheila at the end.

What kind of advice do you have for kids just getting into BMX?
Just have fun ride and try not to shit talk too much. Dont try and get sponnoes, if you are good they will come to you and everything will work out.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
Thanks to GT bikes, Famous sas, Demolition, Etnies, Electric, my mates, family, and Kurt for this interview.

Anything else you would like to say?
Nah

Jeremy is so good. If I had to sum up people for an intro in one sentence I would probably use that a lot. Actually though, he is a super talented guy who works really hard also. He is involved with some really great companies and knows how to ride a bike. I caught up with him about the same time as Dig did for an interview, so expect to see that one soon from them also.

Name:
Jeremy Hrabal

Photo: Walter Pieringer

Location:
Originally from Austin, TX now Rockville, MD / D.C.area

Sponsors:
Hoffman bikes, Snafu, vclub

Years Riding:
around 13

What was it that first got you into BMX and what doyou think keeps you doing it today?
My cousin was racing bmx at the local track, and I went to watch him once. He let me ride his bike during the practice and the rest is history.

You have been on Hoffman for almost a year now. How did that all come about? How has it been, anything cool going on with you like trips, videos, signature parts? Anything involving you and Hoffman?
Hoffman is a really cool team to be a part of. Not only is it awesome to ride for a company that had all my favorite riders on it when I was growing up, but now it has a lot of my good friends. I probably owe it to Jeremie Infelise, I think he played a big role getting me on. As far as signature parts go I don’t really think I’m on that level, but expect to see some web videos in the future.

Photo: Seth Mroczka

You are also one of the infamous V-Club guys. What is V-Club all about in your words and will you have anything in the video currently in the works?
We are basically just a group of close friends that enjoy riding with each other. The company aspect is just a bonus, and currently 120% of the money goes to riders, trips, and video expenses. I’ll have a full part in the video.

What is the most important things to you when it comes to keeping BMX fun and worth doing?
Bmx is always fun. Except of course when the unavoidable injury happens. Meeting new people and finding new spots will always keep me going.

If you could only ride one spot for the rest of your days on a bike, where would you ride and why?
This question can’t really be answered right now. I’d be doing research for months to figure out the right spot.

What is the most challenging thing about BMX for you?
Falling. Although I have probably mastered my crashing technique over the years, it seems as though every time I ride I have a couple bone crushing falls.

If you could have a session with 5 people, anywhere in the world. Who would it be with and where would you ride?
Now this is a hard question. I guess I would pick some of my closest friends, the smith bros, Randy Taylor, George Boyd, and Andy Martinez. We would probably go overseas somewhere, but again I’d have to do the research.

Do you ever get into the bike games to play like footdown or b-i-k-e, or anything like that?
Although I haven’t played in a while, I always used to play bike at the skatepark. It’s a great way to keep things fresh and try something new.

What is the craziest thing you have experienced/witnessed because of BMX?
Randy whipping that 18 stair.

What are a few tricks you like to throw down on a daily basis?
This really depends on what I’m riding. I’m currently building trails, so I’m pretty much just hanging out down there all the time. So I wouldn’t say I do any tricks on a daily basis.

Photo: Devon Hutchins

What is the number one trick/line that you cannot get down but is always on your mind?
Downside double pegs and tire rides on normal rails.

What are some things BMX needs more of and what are some things it could use less of?
More places to ride, less bitching.

What do you think you would be up to if you never got into BMX?
I have no idea.

Outside of BMX what are you into?
Nothing much. Eating?

What do you think has been the most influential thing on your life and why?
Well that’s easy. Bmx. It has completely consumed my life that I can’t even comprehend what it would be like not to ride.

Are you into music much? Any favorite bands you care to share?
Back in Austin I use to go to the occasional show, but now I can’t say I’m really in to the music scene. I probably haven’t turned my radio on in my car for months. I like the silence.

It sounds like you are a working dude also, what kind of work are you into these days?
I’m a carpenter, although work hasn’t been very steady lately.

You stumble upon a bag full of money… what do you do?
If it’s a couple hundred or say a thousand, i’d probably just keep it. But if it’s a ridiculous amount I’d probably turn it in to authorities.

Photo: Ryan Smith

If you could be amazingly talented at anything other than BMX what would you pick and why?
Skateboarding I guess. I enjoy skating every once ina while and the principles are pretty much the same as riding so it’s not that big of a change. I could still skate/ride with my friends and go to the same places.

Do you spend much time on the internet? Any favorite websites?
I spend a decent amount. Usually just check my email,and myspace, then browse a couple forums and the come up.

Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years?
Out of debt.

Do you have any advice for kids out there?
Have fun and stop worrying about what everyone else is doing.

Any shout outs or thanks?
Hoffman bikes, all the v club guys, Devon and Seth for the photos. All the trail builders, and anyone I’ve met riding bikes.

Matt is a legend. He has produced one of the best flatland videos of all time and has an amazing amount of talent on a bike. This will be the first interview with a flatlander on this site, which is really good because I have been meaning to do some with the flat guys. Leave Matt some love in the comments!

Name:
Matt Wilhelm

Location:
Chicago, IL

Sponsors:
Hoffman Bikes, Dan’s Comp, Adio Footwear

Years Riding:
16???

What was it that originally got your attention towards BMX and did you ever expect to be doing it still years later?
It was just something that everybody did in my neighborhood when you were a kid. The culture in this neighborhood just bred a lot of good bike riders and skaters for some reason.

How are things going with your sponsors? Any new signature products from any of them? Video parts? anything cool like that?
I just got hooked up with Hoffman Bikes this year, which is awesome. I always wanted to ride for them since the Big Daddy frame came out.

If I remember right you were originally a racer of all things on a BMX. How long did you do that for and when did you eventually jump over to flatland?
I called myself a racer, but I never officially entered a race. I was into that for about a year or two, and I could clear some pretty decent jumps for my age. Doing tricks was looked down on unless it was something like a tabletop. That all changed when somebody wanted to beat me up at the jumps. I still wanted to ride my bike, but I couldn’t go to the trails, so I started riding “Freestyle.”

Did you or do you ever mess around with street, park, or trails at all or is it strictly flatland for you these days?
Now it is just flatland. I used to do some pretty wuss grinds and jumps, but I really just enjoy riding flat. I think that last ramp tricks I learned were no-foot can cans and double barspins.

You have had the chance to travel all over the world because of what you do, where are some of your favorite places?
Japan is obviously a great place to go. The riders are not afraid to take you into their homes and let you be a part of their lives. If it weren’t for the hospitality of the Japanese riders then Japan would be just like almost any other place I go. I also love sushi, so that is a pretty big benefit.

Where are some places you would like to go? and do you ever find it crazy to think you get to travel all over to ride on a flat surface?
I would like to go to Australia or New Zealand. I heard that they are beautiful places to visit. I also would like to visit some historical areas like Athens and Rome.

I feel like you have invented a few tricks in your day? Any you care to share and maybe explain?
Tricks are so hard to explain these days because it is beyond just the positions of the tricks. A few that I am proud of are the 360-body-varial caboose, and obviously the blender bike flip, which I think really took me from an average rider to a real pro.

You have the reputation as the fastest spinner on BMX, what is it like when you really get going and how do you keep yourself from getting dizzy?
I still get dizzy every time. It is all about the feel of the trick and knowing where your body and bike are positioned. I don’t really look at anything specific like a reference point, but I can’t do it with my eyes closed.

On average about how much time do you put in on your bike in a week just practicing and going over runs and such?
I usually ride about three hours per day on average and about six times a week. I want to ride more, but my body just can’t take it. The tricks that I do these days are very physical, and I am exhausted after I am done. I miss the old days where you could ride all day and the tricks weren’t so intense on your body.

What is your contest schedule looking like? Are you organizing any at all?
I competed at the Voodoo Jam this year, the BMX Masters in Cologne, and I will be at the KOG finals in Tokyo. There just aren’t a whole lot of flatland contests these days, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Flatland has really progressed over the past few years, since the focus has moved away from competition. I put a little time toward organizing one, but I am just too busy, and I don’t want to do it halfway.

Do you ever expect to see flatland back in the x games or get into the dew tour? It seems like that side of BMX has really been catching on again?
I am sure that it will not be back in the X Games. That has gone from a skill competition to a TV show. The Dew Tour seems to have good credibility and would seem like a good fit for flatland. I wish that some of the sport organizers for these competitions could see how good a flatland contest is like the Voodoo Jam. We have really reinvented the flatland competition in the past few years. I wish there were more events like the BMX Masters where flatland ramp riding are side by side.

Who are the guys you typically ride with?
Ron Monis, Todd Gully, Ed Egawa, and Dave Petrin. Believe it or not our best sessions are in the winter when we have to ride jam circle style in my warehouse.

What gives you the most motivation when it comes to your riding?
I know that I have been given some pretty good talents, and I don’t want to waste them. I just want to see how good I can be, and when I look back to know that I gave it everything I had.

You have a really good dvd that you made a few years back, do you have any plans on making any more anytime soon?
I initially planned on making “Ground Rules” a two DVD set, but I just ran out of time to work on part two. Making volume one took almost a year, and it isn’t just like dropping video clips on a timeline and putting a music track in the background. I had to animate the drawings for each how-to trick, which takes a long time.

If you could change anything about BMX what would it be and why?
I wish riders would appreciate each others riding more. Sometimes it seems like riders aren’t clapping for each other as much (even during practice). I don’t care if you have been doing the same trick for 10 years. If it is hard it is hard, and I am going to show you respect.

What do you think you would be doing if you never picked up a bike?
I would definitely be doing something musical. I wish that there was more time now, so I could focus on music too.

Outside of BMX what are you into?
Music production, web design, and video production.

What is one of the craziest things you have ever seen/experienced in your life?
I saw a fight in my parking lot and there were guns involved. Not cool.

Did you ever go to college at all? If so what for and how do you feel about school?
I attend college on a music scholarship and graduated with a 3.75 GPA. I kind of have mixed feelings about college. It basically teaches you how to learn, which is great. However, I don’t think that having that piece of paper makes you a better person, and there are some idiots I graduated with who are proof of that.

With the elections coming up, how do you feel about all that? Any plans on voting?
I will definitely vote. People fought for years to get the right to vote, and it would be disrespectful for me not to. I think that local politics play a bigger role in your everyday life though.

What are some of your favorite movies of all time?
The Hurricane, Ground Hog Day, and that’s about it. I don’t really watch many movies.

What kinds of music are you into?
My tastes are very eclectic, and I listen to anything from John Coltrane to Lupe Fiasco. I did take a trip to the crossroads in Clarksdale, Mississippi where bluesman Robert Johnson allegedly sold his soul to the devil.

If you could be capable of doing anything at all, what would you want to do the most?
Live a long, happy, and healthy life. You can’t ask for too much more.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Travel to some new places and learn new tricks,

What is something about yourself people have a hard time believing?
I guess people always think that I am younger than I really am. The main one is that people really can’t believe that I make a living riding a bike.

Do you spend much time on the computer? Any favorite websites?
I don’t know if I should admit this or not, but I am kind of into the whole fantasy football and baseball thing. I like building the teams, and it makes the games more exciting to watch too.

Who or what are the biggest influences on your life?
My parents for sure. In addition to being great people they have an outstanding work ethic, which I have to tried to pick up.

If you were given 3 wishes, what would you ask for and why?
I would ask for tires that don’t wear out, health for those that I know, and with the third wish I would ask for three more wishes.

What is some of the best advice you have ever received?
The past has already happened, the future hasn’t happened yet, and the present is all we have.

What kinds of advice do you have for kids getting into BMX?
I encourage them to practice and not give up when you are frustrated. So many kids think that they can’t do the tricks because their bikes are too heavy. I learned most of my tricks on a 40-pound Standard Shorty. There is no substitute for practice.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
Thanks to those who have supported me throughout my riding career, such as my parents, wife, sponsors, Hoffman Bikes, Dan’s Comp, and people who I have ridden with.

Anything else you would like to say?
Pick up a bike and ride.

When I did the On the Horizon interview with Andy Chapman about Tree, we talked about who to interview from the team. Eben was the first to come up and for obvious reasons. He has a real good view on things and it is obvious why he is on Tree. However, like most pros he still has to work and he has a pretty interesting job. So this is Eben’s interview. Leave him some love in the comments!

Name:
Eben Frank Fischer

Location:
The past year and half I’ve been living in beautiful Bellflower California but was born and raised in Quincy Illinois.

Sponsors:
Tree Bicycle Co., Bellflower Bicycle Shop

Years riding:
Having a clue what was going on and reading magazines like 12 years

What was it that first sparked your attention for BMX and what keeps you motivated today?
Avoiding our parents my older brother and sister took off the training wheels when I was three and I guess I got addicted. Once I rented the movie Rad there was know turning back. I think riding becomes so much of a part of your life, its fun, exercise, hanging out with friends, meeting people, traveling. So thinking about it like this I can always find something to motivate myself to ride.

How are things going with Stolen? Will there be any changes to the “E-Train” frame or other signature parts coming soon? How about trips and videos?
I actually just quit on good terms. It was hard quitting or seemed dumb when you have a signature part let alone a frame but after talking a couple times with Dave (part owner of Stolen) he understands my reasons and agreed it’s a good time to move on. I’m into there bikes/ parts and they have some really original products coming out. I just felt like I’m getting older and my goals I would like to achieve riding weren’t being reached so it was time to move on. I had great time and would like to thank Dave Wooten and Revel again for giving me the opportunity to be a part of Stolen last couple of years. I love road trips and have always wanted to film a part in a full length video but neither where something with my previous sponsors really focussed on.

What’s it like riding for Tree, what are some things you are looking forward to with them?
I’ve know Sam the owner of Tree since I was about 15 and grew up with his right hand man Andy Chapman. There’s nothing better than being able to support your friends who are doing something your into. Sam has always hooked me up with product and I even tagged along on the first Tree road trip in props without officially being on the team. I’m excited about being a part of Tree because they put time into making quality products with their own little touch while promoting the company in their own ways. They also have an awesome team of people with their own personality who all get along. I’m looking forward to getting the whole team together this year including Sam for some type of wild road trip and helping design some T-shirts.

Being one of the few dudes out there running two brakes, how do you feel about the whole brakeless trend these days?
I’m all about riding how ever your bike feels good to you and motivates you. I think brakeless makes some things more challenging and others feel smoother. I think kids who have started out riding brakeless just because the trend should at least try a brake or two. You look how much brakeless riding and free coasters have been pushed the last couple years and I think a lot of kids who never even tried a front brake could come up with some original moves really push riding in a different direction. I think a lot of people relate front brakes to old school stiffer none stylish riding but thats only because not many kids even try a front brake let alone long enough time to really have fun using it.

What are some of your favorite spots to ride from all the places you have had the chance to ride?
That brick tranny building in Baltimore Maryland and the pools at the Salton Sea are both really fun spots. I like to ride weird trannys and pools a lot.

Where do you want to go to ride sometime soon? Any trips you are looking forward to this year or next year?
I really want to go over seas anywhere with a different culture something new and exciting being their let alone the riding spots. I just got invited on a Blackout Distribution trip in November I don’t know much about it but it sounds exciting.

Who is included in the typical crew you ride with these day?
The majority of the nights after work I ride with the locals at the Houghton skate park and weekend street sessions with Morgan. Lately some friends from Quincy have been staying with us getting ready to move here.

Is there any dudes out there who are coming up that you think should be getting coverage?
I’m stoked on Bobbie Altiser and Morgan Long but It’s hard to say who deserves coverage with all the crazy dudes coming up.

When can we expect to see a new web video of you?
I was back in Quincy a couple weeks ago so Bobbie and I threw together a little Tree web edit of front brake tricks.

What is one trick that has been giving you the most trouble?
I still can’t figure out supermans.

If you could go on a road trip with 5 people, who would you bring, where would you go, and why?
A couple guys I grew up riding with Nathan Parker, Arthur Wagner and some new younger guys from the Quincy area Josh Schieferdecker, Bobbie Altiser, Codey Cambell and my roommate Morgan Long. That’s 6 but I like the last minute trips when everyones broke and it’s crowded with no real schedule. I’ve haven’t been out east for a while so maybe driving from Cali to Jersey just riding and camping.

Got any crazy stories about security/cops/homeless people/hookers/pedestrians attacking while out riding?
I heard all these crazy stories about the Houghton skate park in long beach. I ride there a lot at nights after work but nothing much happens. One night I’m riding the park my buddy morgan was grabbing his helmet from the car and gets jumped by two gang bangers. I look over he’s on the ground legs around his bike trying to block punches while the other guys trying get the bike. It was really sketchy and everyone in the park ran over to help. The guys just slowly walked out into the street to a van full of gang bangers then just keep walking. It felt like a situation where someone was going to get shot but they never got the bike.

What does BMX need more of and what does it need less of?
It’s seems pretty well rounded maybe a little less clones.

What do you think you would be up to if you never got into BMX?
Definitely would have followed though and went to an art collage. I can’t complain I got into airbrushing from friends though riding so maybe I’d be a starving artist trying to sell paintings instead of a full time job painting crazy automotive vehicles.

From my understanding you do some airbrush work on cars?
How long have you been doing that and what got you into that?I started airbrushing in 2003 with a friend who already was into custom painting.

Is there anywhere people can check out to see some of your work?
I’m working on a site but for know sometimes Tree will posts some pics in their news.

Did you go to school at all for it or was it just something you worked your way into?
I grew up painting with paint brushes and messed around with spray cans. My friend was always getting his grip tap airbrushed at this shop who was looking for help and told them I was an airbrush artist. I was 20 and never even touched an airbrush but got a job spraying T-shirts. I picked it up pretty fast leaving a few months later to work for a friend who just started an automotive paint shop. We started working out of little storage unit and my first real job we tricked a custom motorcycle shop into believing we do high end bikes. He’s a good body guy and painted cars but never done a motorcycle. We pulled off that job and I fell into a career.

What ever happened to the dreads? Any plans on those blonde things coming back?
My mom offered me 100 dollars to shave my head and I needed money to move. I don’t know it’s so much work starting dreads but who knows maybe someday.

What are some things that have impacted your life the most?
My family, friends, art, bikes, music.

Have you ever been in a fight and did you win? Or arrested ever and why?
No serious fights but I did get arrested for riding a cement park. We where at all nighter at the old ramp riders in St. Louis and ended up having an early morning session at this public park in Belleville. First time riding the park and lived like three hours away the cop says we arrest people from out of town two. This cop was impossible to reason with taking me straight to jail. I had to bail myself out and everything it was really lame. Then last year a cop went crazy at the Santa Ana banks screaming almost firing off his tazzer gun. That ended up being over a 300 dollars fine for just riding away when we saw a cop pull up.

If you could commit any crime and get away with it, what would you do and why?
I always thought it would be a wild experience to be in a bank robbery and come out unharmed so maybe robbing a bank and ending up with a lot of cash.

What are some things you would like to accomplish in the next few years?
Try to keep building my self as a airbrush artist while still spending even more time riding and traveling more. Hopefully get the chance to do some video parts and have fun living life.

Any favorite websites?
The come up, bmxunion, vital, bmxonline, you tube

First song that comes to mind?
If I can find a clean shirt by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson.

First movie that comes to mind?
The last one I watched which is Untraceable.

If you could only eat one thing for a month, what would you choose and why?
Burritos because there cheap and filling.

Who or what have been the biggest influence on your life?
God, Family, friends, art, getting the chance to take art classes from Rose Pritchett growing up.

What is the best advice you have ever been able to give somebody?
Think for yourself don’t just follow other people though life.

Do you have any shout outs or thanks?
God, Mom, Dad, brother, sister, Coby, friends, Sam and Andy at Tree, Dave Wotten and kurt for the interview, any one I forgot thanks.

Anything else you would like to say?
Life is too short don’t waste it, go riding.