Big Ring Down Under

Way back in 89 my pal The ToneMan loaded up my 1983 Mercury Cougar and headed to Californy to see what all the fuss about the NORBA National Series was about. We hit Big Bear first and set up camp. Back then even most of the Pro’s camped. Some guy named Greg Herbold was in the next site over from us. We met some dude that raced under the name Wiley Coyote and assorted other miscreants. In those days going to a National meant racing a hill climb, X Country, downhill and usually a trials contest. We did them all and collapsed every night with belly’s full of rice and beans and ETFE (ear to f#@king ear) grins on our faces.

After Big Bear we headed up to Mammoth and found the camping a little less comfortable. It was getting down to the 20’s at night in July and we didn’t think to pack very warm clothes. We ended up going to the Kitzbuhl Hostel where we met a crew of crazy Aussies. Ian Downing and Graeme Allbon. These guys were as the say “full on”. They kept us rolling on the floor with their stories of traveling to US in a van they bought from some Mexicans in LA. What struck me (other than how fast they were) was how passionate these guys were about just riding in general. I knew after meeting these guys that for me at least, this biking thing was not a phase I would grow out of (as my Dad still hopes). Graeme is still racing today and works for AIS. Ian went on to open a shop and as you will see is still very much living the 2 wheeled dream, check it HERE.

As Ian says “it doesn’t matter what you ride, just ride”. Amen Brother.