At just 13-years-old, Liv is already making an impact in the world of jump biking, and is supported by Highway Cycles. Here, the young jump biker tells us how to shred like a girl..
The term ‘shredding’ is widely used to describe a style of riding a fixed gear bike, with a combination of speed, agility, and technical skill, and this includes mountain bike jumping.
Shredding has increased in popularity with young people, and with abundance of varied terrain around Hertfordshire, it can be a great way for riders to hone their skills; and enjoy the ultimate airborne adrenaline hobby.
Many jump and free riders are now showcasing engaging content on platforms such as TikTok and YouTube which, in turn, has built up a young following.
The engaged interest is great in promoting mountain biking as a whole; allowing youngsters to overcome obstacles, and feel a sense of accomplishment at achieving new moves.
“There was a growing popularity online around jump bikes, and I was particularly interested in influencers like Matt Jones, who is famous for his outstanding POV (point of view) videos and Kara Beal, who is gaining a female following, for her dirt jump tricks. I spent time watching them, and it grew my passion to explore biking further.”
Liv begun to hone her skills, becoming a regular at Phoenix Bike Park, which offers over 15 acres of jumps, tracks and drops, for youngsters to enjoy all day, and was supported by Highway Cycles, to purchase her Amity Samsara. The lightweight model has proven great for Liv to practice her new moves on.
Liv has noticed during her biking experience over the last year, that there were only a small number of girl riders, and has been a strong supporter of the Shred Like a Girl campaign, who are proudly promoting inclusivity in the sport, and offer women-only rides.
“I am not quite at competition level yet, but I’m working very hard to get there. I did, however, win some prizes for my first ever jam, at my local skate park, which is a great beginning step. I love the atmosphere of jump biking; the kind community, the support, and I can’t wait for what the future holds.”
And her favourite move?
“Without a doubt the X-Up, where you turn the handles 180 degrees, and back straight.”
Are you interested in starting your jump biking adventure?
Visit one of our stores, or visit: Trail & Cross-Country, Hardtail & Full-Suspension Bikes | Highway Cycles
