Interview: Alex Reiss on Mountain Bike Progression

by Chelsea Camarata
Jan 13, 2022

You wouldn’t know it from watching her ride but Alex Reiss only started mountain biking a few years ago. Her style and comfort on her bike makes you think she’s been riding for decades. Being in awe of riders who seem to have no fear, I wanted to learn what Alex’s progression with biking was like, hear her tips on taking one’s riding to the next level, and see what’s on her to-do list.

Where are you originally from and where are you residing currently?
Originally from New Jersey...I grew up spending time snowboarding in Vermont. Currently living in the Killington, Vermont area!
When did you start biking and how did you get into the sport?
I started biking in the summer of 2018! I was dating a guy at the time who was into bikes, and when spring rolled around he basically told me it was time to buy a bike. I started on a Cannondale hardtail and spent the summer trying to keep up with the boys up in East Burke on the Kingdom trails. It wasn’t until the closing weekend of the bike park that I decided to give it a try, I couldn’t believe the bike park had been in my backyard all this time.
What do you like to do outside of cycling?
I love snowboarding, hiking & camping!
You’ve been hitting some sizable bike park features this season - what was your progression like with getting into tackling bigger features?
I don’t put a lot of pressure on myself...Some days I’m feeling extra sendy and others I’m not. I think it's important to listen to and trust your body. I’ve been lucky enough to have friends that inspire me to push myself and friends who have been patient enough to be a part of that process. I’m such a visual learner and following friends into new features has been key in the progression.
What advice would you have for riders who are new to cycling or want to take their riding to the next level?
Take a deep breath…Progression will happen when you are having fun and feeling relaxed. Find a crew of friends that welcome you and push you in a comfortable way. Try a variety of trails.
What are you hoping to accomplish with biking in the next season?
Last summer I was able to venture out of NE to ride in some new places. Really hoping to do more traveling and exploring this summer. I’d also love to sign up for a race or two...I’ve never raced and I think it would be a really fun thing to do with everyone.
What is your dream cycling trip?
My dream is to have a camper I can stick in the back of my truck and take a summer to drive across the country and into Canada to camp and bike along the way.