SE Crew: Todd Lyons
Everyone knows Todd Lyons as the SE Bikes Director, but did you know he was a sponsored-rider for SE originally? Yep! Keep reading for some insider knowledge with the Wildman.
How old are you?
51 years old. Sounds crazy.
Where do you live?
Surf City, Huntington Beach, CA.
How many SE bikes do you own?
I think the current count is about 22 bikes. But man, I gotta thin the heard. I need to do some more “Wildman Garage Giveaways” & give away some of my bikes. I have too many. I’m on a one in-one out policy.
What’s your favorite SE bike?
It constantly changes, but I’d say the Beast Mode Ripper. It’s nimble enough to hit jumps, but it’s also big enough to be comfortable. It’s like the perfect size. I also like the Monster Ripper & Monster Quad, and of course the Fat Ripper and Fat Quad. Those are all my fav’s!
What’s your favorite place to ride?
Sheep Hills is fun if I want to hit some jumps. But, if I’m just cruising with friends, the entire 150-mile route of the So Cal BMX ride is pretty amazing! I love riding with friends (sometimes hundreds of friends!) in scenic areas. Oh, and pretty much anywhere in NYC or anywhere outside of America. I love to explore on my bike! One of the mottos I live by is “Ride a bike. It will take you places.”
What is your favorite thing about bike life?
I love the community it creates. It’s so cool to see so many riders that come from all walks of life coming together and riding together as one. I am happy that through my work with SE, that we have really established bike life as a thing to be recognized.
What’s your secret to improving your riding skills?
Well, in the last two months I got both of my knees replaced, so that should help! LOL. Nowadays, I just ride and have fun. I’m not pushing myself to “improve.” My focus is F-U-N!
What’s something that people may not know about you?
I was sponsored by SE before I started working for SE. SE was my bike sponsor in 2003 for BMX racing & BMX dirt jumping. Then in the summer of 2004, I accepted a job offer as the SE Brand Manager and Product Manager. I have since become the SE Director. It’s seriously a dream job and a dream situation to go from being a professional bike rider to being hired by your sponsor. It’s crazy to think that I’ve been with SE Bikes for over 20 years!
What advice would you give to someone just getting into riding?
Ride for fun and enjoy the ride! Just remember, “Ride a bike. It will take you places.”
