FINISHED: Ask Me Anything: Dan Atherton - Escape. Create.

Dec 4, 2014 at 12:46
by Pinkbike Staff  
Dan Atherton

In association with the release of Escape. Create. Pinkbike are chuffed to announce that Dan Atherton, protagonist and mastermind behind the Red Bull Hardline will be answering your questions live on the site today.

“Escape. Create." focuses on the creative genius of Dan and how his drive and determination to build has helped push and inspire his brother and sister to become Downhill World Champions, “Escape. Create.” gives a unique insight into the mind of one of the most creative course designers and builders in mountain biking. The film, comes hot off the back of the first ever Red Bull Hardline event, which was designed and built by Dan earlier this year. It follows the story of Dan’s passion for building and showcases some of his finest creations from ‘The Yard’ at Atherton HQ to lines he builds for the family near his new home in the Dyfi Forest in Mid-Wales.

Meet the man behind the crazy trails and have him answer your questions today.

Dan Atherton: Getting Down to the Dirt - Teaser

by redbullbike
Views: 24,377    Faves: 83    Comments: 6


How ‘Ask Us Anything' Works:

Starting at 10:00 AM PST/6:00 PM BST on Friday, December 5th you can type your questions into the comment box following this article and Dan Atherton will have a crack at answering them. Sometimes your answer will pop up in a few seconds; others may take a while, as Dan will be busy responding to the flood of questions. Everyone who posts a question, large or small, will be taken seriously. To make the process as efficient as possible, try to follow these simple guidelines:

• Keep your questions relative. While this is an 'Ask Me Anything' session, the concentration is on Dan Atheron's new film. Questions related to this are encouraged, but still feel free to ask whatever pressing queries you may have.

• Stay focused. Try to keep your questions on one topic if possible. You can always ask about another item later.

• Try to keep your questions to about 100 words.

• Ask Us Anything is a service to PB readers who are seeking helpful information, not a forum to broadcast opinions or grievances. If you do have a negative issue that you want to ask about, no worries, just keep your complaints relevant and in the context of a question so that it can be addressed in a productive manner.

• Use propping to acknowledge good - or not so good - questions. Bump them up or down to where they belong.

Dan Atherton at Red Bull Escape. Create. in Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant United Kingdom on the 24th of September 2014

Mark your calendars - the conversation starts at 10.00 AM Pacific Time / 6:00 PM British Time on Friday, December 5th.

Other time zones:
• 1:00 PM EST (New York)
• 6:00 PM BST (London)
• 7:00 PM CET (Paris)
• 8:00 PM SAST (Cape Town)
• 5:00 AM AEST (Sydney, Aus)

For more Red Bull related content visit redbull.com/bike

Mentions: @GTBicycles, @redbullbike


Author Info:
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Member since Jul 22, 2013
3,465 articles
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289 Comments
  • 147 1
 Hey up Guys,cheers for coming online,i will try to answer as many as i can.......dont bother asking for Rachs Number.
  • 4 1
 Ha! Not the first time it's happened I'm sure!
  • 65 0
 how bout Gee's number?
  • 4 1
 Will you be doing any building outside of the UK?
  • 5 1
 DAMMIT!!!!!
  • 3 26
flag binks (Dec 6, 2014 at 20:53) (Below Threshold)
 Dan, can I ride your sister? if no, its cool.
  • 110 2
 Whats the worst thing you did to Gee growing up?
  • 6 1
 Props given, but I really really want him to answer this
  • 9 89
flag murfio (Dec 5, 2014 at 7:42) (Below Threshold)
 I think they tossed each other off once whilst drunk
  • 18 1
 murfio, I don't want to know what you dream about at night! Wink
  • 3 1
 Whoooooops, doesn't start until 10am pst...silly directions
  • 2 1
 Gee seems to be nervous and worried when someone is having a faster split. Did you do something to him when he did not win.
  • 44 1
 Gee was always the test dummy! Its mad how many hits he has taken over the years.
  • 26 1
 Gee was always our crash test dummy for every jump we built
  • 59 15
 Dan, can I get Rachel's cell number? She fine. Can you put in a good word for me? And please don't kick my ass.
  • 6 5
 Isnt she dating someone on the norco team?
  • 7 3
 Something tells me this family is more about action than words. And the only ass kicking you would get is on your bike… but it would be all the time, every day, every single ride.
  • 9 2
 Ben Reid - Dirt Orange Team
  • 42 3
 You guys were sponsored by Contour but they went out of business and then they got bought by Sony. Do you ever think about that before a race run?
  • 41 4
 Would you consider going out with Madonna? She's really old, but she was married to Guy Ritchie once, and he's British. You're British. You two have a lot in common.
  • 1 0
 lol
  • 37 6
 A lot of companies have been going with much longer front centers, slacker head angles, and shorter stems lately. Being British, does it bother you that I said "centers" instead of "centres?"
  • 31 2
 Dan, i have just broken both my arm and collarbone in a mountain biking crash, so i'll be out for about 12 weeks or so. So, i was wandering, how do you deal with injuries and what kind of mindset helps deal with not being able to ride?
  • 4 0
 Dan answered you at maximartix's post below, check that out
  • 2 0
 ahh Cheers dude
  • 35 4
 Why do you use such a short shovel? My shovel has a way longer handle.
  • 35 8
 You were sponsored by Nissan for a while. Do you have a bunch of sweet Nissans now? I really like the Maxima, it seems like a good blend of drivable power and good fuel efficiency.
  • 7 6
 really' that's your question for Dan Atherton!??
  • 6 0
 Mercedes-Benz are supporting the Atherton's now so a few fine Vito sport-x' in the compounds Wink
  • 3 3
 Shut up fool
  • 31 4
 If you came to a fork in the road and one way said "Red Bull Hardline" and the other way said "Red Bull Crashed Ice" how much low speed compression would you run on your new 2015 Fox 36?
  • 32 3
 When you built hardline did you think Danny was going to win? He's short.
  • 57 0
 No - I thought Brendan was going to win but he f**ked up
  • 23 1
 With your great 2nd place result in Red Bull Hardline against some of the worlds best WC DH racers do you feel you could make a come back to WC racing or even BDS/IXS?
Also always been a fan, keep up the great work.
  • 6 8
 Comparing Dan's performance on his own trail to anyone else's isn't very fair. No disrespect to Dan of course, he is an unbelievable rider and builder.
  • 2 0
 I don't think that's a fair comment as plenty of the best WC and elite riders won't win at their local trails. And they weren't exactly just 'anyone else' they had world champs and world cup winners racing Hardline. Must feel pretty good for Dan.
  • 16 0
 Good question dude,it is tough to stay motivated,but try to turn it into a positive,try to find a focus that will motivate you,after i got hurt with my leg this year i decided to organise the Hardline race,something that would never have happened if i wasnt injured.
  • 3 0
 I think you might have been answering the question above mine there Dan. Either way what were your thoughts on beating some world cup level racers and racing DH again at any level?
  • 23 5
 Why does Richard Cunynghame spell his name so weird? Is that so people don't think he's Richard Cunningham? Did you ever confuse Richard Cunynghame with Richard Cunningham? Richie Cunningham was Ron Howard's character on "Happy Days."
  • 31 0
 "cos his mum and dad are posh
  • 13 0
 We're just old school Scottish you cheeky rotter! Never updated the spelling, we're original. And Ron Howard, what a guy!!
  • 19 1
 What role did your parents have in your (you, Gee and Rachel's) direction as sportspeople in your early years?
And what age did you move to Wales? Was it defining moment for you?
  • 27 7
 Do you think Clay Porter's films are a little boring? Just a little? Maybe?
  • 33 0
 only the ones about me
  • 25 4
 Why do Germans love Richie Schley so much?
  • 23 6
 Your old Commencal team kits from animal had those concentric circles around the shoulders, and it kind of looked like had had body armor on even though you didn't. How do you feel about that?
  • 19 0
 Team Robot killin' it.... someone get this man a beer! Dan, c'mon, answer at least one of his questions!
  • 22 3
 What's your favorite Earthed movie?
  • 23 5
 Do you remember the Queen's diamond jubilee two years ago? That was great. Paul McCartney's still got it.
  • 1 0
 C'mon son, Grace Jones! Happy birthday queenie!
  • 19 2
 Do you run wide handlebars compared to Greg Minnaar? I heard he runs 808's, which is also a great bass effect for hip hop.
  • 14 1
 How did you deal with the mental issues, such as fear, in overcoming you neck injury to be able to continue riding at your level. I am 4 months into recovering from broken neck and back ( Broken C2 and fractures all the way down to T7 ) from a DH crash and am doing good, but really scared and hesitant about ever riding DH again. I am very lucky to be alive and walking and not sure I will ever be able to feel safe and resilient enough to risk riding DH, or even tech trail stuff again.

Thanks
  • 16 3
 Do you look at the likes of Rowan Sorrell and think, yeah, there's a guy doing well from building trail, or does the thought of building trail centres bore you to tears? Does the track have to end up mental for you to enjoy the build?
  • 8 0
 Yewah man,they were both a huge insperation,Mum was a county Gymnast and Dad was Semi pro football,so they were completly behind the decision to leave school anbd focus on racing. Moved to wales about 10 years ago,and yeah,i think for all of us it was cool having fresh riding straight out the door.
  • 1 0
 Thank you.
Any chance you could tell as in more detail how you started pls? I.e. the younger years, before "you got famous"? Smile Thanks
  • 19 4
 I'm guessing you're at Red Bull HQ right now in Santa Monica. Have you ridden the Ferris Wheel on the boardwalk yet? It's great, you can see so far from the top.
  • 19 3
 What's your favorite Van Halen album?
  • 20 4
 Do you prefer Chinese food or Mexican when you're in the states?
  • 17 2
 Do you drink beers ever, or are you always training? I train a lot, too, so we have that in common.
  • 17 1
 Hi Dan, Is this Team Robot guy doing your head in?
  • 19 5
 What tire pressure do you run?
  • 16 2
 Do you run your suspension soft or do you like big front tires?
  • 15 0
 How do you say Ruaridh?
  • 3 1
 Rory Wink
  • 3 0
 Actually, it's more RooRee
  • 16 2
 Thanks for your time Dan!
  • 10 1
 Hi Dan,

Do you see tracks like Hardline as a future of DH racing? Do you think tracks of this difficulty should be part of DH World Cup? I see more and more race tracks tend to be bikepark style, which interestingly makes then boring to watch for me. Compare to Hardline which is pleasure to watch again and again.

Thanks for this event!!!
  • 12 0
 How long did it take from conception to completion on that trail? How many people were involved in building it?
  • 8 0
 6 weeks,it was mental,we never thought it was possible to get it all finished but the local guys were amazing,everyone worked so hard.
  • 14 2
 Hi Dan,

If you could build a trail anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Cheers again,

Alex.
  • 35 0
 HARDLINE DUDE.
  • 9 0
 Will there ever be anything like The Atherton Project again? Awsome insight into racing itself & behind the scenes as well as daily life of pro athlete with some hilarious moments.
  • 11 0
 Yeah it was cool doing that project,but i think it was really demanding on our time,it was so tough to always have a camera on me.
  • 8 5
 no more Atherton Project!
  • 14 2
 Do you like football at all? Or futbol? I don't speak spanish.
  • 13 2
 How do you say Innerleithen?
  • 2 0
 You obviously never heard of Cwmcarn...
  • 6 0
 Dan what´s your objetive for the 2015? Are you planning to race the megavalanche this year? and what about the maxiavalanche? I think you enjoyed the race a lot in 2012 Smile

And the last... how do you schedule races like finale ligure in the psychological aspect?
  • 7 0
 Yeah they were cool,but world enduro is where its at now,after this film project i am pretty over building and digging,just head down and focused now on racing.
  • 7 0
 Right guys,we have a screening of the new EscapeCreate film now so i gots to go,thanks huge for all your comments......Cheers.
  • 5 0
 Pretty technical question. The berms you built for the hardline track are seem quite different to the ones at the dirtjumps - more like embankments you can use as a corner as opposed to long, one line berms. Is there a (theoretical) rationale behind this?

The reason I'm asking is, as I have have a similar background when it comes to digging (both bmx style trails and naturall stuff), I'm facing some (for lack of a less pretentious phrasing) conceptual difficulties when it comes to berms. In some cases some support is needed but building a vertical, perfectly round berm on a mountainbike track just feels like making it too easy, while building anything less refined somehow feels like doing a bodge job..

Also do you re-arrange rocks when building a rock garden or do you just stick with what mother nature made of it during the ice age?
  • 8 0
 Yeah i really try to keep it as natural as possible,i guess i build so many tracks that i dont really get to caught up on grooming one track,just bang it out as natural as possible and move on to the next one!
  • 5 0
 When building bigger gap jumps, how do you personally decide gap distance? Is it mathematical or more about knowing your ability and previous experience on other trail/jumps?Do you build the lip or landing first? Then who get to be the first one to hit the lines you build or do you always send them first?
  • 6 2
 When you go to build a track do you ever consider its life span, and try to create something that is going to last well in to the future? Or are your main intentions just to create the best possible trail to be ridden at the point of completion?
  • 2 0
 Yeah good question,i try to build it as natural as possible,so the weather will always help to bed the track in and your not constantly fighting it.
  • 9 3
 Dan
When your building a trail what is it you look for, Is there any thing you try and avoid or do you put a trail right through everything like in the hardline?
Cheers
  • 6 0
 Yeah i walk the mountain loads,try to look for the natural flow,its usually pretty much down the ridgeline,or atleast the highest fall line,then you dont get sitting water and stuff
  • 4 1
 Thanks Dan. You're wicked awesome.
  • 5 0
 How scared/nervous were you when riding the hardline at full pelt? or were you always confident in your ability and control.

Also, any tips for riding steep narrow stuff while not braking to much?
  • 5 0
 every run was pretty intense but riding with Gee and the guys made it more relaxing
  • 5 0
 Dan,

With the rise of events outside of the UCI (EWS, Urban Downhill, Crankworx), do you think it is possible to give an event like Hardline its own series and give another place for riders go?
  • 5 0
 Which would you rather see happen in 2015: Gee wins DH world champs, Rachel wins DH world champs, or you win the Enduro World Series overall?
Which is most likely to happen?
Cheers!
  • 5 0
 Where will the next Hardline take place? Will it be gnarlier between the massive jumps? Or offering more line choices? What about HardlineS?
  • 16 0
 Same place next year - but even gnarlier
  • 6 0
 Barbed wire in the gaps?
  • 2 0
 How much time can you spend digging stuff, considering you also have to train for competition??

Btw, movie is awesome, when you're out there digging in the cold and not riding for days, that's tuff sometimes, good to see more highlights on this aspect of mountain-biking.
Respect man
  • 6 0
 this year I'm so motivated for 2015 EWS that there'll be less digging. Being injured in 2014 gave me a massive opportunity to focus on a dream build - that's done now and it's time to race.
  • 1 0
 Will you take part in some smaller Enduro race series (e.g. SRAM Specialized Enduro Series) or only in the EWS events?
  • 2 0
 Hey Dan I´m interested in create some ramps and trails in a little mountain but i don´t know how to start, can you recomend me a book or some web page in order to begin to create ramps and trails ? what works for you when you are creating new trails?
  • 4 0
 What kind of a issues did you come across when building in the Dyfi forest with regards to land ownership and also what is there to stop anyone going to ride these tracks?
  • 2 0
 Dan, when you build a hit that's much bigger than you've ever built before, how do you test where to put the landing tranny? Surely you can't test a big hit without a landing but at the same time, if the tranny is in the wrong place the. the hit is....uhm,.....unhitable ? How do you scope it?
  • 2 0
 Dan, what do you think the secret ingredients are for a "near" perfect trail, and does the building mix differ based on what nature has offered by way of terrain, climate and existing features?
  • 2 0
 i think its pretty much all down to location mate,its so important,for hardline it was pretty easy,the mountain just kept offering perfct lines
  • 1 0
 if you didn't have mtb's what would you have got into. (not mx)
Would you like to come for a ride in the passenger seat of a very quick sierra rally car on a auto test near Ludlow 28th December. Going for a win on it. Ask Jason (fester ) Davis, if it will be a fun ride.
  • 1 0
 Hi Dan. Ovs you build stuff to push your self and the sport but do you have a line that you know you cant cross as it will be too dangerous and hard even for the top few riders to ride or do you just do it anyway & hope that it works?
  • 1 0
 Dan,

It has been some time that the Athertons have been working with GT but how was the original transition from Commencal to GT and what was the overall reason for the move?

also How has the experience been working with GT? we know they recently released the Sanction which I assume you have been and will be running next year vs your force. How much input did you have in the creation of that bike? was it from ground up or did they come to you with something and say "hey this is what we got what would you like to see to make it better"?


thanks so much for your time today and wish you the best of luck with all your future endeavours both with racing and creating the narliest tracks we have ever seen.

Cheers
  • 4 0
 That's it everybody - got to go and launch a film, thanks for coming on here and all the questions - Dan.
  • 1 0
 Hi Dan I'm a big fan of you and the Atherton's as a whole keep everything up just wondering in your create. Escape. video around 6 mins in what's the song name absolute love it and have heard it before but don't know where. Cheers
  • 8 4
 Dan
What do think is the single best MTB component that has emerged in recent years?
  • 11 1
 The dropper seat post
  • 4 1
 Hi Dan,

What are you thoughts on the recent progression in mountain biking exposure and what does the future hold?

Cheers,

Alex.
  • 2 0
 Hi Dan, do you find yourself being more cautious or fearful of big jumps or injury now than when you younger? I know I do as breaks take a lot longer to heal now.
Thanks
P.s I'm not calling you old lol.
  • 18 0
 Yes I am a lot more cautious - that's pretty much why I moved from Downhill to Enduro - its just that last 2% where you 're not in control that you need to win in Downhill - I don't want to go there anymore
  • 4 0
 Thanks for the reply, I'm not anywhere near your level but I totally understand what you mean.
  • 3 0
 Hi Dan, many of us became fans of you, Gee and Rach after watching the Atherton Project, we were so sad there was no season 4. Will we see a new season next year??
  • 2 1
 No, the atherton project was great but that was then and this is now - we don't have any plans to go back there.
  • 2 1
 Dan, firstly can I just say what an inspiration you are as a committed athlete. Secondly, what are your goals for EWS next year? Last but not least, do you think Hardline will be a bigger event in the future and why have the UCI not come to you to build a WC track!?! All the best and good luck for next year! P.s. Im hoping to race Tweed love, maybe share some line choices... Wink
  • 1 0
 seeing that all that you create is amazeing, what and how and when did you see the line that you just recently built. To me I have to just look and look for transition and see where the best line of ,,flow is,, where you can go fast and not overdue it but just get it on fast enough..Thanks man..
  • 1 0
 Hi Dan

How long did it take you from concept to complete of the hardline course? How did you find it as well, I pass the course location on route to work and it's just insane to think a course could the designed and built there.

Well done to all involved

Paul
  • 1 0
 Hello Dan just wanted to start this off by saying you are a huge inspiration to all of us youngins. My question is: If you could pick a favorite consumer available technology, new or revised as of 2014, what would it be? Thanks!
  • 3 0
 How do you get permission to build on the mountains in Wales? My uncle lives in Dogellau in North Wales and I've always wanted to build some tracks there.
  • 1 0
 been a huge fan of yours Dan for a lot of years and have always admired how versatile a rider you are and have able to compete in so many disciplines at the highest level. amazing track! I'm an old skool dh racer and now looking to get into the enduro thing. how has you're offseason preparation changed from dh and 4x over to enduro? id love to hear about some of the type of gym work and the frequency and type/duration of intervals you do to prepare for enduro. thanks affy!
  • 2 0
 Dan do you believe that smaller events built by riders such as hardline and the fest series will eventually become more attended than world cups and the fmb tour?
  • 5 0
 Think these events are really important to push the level of mountain bike,but the world cup is where its at,so fast and loose,
  • 7 3
 Ever thought about going on "I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here"?
  • 8 0
 Yes! Along with Ratboy and Warner
  • 20 1
 I'm not a celebrity
  • 32 0
 Most of the people on it aren't celebrities!
  • 4 1
 Hey Dan,

Do you find the older you are getting, the more cautious you become about hitting big lines?

Thanks Wink
  • 4 1
 yeah , definitely
  • 3 0
 Can anyone come and help you build? And any plans to build a BDS track at Dyfi Forest?
  • 1 0
 Dan,
How did you get inspired to build The Yard? How did you come up with the design and lines making sure you made the most of it. I am building DJs in my yard, and am wondering if you have any tips?
Cheers,
-Ethan
  • 1 0
 What feature on Hardline was the most intimidating for you to hit? What about the other riders?

Love what you're doing man! It's cool to see people pushing the sport in ways that aren't UCI or Rampage.
  • 1 0
 What's the soundtrack Dan or where can we find it? I'm looking for that class song that plays just as Gee is introduced on your dirt jumps during the night session (at the start )
  • 5 1
 When did you make your first complete trail? and do you still ride it?
  • 4 0
 Do you still attend Megavalanche?
  • 3 0
 Maybe next year
  • 4 0
 What bike do you enjoy riding the most, your Fury DH or your Enduro bike?
  • 9 0
 My GT Sanction - I put so much into designing it - it's perfect !
  • 1 0
 In Dirt Mag you seemed unhappy it had 165mm and wanted less. Changed your mind?
  • 4 0
 How do you approach people who only ride but never ever want to dig?
  • 18 0
 I actually dont have a problem with people who dont like digging,its such a personal thing,i never try to force people into digging,as long as they respect what others have built then its cool.
  • 2 0
 With the 2014 Enduro season not going exactly how you expected it, how do you aim to compete with the big players like Graves, Lau, and Clementz for the 2015 season?
  • 2 0
 After the disappointment of last year I'm so motivated for 2015, I'm well into my off season training and have been doing loads of testing with our mechanics to get the bike exactly.
  • 1 0
 Had the opportunity to watch you race at Winter Park this past year. I don't think I saw anyone else in the entire field take the rock garden at the top of stage 3 with as much grace as you. While the results may have been rough it's clear from your skills on a bike that you already do compete with the big players.
  • 3 0
 how is feel to live in a middle of nowhere,far from city traffic and noises
  • 10 0
 bloody amazing mate,i have been searching for a house like this for so long,so stoked to have found it.
  • 1 1
 Hey Dan. I want you to know that I m one of your biggest fan! Only one question, do you think that the RB Hardline track Will infuence the 2015 and future seasons of the UCI WC ? And Will you retire one day or be like an enduro Steve peat ?
  • 3 1
 Afternoon Dan, you seem to have built lots of amazing trails over your riding career. Any advice on getting the landowners permission?
  • 1 0
 Hi dan, firstly I'd like to say hardline was one of the best competitions I've watched and I'm so looking forward to watching escape. Create.

This weekend I have my 3rd downhill race. Got any advice / tips for me?
Thanks!!!
  • 1 1
 Any chance of a Dan Atherton designed track for the less talented riders who are looking for somewhere to help them progress and become better riders in the future somewhere that will have something for people of nearly all technical abilitys? Awesome track also really impressive
  • 1 0
 Dan , Whats your go to Tires front and rear for enduro race day ? I saw you raced "mud kings" in whistler enduro, dry conditions. Were thoes full knob or cut ? Thats a big pedal on spike tires ?
  • 2 2
 When deciding what to eat for lunch, you look into your fridge and see two options. In one hand you have hotdogs with some rolls and fresh mustard. In the other; a box of homemade chocolate brownies your mom baked for you. Hypothetically speaking, if you were this person, which would you choose?
  • 2 3
 ....Its... finished? ...But how am I going to decide what to have for lunch?
  • 2 0
 He Dan, if you could have any job in the world, would you still choose to be a trail builder?
  • 13 0
 I'd chose to be a mountain biker
  • 1 0
 would you ever do a big event similar to the red bull fox hunt? where anyone can enter and a mass start similar to the mega or other events.
  • 3 0
 What is your opinion on Gavin Pugh?
  • 3 0
 Pughface
  • 2 0
 Hey Dan, do you consider at some point building stuff for everyone to ride, eg official dh tracks, bike-park, trail system?
  • 3 1
 Hi dan

How do you get permission to build all these massive jumps down all these mountains, do you own the land?
  • 1 0
 Hi dan , do you plan on building/filming anymore things in future in the mid Wales area that will require local help Smile . Cheers
  • 3 1
 Hey Dan just wondering if you have any advice on juggling school/social life and riding? Cheers Harvey
  • 2 0
 With the success of Hardline if approached by UCI or another sanctioning group would you build courses for them
  • 1 0
 What's your favourite type of terrain to build on?

Really hope DH tracks become more gnarly like Hardline in the future, best type of riding even if it isn't the easiest!
  • 1 0
 Hi Dan,

what role if any do your mechanics play in inspiring your ride and adding to your confidence on a track like hardline?

Cheers,

Sky
  • 1 1
 Hi dan, i'm a frequent rider at revolution. The quarry makes me sick just looking at it. How did you come up with such a line, and how do u get the balls for something that epic!?
  • 3 0
 Will you make it the the Fort William World Cup next year?
  • 5 0
 man i really miss riding with Gee at races,but world cup is such a high level now,those guys are awsome.
  • 2 0
 Definitely not! I'm leaving Downhill to Gee-man
  • 2 0
 Dan,

How much planning goes into a track like the Hardline? Thanks for answering our questions!

Thanks,

-Wyatt
  • 2 0
 Its more walking around looking at the mountain,trying to find cool features that where already there,a natural feature always beats a man made thing.....for me anyways.
  • 2 0
 How does your trail builder diet differ from your competitive athlete diet?
  • 2 0
 My trail builder diet is awful - it's so hard to get enough food into you when you are building so its all sandwhiches, sausage rolls.. sometimes building hardline it was jut too cold to stop and eat
  • 1 0
 Hmm... What does your competitive athlete diet consist of?
  • 2 1
 What drove you to design the hard line and did you get any other rider input in features etc or just put it together on your own?? Either way looks a top track
  • 2 1
 Hi Dan,

What do you think is the single most important part of building a trail?

Cheers
P.s. I'm a massive fan. You're probably one of the coolest riders around :-)
  • 3 4
 Affy my boy can you give me your divine insight as to what would win in a fight between a shark and a bear, in space? cheers man

P.S Hardline was the kick up the arse the world cup circuit (and sport in general) needed, congrats for pushing it in the right direction and thanks for all the hard work Salute
  • 3 2
 You gotta let him know what kind of bear and what kind of shark!!!

Doesn't make any sense otherwise.

Also, I think you mean zero gravity and not in space (in the latter scenario, they both have much more major issues to contend with besides one another)
  • 1 0
 what advices would you give for building trails properly?
big fan of yours, remember you and gee smashing the rock garden here in portugal on maxxis cup Lousa 2011
  • 1 0
 cheers mate,just try to work with the weather,let the rain wash th dirt away and bring out the rocks and roots,
  • 1 0
 thanks Dan
any tips on building corners? that's my weekes't part, when is flat or off camber i cut some trees and the thinner part i narrow it on the tip and stick to the ground, using the rest as a barrier for the dirt not to wash away, but even wetting it and let it rest so it gets harder some times it is destroyed with few rides
  • 1 0
 Hi Dan, have you ever had any enemies/people you do not get on with throughout your riding career? If so, who?

Congrats on the video!
  • 1 0
 Im coming back from a broken rib injury and am about 2 weeks away from getting back on the bike,,any training or recovery tips you can give me ?
  • 2 0
 Hey Dan, amazing work bro. Any chance you want to put a few hours in on my trails if you ever come to inverness?
  • 2 0
 Hey Dan, would you agree with me if I said that your brother Gee has the most badass name in mountain biking history?
  • 1 0
 Do you think your Sanction is als capable on the steep and gnarly dh tracks you build than the Fury? Do you ride these tracks on your dh or enduro bike?
  • 1 0
 Any advice for building a dream trail? We've got some new tracks going in here and I'm thinking of building my own. And cheers for the run down Freight Train at Crankworx!
  • 1 0
 where have you traveled in the world where you definitely wanted to take a shovel to and just start digging? do you have a favorite shovel that's still with you?
  • 1 0
 Sir Dan, with so many runs wasted by flats during gravity racing, do you think more riders will run the dual chamber system? (I'm not affiliated w/that company)
  • 1 0
 My local tesco is a 24-7 store, but on a Sunday it closes at 6 and opens at 6am Monday, but my question is who is your favourite Simpsons character?
  • 1 0
 Hey, so are your trails private, legal, or illegal? Are your trails built on public lands or private lands, how does that work in the UK?
  • 1 0
 Dan, out of all of your building projects, which has been your favourite to create and ride? Many thanks
  • 2 0
 can i come and live with you and ride your tracks??
  • 1 0
 How do you get access to build trails like this? Do you use public or private land?
  • 1 0
 Got any big new innovative ideas planned for the near future?
---Toronto, Canada---
  • 1 0
 Some real good inspiration their from my favourite rider gonna build a trail now because of dan
  • 1 0
 How do you deal with walkers and farmers who aren't to happy to see you digging ?
  • 2 0
 can you build a more trails at revolution bike park!! or open your own
  • 1 0
 Hi Dan, out of all your building projects and race results which are you most proud of? Keep up the great work! Thanks
  • 1 1
 Hi Dan,
do you think that anyone can believe in his dream?
mine is to be Professional mtb enduro i hope we will be mates one day
  • 1 0
 With lots of talent ,what are the hours of training put in a week to be a top Rider like between You and Gee?
  • 1 0
 Hi dan

What was the most challenging thing you have ever done / ever want to?

cheers
  • 1 0
 Dan when can i come up and session the backyard track? Im in wales so i dont need to much notice! haha
  • 1 0
 Star Wars, Matrix or Lord of the Rings? And if you could have 1 super power what would it be?

Cheers
  • 2 0
 Good question, really enjoy the Matrix series but nothing can beat the original 3 Star Wars films
  • 4 0
 Lord of the Rings
  • 2 0
 Would you build a quarry style line for Gee in future Rampages?
  • 1 0
 alot of people ask me that,but no,i think that event needs to come from the rider
  • 1 0
 Hey Dan! If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring diggers, what would it be?
  • 2 0
 try to be unique,build something that makes you stoked,something that you would want to ride and can picture in your head.
  • 1 0
 Hey Dan! When recovering from injury, what keeps you determined to get back on your bike? Thanks...
  • 2 0
 Just that feeling of riding again dude,and the more you ride and the better you get,the more you love it,just keep pushing.
  • 1 0
 Have you ever thought about getting UCI to organise a World Cup at Hardline?
  • 1 0
 What gives you more gratification, mentoring younger riders (your siblings and now Martin Maes) or riding your own creation?
  • 1 0
 Dan do you agree yes or no - A digging hoe is the best hand tool ever made?
  • 1 0
 EWS... any plans for more EWS races in the future? What was the transition like from WC DH to EWS?
  • 1 0
 Hi Dan, just wondering, do you ride clipped in when riding the jumps in the yard? Thanks, and keep killing it!
  • 1 1
 Hey Dan,
Have you ever thought of writing a book on trail building? If not, do you utilize any resources you'd recommend?
Thanks
Eli
  • 7 0
 no - this is hard enough, too much typing
  • 1 0
 ok
  • 1 0
 What's the simplest technique to use to be faster at downhill?
How do you get yourself to try bigger and bigger stunts?
  • 1 0
 Ciao dan...will you ever race the wc dh again? I know many fans miss seeing you at this discipline.
  • 1 0
 Dan
I see you have a new Helion built, what are going to use it for?
I will take it if you don't need it
  • 1 0
 how do you find the trails you build and what do you look for? which locations do you ride in the UK?
  • 1 0
 HI Dan, im trying to teach my son (12) how to jump and trail ride. have you any tips for beginners??
  • 1 0
 How long did it take to build Hardline? Please describe the process. Nice work!
  • 1 0
 Dan, if you could change any section on any World Cup downhill track... what would you change?
  • 1 1
 HEY DAN, IF YOU COULD PICK YOUR TOP 2 OR 3 RIMS TO BUILD A WHEELSET WITH, WHAT WOULD THEY BE? SOMETHING FOR A DH/FR RIG THAT ISN'T TOO HEAVY BUT VERY STRONG.
  • 1 0
 Your favourite tool for trailbuilding?

And wil there be another Hardline race again next year??
  • 1 0
 This is amazing stuff, and pretty awesome that Dan is online, replying to comments!
  • 5 4
 How do you deal with injuries?
  • 1 0
 In your career who influenced you the most?
  • 1 0
 Anyone who worked hard but no-one in particular - I like to do my own thing !
  • 1 0
 Who would you like to thank for your success? Thanks
  • 3 0
 Gee and Rach for sure
  • 1 0
 Hi dan

What do you enjoy more riding or building or both?
  • 7 0
 Riding for sure,i only really build so that we have new stuff to ride,building is cool but only for about 5 mins,then it sucks.
  • 1 0
 Where exactly is this trail? Will it be added on trailforks?
  • 1 0
 Just 10 more minutes till I've got to run so keep the questions coming....
  • 1 0
 Would you do red bull rampage if invited ?
  • 1 0
 Why don't you wear a neck brace?
  • 4 7
 Your stance in the picture with the shovel looks freakishly similar to "Bras d'honneur" or a common "up yours" gesture.

Do you have any pent up anger? You do not seem like a jolly fella. You are kind of fast though. Cheers.
  • 1 0
 Do you like sharing your name with Alan Partridge's best friend?
  • 2 1
 Hey Dan,

How do I find good riding terrain in New England?
  • 3 0
 My name is not Dan but I would suggest using the 'terrain' function on Google Maps. Look for drops in the terrain, preferably with these little streams and you'll find singletrack gold one day.
  • 2 0
 Any wise words ?
  • 23 0
 No
  • 3 2
 Mustangs or Cameros?

Metallica or Megadeth
  • 1 0
 What your off season training program for racing Enduro?
  • 1 0
 Just volume really mate,its so hard to beat time on the bike
  • 1 0
 Ever need any help digging mate hit me up.
  • 1 0
 Have you ever thought about building a slopestyle course?
  • 6 0
 not really,i only build stuff that i am stoked to ride,stuff that i can picture myself riding,so nothing to tech,leave that to the main man Bearclaw.
  • 1 0
 when will the pods be back?
  • 1 0
 Why do sealed drive bikes not exist?
  • 1 0
 "live now" lol he s not here
  • 1 0
 Some of your favorite trails you've ridden? What ever comes to mind.
  • 1 0
 hello Dan,

what is your motivation on a bad day to keep going?

cheers
  • 1 0
 Where did you grow up and first start racing?
  • 1 0
 What are your long terms goals for the next 5 or 10 years?
  • 2 0
 just to keep racing mate,keep loving it and being stoked to get up and ride,
  • 1 0
 Who is gavin pughface ???????
  • 1 0
 Cleats forward, middling, back or way way cut back into shoe base?
  • 1 1
 why is that i keep failind the f*cking calculous class!?? please dan, helpme with that
  • 1 0
 Do you think you will ever return to downhill racing?
  • 1 0
 wow I am sorry I missed this.
  • 3 3
 Whats the best way to gain the confidence to hit gap jumps?
  • 8 0
 Christ,just build up to it mate,you should be nervous about doing them but you should be able to picture it in your head,if you cant,its probaly to large!
  • 8 0
 Right guys we have a screening of the new film now so i gots to go.....Cheers huge for all youyr comments....go create something
  • 1 0
 Dan, you are awesome!
  • 7 0
 you got the wrong dan
  • 1 0
 why?
  • 9 0
 You meant me, and thanks
  • 1 0
 Can I ride your jumps?
  • 2 2
 Be honest Dan have you ever got poo on your hand when wiping?
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