LOCALS: Joe Downey

In our new weekly feature, we are getting out and about on the trails to meet everyday locals and find out a bit more about them and their bikes.

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

Name: Joe Downey
Location: Exeter
Job: Sign Fitter
Bike: Orange 5

How Often do you ride?
I try and get out and ride as much as I can, about 3 or 4 times a week if possible.

What Bike are you currently riding and talk us through your set up??
I'm Currently riding an Orange 5. I recently upgraded the brakes to a set of the new 2013 Shimano XT. I've also upgraded the seat post to a RockShox Reverb dropper post. It has Kashima Coated Fox 32's up front and a Fox RP23 on the rear also kashima coated.

What types of riding do you normally do?
I normally ride trail and a bit of cross country. We try and do a little bit of "soft" downhill but the guys I ride with are a little bit limp haha.

What was the last new bit of gear on your bike?
The last new bit of gear was the XT brakes. They're only about 2 weeks old. So far i'm really pleased with them.

What are your local trails?
My local trails are in Okehampton, Here at Haldon and we ride a trail down in Marldon occasionally. We ride all over the South West really.

Whats Your favourite part on the bike?
My favourite part on the bike is the rear shock. I think its sexy.

Next upgrade planned for the bike?
My next upgrade I'm thinking about going for is a new set of cranks. Possibly the new 2013 XTR ones.

What other bikes do you own?
I have a Specialized Allez roadbike and a Trek hardtail.