Johan Walzel Interview

ELYTS rider Johan Walzel has been in California for a couple weeks now, and hes been getting stacks on stacks on stacks of clips. He sat down with ELYTS filmer and editor Phillip Long and they got this interview done discussing Johans time in Cali. Definitely check it out, and make sure you guys are here on Inside-Scooters tomorrow at 12pm EST and 9am PST to see Johan's new edit. I expect bangers.

Cam Ward Scoot Fest Interview With Skates.co.uk

The next interview that Ben from Skates did was with District's Cam Ward.  In this Cam talks about the competition, the future of the sport, his current setup, and future sig parts.  I find it amazing that Cam had a white scooter for nearly 3-4 years.  I know kids that can't keep a setup for more than a week before trading/buying other parts.  

James Gee ADVCT Interview

- James, how you been dude?

James: Dude I've been great. Riding a whole bunch, stackin footy still, and I got another month of summer to chill.


- Nice dude, tell me about the summer, anything memorable go down?

James: This summer a lot has went down. We have been marking spots on google maps and have been seshing new spots every time we go out to film now. Crazy hammers going down. But I got a whole month still for even more memorable stuff such as the street jam coming up on september 1st with a lot of crazy dudes coming out


- That's awesome man. So, I've been hearing rumors about you being involved in a new company? Let's hear the details dude.

James: Yeah yeah! The companys name is ADVCT, but known as Advocate. We chose the name cause we want the sport to grow up a bit and not have the idea of scooters being little kids snaking people anymore, because that isn't what scootering is at all. We want scooter riders to have sick T-shirts that they want to wear not just when they ride, but when they are hanging with their friends or at school. The shirts will be ready for this fall and we already got some awesome ideas. Check out and give us a like on our facebook page for all the updates.

Facebook
 

- Sounds pretty tight dude. Is this something you kind of always saw yourself doing at some point?

James: This has been an idea for over a year now. Blake Bailor, Evan Yamada, and I went to the same school and talked about creating something of our own and its not until now we are really making moves and getting things done. We all agreed that most scooter T'shirts are all the same. All of them have just the big chunky logo in the center of the chest. We thought it would be cool to have some designing on the T-shirt with a smaller logo somewhere on the shirt. Just wait till you see some of them they are really tight.




- Can't wait to check some out. So you mentioned Evan Yamada, and Blake Bailor, you guys have been down for a while haven't you? 

James: We have known each other ever since elementary school. These dudes are my best friends and I'm excited we get to work in a business together and see where it takes not just us, but the sport as well.



- Damnnn. Brosss for lyfee. You guys have any financial backers that are helping the company get on its feet?




James: Our financial backers are our parents. Most parents are down to invest in their kids and we are lucky enough to have such good parents and role models that will do so. They know that the sport is something we are super passionate about and that we will work hard at it so that the money will be in good use. Obviously we will pay them back which will take time, but we know that. We are just excited to get it going.


- Family supporting Family is always a good thing. Tell me about some of the products we can expect from your company.

 James: In the Fall we are coming out with 4 products to start off. They will be made out of high end material, 100% cotton, and well fitted T-shirts. The 1st one will be in either black or white with ADVCT on the upper chest. The 2nd shirt will be a baseball T shirt, (haven't decided on what color) like the ones in the picture I sent. 3rd will be a crewneck with big letters going down the shirt with a triangle. Finally the last one will be what most of our shirts in the future will be like. Its going to be a pocket T with a sick design that I don't want to give out just yet with small ADVCT letters going down the pocket. Gonna be real sick you will be able to see all the T-shirts on our facebook page and up on our website when it is up and running.




- Wow going hard with the designs. Does this affect your guys' relationship with Lucky Scooter Parts in any way?

James: This definitely has effected our relationship with Lucky. But Lucky is the chillest company and will always support us. They think this is great for us and hope we succeed. It may lead to a split off from each other, but we really don't know because nothing has happened yet.


- Yikes.. one of the longest running Teams in the sport possibly on the verge of ending? Crazy talk. What is your ultimate goal with this company?

James: The ultimate goal with the company is to have everyone love and rep our shirts. We want sweet scooter shirts that you can wear without being embarrassed. We want to change the clothing industry in the sport and hope other companies follow our ideas. Long term goals are to create parts in about a year or two. We got ideas for parts already that seem really cool that we might be able to start testing next summer.


- Looking at the state of the industry right now, what are some of the problems you see?

James: Problems I see in this industry are ads, websites, and as I have said before clothing. Lots of ads in the sport look like a kid taking a photoshop class in high school could do it. Same with some websites out there. Take some time and learn to make the website look great. I have been spending hours and hours studying website stuff to make sure that when I release it that it will look great. Also I think the industry needs to work on their video productions. Lots of really good riders who are sponsored have crappy cameras and 0 editing skills that make the video less enjoyable and not fun to watch.


- Words of wisdom right there. Would you eventually like to see more riders try to get involved in starting companies, and less people who don't ride, and will never ride, but are just trying to cash in?

 James: I think that would be awesome to have more riders starting their own companies. A lot of riders out their want to ride for rider owned companies because no one knows riders better then a rider. But I think it is good to have these big named companies out there as well. These big named companies are the ones that are making the sport grow and I have nothing against them what so ever. If rider owned companies want to get bigger they will have to make some decisions that the big named companies make all the time. But I really do bet there are companies that are out there trying to just cash in money, which is terrible. They don't care about us, they don't care about the sport, they care about themselves.


-  Wow.. a rider that understands that we need the bigger companies in the sport? Didn't think you guys existed... So, when we gonna start seeing some Promos from You, Evan, and Blake?

James: PROMO TOMORROW FROM MYSELF CHECK IT OUT HERE ON INSIDE AT NOON. Been working on it for over a year now. The video is all street and every spot except 1 clip was filmed here in Washington. I think its way better then what my OPUS part was so everyone check it out and enjoy. Blake's been filming for awhile, but you will prob see his later this year. And since Evan snapped his arm hes going through physical therapy so hopefully he can get back on the scooter soon and bust out as he always does.



- Damn you guys heard it, here on Inside-Scooters, at 12:00PST, James Gee Promo dropping. Any last words or shout outs, let em go now dude.

James: Ahhh. Shout out to Push it, all the riders our their that support me, and all the scooter bros. ADVCT ▲


Interview by Steven Tongson

Proto Week Day # 3: Jackson Manzie Interview

Jackson Manzie is Proto Scooters newest rider and we couldn't be more pleased to have him be a part of the team. Jackson is one of the few Australians who approaches riding and filming with the street mentality and he fits right into Proto with the rest of the team. With the Proto Week underway, we thought it would be good to get Jackson's take on being a part of Proto, his injuries, and his upcoming plans coming out to America to film for Armageddon 2012. Interview by Kris Anacleto

You've been riding for Proto for over half a year now, but this  interview kind of marks the official announcement. How does it feel to be the first new rider added in the past few years and what's your overall take on being on the team now?

It feels good, obviously. I'm very grateful. My overall take would be that it's exactly where I want to be. The wheels are the best, the team is the best to ride with, I feel very lucky.


I know everyone else on the team is stoked to have you, and they're all stoked to ride with you when you're supposed to make your way here this summer for 2 months to film for the video. But last week injury seemed to hit you pretty hard, care to explain what's going on with that?

3 of my vertebrae are squashed, probably just from the many years of riding and bad posture. So the nerves inside those vertebrae are being squashed, making all the muscles in my back and chest tight. So right now I'm seeing a chiropractor 3 times a week and doing heavy stretching 3 times a day as well. So far it hasn't improved much so I'm pretty depressed. Can't really do anything physical at all.


That's some heavy stuff. I know Dylan Kasson is out staying with you in Australia right now, are you cruising out with him at all telling him trick ideas trying to live vicariously through him?

Uh nope, haha. Right now I'm pretty much his chauffeur, he just made a big list of spots he wants to go to and I'm just driving him around and filming him with the gang.


Just bring him to all the skate parks and say "Here, just film at these parks, that's how the Australians do it!"

No. Just no. Haha.


Fine, have it your way. With that being said, what made you and the Friendly crew gravitate to street riding and filming rather then the park stuff? I feel like it's a pretty obvious answer to a lot of people, but the park riding is just such a big part of the Australian scene.

Yeah, it is. And we're cool with that, after all that's where we all started. Someone asked us about this exact thing about a week ago. I think we got to a point where we were watching a lot of skating and wanted our videos to be like theirs. Their videos actually have a feel to them, you get a sense of that crews culture and their city from watching them ride street. I don't know. That's why I like it. We just got over hanging out at parks and decided to go explore more.

What skate videos get you specifically stoked the most? Do you think scooter videos will evolve and have that skate video feel some day, or do you think they will continue to have the feel they generally do nowadays?

For me i really like those really tight fast skate flicks like the Far East Skate Network and there's a great one from Ohio called Windows and Doorways. The filming is on point, all the lines are fast and they always come up with creative stuff. I'd love to see scootering become that but i think that's a while off.


Well put. Australia has one of the biggest scooter scenes compared to all the other countries, which means big scooter business is going on out there. You're managing one of the ScooterHut stores now correct?

Correct, it's nice. I get to sell what I know most about. I want to make it have the same vibe as a skate store. A place where you can actually come and relax, read a mag and hang while you look at parts.


When you aren't working at the shop or out riding, what's your week consist of?

Nothing right now, at the moment I'm driving Dylan around and working to get money for the states. Trying to get my back better I guess. Day to day, if I wasn't riding and if i wasn't injured I'd probably start the day sleeping in and watching the Simpsons re-runs with a huge cup of tea, then maybe see what my friends were doing and go fishing or something. Or hiking. I've been getting into that too.

Assuming you'll be better by the time you actually get here, what are you looking forward to the most while here for 2 months? Got any specific spots you're trying to get heavy on?

I'm just looking forward to drinking 5 watermelon arizona's a day, and going to wherever Tyler Wheeland wants to go. I'll spend a fair bit of time at the Proto shop too I guess. And we're hitting up the Chicago street jam so we're gonna have a nice road trip through the states to get there. Oh yeah and eating Mexican food until I die.

Proto intends to have all it's riders have signature parts at some point that reflect their way of riding, what are you looking to have signature wise? And are you gonna push that the most at ScooterHut or what!?

I haven't even thought of signature parts because I haven't been on the team that long. But some long black socks with green proto logos would be pretty dankkkk. Maybe a deck that was my favourite color and length. That'd be cool. I don't know, I think I'd have to discuss ideas with Andrew first. I'd probably want a wheel actually, with a cool design and colorway the most actually.  I guess if I was to have a part that reflected me, I'd want a long ass deck. Like really long. Probably 22' and 4.65 wide with an 83º headtube. That'd be perfect. I have size 11 feet and the only deck I've ridden that's long enough is Peasely's Addict so I'd go with something like that.

Anything you'd like to close with? Shout outs, thank yous, care to mention your favorite Australian park to do fly outs at?

Probably just all to Andrew for including me in an awesome company, for helping me get to America this year and to all the Hatgang for not giving one single fuck ever and being awesome.

Proto Week: Andrew Broussard Interview

Proto week has officially kicked off, and there's no better way to get it going than with an in depth interview with the owner Andrew Broussard. Andrew fills everyone in on issues from the past that have plagued Proto, what's going on now and what's being fixed, and what to expect in the future. And don't forget to check the completely re-vamped Proto site at www.protoscooters.com


 We haven't seen much come out from Proto since Catalyst 2010 came out over a year ago. What's been going on since then?
Andrew Broussard:  A few months after Catalyst 2010 was released I went on tour with Nitro Circus Live again down to New Zealand and Australia which was an incredible experience and opportunity to promote my industry but my absence for nearly 2 months at the beginning of 2011 took a heavy toll on the business which was much smaller at the time.  Since then I have been restructuring and restaffing the entire company to stay competitive in what has now become a rapidly expanding industry.  The day after I got back from those tours I rented the industrial space next door to our old shop and doubled our square footage which only lasted us about 9 months.  In January of this year (2012) I signed a lease on our new warehouse which is about triple the size of last years expansion complete with offices, loading docks, toilets and a retail store front; non of which we had before.  The new facility has allowed us to massively increase production, inventory and distribution capabilities under our newly formed umbrella company TGE Distribution to make sure our shops and our loyal customers are able to get the brands and products they want when they need them.  We did fall behind on reviewing warranty claims with all the other changes that have been going on during the moving/upgrading process which is a problem when you boast the most comprehensive warranty in the sport (which it is) but we were simply swamped and had no one to check that stuff.  Fortunately we have a new PROTO website which should be live while you are reading this with a totally new automated warranty submission system that will allow us to track and update all warranty claims.  For those of you who submitted older warranty claims that never got responses or a conclusive answer, we still have all your information on file but you will have to resubmit through the new system to get those going again.  Sorry for the delays or confusion!  On a personal note, the last show I rode with Nitro was on June 4, 2011 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas for their 3D movie coming out this year and we got to set up the PROTO tent right inside the venue with Catalyst looping on a TV which was awesome.  Unfortunately that was the last time I have really ridden "competitively" or in top form because of the amount of time I have been dedicating to the business but we are also in the middle of filming for the next PROTO DVD entitled "Armageddon 2012" right now with a slightly different rider lineup than you will remember from Catalyst 2010.  I started to film for the new video but broke my hand on April 1 on something really really stupid, no joke, and am just now getting back on a scooter.  All work and no play makes Andrew a rusty boy... but it's worth it knowing that PROTO is holding down the "rider owned" scene and continuously showing the sport how the best products in the industry are made!




Speaking of products, what new parts are in the works? Can we expect more signature products from different riders?
Definitely you will see more signature products this year but let me break it down by category on our regular releases: 
BARS:  reTro and slaYers are classics and will not be going anywhere.  reTros are now 20" wide and slaYers are now 22" wide, both are 24" tall all heat treated 4130 chromoly.  We will also be bringing BUFF bars out of retirement with an all new redesigned stem and we have plans for one more style of one-piece bars 24" wide with backsweep called "Boomerang" Bars!
FORKS:  Strikers and SenioRs (110mm & 125mm) are classics and will not be going anywhere they will however be offered with integrated crown races, integrated star nuts (threaded inserts) and will be heat treated 4130 chromoly along side the classic standard steel models.  All forks will start to come with a half inch shorter steerer tube to accommodate 3" (Baby) SCS builds with less modification!
WHEELS:  More colors, signatures and 125mm!
CLAMPS:  More colors!  Design will remain the same classic Knuckle!
DECKS:  New sizes of the Orion will be available and will be available in silver and black.  4"Wx20"L, 4.5"Wx21"L & 5"Wx22"L.  ALL decks will be peg compatible!  Signature decks with special dimensions and colors will be available as well!  All decks will still be 125mm compatible.
NECKS:  TDI Necks will be available standard and integrated, 81.5* and 83* and all neck geometry will allow for proper peg usage.  Necks will be available in Silver and Black.
BRAKES:  Dubb Step flex fenders will be made out of thinner guage stainless steel to allow for an easier flex and use larger 4mm hardware.  "Tri-Force" UBS brake mounts using 4mm hardware and "Press On" brake levers will be available for more compatible and customized braking setups.  125mm brakes will be available in all configurations.
PEGS:  "Slug" pegs will be available for use with all PROTO forks and decks.  Compatiblity with other brands will vary.
COMPLETES:  PROTO Complete Scooters available Winter 2012.
PACKAGING: We have been developing some pretty extensive packaging for all of our products to make distribution easier to control without damaging products on their way to you.  It also looks cool which has got to be a worlds first for scooter packaging.
We also have tons of small accessories and apparel in the works right now some of which may be released in 2012 some may wait til 2013: Wax, bar ends, bearings, headsets, grips, grip tape, socks, hats, beanies, hoodies, more stickers, more shirts, keychains, buttons and probably some other stuff that I'm forgetting.  You know, just everything you need to rep PROTO to the fullest!

Rumor has it of an additional wheel brand coming out, care to shed light on that?
That is correct.  We have another wheel brand "by PROTO scooters" coming out under TGE Distribution this year.  We decided that since the PROTO wheel was the first freestyle scooter specific wheel and is still regarded by most to be the best wheel in the industry there is absolutely no reason to change it.  I do, however, want to experiment more with different cores and compounds so we are forming a new brand to see if we can't take wheel technology to an even higher level without effecting the classic PROTO wheels.  It also allows us to bring on a new team of riders who are already on board to start a new signature wheel series.  The brand is called River Wheels and the goal is to keep you flowing... get it?  More info on this topic when it's not a PROTO interview.



What's up with the Proto team? It's slimmed down quite a bit and how do you feel about the newest addition Jackson Manzie?
Yea, we lost a few riders to various circumstances whether it be deciding other sponsors were a better fit, switching sports or simply not riding/filming anymore like they used to (which includes me).  Either way there is no bad blood and I'm still psyched they were part of PROTO.  I think it's just a natural evolution of life, business and sports... no team can stay the same forever or it gets boring.  The current team consists of:  Brandon Kilbury, Dylan Kasson, Elmer Ferrieras, Alex Steadman, Chema Cardenas and Jackson Manzie.  I am really hyped on the dudes who are still on the team though.  They are killing it harder than ever.  Jackson is currently the only Pro rider to get picked up since Catalyst and I couldn't be more amped to have him on the team.  He's one of the most stylish riders ever and he's connected with some of the best street dudes in Australia so I fully support him and their cause to bring street awareness down under!  He is currently working through a back injury and we have the clock ticking on the next video premiere already but I'm pretty confident if he takes care of himself and gets in front of that camera (Sony VX to be specific) you will not be disappointed with what you see.


Chema was living with you for 6 months helping in the warehouse and filming for his next part, how'd all that go?
Soooooo good.  I love Chema.  He is like a needle in a hay stack and PROTO was like a giant magnet that pulled him out without looking.  If you don't follow what I am saying, I mean there is no one else like him and he found US because he was drawn to what PROTO was doing and PROTO alone.  The relationship has been perfect.  It was a nightmare arranging his travel Visa to come to the United States because Mexico and the US don't exactly have the best relationship but it was completely worth it.  He was a great help at the shop, an amazing rider and a totally awesome dude to chill with at the end of the day.  He quickly became one of my best friends because we share the same passion and dedication.  His footage for the next video is definitely going to blow minds.  I personally am rooting for him to have last part in the next movie but last part in a video has to be earned and we have a few people really putting in work so it's anyones game right now.






How's Armageddon 2012 looking?  Any trips planned or a release date?
Everything I've seen so far is getting me extremely hyped to release the next video.  Basically the entire team is going to be in Southern California this summer finishing the DVD.  Dylan is in Australia right now with Jackson then both of them are flying to San Diego next month for two more months then Chema will be coming up from Mexico late June then were gonna get Elmer out here around the same time.  BK will be living out here in Los Angeles all summer anyways building rocket ships for some company because he is literally a rocket scientist in real life and Steadman lives close enough to drive from Arizona to be here whenever we get some filming trips going... which we will have a lot of this summer between San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York City.  Some people have more footage than others so certain people are going to be on a pretty strict filming regimen this summer to complete their parts.  Regardless we will be renting out the Avo Theatre in downtown Vista, California on Friday, November 2, 2012 in the PROTO hometown for the premiere so mark your calendars because you will not want to miss it!

Is there any significance to the title?
I decided that if the world really did end in 2012 (armageddon, as "predicted" by the Mayan Indian's calander thousands of years ago) that I really wanted the PROTO series to be a trilogy because everyone knows all great films come in 3 parts.  Catalyst 2010 (the beginning), Intermission 2011 (the middle) and Armageddon 2012 (the end).  Intermission 2011 obviously did not happen due to circumstances with the business and the team last year but since it was intended to be more of an experimental film project based around scooters rather than a "traditional" riding video and they just discovered more Mayan calendars so it looks like the PROTO series will become a trilogy sooner than later, just a little out of order, before we move on to the next real video... if anyone wants to try to guess that name!


Proto started small and out of your pocket and is still ran that way basically, how hard is business not having a financial backer, especially when you see how large some of these other companies are?
It can be tough at times but I would never sacrifice the freedom and control I have with the company and the products by having partners or investors dictating what I should or shouldn't be doing.  That is what has allowed me to develop an entire line of products so extensively and branch out into distribution and other brands through TGE.  I focus on quality over quantity even if that means not making as much money as I could if I did certain things differently.  There are a lot of seriously awesome things I could be doing with products, designs, distribution, etc if I had more financial backing but I figure if I don't have the money to do it then I'm not ready to take that on until I figure out how to make the money with what I have established now to finance the next projects on my own.

Anything else you'd like to close with? Work Hard.  Ride Hard.  Chill Hard.  Press On.

Ryan Upchurch Interview

Steven: Ryan, what has been going on dude? It seems like you've been pretty busy. Tell us a little bit about what you've been up to lately.



Ryan: Dude, to be honest lately I've been working and riding every free moment I've had! To start things off, I have my normal team managing duties with Envy, I've recently been doing a bit of photo and writing work for a few different magazines, and also have been doing a ton of photo and video work on the side for various businesses local to me. On top of all of this, I have all of my usual travels, videos I make for myself, and balance it all out around my schoolwork. Needless to say, I've been keeping myself busy lately aha, but every second has been 100% worth it!



Steven: So it's pretty obvious that joining up with Blunt/Envy has been one of the best, if not The best move in your career, what are your thoughts on that?



Ryan: Since joining Blunt/Envy Scooters, my whole life has changed! On and off my scooter, they have been backing me with everything I've done since stepping foot on the team. One of the biggest things for me with Envy though is my travels, and they have made all the difference! I never thought I'd make it to Europe, especially by now (let alone all of the other places I've been)! I've met heaps of great people in my travels, and have made memories that I wouldn't trade for the world. Since joining the team more than over a year ago, it seems my riding has also flourished, which I feel has been a direct result of the high quality products that I've been riding on over the past year. They have been more than good to me, so it's definitely safe to say it has been the best decision I've made so far in my career.



Steven: If I'm not mistaken, aren't you also the Team Manager for Envy USA? Can you tell us how that role affects you, and give us a little bit of insight on what you do for Envy?



Ryan: Yeah man, I was in search of work as I entered the team, and found it a few months later as TM. Seeing that they have given me work, I can focus completely on the promotion of the company from a marketing aspect when I'm not riding. I am extremely grateful that they've done so, seeing that otherwise I'd be working in some dead end job I hate. As a team manager though, I make sure all of the guys are always on a good set of parts, organize some of the traveling for the team, as well as do a load of behind the scenes photo, video, and marketing work such as producing magazine advertisements and creating event flyers. They keep work coming my way, and I do my best to keep the work going out just as fast as it's coming in. They've made a dream come true though, by allowing me to do what I love to do each day!



Steven: All right I gotta get into this Mega Ramp deal at Travis's house. First, before we get into the actual hitting of the ramp, tell us how you even ended up in his backyard?



Ryan: Well... to make a long story short, I know a guy that knows a guy haha! My long-time friend and pro BMX rider Mike Fede is pretty good friends with Jim Dechamp, and one thing led to another, and Mike invited me down to Travis's for a session. I have been there quite a few times now, and after the frontflip, I've been invited to come ride and hangout whenever almost.




Steven: Ok, now that that's out of the way.. walk us through the day that you frontflipped his mega. Did anyone know you were going to throw a frontflip first try? Break it down for us dude.



Ryan: Actually man, first try is a false statement... the video that I released that everyone has seen was actually my second go at it! But to start from the beginning, I was at Travis's house the day before just riding to get some photos and basic clips with Mike, and Travis took a bit of interest into my riding. After the session and towards the end of the day, he mentioned to me that ESPN was going to be there tomorrow, and that I could come back for the filming of the show if I wanted. Without hesitation, I accepted (obviously)! So the next day rolls around and I show up around 1PM, just around the time that ESPN showed up. The weather was iffy, and raining on and off throughout the day. Between the spurts of rain, myself, along with Chad Kagy, Steve McCann, "Dusty", and a few others filmed various clips around the compound. I mentioned to Travis that I wanted to do the mega for the show, and he was clearly hesitant, and actually told me he didn't think I was going to make it. He also made me sign another liability waiver, just to be safe hahaha! Confident in thinking I was going to make the gap though, I told the film crew to head over to the mega, and start rolling because I was about to do something they don't want to miss (make or fail). Soon after, I was at the top of the compound, right at Travis's front door, shaking with adrenaline and fear. I thought to myself about what this would mean if I made it, and without another thought in my mind ran as fast as I could and jumped on my scooter towards the mega ramp. First time out I got speed wobbles at the bottom, took off crooked, and bailed as I was upside down suspended about 35feet in the air moving at aorund 30-40mph. Thank god, I made the gap! Adrenaline still pumping and with the Nitro Circus crew cheering me on I knew I had to go stomp it! Off to the top of the hill I went, and lined up for a second go. This time as I hit the take off my speed wobbles weren't as bad and I took off much better, and brought the rotation around for the fronty just about as good as I think I could have! Everyone went berserk when I landed it, and it couldn't have been a better moment for me. It was unreal.




Steven: It looks like quite a few people were there, including Travis Pastrana himself and Jolene Van Vugt. Who else was there? And what were there overall reactions and thoughts after seeing you throw that down first try?



Ryan: In addition to Travis and Jolene, there was Chad Kagy, Streetbike Tommy, "Dusty", Steve McCann, Mike Fede, Jim Dechamp, Hubert, and a few others were hanging out when it all went down. Before hand, as ssen in the video, it's quite obvious that there wan't a whole lot of people confident in me making the gap, or even attempting it in the first place. Surprisingly, seeing at how crazy everyone appears to be on the shows, the Nitro Circus crew seemed quite concerned for my safety when I told them I was going to do it. Right when I made the first jump, they all jumped up in applaud more so for the fact that I didn't wreck myself than anything. Second go, I stuck the trick and everyone jumped up in amazement this time because I actually threw it. Travis, as well as everyone else there was stoked on what went down that day. Ultimately, it was huge for me because hitting a mega ramp was one of the few things I really wanted out of my scooter career, and it couldn't have been more perfect.



Steven: I honestly want to see you hit the REAL Mega Ramp. What are your thoughts on that, and would we see another first T front flip??



Ryan: A real mega ramp... I've been wanting to do it even before I hit the one at the Pastrana compound! Now that I have made it over his, I'm determined to hit every mega I'm allowed to ride. First try over the real mega is very possible, but regardless of which try I land it on, I can say that I'll keep going until I land it or get hurt. After speaking with Travis afterward though, me hitting another mega in the near future is a strong possibility! When it comes to what I throw over them, I guess everyone will just have to wait and see!



Steven: Ryan you're making big moves dude, and having known you for so many years, you know I'm stoked for you. What can we expect from you for the rest of 2012? And will we be seeing any signature Ryan Upchurch products, or any Signature Envy USA products? If you got shout outs, let em go now.



Ryan: For the rest of 2012, I can't even tell you half of what my plans are, but I think I will let you and the inside readers in on a few things in the works! First of all, I'll start you off with some news! I have recently joined Scoot-Mag as a rider, writer, and photographer, so you will see a good bit of my work in there in coming issues. As far as travel goes, I am working on getting out to NASS, a few other European events in the Summer, and many other major contests that will be held! This year I plan to take my riding to a whole new level, and throw down bigger and better than ever. Not to mention, I have all the more reason to because right now I am working with Envy to produce a signature deck! So on that note, keep your eyes peeled for more information on the deck! At the end of the day though, none of this would be possible without Envy Scooters, and Dinny Spicer, who have helped me out so much along the way. I'd also like to give a shout out to Scoot-mag, Inside-scooters, Triple 8 for hooking me up, and all of the great riders and other individuals I've met so far in my career. But with the end of my shout outs, I'd also like to say to all of the younger riders out there that being sponsored isn't what's important about riding; it's about having a good time. Shout out to all of the riders who are out there riding every day just because they love it!

Raymond Warner "22's" Interview

Raymond Warner isn't just one of the top riders in the world, he's actually a pretty nice guy too! It's rare to see Raymond without a smile across his face. He is one of the guys who is truly having fun everytime he's on his scooter. You always know you're gonna have a good time when Raymonds around. He's been murdering the competition scene lately, and I recently had a chance to catch up with Raymond for an interview for Inside-Scooters. Check that out below.




Steven: RayRay, what is up dude? How have you been?

Raymond: I've been alright Steven. Just been working at the Zone and riding. How about yourself bud?



Steven: Ahh you know how it is. Working, getting stuff done for Dialed Issue 1 (Mmm Shameless plug) Now, For those who don't know.. Where you born, raised, and currently living?

Raymond: I was born in La Jolla, CA, raised in the streets of Murrieta, CA and still living here. Loving every minute of it!



Steven: Good, good. I'm basically going to get right into it man, I heard you recently signed with Phoenix? Tell me about that bro.

Raymond: Yeah I did. Being with Scooter Zone has been a huge blessing. Being able to work with James and everybody associated with the company has been nothing but a pleasure since the start. When Phoenix shot me an offer to be riding for them, I really didn't know what to say because of the deal I have with the Zone. I talked with James along with a couple of the riders and my dad about the whole situation and ended up going for it. So far, I'm glad I made the decision. Phoenix has provided me with decks already and they have taken good care of me and we are working on a signature deck as we speak. So be on the lookout for that!



Steven: Damn dude, a sig deck already in the works? Seems like a good deal to me haha. Tell me about the Reventon deck, I know you've been riding it for a while now. How do you feel about it?

Raymond: The Reventon deck is incredible. I've never been much of a street rider much at all, but with this deck I might give it a shot! The deck is basically the feel of grinding on a district deck, but with the strength of a Phoenix. I am riding the 4.65 x 20.5 right now, but also got a 4.25 x 19.5. I will be giving both of them a shot to see which is more comfortable for me so I can throw that size on my signature design.


Steven: Awesome dude. Raymond you're known as a park rider, but I know for a fact you can ride pretty much anything. Does it bother you to be known as only a park rider?

Raymond: It doesn't bother me at all. Don't get me wrong, I love riding
riders like Monky, Nick Darger, and other guys that ride street, but I have always had more of a passion for watching riders get huge height and throw different tricks and doing so myself a lot more. But like I said earlier, I may be down to get some street blood in me. Wink wink.



Steven: Haha here’s hoping we get to see Ray use those 22’s in the streets! Ok so… How easy is it for you to flat triple. Just wondering haha.

Raymond: I do like to do a bunch of whips. But flat triples are first tee. Not trying to be cocky or anything. Haha



Steven: All right all right… On flat... 180 whip to fakie to 180 triple whip out. How many tries?

Raymond: 180 triples take a bit more. Maybe 3? Depends on what I have for breakfast that morning.



Steven: Oh the ever important breakfast which decides on the fate of the 180 triples, nicee. Back to park though.. You've been killing it extremely hard in the competition scene lately. What are your thoughts about competing?

Raymond: Competing to me is a huge part of the sport. They are really what brings more riders into our sport due to kids going to their local parks, seeing that they are closed, and just hanging around to check things out. In my opinion, we need more of them in different areas. Obviously the big contest like SD, XW, CooterCon, etc. are all important also, but having the Texas contest really brought a whole new breed of riders into the sport as well. That's what we need to do to expand.



Steven: Agreed. It seems like every contest you ride in, Dakota is also riding in. Do you guys get along?

Raymond: Yeah, we are definitely familiar with each other’s riding, that's for sure! But we have never really had any bad blood or anything like that. We've always been pretty cool with each other. Although, when we compete, we hate each other! That's the whole idea right?


Steven: Haha true competitive spirit right there. You were a long time Scooter Zone rider, and then broke away for a while to ride for MaddGear. You're now back riding with Scooter Zone. How has it felt being back with The Zone?

Raymond: Being back with Scooter Zone has been awesome. Sometimes, I think to myself that maybe going around to different sponsors and/or teams like I did, really wasn't such a bad move. It really showed me what I was looking for in the riding side of the sport. Now, I realize that Scooter Zone is definitely where I belong in the scootering community. I'm glad I'm back with the family. :]


Steven: And I speak for everyone at the Zone when I say we’re glad you’re back dude. Aside from riding for the Scooter Zone Pro Team, you also work at one of the Scooter Zone Shops, what's it like working every day in the shop?

Raymond: Ever since I started scootering, I wanted to make this sport my entire life. Being a manager at one of the shops has introduced me more into the business side of the sport. I am trying to learn more and more about how things operate in the sport because let's face it, I'm not going to be able to ride for much longer. I'm going to get
old someday right?


Steven: Hmmm..50 year old Raymond still boosting, I can see it now… So dude, you got a back of tricks that seems to have no end... Where do you find the motivation to continue to progress and learn new stuff?

Raymond: My drive to continue to progress and learn new things is the support I get from my family, friends, and especially my fans. I don't know where I would be if I didn't have them. Being able to make my family proud is awesome, but at the same time I want to be able to make a difference in kids' lives as well by showing them that there's no limit to what they can do. That's really my main goal as a professional athlete.



Steven: That’s awesome bro. As 2011 comes to a close it brings a whole new year in 2012. We've both been in the sport for a long time, and we've seen it grow each year. Where do you see our sport going next year?

Raymond: Honestly, I think that 2012 will be one of the biggest years of our sport. I have a feeling that somebody is going to get a big sponsor from a well-known company like red bull, Nike, new era, or something along the lines of that. That would help the sport immensely in my mind. I don't think we'll be in any big contests like the Dew Tour or X Games this year beings that we're nowhere near big enough. But I don't think it's too far away. At least I hope not!


Steven: RayRay, thanks for taking the time to sit down with Inside-Scooters. Do you have any last words, or shout outs?

Raymond: Yeah I do. Shout out to Inside-Scooters for letting me do this interview with them. It is much appreciated as you know! Also, big thanks to my sponsors, The Scooter Zone and Phoenix Pro Scooters, my friends and family that have supported me throughout the years and the Lord for answering my prayers and helping me get to where I am today. But most of all, I want to thank James from Scooter Zone. Since day one, he's treated me like a son and I love him like a father. Thank you James...for everything. 22s


Raymond Warner Super 60

Raymond Warner SC Edit

Stefan Hefner Interview by Tyler Wheeland

Stefan Hefner. The worst part is after reading that name, there are probably so many people who don't recognize it the way they should.
Stefan is a street beast, to say the least...I didn't mean for that to rhyme.. As noted in the interview he is very well known for the slams he takes while riding. Though they hardly phase him, if he has his mind set on landing a trick.. He's landing it one way or another. I really enjoyed this interview that Tyler Wheeland did for Inside-Scooters. Check it out below.




Tyler: Alright dude, whats up?

Stefan: wait are you actually asking me? or is this the interview?


Tyler: It is def happening.

Stefan: oh crap
haha
start over?

Tyler: Alright dude, Whats up?

Stefan: nothin much
just chillin at home in my boxers
and eating candy

Tyler:Oh the life. Double gulp aswell?

Stefan: I got a 2 liter of Pepsi and Mountain Dew in the fridge.
Im all set

Tyler:So are you aware that your mostly known for getting broke off and not actually killing it?

Stefan: ummm...
no not really
I thought I was known as a front scooter flip whore who occasionally dies riding his scooter
but whatever.


Tyler: That too, by now everybody knows you Scooterflipped Hollywood High 16 stair. Want to explain what happened that day?

Stefan: well before I was even very good at scootering, I always saw videos of skaters throwing themselves down the 16 tair
I knew that I wanted to be just as gnarly as them

so when I finally thought I had the skill level and the opportunity to hit the 16 stair for myself
I jumped at the chance
I knew I had to throw something sick down it so I thought a front scooter flip would be best since I'm pretty comfortable with them
When I was running up to the stairset I was pretty damn scared
and on one of the run ups a family got out of their car to watch because they knew that shit was about to go down
one of the people that was watching was this really hot blonde girl
so I figure, hell why not and I hucked the front scooter flip that try
I got it first try and rolled away super clean and fast
I was so stoked
but after a minute I couldn't even walk because the sheer impact destroyed my ankle
but yeah
thats it


Tyler: You still got that first try, thats insane. Did that blonde chick say anything to you afterwards or what?

Stefan: unfortunately no. She walked away before I could start gamin' on her

Tyler: I guess we can't have it all can we. So what about your obsession with animals on your shirts? Do you just love animals?


Stefan: Animals are amazing!
there are so many animals that have such a wide spectrum of reactions they cause when people see them
people can be scared of sharks

Tyler: Like Lil Jon?

Stefan: yeah
haha
but people can also be attracted to cute lil' kittens

Tyler: Kind of like Me with Spiders. They are the worst. But back to scooters dude.
You have a part dropping sometime in November/December as part of Luckys Opus web video. How do you feel about it so far.

Stefan: Well Ive been working my ass off for over a year working on it and have gotten quiet a bit of footage for it
I could probably finish it right now if I wanted
but to be honest, Im still unsatisfied with it

Tyler: Really?

Stefan: there is so much I have on my to-do list for the video
I really just want it to be something I can finish and then just sit back and watch and pat myself on the back for putting everything I had into one video

Tyler: I get you. You have traveled a lot for this part. Where do you feel like you worked the hardest and got the best clips?

Stefan: Ive been blessed enough with a great sponsor like Lucky that has helped me travel a lot in the making of this video.
Ive been to France, Chicago, and Washington which is probably where I got the most footage in the week I was there.
Not to mention how much Ive been all over the beautiful state of California where I live

Tyler: Are people going to be surprised when they see this new part compared to the last video you put out? How has your riding progressed or changed in the last year or so.

Stefan: Well my riding has changed a lot since my last video that I released about a year ago.
Ive definitely become more well-rounded as a whole, but Ive spent a lot of time riding rails.

I definitely think theyre the bees knees

Tyler: Filmed any rail clips that are gonna get people stoked?

Stefan: Maybe a couple, idk. I guess it depends on the person haha

Tyler: What about getting broke off, you put out that bails video and it had some pretty gnarly falls in it. Is that a normal thing for you?

Stefan: Well when I'm trying a trick that is out of my comfort zone it might be a common thing.
On the other hand though, if a trick is in my comfort zone, I usually get it. Over all, falling is just a part of getting better and pushing yourself to find your limits

Tyler: Wise words. What would be a perfect day for you?

Stefan:I don't think a perfect day really exists. There always seems to be something bad in everyday that can kind of spoil the mood. Most of my favorite moments in life though are just when I'm cruisin' down the streets of Los Angeles with the homies, riding spots, getting clips, and having a really big soda in my hand. Thats the life

Tyler: That sounds like what we do every weekend. Well this has been great dude, any last words?

Stefan: Thanks for interviewing me and above all, stay street...



Photos by: Jordan Jasa(Portrait), Monky(16 Set), and Erik Feenstra(Rail).


The below videos are OLD. Be advised that Stefan's section in the upcoming Lucky DVD will surely destroy you.

East2West's Tyler Larm Interview

I'm quite ashamed to say that before Tyler Larm's East2West edit, I wasn't aware who he was. However, after finishing that video, I knew exactly who he was, he was one of my new favorite up and coming riders. Tyler has got such a sick style and a lot of good tech tricks. I recently caught up with Tyler, and got an interview done. Check that out below.




Steven: Tyler Larm, what's going on man? How've you been?

Tyler: I cant complain man. Just been working, shredding, racing my dirtbike, training for races, but most of all trying to heal my foot up so i can really start riding again and getting some more footy for an upcoming video from Joe Riley, Jon Devrind, and I. Its going to be a super legit street video, stoked on that.



Steven: Damn..Joe, Jon, and Yourself in one video...Can't wait. So tell us a little bit about how you got involved in the sport dude.

Tyler: Well I used to ride bikes back in the day, and when my older brother and his friends stopped, I grabbed a scooter, and started hopping over sewer caps and curbs, then i started doing actual tricks and never stopped, just progressed over the years. Its just something that is fun and I just caught on to since the start. Its just fun, and thats why i still shred now.




Steven: Good stuff man. You got a distinct style when you ride, there is a lot of tech/bmx influence in your riding. Who are some riders both in or out of our sport that influenced your riding?


Tyler: Well the rider that influences my riding most is probably Nick Darger. I love all the tech he does and all the manual and grind combos, and he does it all so clean. Another rider that influences my riding is Jodan Jasa. I love all his tech combos. there just so fun to watch.

Steven: Haha good old, Trick Darger! We've seen you ride park, flat, and street. Do you prefer one over the other?

Tyler: Well my favorite thing to ride is just a simple manual pad, I could ride one all day and never get bored. Other than that i love to ride flat and any fun-box. Im not much of a park rider, its just not that fun for me, but I will ride a nice quarter, just prefer street or flat over a park.



Steven: I'm right there with ya on that one. So you ride for East2West. How did you get the sponsorship, and how has it been so far?

Tyler: Yes I ride for East2West. I was on there website and saw that they were putting together a flow team, so i figured i woud send my next edit to them. I like it so far. they've hooked me up with some things and i have no complaints. Brandon is a chill person and he's easy to get along with. Glad to be on East2West, its such a growing company that is getting more legit by the day.




Steven: Yeah, I really admire them as well. Your latest video has you riding pegs, how do you like em?

Tyler: Yeah man, I like them. They've added a bunch of new combos and tricks to my riding. I really like the pegs and theres not any bad things to say about them. Everyone should go buy them because they are well worth the cheap price and can add so many fun tricks to your list. I love them already.





Steven: Who are some of the riders that you ride with on a daily basis?

Tyler: Well the main people I shred with on a daily basis are Joe "Gypsy" Riley, Cody Cunliffe, who is also on E2W, and Keith Egnatuk, or otherwise known as Keeta. A few other people i ride with are Justin Chanona, Brandon Gondolf, Ryan Lesher, Vince Borrelli, and Ive ridden with Jon Devrind a few times when he goes to Joe Riley's house.



Steven: Nice solid list. Some of the combos or lines in your videos are extremely difficult...Were there any times during filming where you wanted to give up on one because it was so hard to land? If so, tell us about it.

Tyler: Hell yeah man. Some combos just get me pissed and really dizzy to the point where I have to take a break in order to walk straight. But if i really just relax and take a break, I have a better chance of landing the line or combo. Its all part of it though and i just gotta keep trying, I dont just give up, if I get into a line or combo, I wont stop until I land it.



Steven: Love the dedication dude. What do you got on your agenda for the rest of the summer?

Tyler: Just going to keep shredding, heading out to some more races, and filming with Joe and Jon for our "Gypsy Magic" Street video that is going to be out before summer is over. Its going to be super legit.




Steven: We'll def. get that up on ISB when it's done. Thanks for taking the time to do this interview with us at IS. Do you got any last words or shout outs bro?

Tyler: Na man no problem, thank you for doing the interview. I just want to say thanks to everyone whose helped me and rode with me. And a huge thanks to Brandon from East2West for helping me out and hooking me up with some sick stuff. Im really looking forward to the future and we have such a good team, everyone shreds hard. Hopefully ill get a chance to ride with some of the other team members soon. To sum it up, just do your own thing, and ride however you want. As long as the sport grows, then we can keep riding, and having a good time.

Inside Interview with Ryan Upchurch (Brand new edit at the end)

A huge up and comer in the past two years, and one of the most diverse riders in the sport, is Ryan Upchurch. In the short time that Ryan has been in the sport he accomplished quite a lot. I've been close friends with Ryan for some time now, and it was a pleasure to finally be able to sit down and get an interview done with him. Check it out below.



Steven: Well damn, it's been over a week since I decided I wanted to interview Ryan Upchurch...getting together proved to be quite the challenge, but I finally got him here...and we're gonna get this done. How you been Ryan?

Ryan: I've been really good man, just really busy! I just got back from doing a huge 4-day tour to Virginia Beach with Shopecx.
 It's been a bit hectic, but I'm happy to finally be sitting down to have a talk with you! Thanks for taking the time to sit down and interview me!

Steven: Haha yeah dude, like wise. So Virginia Beach, that was the first stop of the tour correct?

Ryan: Yeah man, It was 4 days long, and packed full of riding, hanging out with the rest of the Shopecx guys, and even some late night seshes in front of the hotel. We got some pretty gnarly footag over the past few days, and I really think that the footage from this tour, along with the many others following during the Summer will really put Shopecx in the spotlight. The official Shopecx Summer Tour 2011 will be available this holiday season!



Steven: Wow.. that sounds epic. Summer Tours, and Tours in general are something I think we need more in our sport. With so many legit Teams in the sport, what's stopping more companies from throwing there riders out there you know?

Ryan: Honestly man, I think it's because many teams add so many riders these days, that it's hard for any single team to set up, and carry out any kind of tour. On top of that, mst teams get guys from all over the country, or world for that matter, and it becomes to expensive to have the whole team travel at once. The reason I feel Shopecx has done this so efficiently is that we a small group of guys, that live relatively close to eachother. This cuts down on the travel costs, and allows us to travel as a team more frequently.

Steven: That's really sick that you guys get the chance to travel as a Team like that. I know a lot of other Teams would probably envy you guys. So let's be honest dude...at some point, you were just starting out like everyone else, and you probably sucked pretty bad. Tell us about your early experiences riding.

Ryan: To be completely honest, in the beginning I wasn't even close to being good. For the first year or so I didn't do much more than a few whips, bars, and basic stalls. At this point, I was only half-committed to scootering because I was still skateboarding. One day I realized how much I really enjoyed riding, and decided that it was something that I was going to work hard at uninterrupted. From that point, I went out and bought myself a pro model, dropped my skateboard, and started trying any trick I could think of. I blame my quick progression on my carelessness to get hurt. I have had multiple concussions, shattered knee caps, a broken growth plate in my wrist, and sprained ankles and wrists. Every time a friend told me to try a trick, I just said why not, and went for it whether I thought i would get it or not. Sometimes by chance, I would get the trick, and then perfect it.

Steven: So I'm guessing you'll have no problem with my posting one of your first videos right here, right??

Ryan: I wouldn't mind haha. I sucked, but we all had to start somewhere lol. But i think it will be a bit of an eye-opener to kids just starting out that everyone isn't the best when they start. Every expert was once a beginner.

Steven: So you start out, you basically suck, you drop the board, and start pushing yourself on a scooter. How long did it take before you got noticed by ECX, and how did you eventually get sponsored by them?

Ryan: After dropping my board, It took about 6 months or so for me to get noticed and picked up by ECX. I had bought my parts from there since the beginning, and once I started taking things seriously, I made it my mission to get
on the team. My friend Walker Crouch,(who was a big inspiation to me back in the day) was on the team and I wanted to ride along side him on the team. So over the course of 6 months I worked hard, and did all I could to prepare myself for the first ECX Competition at my local in Newport, Delaware. I entered pro division, in spite of my unsponsored status, and managed to place 4th. It wouldn't have been anything more than mediocre if I weren't riding with my hand duct-taped up because I had broke the growth plate in my wrist earlier that day. Mike Lashbrook, the owner of ECX recognized my committment to the sport, and later offered me a spot on the team. I more than gladly accepted.

Steven: That's awesome brother, true dedication. On another note, I need to go take a piss. So.. umm. Take five!

Ryan: Alrighty haha,  I'm gonna go grab a bowl of ice cream then

Steven: All right dude...Where you at?!

Ryan: Here haha

Steven: So Ice Cream? What flavor?

Ryan: Coffeeeeee :) I love any kind or form of coffee haha. It's amazing aha.

Steven: Hahaha... Coffee? But what about this addiction to Arizona Ice Tea I've heard so much about?

Ryan: Man, everyone knows I can't live without the stuff. On every single trip that i go on, i usually buy anywhere from 10-20 arizona iced teas. I drink iced tea at home too, so I prety much live off the stuff hahaha
Steven: Hahah too good. So, You really started to get known throughout the sport while riding for Eagle-Sport, and District....can I ask what was it that led to you making the decision to leave the two companies?

Ryan: Up to this point, I have not really told anyone the full story on why I left, so IS readers, feel privleged to be the first to know the whole story. To be honest, I loved the companies, but over time I felt like it was in my best interest to leave them. I broke alot of the decks, and sometimes had to buy decks, which i had trouble affording since I was unemployed at the time. In other words, they couldn't supply me with enough parts frequently enough for me to ride all the time. This was not completely there fault though, every companies first batch of parts has their flaws.

But over time, there were too many changes being made, and things just seemed to be unstable. For example, Gino with C4 came and gone, team managers came and gone, and there was also long spans of time that i had no contact at all with the companies. Again, this is not completely their fault, especially since Marcel was so busy with everything. They did take care of me overall though. During the last few months of my sponsorship with the companies, there was alot of people leaving, and the family that the team once was had broken apart. This was the event that really did it for me, seeing that there really wasn't a team at all except myself. During this period I was also having troubles again with getting parts due to a number of issues over in China. When the newer parts came in, I was not comfortable on them, and there was nothing they could do about it.

As a result, I parted ways with district and eagle after almost 2 years. So long story short, I just wasn't comfortable on the parts anymore, and I was ready for a change.     I would also like to add that I am very thankful for what they did for me over the span of time I was on the team, and I am in no way trying to call them out. I am just stating why exactly that i left.

Steven: I hear you dude. That was nice to give everyone that PG Version. Oh snap. In all seriousness, this answer just goes to show how much of a professional you are dude.

So, next stop for you was Blunt Pro Scooters. How has that been so far bro?

Ryan: Honestly man, things could not be better! After being on the team just a week, they paid for my tickets out to SD5, and I did a whole tour with
the australian guys that came over for the tour. Blunt has a small, but very close team whether it be in terms of one country, or internationally. It was a great experience meeting Dinny, as well as all of Aussies that came over for SD5. It was definitely one of the best trips I'd ever been on. Just months after, they sent me back to California for the Woodward West camp, which was also a hella fun time. But all in all, they always have me on the parts I need, and take into account my opinions as a rider. In the more recent months, I was in need of an income, and asked them if there was anything I could do. Kindly, they replied to my e-mail and offered me the job as Team Manager. Ever since, I have built the team up, and have even bigger plans with them for the future! Blunt will be doing it big with this next batch of parts, and I think the quality of the products will speak for themselves in the coming months.

Steven: You say Woodward West, I think Double Backflip. You landed your first one at the camp, tell us about that experience dude.

Ryan: My way to describe it is, "Lean back... ALOT!" The first time i attempted double flips was without the use of a foam pit, at my local a little over 2 years ago. I tried it twice, and got wrecked both times. My goal as a rider was to land a double backflip by the time i stop riding. When I went out to Woodward, I had no intention of doing it yet, but Terry Price was eggin' me on to do it into foam. After getting one solid one into foam, I felt confident in bringing it to the resi, which was right next to the foam. I must have tried it and whooped out 20-30 times before actually getting it, but my persistence paid off! All thanks to my man Terry Price that is ;)
    It was kind of ironic though, seeing that I landed a double backflip because of him. Terry, along with Jesse Macaluso were the two riders that I looked up to when first starting, and Terry's huge mini video with the double flip was really the reason I started riding in the first place.

Steven: Well big congratulations on that accomplishment man. So, as most people know by now, you also ride for Inside-Scooters. What made you so down to ride for us here at IS?



Ryan: To me, it was a no-brainer! I have been getting on inside since it was just started, and the only writers were you and Jordan. I still, to this day hop n there every time i open up the internet on my computer. When i was offered the spot, I felt there was no reason to even hesitate. I would be supporting something that i believe in.

    and in the end, that's all that matters to me. Riding for, and supporting a cause that I feel is for the better of the sport as a whole.

Steven: Well I'd be lying if I said hearing that doesn't get me stoked haha. So unfortunately it's about time we get this wrapped up. Before we wrap things up, tell us about some plans you got this summer.

Ryan: This summer will be packed full of trips and events! I will be traveling with Shopecx throughout the summer, and producing the summer tour 2011 dvd for the holiday season. In addition, I will hopefully be making over to England in July for a competition. As for the rest of the days, I just plan to ride everywhere i can, spend some time with my girlfriend, go to the beach, and enjoy my time off of school! After all, with my school, and probably many others, this year I only have a 2-month sumer vacation...

Steven: Jam packed for sure bro. So do you got any last words or shout outs you want to get out before we wrap this up. Got some friends waiting for me, and In n Out Burger is calling my name, I gotta roll soon!

Ryan: Dude you should def pick some up for me! It's been too long since I've had In N Out haha. But I would like to give a shout out to Mike Lashbrook from Shopecx for being there for me since the beginning, Dinny and Blunt for being the best sponsor i could ever ask for, Dave Ward from DSA for being kind enough to let me crash at his place quite a few times, and Inside Scooters as a whole for keeping me informed on everything that has to do with scooters. Without inside, I would never have the time to find all of the best videos and info! So thanks Steven, for doing this interview with me. I really appreciate it, and I'm expecting some In N Out the next time i see you haha! Take care bro!





And Ryan's latest work.. "It's Summer Again" can be seen below..

Matt Somers Interview

Matt Somers is another top level rider from New Jersey who is quickly becoming one of my favorite all around riders, from street to park. He rides extremely clean, and spins both ways and whips both ways, two things I really admire in a rider. He also is the latest rider to make the Scooter Zone Pro Team on the East Coast. I recently was able to catch up with Matt, and got the below interview done. Check it out.







Steven: Matt Somers, to start us off, can you tell us how old you are and where you're from?

Matt: I'm from Jackson, New Jersey and I'm 18 years old.

Steven: Ahh, another dirty jersey rider haha. So how long have you been riding scooters, and what got you started?

Matt: I've been riding since Sept 08'. It was a joint effort between my brother and Brandon Russo. My brother bought a Pro model because he saw Brandon riding and then I got hooked on it about a month later and then I bought my first Pro model.


Steven: Now, You seem to be able to ride park and street really well, do you prefer one over the other, and if so, why?

Matt: Street is more fun, it's as simple as that. Park is basically a place to learn tricks or get ideas for something I want to try to pull at a spot.

Steven: Gotta agree with you there dude. In your videos you do a lot of opposite spins and whips. How hard was it for you to start whipping and spinning opposite?

Matt: I never really noticed it to be honest, I have my grindbox to thank. I naturally BS feeble so most of the time I was spinning FS out of grinds so that definitely helped a lot. As for heelwhips, I'm pretty sure it was seeing BK do them that made me think I should do that to. We all know he is the king of driveway videos

Steven: Very true. You got a lot of top riders in your area, how much has it helped to be able to come up riding with some of these guys?

Matt: It definitely made me progress faster...I will say that guys like Peter Jungsberger, Collin DaSilva, and Josh Kish influence by me in park, but I've got them out into the streets more now so it's like we help each other out now.


Steven: That's awesome man. So you recently got added on to the Scooter Zone Pro Team, what does that mean to you, and how do you think it's going to change your riding?

Matt: Well first off, I didn't expect it. Getting picked up by a team like this just gets me stoked and makes me want to go bigger and better now that I have someone backing me. My riding isn't going to change one bit, you'll see some different spots and some new tricks, but basically mostly just street riding.

Steven: So now that you are riding for a company known for supporting their team riders 110%, what can we expect from you in the near future?

Matt: Definitely traveling, I'll be at one of the major contests on the West Coast. Summer time is coming up and I'm going on a trip out to the Midwest, I'm going to be stopping at Rob Dyrdek's plaza in Ohio, which gets me more then stoked. I guess just another edit with a bunch of amazing spots.

Steven: Can't wait to get you out here on the West Coast Matt. Thanks for taking the time to do this interview with Inside-Scooters Matt, any last words or shout outs?

Matt: ScooterZone for hooking me up, my brother and friends for keeping me going and just being there to ride. Brandon Russo for filming. And to anyone reading this, ride how you want to ride. If you like doing briflips then do them, if you like riding how I ride, do it. Don't let other people tell you how to ride, let them influence how you ride.




Below you can also check out Matt's latest video, and be sure to check Inside-Scooters cause he has a Scooter Zone promo video coming out in the near future.