What is your name and where are you from?
John, Chicago
How long have you been riding?
since 1985(got into flat in 1986)
What kind of bike/bikes do you have?
Changes weekly...i'm a bike whore(lol). No, I plan on having this for a while...2005 quamen g6(76.5ht) with mounts.
1988 Haro Master set up almost exactly as I rode it back in 1988.
Flat bar road bike(customized)
What got you interested in Flatland BMX?
Seeing a Hawaiian Punch Freestyle Team show at the World Of Wheels in 86, the movie "RAD" and then meeting Hiro Tschiuda, Mark Murphy and a few other guys that same year. Hiro was always so helpful and willing to help w/everything...trick tips, rides to contests, parts, you name it!
What does Flatland BMX mean to you?
When I was young it was more of a sport type thing(everyone dreams of being a star) but now it's more of an art release for me. it's always meant friends and brotherhood to me even though all the years i rode street and neglected flatland.
Who is your favorite rider?
Anyone I ride with, anyone who doesn't think they're too good/cool to ride with or talk to you. Matt Wilhelm(seeing him grow up and take his riding all the way to the level it is was a cool experience for me). i also respect all the old guys of my era who pushed riding to where it is today. Without the Kevins, Chases and Gary Pollaks it would not have progressed!
What is your best BMX memory?
Too many to list! The underground sessions w/ Hiro, Bob Kohl, Billy, Murphy(yes he rode flat too!) we rode all night sometimes! Riding the lake front w/Tony the juggler, "Wheelie Dave", "The Twins". All the Picasso/State building adventures. Riding street with Chris(r.i.p), Junior and Scooter all night long in below freezing temps. Like I said, too many to list.
How can other riders contact you?
Global-flat, ebay or bmxmuseum, same user name on all of them...johnu773
Any last words?
you're only as old as you feel, don't burn bridges cuz you never know when you may need to recross them(formal apology Hiro...sorry for the years of heckling). always help others if you can, it's the way i got started and the way I'd like to be remembered. Thanks to God (for keeping me going, my beautiful girls, and my wife). My mom(for putting up w/me) Paul Hahn, Junior, Hiro, Matt Wilhelm and anyone who's tried help, motivate, encouraged or guide me in life.
THANK YOU!
