Bill crushing up the last ramp at Grandfather Mountain on Bridge to Bridge

Ok, we’ll get the tough questions out of the way first: What’s your name?
Bill Larsen

What part of Charlotte, do you call home?
South End

Tell us about your background in cycling, and and what got you into the sport?
I have been riding for about 8 years, only on the road, and love it. I got in to the sport through a friend, as is the case with most of us. About the same time someone asked me what my passion was. Hmmm….I have things I like and enjoy, but I couldn’t truthfully say I had a passion. Soon thereafter, I realized I loved cycling, was good at it, and it became my passion. I dabbled in triathlons, but the whole running thing is for the birds. I realized I could combine cycling and my love for travel and have been able to ride in California, Tuscany, New Zealand, and even got to inch my way up Alpe D’Huez and Ventoux.

What’s your favorite kind of riding to do today?
Right now, I like the longer weekend rides, and like climbing. I did Bridge to Bridge this year, or rather it did me, and maybe I don’t love climbing anymore. My recent riding has been even better, as my partner Steve, has caught the bug and I have built-in ride companion.

What do you take on a ride with you no matter what (besides the bike of course)?
My most recent “gotta have” is frozen homemade peanut butter bars from Steve’s mom. They thaw out by the first rest and are a perfect burst of energy!

What are you riding right now?
My current ride is a Serotta Concours…my second Serotta, and I am brand loyal to the end!

Where is your favorite place to ride?
My favorite place to ride tends to be anywhere without drivers on cell phones!

How ofter do you ride?
I tend to ride on the weekends, and supplement it with a couple of Spin classes a week.

If you hadn’t jumped into the cycling, what do you think you would be doing now?
It is hard to know what I’d be doing without cycling…my tan lines would be different!

Anything else you would like to add?
Not a thing.

*Time Bonus: Favorite post ride beer?
Though not my favorite beer (that would be Triple Karmeliet)…New Belgian Ranger does it after a long ride.