At Savage Bicycles, we believe in celebrating our athletes and the unique stories that drive their passion for cycling. Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Kayla, our incredible sponsored rider, whose journey from dirt bikes to mountain biking has been nothing short of inspiring.
From Windsor to Arizona: A Life of Adventure
Growing up in Windsor, New York, Kayla was always an active and adventurous spirit. She immersed herself in a variety of activities: riding bicycles, running, racing dirt bikes and quads, and playing sports. This early exposure to different sports ignited her passion for physical activity and the outdoors.
In 2016, Kayla took a significant step in her journey by moving to Arizona to attend the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute. By 2017, she had graduated as a certified Kawasaki technician, equipped with the skills and knowledge to work in the world of motorcycles. However, it was during this time that she had a realization about the world of cycling.
The Shift to Mountain Biking
One day, Kayla witnessed her roommate invest in a mountain bike— a hefty price tag that made her think about the value of dirt bikes, considering how many she could buy for that amount. At the time, she didn’t grasp the allure of mountain biking. But fate had a plan for her.
Fast forward to 2019: After undergoing her fifth knee surgery, running became increasingly difficult, and her love for dirt bikes turned into a source of anxiety, with worries of potential re-injury looming large. It was then that Kayla decided to pivot her focus to mountain biking. With low-impact benefits, she saw it as a fantastic way to stay in shape while still enjoying the thrill of riding.
Her first bike, a hardtail, opened the door to this new world. Just three months later, she took the plunge and upgraded to a Pivot Mach 6, a decision that transformed her perspective on cycling. “I finally understood why people spend so much money on this amazing sport,” Kayla shared. It wasn’t just about the bike — it was about the experience and excitement that came with it.
The Joy of Riding and Racing
Kayla’s initial knowledge of bikes was minimal; in fact, her first purchase of the Mach 6 was largely influenced by its vibrant color! Nevertheless, her passion for riding quickly led her to learn the ins and outs of bike maintenance, transforming her into a savvy cyclist who enjoys racing competitively across the valley.
With every ride, Kayla embraces the adventure and adrenaline that mountain biking brings. One of her favorite aspects of the sport is exploring downhill parks, where the thrill and rush of speed provide a refreshing change from cross-country riding.
When she’s not racing down trails, Kayla dedicates her time to public safety, showing her commitment not just to her own adventures but also to her community. She understands the importance of staying healthy and often engages in meal prepping to fuel her active lifestyle. Though she’s health-conscious, she has a soft spot for homemade baked mac and cheese — the perfect comfort food for a well-deserved treat after a long ride!
Looking Ahead
Kayla’s story is a testament to resilience and adaptability. She demonstrates that challenges can lead us to discover new passions and avenues for growth. As a sponsored rider at Savage Bicycles, she embodies the spirit of adventure and the joy of biking — values that resonate deeply with our community.
We’re thrilled to have Kayla as part of the Savage Bicycles family and can’t wait to see what the future holds for her in the world of mountain biking. Stay tuned for updates on Kayla’s racing adventures, and join us in cheering her on as she conquers new trails!
Keep pedaling, Kayla — your journey is an inspiration to us all! 🚴♀️💨🌟
Favorite trail loops:
⁃ Pemberton loop McDowell mountain
⁃ McDowell comp loop
⁃ Latigo, Browns Ranch
⁃ Trail 100, Phoenix mountain preserve
⁃ Red Mountain Rush, Hawes
Favorite bike parks:
⁃Angel Fire, NM
⁃Trestle, CO
Current bikes:
- Pivot Mach 6: downhill park bike
- Pivot Shadowcat: fun play around trail bike
- Pivot Mach 4 SL: race bike
- Pivot Vault: gravel/road