Cody Hennings Interview

Cody Hennings is one of the new riders for Hitman Bikes and Airspeed Shoes. Cody is not new to Bmx and is up and coming in the Pro world. He is doing shows and starting to hit more and more contest. This is a future guy that other riders need to watch out for and we got an exclusive interview!



NAME: CODY HENNINGS

Age: 22

BIKE SET UP:

Frame: HITMAN- RUBY 20.75

Fork: FIT- BLADE LIGHT

Cranks: FIT

Bars: FIT- NORTHWEST

Pegs: NONE

Seat: MACNIEL

Rims: BACK- 7KA FRONT- PRIEMIUM

Pedals: ODYSSEY- PC PEDALS

Seat Post: ANIMAL

Front brake: NONE

Back Brake: ODYSSEY

Brake Pads: I HAVE NO CLUE HAHA

Stem: S&M REDNECK XLT


How many years riding bmx? 7
Where do you live? DALLAS, TX

How did you get started in Bmx? I SAW THE SKATEPARK ONE DAY AND JUST STARTED GOING UP THERE!


When did you turn pro? ABOUT A YEAR AND A HALF AGO


I know recently you have become sponored by Hitman Bikes and Airspeed Shoes how did you feel when that happened?

I WAS SOO AMAZED! I COULDNT BELIEVE IT AT FIRST! ITS BEEN ONE OF MY DREAMS FOR A LONG TIME! I AM SO HAPPY WITH BOTH OF THOSE COMPANIES. EVERYONE THAT WORKS THERE ARE VERY FRIENDLY AND DOWN TO EARTH AND WILLING TO HELP OUT. I COULDNT BE HAPPIER.


What is the local scene like where you live?

ITS REALLY GOOD!! WE HAVE SOME AMAZING PARKS UP HERE! I CAN TRAVEL WITHIN AN HOUR AND GO TO 6 DIFFERENT PARKS! WE ALSO HAVE SOME REALLY GOOD TRAILS HERE! THE STREET RIDING IS VERY GOOD ALSO!

If you could change one thing about Bmx what would it be?

HOW EVERYONE TALKS DOWN ABOUT PEOPLE THEY DONT EVEN KNOW! THAT REALLY BUGGS ME! OTHER THAN THAT..... GIRL PANTS!!!!!!

Who have been your greatest influences when it comes to riding?

MY FAVORITE RIDER HAS ALWAYS BEEN CORY NASTAZIO. SO IVE LOOKED UP TO HIM SINCE I STARTED RIDING. OTHER THAN THAT JUST PEOPLE DOING UNIQUE AND ORIGONAL STUFF! MY REALLY GOOD FRIEND BRANDON HOPKINS HAS INFLUINCED ME ALOT IN THE PAST 2 YEARS OR SO! I LOVE RIDING WITH THAT GUY!

What was it like to perform shows at Six Flags?

WOW!! THATS ALL I CAN SAY! IT WAS THE FIRST TIME I HAD EVER DONE SHOWS AT ALL, AND IT WAS THE FIRST TIME I HAD EVER BEEN PAID TO RIDE MY BIKE! IT WAS AMAZING BECAUSE WE GOT TO GO TO SIX FLAGS AND RIDE IN FRONT OF THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE IN AN AIR CONDITIONED THEATER! WHAT MORE COULD YOU ASK FOR! EVERYONE IN THE SHOW WAS AWSOME! I MADE SOME REALLY GOOD FRIENDS FORM THAT AND LEARNED ALOT OF STUFF TOO!

Now that those shows have ended what is your future plans?

JUST TO KEEP PROGRESSING AND TRY TO TRAVEL ALOT MORE! HIT UP MORE CONTESTS! AND JUST HAVE FUN!

Where do you see the future of Bmx headed?

WOW THATS A HARD QUESTION! THIS SPORT IS GETTING NUTS, I JUST SAW A VIDEO OF MIKE SPINNER DOING A QUAD WHIP!! 2 YEARS AGO IF YOU WOULD HAVE SAID THAT THAT TRICK WAS GONNA HAPPEN NO ONE WOULD HAVE BELIEVED YOU! I CANT WAIT TO SEE WHAT ELSE IS GONNA BECOME POSSIBLE!


I know you ride park/vert and dirt trails about everyday...do you prefere one over the other and why/why not?

I LOVE RIDING PARK AND TRAILS THE MOST! I LOVE PARK JUST CAUSE THERE ARE ENDLESS POSSABILITIES!! THERE ARE ALWAYS THINGS TO LEARN AND DIFFERENT STUFF TO RIDE! AS FAR AS TRAILS GO I JUST LOVE FLOWING THROUGH A GOOD SET OF TRAILS! AND ALSO WITH TRAILS IF YOU CAN THINK OF IT AND HAVE ENOUGH PEOPLE OUT THERE DIGGING YOU CAN BUILD ANYTHING! GET TIRED OF AND START OVER AGAIN! ITS AMAZING!


What new tricks are you working on?

HAHA! WELL AT THE MOMENT IM WORKING ON FLAIRS. THERE ARE ALOT OF TRICKS IM WORKING OUT IN MY HEAD THAT YOU WILL BE SEEING REALLY SOON! SO BE ON THE LOOK OUT!


You have started to do some shows in Texas lately what has that been like and who have you been doing shows with?

I HAVE BEEN DOING SOME SHOWS WITH THE UNITED FREESTYLE STUNT TEAM. THEY ARE BASED OUT OF FORT WORTH TEXAS. ATOM BAKER IS THE OWNER AND GREAT GUY. HE NEEDED AN EXTRA PERSON FOR A SHOW ONE DAY AND CALLED ME UP AND THEN ABOUT A WEEK LATER I WENT DOWN TO HOUSTON TO DO A SHOW WITH HIM! ITS ALOT OF FUN, I LOVE DOING SHOWS WITH HIM!


I know you work with a lot of young people at your local skate parks and you are a great role model when it comes to push the younger generation to ride....what kind of things do the kids ask you?

CAN YOU DO A BACKFLIP?? THATS PROBLY THE MOST ASKED QUESTION! OTHER THAN THAT THEY ASK ALOT OF QUESTIONS ABOUT MY BIKE, ARE YOU SPONSORED?, WHATS THE BEST TRICK YOU CAN DO, JUST STUFF LIEK THAT! I LOVE HELPING KIDS OUT AT THE SKATEPARKS. I HAVE HAD A FEW PARENTS COME UP TO ME WANTING TO GIVE LESSONS TO THIER CHILDREN. THATS ALWAYS ALOT OF FUN. WHO KNOWS.. ONE DAY ILL SEE ONE OF THESE KIDS ON T.V. AND ILL BE LIKE, WOW... I HELPED THAT KID START RIDING!


What advice do you have to the young generation trying to progress and get sponsored?

BE PATIENT!! NOTHING HAPPENS OVER NIGHT! TRAVEL ALOT AND BE HUMBLE!


If you had enough money to do anything you wanted in or for Bmx what would it be?

TRAVEL AND RIDE!! I LOVE TRAVELING! ROADTRIPS ARE SOO FUN!


Your career in Bmx is taking off what do think the future holds for you and what can we look forward to?

I DONT REALLY KNOW BUT I HOPE ITS SOMETHING GOOD!


I appreciate you being a part of Flatmonkey Bmx and everything you do for us and I congraulate you on your recent success....any final thoughts for our readers?

THANKS CHRIS! AND ALL I CAN SAY IS JUST RIDE AND HAVE FUN!

Our Hearts goes out to Stephen Murray and Family

Stay Stong Brother!

Flatland Circa 1998

Mike Spinner Pulls Quad Tailwhip

Mike Spinner has out done himself and pulls quad tailwhip on the Resi at the famous Mirra warehouse in the Carolina's..........http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DYQFn3Fekc will we see this on the AST Dew Tour this year?

Flatmonkey Bmx Gear

If you are looking for Flatmonkey Bmx gear here is your chance! We have a small site for some gear for those hard core Flatmonkey Bmx fans! http://www.zazzle.com/flatmonkeybmx

Airspeed Shoes Supports Woodward Trip

03 July 2008

When it comes to comfortable innovative shoes Airspeed shoes has it covered. Thanks to legend skateboarder Mike Mcguill and In California Inc. you no longer have to pay a fortune for Bmx shoes. Airspeed shoes can be found at your Local Wal-Mart for between $25-$30 and they last forever. I proudly endorse their shoe because they are stylish, comfortable, and our durable. I start riding their shoe long before they even sponsored me. They even put their name on Bmx branding by placing a full page ad in Bmx Plus and supporting events like the Texas Round Up, Flatland Voodoo Jam, and straight out of Indy. They never can out give to the bmx community as I am heading to Woodward at the end of the month and they have donated over 20 pairs of shoes and other items to give away to the riders! As companies grow they sometimes increase their prices this company is pushing innovation with better shoes and better quality with the same low prices..........Support those companies that support Bmx...buy a pair of quality Airspeed shoes today........" Aispeed Shoes Saved my Sole" http://www.Airspeed.Us

Terry Adams New Website

Pro Flatlander Terry Adams had a recent site redesign with fresh videos, ads, updates, and more.....Check it out at http://www.terryadamsbmx.com/

Stephen Murray Fund

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=862Upwy-qYo

The Bmx world faced a serious tragedy with one of our fallen brothers this past year during the AST Dew Tour.....fellow flatland brother Stephen Murray was faced with serious spinal injuries and is lucky to be alive today....One thing that is near and dear to my heart is I have a wife and two kids and I have two very dangerous jobs...one is the military and the other is every time I pick up my Bmx bike....earlier this year I donated to the Stephen Murray Fund and if you watch the video above I hope you take the opportunity to donate if even just a dollar....This young man has already beat so many odds....please help Stephen and his family! http://www.stephenmurrayfamilyfund.com/

God Bless;

Chris Ridener

1in3 Trinity Energy Drink Supports Bmx

With all the energy drinks on the market and many supporting extreme sports if you are looking for something that will really boost your energy and sends a positive message then 1in3 Energy Drink is the right product with the right price! Plus you can get it shipped right to your door by visiting their website at http://www.1in3trinityenergydrink.com/ 1in3Trinity Energy Drink contains 8.4 oz.1 Serving Size Per Can. You can order a case of 24- 8.4 oz cans for $36.00+ s/h or a sampler can for a total of $6.95.....If you catch myself or the team out in your area you can also try the drink out as well! Go to your local retailer and let them know you want them to order 1in3 Trinity! They have been at numerous Bmx (especially Flatland supported events this year!) The can also has a great message that is conveyed to our youth and society!

God Bless;

Chris Ridener

Rodney Williams Interview

NAME: Rodney Williams

Age: 33

BIKE SET UP:

Frame: 1997 Hoffman EP with PLATFORM

Fork: 2004 Oddesey Pro Flat Fork w/ min. offset

Cranks: Bullet Proof 1 piece cranks

Bars: 1996 Graveyard OG

Pegs: 1993 Indy Industry

Seat: 1996 Primo steroid saddle

Rims: Araya super 7 Front 13 gauge spokes and Back 14 Gauge spokes

Freecoaster: 2001 Nanki Techno

Pedals: Cheap GT Platform pedals received for free 1997

Seat Post: pulled from rusty old frame in a backyard

Front brake: 1994 Diacompe 990

Back Brake: 1995 Diacompe 990

Brake Pads: Eagle Claws bought in 1997 still going strong

Stem: 1996 Diamond Back Stem off of a Mister Lucky Dirt Jumping Bike

How many years riding bmx? On and off 24 years including all disciplines

Where do you live? San Antonio, TX

When and how did you get started in Flatland Bmx? I started riding flatland around 1984 and first started because I saw my neighbors doing it.

When did you turn pro? December of 1998

Since turning pro what has been your greatest accomplishment? Winning my first pro contest March 27, 1999 at the Brotherhood Bmx Contest II.

What is the South Texas Flatland scene like? It is literally insane! We have some of the most versatile, personal and progressive styles of flatland.

If you could change one thing about flatland Bmx what would it be? To be more available to make a consistent living in all areas.

Who have been your greatest influences when it comes to riding? 1. Jesus Christ for his grace, mercy, forgiveness and understanding. 2. My mother and twin sister Rhonda for their eternal love and support. 3. My entire family 4. Chris Ridener for his knowledge, support, enthusiasm, patience, cooperation, understanding, bike skills, and continued unselfish support of flatland (i.e. the Texoma Relief Fund Contest/open door ministry). 5. Art Thomason 6. Eugene Collins 7. Matt Wilhelm 8. Rob "Tex" Thayer 9. Eric Holley 10. Danny Harrison 11. Chris Lilly 12. Brandon Bussey 13. Sid--a skater who lifted my spirits one day. 14. Carey Matthews 15. Amillo a friend and street rider who I am currently teaching flatland. 16. Dennis "DMC" Mcoy 17. Jason Childers 18. Cullen McMorrow19. Andy and Kyle technicians at the Six Flag shows I performed at. 20. Eddie Snell--Owner of SRO 21.Andrew Arroyo 22. Scott Powell 23. Oscar Garcia 24. Chase Gouin 25. Terry Adams

What was it like to perform shows at Six Flags? It was an absolute beautiful experience living out my dream.

Now that those shows have ended what is your future plans? My future plan is to set the Guiness Book of World Records for the longest link and be able to continue making a living riding my bike.

Where do you see the future of flatland headed? I see it globally growing more than it already is today. Because there are more riders who are whole hearted reaching the masses like Hector Garcia, Lee "Huck" Edwards, Mark "Rad Dad" Dandridge, Scott O' Brien and Chris Ridener

Why do you think flatland is bigger overseas right now than in the United States? There is more corporate sponsorship overseas than in the U.S.

Past Interview with Brett Downs

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH BRETT DOWNS:In the past few months I have had the pleasure to come to know a rider I have looked up to for a long time. The funny thing is when I first talked to this guy I felt like a complete fool because I did not realize who I was talking to! I have always done some flow with SE Bikes and have worked with Todd Lyons for a while. Recently when coming back to ride for SE Bikes Todd told me to hit up Brett Downs the new Team Manager for the Terror Squad. The guys at SE have always been great to me and Todd mentioned this dude was a Flatland legend but, it still did not click. One day I am on the phone with Brett and I dropped a few friends names to see if he was familiar with them. Then he unleashes the secret.....I hear I use to be a Plywood Hood!!!! I about fell down right there. I was talking to a guy I have looked up to my whole life in the flatland world.....Not only that but, this guy rides just about every Bmx discipline imaginable....I was so stoked....So to the readers I know Brett has done some great interviews in the past but, I was able to hit him with a few questions and share them with you here at Flatmonkey Bmx!

Full name: Brett Downs

Age: 40 fun filled years

Location: Just outside Philadelphia, PA

Years riding: Since before you were born

Bike: I have different bikes for Flatland, Ramps and Racing.

Best and Favorite Tricks: I could never pick a real best trick but I love G-turns and quick blasting flatland tricks. Beyond that, nothing feels better than going high off any ramp.

Riders who have influenced you the most: Just my friends growing up. Like everybody else. Of course, I grew up with some amazing riders as friends.

Q: I know you have been riding for a while how did you get into BMX?

I started trying to be Evel Knievel when I was a kid. It just progressed from there. I just like riding so I do as many types of BMX as possible.

Q: You ride a lot of disciplines and I know Flatland seems to be a great passion for you.....Do you prefer one discipline over the other?

They are all fun in different ways. Flatland is so accessible since no ramps or obstacles are needed. It is also a good way to push your creativity and abilities. It is also a lot less traumatic injury wise.

Q: In all your riding and travels what has been your favorite spot to ride and why?

Another odd, question. I have favorite skateparks and little flatland corners spread out across many states and cities. You can ride flat near the Applebys in Dunwoody, Georgia or hit up the skatepark in Athens, Ohio. It is more about the session than the place.

Q: How many videos have you been in and which is your favorite and why? I have probably been in 12-15 videos. My favorites are the Dorkins in York series we put out ourselves. I was stoked that Ells Bells put me in as well. Maybe my bit in Dorkins 10.

Q: You have been around BMX longer than most riders especially the new generation of Flatland. Where do you see flatland headed in the future?

I see such an interesting style change with the brakeless, pumping style coming in. It is so different that what I started out doing. I see limitless possibilities. Today's riders are just opening the door further than the riders of the past. Old tricks will be forgotten but that is the way it goes.

Q: This is a question that always gets a lot of Flatlanders going......First; do you believe there is old school compared to new school? Second; if there is a difference in your opinion which do you prefer?

Ok, I will say it- Yes, there is old and new school. I have always said there are also good tricks and lame tricks. I prefer the good ones, no matter if the are old school or new school styles.

Q: Of all the goals you have set in your life which goal have you accomplished that has meant the most to you personally?

In riding, I would have to say that I still do it, have fun and progress. I can't put in 40 hours a week of riding anymore but it hasn't changed that much otherwise. That is what is the best part of BMX to me.

Q: You now work for SE Bikes.....Can you tell the readers a little more about how this came about and what you do?

I saw Todd Lyons at a local race and gave him my number to go ride the local spots. We went out riding and hung out a bit. He showed me around and then he eventually asked if I would like to help him out. I do a little of everything concerning SE Bikes. Todd is the man, I am his back.

Q : Flatmonkey Bmx attracts a lot of newbie Bmx riders or those just coming into the sport......Can you explain what the Plywood Hood were all about and what it was like to be a part of that Team.

Way back about a hundred years ago, riders formed teams and did shows. My friends and I started the Plywood Hoods. We wanted to get great and ride our bikes. We did shows, videos, a tour, competed, invented Jams, laughed, lived, took each other to the hospital, and grew up together. Mostly, we just rode. We all had a similar passion for fun, progression and trying our best.

Q: What advice would you give to those that are just starting out in Bmx?

Don't ride with any goal in mind other than having fun. If it is fun, you will progress both in your own riding and in the BMX world if you choose. If it gets to be a hassle or obsession, you need to lighten up a bit and go ride to 7-11 and get a Coke, sit out front on the sidewalk and look at your bike. It's all about just enjoying life.

Q: I have many young people ask me the age old question how do I get sponsored. What advice would you give these young people?

You have to have some talent first and then ride a ton to hone that talent. You have to offer something to sponsors, not just be a good rider. Be a cool person who can promote. Contests, shows, TV, Videos all get companies exposure. Most of all, be a cool person to everyone you meet.

Q: What are your current goals and where would you like to see yourself in five years/10 years?

Oh, I still plan on riding. I'm stoked on being in the industry and would love to make BMX better for everyone. Down the road I just want to be able to see people riding bikes that I had something to do with. That would be pretty cool.

Q: Do you think you will ever quit or retire from riding a Bmx bike?

Nah, just when I'm physically unable. It has been over 35 years now so how could I stop?

Q: Who do you currently ride with? Well, my best riding buddy just moved so it will be my son, Henry. He and I race and go to the skatepark together. I ride flat alone. Not too many of us out there!

Q: You are now the Team Manager for the SE Terror squad....what is that like and what vision do you have for this program in the future?

Well, the Terror Squad has been a great opportunity for BMX racers. I want to help support riders on any type of SE Bike, racing, freestyle or otherwise. I think the best way to let people know about the quality of SE Bikes is to see them in real life and hop on one. I'm also grateful that SE and I, personally, can help the next generation of riders.

Q: With everything you are involved in right now how do you balance Bmx and your family life?

Well, I believe that people have time for what they think is important. Riding is important to me so I find the time to get out. True, my family and job come first, but the bike is number three in line. The chores are way down the list.

Q:What are your favorite forms of Bmx media?

I have surfed the net for a long time. It's great to get news right away, be able to dig deeply in a topic and talk directly to those involved. That being said, I'm still a magazine reader. I love having something to really absorb. I actually don't see too many DVDs anymore. I catch my video online.

Q: Brett I want to personally thank you, TL and SE Bikes for supporting me this year and for taking time away from your busy schedule to do this interview! Do you have any last words?

First of all I would like to thank my wife the best, and kids for just being the best. Thanks also to Todd and SE Bikes for taking a chance on me. To all who read this, just remember, it is all about actually being on the bike. The rest is just incidental. Now go do a trick

Flatclothing Review

A few weeks ago I spoke with Chris Day the owner and rider for Http://www.flatclothing.com I took the opportunity to order a pair of his new pants and a T-shirt. After I made the purchase Chris worked quickly to get my order together and get it shipped to me which was a huge plus with mail order. When my items arrived I was super stoked! The pants are very comfortable and as promised by Chris perfect to ride in! Even though I live in Texas and it is super hot here I stayed cool wearing these pants during a mid morning riding session. The T-shirt was perfect size and has some great graphics....in terms of promoting Flatland I assure you many people will ask about your T-shirt and embroidered design on the pants which will allow you to discuss and explain what Flatland is all about. Before I ordered the pants I saw some posts on the Global-Flat Forum talking about pricing and shipping cost. I personally ride for a couple of companies who sell clothing and I can tell you for the quality and design the price is well worth it. I also have had many T-shirts after a couple of times in the laundry wash and dry that fades or has a loss in comfort. The T-shirt still looks new and wears great! So if you get the chance and have some extra cash take the time to pick up some Flatclothing today! They can be found on E-bay or at Http://www.flatclothing.com We will interviewing Chris Day in the near future about his business and riding so check back for more news and reviews. Also do not forget to visit our new site Http://www.flatmonkeybmx.com

Flatmonkey Bmx New Website Launches

July 1, 2008

The New Flatmonkey Bmx website is now up a long with our new blog site. We will be adding interviews, reviews, and more as we finish the site. The new website will have some more sections added by the end of the weekend. We will be posting updates from our team members here as well! More to come!