Redbeard Racing: Wilson

Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Tribeca for the most part, as well Soho, Prospect Heights, and Park Slope.

When & where did you first learn to ride a bike?
I learned on a hill in Siasconset on Nantucket. My father would give my brother and me a starting push and we had to get down the hill without falling or using our feet to stabilize ourselves. I’ve been riding bikes with more than 2 wheels longer than I can remember.

How did you get into track racing?
My buddy Daniel. He worked at Continuum while I was looking for my first “real” bike (for fun not transpo). He convinced me that I should get a track bike. After that I started riding more and more and got into racing. Since I only had a track bike that’s what I started racing.

Do you have a pre-race ritual?
In the past I would eat a large cheese pizza for lunch before the twilight series. But I plan on amending that this year.

How do you take your coffee?
Black and cold, like my heart.

Tell us about your track bike(s) and why you love it/them.
I have a Topaz Track bike with Hollowbridge Technology. I love it because I built it, and because the hollowbrigde starts to howl when I get up to sprint.

What has been your most meaningful victory on the track to date?
No victories to date, but I got third place in a miss and out which was nice.

Favorite post-race meal?
A big ol’ shrimp burrito with guac.

Favorite velodrome to race in, and why?
Kissena, only track I’ve ridden.

Favorite pro bike racer?
Sagan, can’t name many others, plus he seems like a rad dood.

What do you do to pay the bills?
I touch bikez.

And the most important question: lock-ring or no lock-ring?
2 lock rings, no cog.