Reading terrain like a second language, we would say Deus ambassador Forrest Minchinton is shaped by surf, sand, and solitude. We asked him three questions - no fluff, no filler. Just a quick trip inside the head of a man at home off the beaten track.
Q: What do you look for when building a bike that can handle the desert and the everyday?
A: The first thing I look for when building a bike for both the desert and everyday is form following function. To me the most aesthetically pleasing bike is one that is purposefully built, every detail considered to work and withstand everything the desert and I might throw at it. Every nut and bolt checked, torqued and customized and nothing added to the bike that doesn't serve a purpose. Less is more.
Q.You’ve ridden in wild corners of the world - what spot completely caught you off guard?
A. The crew at the Deus Temple Bali and I rode to one of the most outrageously beautiful and unique places on the planet, Mt Bromo in Java, Indonesia. A cinder cone volcano in the center of a massive volcanic crater. The cinder cone is surrounded by volcanic ash dunes and framed in by lush green jungle on the rim of the crater with single track trails within. Truly a surreal experience not only riding here but the massive journey to get there.
Q. What’s in your toolkit - literally or metaphorically - when things go sideways mid-ride?
A. The most important part of my toolkit is a lifetime of experience of things going sideways mid-ride. Over the years you learn how to remain calm, be solution orientated and resourceful. My literal toolkit consists of simple tools such as wrenches, sockets, pliers, tire spoons for the most common sizes on whichever motorcycle I’m riding( i.e. 8, 10, 12, 14, 17, 22, 32mm for dirtbikes), as well as zip ties, tow rope, chain breaker, chain master link, electrical tape, bailing wire, JB Weld, Lighter for a fire, basic first aid, and permanent marker for leaving a note. All of which I fit into a small waist pack, hard to imagine I bet!
