Liam Baylis is an up and comer on the Freeride world tour scene. In his second full year of competition he's showing everyone what he's capable of and learning lots along the way. We're stoked to continue supporting him and seeing what he gets up to!
Chromag: This your second full year on the Freeride World Tour? What has been your favorite event so far and why?
Liam: Yea, it is. In the past few seasons, I’ve only really done contests that are close to home. Until last season, I had never traveled to compete. It’s been a great experience and something I feel very fortunate to do now. Travelling to ride new events & courses is so special. Being able to experience different cultures and ways of life overseas has been the cherry on top.
My favourite event so far was my first Crankworx Slopestyle World Championship contest in Rotorua, New Zealand. It really is a different experience at the highest level of the sport. The level of riding, pressure, and larger audience was certainly noticeable. With that said, I felt ready and confident to take that next step. The redwood forests and perfect dirt were dreamy!
We've seen some pretty insane footage from Backwoods! How did the event go for you overall and what makes it so good?
Thank you, I had a great time! Backwoods is one of a kind. There’s something about those jumps that brings out the best in every rider. The Coast has a deep history of incredible riding, and every year the event seems to level up. Part of what makes it so special is that you get to ride world-class jumps without the pressure of competing that weekend. Every trick or clip that comes out of Backwoods comes from pure motivation and passion; everything is done out of love for the sport and the people you get to share it with. Massive shout out to Logan Peat & Coast Gravity Park.
How did you get into biking and freeriding growing up?
I grew up in Canmore, Alberta. A small mountain town where skiing, biking, running, and pretty much everything outdoors is just part of daily life. I started riding a bike when I was about three years old, and I was hooked right away. I’d build little wooden ramps on a speed bump outside my house and would just spend hours jumping.
A big turning point for me came around 2013, when I was nine or ten. I remember watching Joyride clips on YouTube. One of the years Semenuk won; and it completely blew my mind. That was a moment I knew I wanted to follow a path of riding bikes as much as possible.
What's your history with Chromag and how did your partnership with the brand start?
I always loved Chromag. I’ve been riding for Chromag for almost 8 years I believe. It started very very grassroots. The guys at my local shop knew I was a big fan and gave me a small discount on some parts and I was over the moon!
Eventually, I got in touch with Ian and met the team later on down the road. Things have naturally progressed as I’ve grown as a rider and person. I feel very fortunate and proud to ride for a Canadian company ran by riders for riders.
Can you describe one of your best days out on the bike?
Hmmm, tough one. I wouldn’t say I have a true stand out “best” day. I love riding every day.
Occasionally, there’s a feeling I get while riding. It’s like things just click. There’s no second thoughts or friction; everything seems to fall into place and it’s so much fun. A type of flow state, I guess. Any day I get that feeling is the best day ever haha.
Where is your favourite place to ride? Dirt jumps vs. Trail?
At home in Canmore! It’s not the craziest riding by any means. But I really like where I live and often, I’m out riding with buddies. We have a blast, lots of laughs, sketchy moments, and getting worked by all the climbing hahaha.
Dirt jumps vs trail. I can’t have one without the other. They’re complimentary to one another. The feeling of landing a new trick or lacing a Slopestyle run is tough to beat. However, trail riding is always so engaging and really brings out the most fun parts of riding to me. I go back and forth a lot! I love both.
What components are you running on your bike and what made you choose them?
My bikes are all kitted out with similar parts. I stick with the Liaison series for the most part. Tried and true & developed by the best. The Pressure pedal is a standout part too. The Contact pedals are great and the Pressure is just like that pedal but on steroids. Another real standout product for me is the Rift knee pad. Great for all types of riding from dirt jumping to long pedals, they rip.
What does the future hold for Liam Baylis?
A lot more biking I’m sure! I’m looking forward to wrapping up a couple videos this fall. Then enjoying the off season, some skiing, and getting prepped for next year.
