INSIDE OUT.

31 May 2009

Six months ago I signed on to help Specialized Bicycles as a creative director and brand-manager to re-vamp their Globe line of urban-focused bikes. In the past half year I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the most talented designers and creative minds within the cycling industry; and have had the opportunity to see the inner-workings of this incredible world. Experiencing a design go from drawing board to first prototypes, through the marketing, engineering and financial/budgetary filters; and on to final production has been a truly enlightening and incredible process.

Last week I headed to Taichung, Taiwan to oversee final-production and a photoshoot of the bikes before their formal, world-wide release at the end of June.

I spent a week shuffling between the factory and the studio, squeezing in rides at 05:00 in the morning to better beat the 95 degree heat and 95% humidity. I lost a full eight pounds of water on one particularly fast ride with colleague and former world-champion track sprinter, DON LANGLEY –they don’t name a bike after the slow ones!

After racing to finish work, we headed North, to Taipei for a day of much needed ‘rest’. We caught up with the local Nabiis crew to join them on the FIRST STAGE of their 10 day, 800 mile epic around the circumference of the island. On Saturday a group of 24 embarked on what will no doubt be an incredible and not-to-be-forgotten ride.

Most are taking on this monumental journey with riser bars, toeclips and vans and a messenger bag. It was truly inspiring to see the energy and excitement with which they attacked each of the climbs and descents on the first leg of the ride.

Endless mountains and local road-side stands provided nourishment and drinks in the hot and humidity throughout the day.

Massive respect to all the NABIIS RIDERS and especially to Gus, Martin and Chek whose hospitality and warm-hearted kindness made our stay a GREAT one! The world will be eagerly watching as your tour unfolds!

_garrett chow