INFOCUS – JONATHAN SIMEK
For our latest InFocus feature, we delve into the world of Haro MTB rider Jonathan Simek. Growing up in the coastal town of Encinitas, he embodies the spirit and action sports culture of Southern California. Simek lives just a few miles from Haro HQ. He's a true neighbor and has become friends with the crew during his time with the Haro team. As a native Californian, Jonathan's love of bikes and surfing has shaped his daily lifestyle. We caught up with Jon as he drove his van to Alpine, California for a day of trail work. He shares what influences him, local restaurants, podcasts, his playlist and more...
Hi Jon! Thanks for your time. How is your day?
Yo, awesome! I'm going to Kyle Strait's house today. He needs help building. His setup is so cool! 
Photo @heather_young_
Sounds like a lot of fun. How did you decide to get into mountain biking since you're from Encinitas, a city with a strong influence on action sports?
I tried everything. I skated for a while and surfed for years, but since I was a kid I wanted to ride a motorcycle. The cheapest option was to start racing BMX. I raced for about two years, but I loved going to the tracks and doing the jumps. Then I got a dirt jumper to continue my love for the sport. All my friends were racing MTBs while I continued riding my dirt jumper. I liked the flow and the tricks I like: spins and flips. Eventually I started riding enduro. Speed and style were the perfect middle ground for me and I ended up competing in Crankworx! I still have the itch to ride and I can never tear myself away from it. 
Photo @heather_young_
Growing up in an action sports mecca, does the culture of Southern California influence you?
Oh yeah, the lifestyle is cool, it influences the way I dress too. Also, I'm influenced by music, all the different surf, skate and bike videos. Surfing has really influenced my love of surf punk and skating with the rap music. There's a surfer, Noah Dean, who is in a band called The Skegss. He also makes his own music for his video parts. Check out my playlist with my current jams! 
You're always on the go and having your own jumps. How does it feel to give back to your community and share a public space for everyone?
Growing up in Southern California, we didn't have the best support for bikes. I was always taught that you have to dig to ride. There's a lot of open space near my house, so I found the opportunity to build something in my area. I have to dig because there are no bike parks near me. It's fulfilling to come to my slalom course or dirt jumps and meet people there that I've never seen in my life. It's so great that kids have a place to ride bikes. Otherwise, I wouldn't have known these kids even existed. It's very fulfilling to see my hard work being used and bringing joy to the next generation.
Amazing. What do you consume outside of the cycling industry that brings you inspiration and joy?
Ha ha, the movie Hot Rod is a cliche but one of my favorites. I guess it's just my sense of humor. I like quirky, silly humor - even Stepbrothers. I also watch a lot of The Office, which keeps things different and fun. I also listen to podcasts, especially about athletes. I also listen to Dennis's "Unclicked" podcast and "Gypsy Tales" to learn more about motorcycle athletes. Mostly I like to listen to people I know. I get inspiration from my friends and colleagues. Most of them have interesting stories about how they became professional riders.
Photos @heather_young_
And finally: Which places near you can you tell us about? Beaches, bars, pubs...
Beaches are a tough one. I change them every year depending on the waves and so on. My favourite place is Pipes Cafe for coffee and breakfast. I go there at least once a week. I'm also supported by Best Pizza and Brew; they support a lot of local athletes. It's great to have a break from cycling in general. My whole life is bikes, so it's cool to get out and be part of my local community!
HARO GEAR JONATHAN IS RIDING
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HARO Hard Tail - Saguaro 1 Size large 
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HARO Dirt Jumper - Steel Reserve 3 Matte Black 