Alex Davies

How did you get into biking?

When I was 15 years old I worked at an auto body shop in Busti, NY. The owner of the company was an avid MTB racer and road on his lunch break most days of the week. Being 15 years old and desperately wanting to be accepted I took him up on the offer the very first time he asked if I would like to join him. This single ride opened my eyes to an entirely different type of active lifestyle that I never knew would be available to me. I bought a bike on layaway at my local bike shop and continued to ride and learn from him every chance I got. Eventually I gave racing a try, took my first job as a mechanic in the bicycle industry and 23 years later I’m still riding and racing my bike any chance I get.

What’s your favorite bike ride?

Hmm… There are so many to choose from. Over the last 8ish years we have developed so many routs from 10 to 30 miles starting right here in the city that it’s hard to pick a favorite one. I still really enjoy heading out to the water front, cruising through the outer harbor and looping back up through South Buffalo. The roads are all easy to ride, most have bike lanes and the residents of South Buffalo always come out to cheer us on in a very positive way.

What’s your favorite thing about Buffalo’s cycling community?

I like that we have a very diverse cycling community in the City of Buffalo. Working at a bike shop on a daily basis puts me right in the mix of things so I might notice it more than most. We literally have cyclists from all walks of life pass through our doors. I like that while on a group ride it’s all about the ride. Nobody cares what you do for a living, if you’re rich or poor, the color of your skin or the gender you identify with. You have a bike… You like to ride it… We’re going to ride them together.

What are your favorite winter activities?

It’s a toss up between XC Skiing and Snowshoeing. They are currently the things that get me through the winter. I think for me it comes down to the snow conditions when picking one or the other. I also enjoy Fat biking any time I have the chance and have been known to make a few Telemark turns at Holiday Valley now and then.

Why do I coordinate?

I like being a part of something that I feel plays such a positive role in so many peoples lives. I truly believe a bike can change a life. I know it did mine. It makes me feel good to be a part of a group of people who’s goal is to make cycling fun and accessible to as many people as possible.