Mike Sanderson, Calibre Bikes

There must be easier things you could be doing in the normal 9 to 5 world that would probably pay better than bikes. So why do you bother?

I suppose it started when we aren’t so lucky as we are now, bikes now and the parts that go on them are all pretty good. Back in the early 2000’s that wasn’t the case. So after a minor knock back in my career choices (wasn’t allowed in the military as I’m asthmatic) I chose to follow engineering and product development, all the time knowing that all I wanted was to work on bikes in some way. I still do it as I love to find and fix problems I suppose. Unless it’s DIY around the home of course…

What are you proudest of in terms of your work?

There’s lots to be honest, I think it would be hopefully that a lot of the bikes I have been a part of developing have brought positives to their riders and they’ve stayed in the sport and had a blast from those bikes.

What’s the success that surprised you most?

Got to be the Calibre Bossnut, don’t get me wrong I knew it was going to do well, but didn’t ever think it was going to be a kind of cult bike for so many.

What’s the funniest screw up?

So many to choose from, funny one was giving Cedric Gracia a one only sample of the 25th anniversary Burner BMX at the 2007 world champs. The bike hadn’t been photographed properly or anything. Pretty cool though that it’s still in his house!

What do you find hardest?

Imposter syndrome - pretty much sums it up sometimes.

What’s the bit you never get tired of?

Finding solutions to problems and knowing that it’s going to make a difference to people’s use or enjoyment in our sport. Never get tired of seeing someone smiling after using a product I’ve had a hand in.

Mike as a rider...

Uphill or downhill rider / sweater or jumper?

I used to be DH only, but now I enjoy the ride out. Still racing enduro’s and the odd DH race with my sons - which is very cool and a privilege to see them enjoying what I do.

Uphill or downhill mentality? E.g. do you tend to make things harder than they have to be or take the easier option

Depends what it is, the easy option normally has a reason that’s it’s easier. You can’t be scared to put in the hard yards and I like to think I’ve always got stuck in from industry show setups to working late when it’s needed.

I liken procrastination to an ostrich burying its head in the sand (I know they don’t do that in real life - but cartoons), soon enough something’s going to creep up and bite you in the arse.

Favourite sort of ride?

A ride out with the lads (read dads) on a Sunday morning is always entertaining, but I love riding with my sons.

Favourite riding destination?

Straight out the door into the Forest of Dean is pretty good, but anywhere new and exciting - Whistler isn’t crap either 😂

Favourite bit of clothing?

Gillet of Power

If Polaris could make you a piece of custom kit what would it be?

A new Gillet of Power. Waterproof material with drawstring hem and cuffs so you can lock in the warmth on changeable days and keeps the core dry.

What’s your secret skill?

Wheelies - pretty good at them, sign of a misspent youth I suppose.

Mastermind specialist subject (non bike)?

Warhammer 40K - I’m a nerd.

The future according to Mike...

Are you looking forward to the next 12 months?

My new role with Peaty’s is going to be great, it’s like a fresh start as it’s not “bikes” but it kind of still is. The team are great and everyone wants to have the best product that fulfills the needs of real riders like them. Really can’t wait to show the world what we’re working on!

What would you change about mountain biking?

Let’s not get too drawn down the route that has hit the road crew. It’s not about the kit or the bike, it’s about having fun in the woods with your mates. Don’t take it too seriously - it’s supposed to be fun!

What would you change about the bike industry?

A little bit less BS and maybe some people need to not take things so seriously too?

What gives you the most hope?

The kids, they’re just taking things to the next level already, just look at Jackson Goldstone and then Asa Vermette after him. But even if you don’t look at racing, more kids riding bikes and being active and making long standing friendships group around being outside, that’s got to be good right?