Brendan Fairclough – still a racer at heart Cadair Idris through the clouds Marin’s new Alpine Trail Leogang World Cup Fresh trails at Cathkin Braes, near Glasgow

This month’s cover star Brendan Fairclough has been at the top of the downhill scene for well over a decade now, as well as competing in the annual gnarfest Red Bull Rampage, and his stylish riding is universally admired. He’s done a ton of video projects too, including Deathgrip, his movie with Clay Porter (now on Netflix), some killer film segments and plenty of smaller promos – this bangin’ shot of him at Revolution Bike Park comes from a Deity edit. But what gets ‘Brendog’ ticking and where does his focus lie?

“No question, it’s racing that’s most important for me,” says the Surrey Hills local. “The video segments are cool and a nice bonus, and it’s important to stay relevant, but the racing is my main aim. Deathgrip did take over a bit – it was an 18-month project, just in terms of filming, let alone organising and logistics – but the little projects that come up all the time are just part of being a pro rider. I try not to let them get in the way of my racing – that’s the main focus, always has been and will be for some time yet.”

Despite a tough start to the season, it sounds like we can look forward to seeing Brendan’s e ortless style on the circuit for the foreseeable future.