Darin Howard is a Team Manager at Deluxe Distribution (Real, Krooked, Spitfire, etc.) and works with the riders for all of their brands. He’s also a fixed gear nut.

When did you take the brakes off?
About three years ago I bought a bicycle from Gabe Morford; it was a single speed bike. I used it to get to work and back. Gabe was into track bikes and kept telling me to try it. So I did, bought a bike and got rolling.

What was the hardest part about adjusting to a fixed gear?
At first it was the peddling through turns.

What kind of bike are you riding right now with what parts?
Custom Kierin Shark Island, Chris King head set, Sugino cranks, Phil Wood hubs on Deep V wheels.

What is your favorite city to ride your bike in and why?
San Francisco, for sure. Hills. Good rides to the beach.

Do you still skate?
Yeah, all day every day.  

Did that affect your biking in any way?

It’s easier to deal with having no brakes and to find the lines to keep going without stopping.