The Weekly Rider - Matt Hawkins
Matt Hawkins is the founder of Ridge Supply, North Carolina cyclist, and all-round legend. He's growing his apparel brand, riding bikes, and occasionally cultivating one hell of a beard. All the while he's being a husband to Hilary, and father to Mac and Eppie. He had a chat to us about his love of bikes.
He's shaved the beard now, but it was glorious.
Matt Hawkins, North Carolina, USA
Dream Bike
My Jack Kane Custom Road bike is my Dream Bike... the total design, paint and build is unique to me... it is as light, stiff and fast as anything else... but it is a one of one.
Favourite local ride
Croatan Dirt Sector Loops. Miles of forest service gravel roads that provide a safe, peaceful environment to trash yourself on the segment roads.
What is your current cycling goal
My cycling goal is to continue to bring awareness to the importance of visibility through great products. My racing career is over and I now focus on challenging rides that still push my limits.
There's no mistaking Matt's bike, calf, or the amazing socks he designs and sells through Ridge Supply
When I am on the bike I....
Ride hard, take pictures, chance KOMs, and always enjoy the ride.
How did your love of bikes come about?
I started with a box bike at an early age, but did my first road race at 12yrs old... and I've ridden ever since.
Share a cycling memory
My favorite cycling memory is of the camping and night climb ride called "The Kicker"... it is a secret mountain road that climbs from the campsite up to a cell tower in the Shenandoah National Park... we would all climb it in the dark with our lights and it gets so steep that you are battling pulling wheelies at the top... one time we climbed it while it was snowing... and the bike lights lit up the forest night covered in white... hands down the most amazing ride I've been a part of.
Matt's legs are well represented on the internet.
I love to ride because....
The bike is where I'm free. I ride because it makes everything in my life better... If I'm riding, I'm healthy, I'm happy, I'm a better Husband and Father, and if I don't get to ride, I'm kind of a worthless.
Matt is proud to be supported by: Ridge Supply, Cutaway USA, Handup Gloves, Bicycle Gallery (Jacksonville, NC)
Check out our RIdge Supply profile for more info about Matt's awesome brand.
