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| Click here to see the Nate Richter Photo Gallery. |
Photos/text: Sam Adams
Years ago when I used to race, I remember Nate Richter being this little kid who was better than anyone else on the track. He could jump bigger jumps than anyone even close to his age and he was already a big name at Nationals. He couldn't have been more than ten years old at this point.
Well a lot has changed over the six years that I have known Nate, but one thing still remains the same. He loves to ride his bike, he is damn good on it, and he’s always getting better.
Name: Nate Richter
Age: 16
Hometown: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Bike: Mutiny
Car: Chevy Avalanche
Favorite place to ride: “Anywhere that's fun.”
In all the photos in this gallery you aren't riding with a chain. What's up with that?
Well I have a freecoaster, but my chain broke a while back and broke my sprocket. I don't have enough money to get a chain or sprocket.
Any plans to go back to chains, or is this the cool new thing to ride with out them?
Yeah, probably, but I really like riding without one. It kind of helps with your flow and pumping.
A long time ago you were hardcore into racing. In fact, I remember even seeing you in the Schwinn catalog years ago. So what took you away from racing and to the point you are now?
(Laughs) Yeah, I don't know. I love racing but when I got older it seemed like people were too crazy about it. I saw dads and moms yelling at their kids because they didn't win. I never took it too serious and after the races I would go to the skatepark and the vibe was way better. I guess the people and the skatepark took me away from racing.
You've really taken a 180-degree turn from racing, a sport where good bike maintenance was key. Now you’re riding with no chain, brakes, or even a well maintained bike.
Damn, I don't know what to say about that (laughs).
So with summer approaching I know a lot of people are starting to plan some trips. Any plans for you in the next couple months?
Yeah, maybe hit up Dew Tour in Utah take some trips down to Mexico and El Paso, but plans can always change.
You've got a lot of new places to ride since Albuquerque just added three new parks, and there are rumors of a new indoor one coming. How are you feeling about the city and their efforts right now?
I think it’s awesome and its making bikers and skaters happy, too.
Or are you just going to keep destroying the streets that our mayor is trying so hard to get us away from?
F*** yeah, I am!
And of course, anyone you would like to thank?
Mom, Sam Adams, all my friends, James Whitten, Mexican, Aarons Brother, Evolution, and anyone that’s helped me with bike parts or anything in life.
