Thomas BARROCA - INTERVIEW

Frenchys: How long have you been riding with an Inspyre frame ?

Thomas: I’ve been part of the Inspyre adventure with the Factory Team since the beginning in 2017. I began to ride an EVO Inspyre then I had the opportunity to ride a Concorde prototype during my first year of junior.

Frenchys: What do you think about the Inspyre Concorde frame ?

Thomas: I’ve had the chance to get lots of types of BMX during my former years. I think that the Concorde frame is the most competitive frame I’ve ever had. The project was to create a very stiff frame with a reactive geometry, and this is a success. The frame is a real pleasure to ride, and the color designs are very nice.

Frenchys: Could you describe your set up bike ?

Thomas: My Inspyre Concorde Pro XL is mounted with a Pride Slik fork (axle 20mm) and a Pride carbon UD Gloss rims pair. I think it’s the best combo with an alloy frame in order to have one of the best stiff bikes and for the riding sensations. I’ve also got the combo Pride SevenMotion handlebar and Pride Cayman 31.8mm stem which allow to have rigidity and good sensations on the top of the bike. I also chose to ride with a disc brake for 1 season. It’s ideal to have carbon rims in order to have an optimal braking. For the supplier it’s difficult to create efficient pad brakes for carbon rims.

Frenchys: How would you describe your implication with Inspyre ?

Thomas: Being part of the Factory Team allows us to promote the brand. But mostly to give our opinion and to test future products by Frenchys Distribution (specially Inspyre & Pride Racing). Talking about products and testing prototypes is a beneficial experience. It allows to make the quality and reliability of products evolve concretely.

Frenchys: If you had to convince a rider to ride on the Inspyre, what would you say to him ?

Thomas: To a rider who would hesitate to ride an Inspyre frame, I would say that it’s a type of bike very easy to ride, created by riders for riders. The geometries are worked in order to make them reactive to optimize our own riding. There is a broad range of colors.

Frenchys: What are your goals for the 2019 season ?

Thomas: My season goals are to go on to progress on the SX World cups, to confirm on the national tracks and of course to take big pleasure when I’m on my bike ! On the other side, I want to succeed my National Certificate of BMX coach, and push forward my riders.

Frenchys: What is your favorite track ?

Thomas: I like so much the Verona track which is very challenging. But after all I prefer the one of Bourges CREPS. It’s so much fun to ride it with a big quantity of different rides. I advise all riders to take the time to ride on it.

Frenchys: Which music would motivate you just before a main ?

Thomas: I have a playlist races with a lot of US Rap. But my time music will be « Runnin », an extract from the film CREED II. A music which well fits every ride.

Frenchys: Which advice could you give to the young riders who follow you ?

Thomas: For all the people who follow me, I wish them to take pleasure on their bikes. To do what they like, and to like what they do on the bike and on the side. Don’t hesitate to come and see me in order to talk or just to see my bike ! Thank you for all to the Frenchys Distribution team, thank you to people who support me. See you on the track !