Interview: Carter Holland is the the 41 year old owner of Black Market bikes. And has one of the best turndowns in big bikes. In a few short years Carter has turned Black Market into a premier US brand for hardtail mtb's and has recently expanded his line to include two full suspension models: The Killswitch and the soon to be released Roam. Check out Jon Faure's interview with Carter below.

OGWR: How many years have you been riding and what is your history in the sport?

Carter: I've been a die hard BMX'er since I saw Bob Haro ride Marina Del Rey in 1980 when I was a Vertical Roller-skating Grom. I rode BMX street and some dirt and my 80's vert 1/4 pipe in Brooklyn, NY with guys like Glenn Miligan, Brooks Manbeck, Wayne and Richie Poole and even Robbie Morales from time to time when he was like 13.

pic: Nick Brandreth

OGWR: Who are your current sponsors?

BlkMrkt - Atomlab - X-Fusion - Shimano/Saint - Vans - Pro-Tec - Index Ink - E*Thirteen  

OGWR: Give us a basic bike check?

Carter: Frame: Mob 21.5" - Fork: X-fusion Velour 80mm - Bar/Stem: Bada Boom 1.5" and 31.8mm Underboss - Grips: Lock-Downs - Cranks: Saint 175 with e*13 – sprocket - Wheels: Atomlab Pimplite 32h with Pimplite Hubs - Tires: Intense Mk2 - Pedals: Shimano DX - Seat and Post: BlkMrkt Oney and Slim Seat - Brakes: Saint 140mm rotor - Chain: Shimano IG

Photo: Carter's girlfriend Suzie Morales.... I'm teaching her to shoot action. She doesn't flinch in the line of fire... but I haven't run into her yet either... lol.

OGWR: What style of riding do you enjoy most?

Carter: Mostly I like dirt but also flowing around going fast and high... not too many tricks. I love my All Mountain bike most right now though... specially turning!!!

OGWR: Where are your favorite places to ride?

Carter: Sheep Hills, Gavilan, 9th Street in Austin... Laguna Woods and Santiago Oaks.

pic : Sven MartinOGWR: What keeps you riding at your age and how do you stay motivated?

Carter: I love it and can't wait to ride everyday... that's it... simple!

OGWR: What do you do that you think has a positive impact on our sport?

Carter: I guess I put my heart and soul into riding.... I've pretty much devoted my life to riding if you really look at it and I try to support riders who deserve support and design bike products that I think have a place in our respective sports... 

 pic : Justin Brantley

OGWR: Anything else you would like to tell us?

Carter: Go Ride Your Bike!