Love is a strong word that signifies not only an emotional bond but also deeper connection that goes beyond superficial attraction and companionship. Love is formed around a relationship that is intertwined at one’s roots and aligned with personal morals and ideals. Love is something that shapes character and evolves over time into a broad, all-encompassing connection. If I had to describe one thing that shaped my childhood, and guided me to where I am today I would describe my bike. If it wasn’t for my bike I would not be who I am, I would not be where I am and I would not be heading in my current direction. If it wasn’t for my bike I would not be me.

Growing up, I was fortunate enough to be a part of the Sprockids youth cycling club. This is a program founded in Western Canada that gets kids on bikes. In addition the kids are able to learn environmental responsibility, leadership skills and much more. It was because of this program that I started mountain biking and purchased my first mountain bike, a 1996 Norco Magnum. It was on this bike and through the Sprockids program that my love for two wheels took off. It was riding my bike that let me be as free as I wanted while learning the skills that would become so important later in life.

Through racing, coaching, teaching and working my high school career seemed only a necessary evil which separated me from the immense trail network that is found on the Sunshine Coast, a community just north of Vancouver. This is an area that breathes cycling. Mountain biking is at the foundation of the community and through this bond, some of the greatest mountain biking around can be found in the area. Finishing off grade some of the best riding around in my backyard, I found myself heading off to University cramming as many bikes into my cramped closet of a dorm room as possible and getting out riding whenever possible… Long story short, after four years of riding/school, I graduated University and set out into the big, scary ‘Real World’.

In the real world I was welcomed as a part of the Norco Family in Port Coquitlam BC. Through Norco there is little to do with my daily life that isn’t directly related to bikes and riding. With any luck at all a day at the office surrounded by bikes is followed by a pedal around the local trails. Honestly, I don’t know what I would do without a bike and frankly I hope I never have to find out. I have grown up on a bike, I have been raised by a community of cyclists and it is pretty rare to spend a day without throwing a leg over a bike. I love my bike!

Do you love your bike? Email why to: ilovemybike@norco.com

Dustan