Emma Johnson
Hometown:
Little Rock
Occupation:
Student and cyclist
Where I ride:
I love riding down at Big Dam Bridge and Two Rivers because I can get there easily and it feels like a safe place for me because there are so many people I see around that I know. My favorite type of riding is cyclocross because it’s just fun. It’s like a big party and it’s always entertaining and messy.
The playlist:
I listen to music when mountain biking but not on the road. I like upbeat stuff because it’s catchy and it keeps me energized.
The bike:
My road bike is a Fuji. I have had it for almost a year now and I really like it. It’s super light and a perfect fit for me with all the colors and patterns.
Why I ride:
I ride because it makes me feel good. It takes away all the stress I have going on and I can just focus on the bike. It’s also introduced me to some amazing people and they keep me motivated. It keeps me in shape and it’s something I really enjoy.
Pearl iZumi Gloves: “They were my first gloves. They have good cushioning.” $40
Reynolds Wheels: “They’re nice and light.” $1549
ALIANTE V5 SEAT: “It’s a lot more comfortable, and it’s a lot lighter than the one my bike came with.” No longer available; comparable seats start at $200.
Canyon SRAM Arm Warmers: “They were given to me by Leah Thorvilson. I’m never giving these up.” Priceless
Cory Johnson
Hometown:
Little Rock
Occupation:
Principal Broker for JK Real Estate
Where I ride:
When I mountain bike, my favorite place to ride is Camp Robinson. It is a great compact trail system for a “backyard” playground. If I day trip, then the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail is epic! I try and hit it a few times a year. When road riding I like to combine gravel roads with bike paths around town or just outside of town as much as I can. Lake Sylvia and Winona have some amazing forest service road rides.
The playlist:
I do listen to music except when riding with someone else on a road ride. Usually ride to jam bands or Jazz-Funk music...keeps my pedals cranking.
The bike:
I have a Moots Routt for my gravel/road bike. It’s an absolutely amazing bike. It makes me feel like going on an epic adventure ride every time I ride it. My mountain bike is currently a steel hardtail 27.5+ rig, but who knows next week or month what that will be. I trade in and out of mountain bikes way too much, but just like to be on the trails trying new options.
Why I ride:
The freedom and simplicity and just being outside with people who have similar interests. Bikes are just cool!
XLAB Gear Pod: “I’ve never liked a dangling saddlebag, so instead I carry a water-bottle-style tool holder.” $9.95
Garmin 520: “I started using a Garmin again about a year ago. It meshes up my rides with my heart rate monitor.” $249
Mountain Hardwear Vest: “This wind vest is really functional. It folds into its own mesh pocket and fits under my cycling jersey if I need to wad it up.” No longer available; comparable vests start at $59.95.
Gore Bike Wear Gloves: “They’re windproof. Enough said.” $49.95