Gene doesn’t really have an “off” switch.
When he’s not riding, he’s rock climbing, backpacking, hiking, running — pretty much anything that gets him outside and moving. If it involves dirt, elevation, or fresh air, he’s in.
Cycling fits naturally into that mix. It’s not separate from the rest of his life — it’s part of a larger rhythm built around being outdoors.
When asked to describe his riding in one sentence, he keeps it honest:
“Look pro, ride slow.”
There’s humor in that. But also humility.
Ten Years In
Bikes have been part of Gene’s life for over a decade. Long enough to refine preferences. Long enough to understand what matters — and what doesn’t.
His favorite local ride? The Mt. Diablo summit and descent.
It’s a grind on the way up. A reward on the way down.
That balance — effort and payoff — is something Gene appreciates.
Built for XC Season
Gene is currently running Astral MTB wheels with White Industries CLD Hubs for this season’s cross-country race calendar.
Why?
“I wanted something fast and pretty to run for this season’s XC race season.”
Lightweight, efficient, and clean-looking — exactly what you’d expect from someone who openly admits:
“I’m a weight weenie so anything that helps me drop grams off my bike.”
For Gene, performance isn’t abstract. It’s measurable. Grams matter. Efficiency matters.
The Overlooked Truth
When asked what most people overlook about bikes, Gene doesn’t go technical.
He keeps it simple:
“Most other cyclists know this, but for the uninitiated, bikes are more fun when you ride around on them with your friends.”
That’s it.
The gear matters. The setup matters. But the ride is better when it’s shared.
The Mental Side of Effort
After years of consistent riding, Gene has learned something that every endurance athlete eventually discovers:
“Riding, especially during hard efforts, is as much mental as it is physical.”
Fitness helps. But mindset carries you through the hardest intervals and longest climbs.
Camera Always Packed
Gene always brings a camera on his rides — whether it’s a point-and-shoot or a DSLR.
The miles are important. The moments are too.
AirPods?
“Oh music all day. Raw dogging a solo training ride without any kind of jams is the worst.”
For solo training, music fuels the effort. It sets the rhythm.
Building a Bike for the Long Haul
Gene’s advice for building a bike you want to keep for years isn’t flashy.
“Clean your drivetrain regularly. Day-to-day grime we pick up on rides can wear everything down faster.”
Longevity isn’t just about buying quality parts. It’s about maintaining them.
Simple habits. Consistent care.
Gene rides with intention — chasing lighter setups, bigger climbs, and better descents. But underneath it all, it’s about being outside, moving, and enjoying the effort.
Look pro. Ride slow.
Or maybe just ride often.
Follow along on Genes Adventures: @gene_torno