HLC is a staff and passion driven business. Our staff are part and parcel of a great group who love to get out on a variety of bikes. As with all cyclists, through the years and dependent on the style of riding each member does, we’ve all picked up a few key items that can’t be left behind, or else the sense of dread starts to hit. This series will explore the hidden gems of different members of the HLC team, and why they have become a necessity to have when leaving the house  

Our first employee to showcase is Nakoda Mason, based in Fernie, BC. Nakoda wears a lot of hats for HLC, including being one of the members of staff who does the events circuit around the interior of BC and Alberta. Based on location alone, it's easy to understand why he’s an avid mountain biker but has started to dip his toes into the world of gravel as well. Here’s a selection of his favourite products from the HLC catalogue  

SRAM Maven Ultimate Brakes- “The code RSCs were already my favorite brake and SRAM were able to go out and drastically improve it” 

With the typical riding area around the Elk Valley demanding a lot of brakes from the heat, dust and long scenic downhills, it's no surprise that the 4-piston gravity brake from SRAM finds itself vaulting to the top of the list.  

EVOC Hydro Pro Bag- “The hydro vest is my go-to for any longer gravel ride, the 3L especially is the perfect happy medium for hydration and carrying the tools I might need”     

The hydro vest has been a staple of the EVOC line, but with the growth of gravel its place within the lineup has been firmly established. While hydration vests have been around for a while, they have exploded in popularity alongside the gravel segment. Don’t be fooled however, they are a great option for long, epic MTB rides or even those with limited storage and bottle spaces on frames  

Lezyne V Pro 17 Multi Tool - “I won’t go on a ride without it. Simple yet always prepared”       

A good multi tool can turn a really bad situation into a fun story, and this is one of the better options in the HLC catalogue. Ready for whatever your ride can throw at you and easy to carry around, this is a no-brainer  

Maynards Sour Patch Kids – Pretty self-explanatory. No fancy spaceman food for Nakoda, just a bit of sour and sugar to keep the laps going