Video: Martyn Ashton - Back on Track

Jul 2, 2015
by Pinkbike Staff  

Following his injury in 2013, Martyn Ashton, trials legend, creator of Road Bike Party 2, and, above all family man and bike rider, began his inspirational journey to get back on track. Joined by his friends Danny MacAskill, Chris Akrigg and Blake Samson, this is Martyn Back On Track.

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Member since Jul 22, 2013
3,460 articles

185 Comments
  • 424 1
 I have nothing but admiration for both Martyn, and for the whole team that continues to support him. The MTB bond is unparalleled in contrast to any other sport, truly an inspirational thing to see.
  • 62 2
 @Rokan14. Video of the year followed by comment of the year.
  • 90 1
 I agree with Rokan14. To add with the same feeling. Martyn's smile is worth a million words of love and praise. I recent taught my Autistic son Dale to ride with no training wheels. What was once a boring and hard thing do has become a new fun and very enjoyable experience for to have for himself and share with family. My son's smile I will never forget, ear to ear just Martyn's smile. We are a true community when something like this can come together for someone.
  • 6 1
 It's so good to see him riding again. What trail were they riding?
  • 10 1
 @duckcrisps Looks like one of Antur Stiniogs red runs to me.
  • 17 1
 SO MANY FEELS! Such inspiration.
  • 25 0
 This has got to be the only justification for an e-bike on the trails! Combined with Martyn's insane skills he could get some help mounting up at home, and never have to touch the ground until he was done.
  • 3 0
 I'm certain those were some of the biggest smiles he's had in a while. Looks like great fun with support from some great people! Made my day!
  • 41 1
 GET THIS MAN AN EBIKE! Some throttle! Here is a practical application of that technology!
  • 4 0
 hard to beat such a great spirit and friends who've got yer 6
  • 2 0
 Woo go Martyn! Most down to earth guy ever!
  • 6 29
flag KondziuNS (Jul 2, 2015 at 12:29) (Below Threshold)
 The WD-40 helmet killed me, a bit of dark humour from the sponsors I guess. Making things that don't move go. Or am I overinterpreting things?
  • 7 0
 @KondziuNS he had the WD sponsorship before he was hurt.
  • 2 6
flag KondziuNS (Jul 2, 2015 at 13:19) (Below Threshold)
 Oh, I see. I meant no offense guys, I just thought that his helmet was kind of a bad place for a WD logo.
  • 10 0
 He's also got a bike dripping in the word 'hope'. Never a more appropriate sponsor I'd say.
  • 1 0
 @airtym So stoked for you man! That's what keeps this sport alive!
  • 198 2
 As I'm paralyzed myself, this video gave ma feeling i'm not able to describe. God, I wish I could ride again some day Frown

Martyn, you rule.
  • 33 1
 You will, man! If you can wish it, you can do it. The technology is getting there!
  • 20 0
 Can you get on a four wheeler like that rad as hell whistler dude who's name I have forgotten? Good luck man. I hope you ride again.
  • 37 0
 I want regular bike, can be even 29+, never liked pedalling, but now i would pedal it to death. Thx for kind words, it's been 10 months already, but slow and steady progression still gives me hope. But now I'm still too weak to do what Martyn did, not to mention normal biking.
  • 30 0
 Insane 4-wheeler dude: Stacy Kohut. Funny story: talking with a guy who coaches in the bike park, he was riding behind him and Stacy crashed off the trail. He asked him "are you alright?" and Stacy, with (turns out) mock panic grabs his thighs and yells, "My legs! I can't feel my legs!" These guys *know* that life has changed and can't be undone, but they accept it and push beyond, achieving amazing things. @nikifor88: Keep at it; we're all pulling for you!
  • 3 0
 hang on there dude! you'll ride again too, soon!
  • 2 0
 Hang on there pal.

Hopefully, these guys will have something available soon.
www.projectenduro.co.uk
  • 2 0
 thx man, but hopefully I won't need that Smile

and thanks for kind words, guys!
  • 1 0
 You could try an E-Bike
  • 107 2
 Thank god no one else is in the office this early. I'm crying with a smile on my face at my desk. Must look like a real loon. Go Martin!
  • 13 0
 I'm in my work truck on my lap top doing the same thing. Martyn is such an inspiration.
  • 9 2
 I cried too. On the way to the shop
  • 1 0
 Sitting in a hotel room in Tokyo at the moment, tears streaming. Can't imagine how it must feel to put the wheels beneath you again. Well done, Martin. And to you, riding mates and industry supporters, treasure your humanity.
  • 98 0
 Was going to post a comment, but I got something in my eye. Gimme a minute...
  • 27 0
 im with you bro
  • 15 1
 It's so damn dusty in here right?!
  • 8 0
 Damn those onions.
  • 52 0
 there are no brakes on the feel train :'-)
  • 51 0
 Inspirational!

Have you thought about an e-bike to keep you speed up on the flats?
  • 71 0
 The rare occasion where I fully support the mountain e-bike.
  • 12 0
 I hate e bikes with a passion but this is a great idea!
  • 3 0
 I'm not the only one who wants to try this thing out, right?
  • 6 0
 It would need a bit of modification, since E-bikes only assist your pedalling, so you have to be pedalling for the motor to engage. Sure it would be fairly easy to do though!
  • 3 0
 I hope there's a e/mountain bike in the works for paraplegics...
  • 45 1
 I'm actually crying with joy watching this! The smile on his face is just so damn awesome! Martyn, you rock!
  • 11 0
 Im not crying is just dust that went into my eyes.
  • 24 1
 Dude is a goddam legend. And can still ride better than I can.
  • 20 0
 As at T12/L1 paraplegic will it be socially acceptable in this instance to ride a eBike??
  • 11 0
 Yes.
  • 20 0
 I work at the spinal centre in Salisbury... Showing my patients this in the morning!!
  • 18 0
 When was the last time you actually felt like crying over a MTB video? Sensational....
  • 6 0
 This is fucking excellent. Well chuffed for you Martyn. Looking forward to seeing how you and your team might improve on this already awesome platform and hopefully allow others the chance to ride again. Great work and great to see you back on it.
  • 5 0
 Awesome vids (watched the 2 behind the scenes) shows you what can be done when you put your mind to it. Amazing and inspirational. Like someone else mentioned I too think an e-bike could be an option when gravity runs low. Great to see you back on 2 wheels again Martyn! Your still blow my mind with your riding skills now as you did when I first saw you in Chainspotting!
  • 7 0
 The smile on his face is the reason why we all ride. This vid has made my day! Legend.
  • 5 0
 One of the guys who basically taught me how to ride trials trough this classic : www.youtube.com/watch?v=GxFMgQZB8JU

Awesome to see him riding again, surrounded by some of the best rider he inspired.
  • 5 0
 So awesome! Stuff like this hits you right in the feels. A good friend of mine had a very similar injury back on Christmas Day last year, been scratching my head on how to get him back on a bike... love this idea!
  • 5 0
 What an inspiration. I can't begin to explain how happy it makes me to see a rider that i grew up watching riding again. Your a hero Mart we can all learn a lot from your determination and courage.
  • 6 0
 shit!!! got me right in the feels....ive got hayfever...that's why my eyes are red and watery....honestly!
  • 4 0
 Amazing but seeing people get bucked is not right. Why not put the seat on a slider system so you can slide your body weight around and maybe be able is lessen the bucks or get air!
  • 4 0
 As much as any of us may be stoked for Martyn I don't think any of us come close to the level he must have had going on that ride - just look at him!
  • 5 0
 his smile is absolutely priceless... I'm so happy to see im on two wheels again
  • 2 0
 Amazing! Absolute legend! Two of my friends have had the same injury and I have always followed you. One of my friends is now back racing motocross and the other keen to get back skiing. You all make me so humble in your strength and incredible nature.

I cant say how watching this film made me feel other than joyous that you are back on the bike!

No roadbike party style stuff though please ;-)
  • 4 0
 Just the best film.. Truly inspirational! How the hell does he do it?? Much the same question we all all asked after Road Bike Party!!
  • 4 0
 Any idea where he got that seat made? I have a friend with Downs and something like this would help him stay in the seat a little better. I'd love to get it made for him.
  • 2 0
 Martyn Ashton has been an inspiration to me since his first MBUK shoot with Hawyes back in the mid nineties. Met him and others in 97 when Chainspotting came out. He really took time out for his fans and that was special. Shared a viewing platform with him in 2011 at the Fort William world cup, before his accident and although he's a legend of the sport no-one bothered him for autographs, which seemed strange. An all round, genuinely nice guy in my experience. Seeing this really bought a tear to my eyes, not something I can say for any other bike video.
  • 2 0
 If there is ever anybody that can overcome this Martyn can. Such a legend, been a huge fan ever since the days of the 'martins' in chainspotting and all of the other mbuk vids in the 90's. There seems to be such a bond of brotherhood of mtbers and this vids epitomises it greatly!! The look on Martyns face when he smashes the first jump!! Get in my son, good luck for the future and i hope you get to read all of these positive comments and take it all onboard, dont give up brother u r a legend!!!
  • 4 0
 Totally awesome. You can just see how stoked he is to be back on two wheels. Huge respect to all involved!
  • 3 0
 So amazing, when it comes to overcoming injuries he set the bar higher than anyone could imagine, the entire mountain biking world will shed tears of joy today for Martyn
  • 4 0
 All aboard the feels train, this was truly inspirational. I dont always get emotional but when I do its a mtb video.
  • 6 0
 LOOK AT THE WHIP!!
  • 1 0
 Watching Martyn and the gang gave me shivers...I did not know that he is now paralysed. This is a very emotional video and to be honest I was teary eyed watching Martyn ride MTB again. All the best Martyn! You have my support too...
  • 1 0
 WHAAAT THE FUCK!!!! I'm totally in fucking tears like a 5yr old... this is gut-wrenching good stuff and must be the greatest video ever - don't you ever even dream of pulling it down! Heartfelt blessings to all those involved - let me go and grab my kleenex now...
  • 1 0
 Without doubt, one of the most stirring video's I've ever had the pleasure of watching! Martyn clearly had grit and determination in spades in the first place to become the rider we all know and love, however this is simply awe inspiring. Well done to Martyn and the team that were involved in this incredible video. All the best, John.
  • 1 0
 When I was a Kid growing up in the world of biking this guy was one of the Hero's... Now 20 years on Martyn is STILL VERY MUCH MY HERO'S.. I do have to say I did cryed today watching this because I didn't know this had happened to him making me think Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good People.
  • 2 0
 I'm speechless, all I can do is cry and laugh at the same time. Props to Martyn for having friends of such quality, and to his sponsors for never giving up on him. His face is worth a gazillion dollars.
  • 2 0
 Hopefully when he is ready himself he will try to get other people who have suffered the same out. Maybe a day once a year or so with some backing from an uplift and bike sponsors.
  • 2 0
 Anyone got a tissue??
Met him in the late 90's - so down to earth, would chat and made you feel at ease, even though I felt like an eleventeen year old girl having just met her favourite boy band...
Hero.
  • 1 0
 A close friend of mine is paralyzed from the waist down. If is not as simple as being unable to use your legs. It hurts him constantly. He struggles with intense depression. It is a bigger blow than any of us can imagine. The courage it takes to go on is amazing, and do this video is more beautiful than we can appreciate, but by trying we can can ask gain a little empathy
  • 1 0
 Amazing Martyn's back on a bike, would it not be better to get rid of drive parts & have something better than electrical tape to keep feet on?
But I know you want not to be fixed to bike if did crash
I could design something for you Martyn get in touch if interested
Next get a e bike too for ups
  • 5 0
 I'm happy now Smile
  • 4 0
 So good to see him back on the bike!
  • 3 0
 This is amazing. Such a legend. And those Stiniog trails are anything but easy!
  • 3 0
 so much respect for this legend, just to get back on a bike with no working legs is beyond incredible
  • 3 0
 Makes me realize that I should always be enjoying my time riding my bike. Riding my bike is just freedom for me.
  • 3 0
 Unbelievable courage and perseverance from an athlete of unparalleled skill. #Legendary!
  • 4 0
 I'm not crying, my eyes are just sweaty.
  • 1 0
 That was just amazing to watch, definitely got a few things in my eye... What a guy he is and really inspirational to see everything he has done since the accident! Amazing Martyn.
  • 1 0
 This has my vote for Video of the Forever. Each year there is a new video that stamps in time the "state of the sport," but this video is all-time: It captures the very reason for riding in the first place.
  • 1 0
 Why can't you like this video, truely amazing and inspirational to anyone who has had the same accident as him or wishes they can ride, well done to everyone part of this, keep it up Martyn smiles worth millions all round
  • 1 0
 Absolutely blown away by this. Huge smile on my face watching him smile on the way down. Next time I feel frustrated about riding my bike, I'll think of this and just be happy that I'm riding my bike.
  • 3 0
 I would not be laughing while doing this. I'd be fucking crying from excitement.
  • 4 0
 VOY for sure! Inspiration. Bike. Life
  • 2 2
 So awesome!

Martyn- how about competing as a DH racer now? Not WC (right away), but at least local races and such. Gwin & Mulaly proved you don't need to pedal to be competitive anymore given the right track. Seriously- a guy with your bike skills, could in fact be quite possible. Show us how it's done.
  • 4 0
 This video hit me right in the feels.
  • 3 0
 Fantastic, got to love those boys!!!
  • 3 0
 Incredible stuff, so happy for him!
  • 3 0
 fighting with tears right now. So happy to see him back.
  • 3 0
 Rob Warner would be like "Look at the smyle!!!!!"
Bike=happiness
  • 4 1
 You, sir, are a legend. Get the man a knighthood!
  • 4 0
 100% Awesome
  • 3 0
 honestly just out right amazing.
  • 3 0
 Martyn Ashton you are the man !
  • 3 0
 Video of the century, I was smiling from start to finish
  • 3 0
 as they said... brilliant
  • 3 0
 Awesome! Such a great way to start the day.
  • 2 0
 I choked up on this, little lump in my throat and a tear in my eye! You've never been away Martyn,but welcome back Smile
  • 2 0
 how dare you put water in my eyes!
beautiful video, the bond/friendship in this sport is incredible!!
  • 1 0
 I remember when he posted a message to me about the plan to have an epic ride at 7 summit here in Indonesia.... nice guy. What a spirit! Ride on Joe Shaft!!
  • 3 0
 Had tears watching this... So inspirational!
  • 1 0
 Outstanding video!!! Welcome back martyn! I can honestly say that ride was probably the best ride your friends and yourself have ever been on!!
  • 2 0
 Not going to lie, that made my eyes well up seeing that massive smile, amazing! Cant wait to see what the future holds!
  • 2 0
 He is such a great guy, also just to see him talking about his situation.A great inspiration!
  • 2 0
 Brilliant, great video and the smiles say it all.

P.s where is that trail?a
  • 2 0
 Antur Stiniog, North Wales Wink
  • 1 0
 Shit!! Decided to go to Penmachno instead of Stiniog at Easter, will be going to AS for sure next time
  • 1 0
 This is what MTB and sport in general is all about. Amazing story all captured by Martyn and the other lads smiles. Fantastic!
  • 2 0
 Legend doesn't begin to do him justice !!!
There's no stopping him now Smile . You put the "great" back in to GB.... CONGRATS
  • 3 0
 Absolute legend! I'll never moan about anything again.
  • 1 0
 I grew up reading mags and watching videos with Martyn Ashton in, he was a real inspiration, happy to say he still is - more than ever.
  • 1 0
 someone needs to get this guy an e-bike and a kickstand and there is no telling where he will go with it.. this is so fcking inspirational.
  • 1 0
 Friendship and dedication! there we see what's possible.... I have still hope for this world.

Puhhh that heatwave make my eyes sweat ;-)

go on Martyn
  • 3 0
 Got a bit choked up watching that
  • 3 0
 I shed a tear, So happy for you Martyn Smile Ride On!
  • 3 0
 Good god, that's amazing! My face hurts from smiling so much!
  • 3 0
 you see martyn's smile? awesome...
yea..fantastic four...
  • 4 0
 Video of the year .
  • 3 0
 estoy impresionado!!!

100% true friendship + 100% mtb spirit!!!!!
  • 3 0
 Feelings, feelins everywhere. This guys is a true inspiration!
  • 2 0
 Things like this makes me realise how much we take the simple things in life for granted
  • 2 0
 Beautiful. Love ya Martyn, you've always been an absolute dude, and you still are, rock on man x
  • 2 0
 Awesome such a shame he got injured but even still he's probably still faster and more talented than me absolutely unreal
  • 2 0
 this videos brought tears to my eyes. So happy to see him on a bike again and smiling!!!
  • 3 0
 Truly inspirational.
  • 3 0
 Impressive.
Beer
  • 3 0
 HELL YES MARTYN!
  • 3 0
 Legend.
  • 3 0
 Always my hero!
  • 2 0
 Dude still has more style than me on a bike
  • 1 0
 He could become like the best in the world at seat bouncing!! I would probably go otb if i tried to jump seated like that
  • 2 0
 GO ON MATE!!!!! What a hero!
  • 2 0
 Truly amazing! He shreds!!!
  • 1 0
 Martyn smAshedthem - what a man! Great heart warming video, well done to all involved. Excellent : )
  • 1 0
 Watching that video gave me goose bumps and made me feel so happy!!! Incredibly awesone.
  • 1 0
 That smile of his tells you everything you need to know about riding bikes. So happy to see a legend back on two wheels!
  • 1 0
 Inspirational. You can take the person off the ride but never the ride out of the person.
  • 1 0
 Amazing detemination, need to think of him the day you cant be bothered to go out because its cold, windy wet etc.
  • 1 0
 Awesome! Maybe some sort of suspension seatpost might help with the "bucking" he experiences from having to stay seated...
  • 4 2
 Always nice to recignise a trail I ride every month, antur stiniog
  • 2 0
 Is someone cutting onions near me? Truly amazing!!
  • 3 0
 Amazing. Such a legend!
  • 2 0
 Well that is just lovely. Can't think of any other word. Lovely.
  • 3 1
 I cried like a baby, holy sht. Take care Martyn!
  • 1 0
 I right with mate I was caring today.. Xx When I was a Kid growing up in the world of biking this guy was one of the Hero's... Now 20 years on Martyn is STILL VERY MUCH MY HERO'S.. I do have to say I did cryed today watching this because I didn't know this had happened to him making me think Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good Peopol
  • 2 0
 Amazing! Keep it up!
  • 2 0
 Wow, just wow.
  • 1 0
 watery eyes, can't stop 'em
  • 1 0
 That just made my day !!!! Truly inspirational
  • 1 0
 He sure can practice his endos! Such an awesome video. VOM definitely.
  • 1 0
 ...just great to see him back on the bike!!!
  • 1 0
 what is this watery substance coming from my eyes?
  • 1 0
 Suddenly 27.5 plus got a lot cooler!
  • 1 0
 Great to see Martyn not giving up! #LEGEND
  • 2 0
 Well done shag
  • 1 0
 Lump in throat sucks back a tear... man enough to admit.
  • 1 0
 his face says it ALL......
  • 1 0
 I couldn't stop smiling through this whole vid. F@cken sweet
  • 1 0
 I can only hope that my mates would do the same for me. Cheers Martyn.
  • 1 0
 Wow amazing that smile says it all.
  • 2 0
 Very happy for him!
  • 1 0
 The look on his face says it all.
  • 1 0
 Nothing can be said,his smile says it all.
  • 1 0
 speechless and cant wait for what Martyn does next.....inspirational.
  • 1 0
 get Martyn a custom bike, please!!!!!electric motor!!!!!
  • 1 0
 now that was just fucking awesome. get on Martyn!
  • 1 0
 Just an absolute inspiration.
  • 1 0
 Martyn, you know what? Fcuck yeah!!!
  • 1 0
 Amazing! But I just hate it when they put tear gas in videos!
  • 1 0
 ONLY Admiration... most would shrink away into depression. Fkin ace.
  • 1 0
 Martyn uses 27.5+ to get back riding, internet explodes.
  • 1 0
 no need for my comment; everyone has said it all!!!
  • 1 0
 amazing
  • 4 4
 Sure, why the hell not! After all, what's the worse that can happen?
  • 1 0
 Amazing.....
  • 1 0
 Inspirational.
  • 1 3
 Bummer, I thought he was healed by the title of the video.
  • 4 0
 Maybe he is.







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