For Sophie Allen, being outside isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of life.
When she’s not riding, she’s usually exploring the outdoors in some other way: climbing, hiking, free diving along the coast, or spending time at the beach. Yoga helps balance the physical demands of riding, and her work as a biologist keeps her connected to the natural world in a deeper way.
Field work gives Sophie the chance to do something she genuinely loves—observe the environment around her and appreciate the plants and animals that make it so rich and fascinating.
It’s a mindset that naturally carries over into how she rides.
“I feel like my riding is versatile and fluid, and I try to keep it feeling smooth and effortless.”
A Lifelong Connection to Bikes
Bikes have been part of Sophie’s life for as long as she can remember.
She grew up riding with her dad and always had bikes around, though it wasn’t until later in high school that riding and racing became a bigger part of her life. Since then, the bike has become a constant—something that brings both challenge and freedom.
Finding Home in the Santa Monica Mountains
Sophie recently moved to Los Angeles, and the Santa Monica Mountains have quickly become her backyard playground.
Around Dirt Mulholland, the terrain offers endless options: flowing trails, scenic overlooks, and plenty of terrain to explore.
The riding is as much about discovery as it is about performance.
“There are so many trails, great views, and fun ripping lines. There’s also so much to explore out in the Valley.”
The Bikes
Sophie’s current setups include:
- Kona Shonky running XMR hubs and M30 cranks
- Kona Libre running XMR hubs
Her component choices are simple and intentional.
“I went with these for their durability and quality—they’re built to last a lifetime. And not gonna lie, they just look epic.”
For Sophie, two things matter most when selecting components:
Feel and durability.
A bike should feel right the moment you start pedaling—and continue to feel that way ride after ride.
Not Overthinking the Details
When asked what riders often overlook, Sophie laughs a bit at herself.
“Honestly, I might not be the best person to ask—I’m usually the one who overlooks details and ends up asking Tydeman.”
But there is one thing she always appreciates:
Wheels that both feel good and look good especially in her fresh Leatt apparel.
She may not obsess over every technical detail, but she knows when a bike rides the way it should.
Keeping Riding Fun
Over time, Sophie has learned that staying motivated on the bike comes down to one simple rule:
“Prioritize fun.”
Instead of limiting herself to one discipline, she mixes things up—jump sessions one day, trail rides the next, gravel rides another day.
That variety keeps riding fresh and exciting.
Snacks, Birds, and Curiosity
One thing Sophie never leaves home without on a ride?
Snacks.
Specifically gummy bears.
But she also carries her phone—not just for navigation or photos, but to document the wildlife she encounters.
Using the Merlin Bird ID app, she listens for bird calls and identifies species along the way.
For someone who studies nature professionally, the ride itself becomes another way to observe the world around her.
Headphones or Nature?
AirPods or Amish?
It depends on the ride.
Intervals and focused training days might include music or a podcast, but many rides are distraction-free.
“I love a good Amish ride so I can really take in the sounds around me.”
Wind through the hills. Tires on dirt. Birds overhead.
Sometimes that’s the best soundtrack.
Building a Bike That Lasts
Sophie’s advice for riders building a bike they want to keep for years is straightforward:
“Invest in quality where it matters most.”
She’s quick to admit she’s not the primary mechanic in the garage—Tydeman often helps with that—but she knows the difference a well-built bike makes.
The right components can dramatically change how a bike rides and how long it lasts.
Looking Ahead
Sophie is excited for the season ahead.
New trails, new rides, and new opportunities to explore the outdoors that inspires so much of her life.
“Super stoked for the year ahead and to be part of the fam. Just focused on good positive vibes, riding bikes, and enjoying the season.”
And with the Santa Monica Mountains right outside her door, there will be plenty of chances to do exactly that.