InFocus - Chad Kerley
Chad Kerley has been part of the Haro family for going on fifteen years and has never let up. From his own progressive, stylized brand of street riding, to video parts, signature bikes and parts and a constant hustle to stay at the top of his game, CK is here to stay. We cornered Chad to get his thoughts and reflections on where he's from, where he's at and what role the new bikes in the Haro lineup mean to his lifestyle...
You’re clearly inspired by fashion and culture. Are there any highlights from those worlds you’ve had outside of BMX? Highlight outside of BMX was when I got invited to the Rolling Loud music festival with Curren$y. I got to go meet up with him before he went on stage, I was part of the whole thing, ya feel me? I never got to do anything like that! Even though it kind of spurred from BMX it wasn’t a BMX thing. Always blessed for the things BMX have given me.
Beyond BMX, are there other creatives who influence your mindset and approach? I’m a dad now, so I appreciate things that aren’t too far-fetched. I like Larry June, He’s talking about riding bikes and drinking smoothies, that’s super relatable to my lifestyle right now. Ha ha. I keep my life pretty chill for the most part. I’m influenced by fashion and artists but not enough to go do anything different about myself. When I was young, I cared more and took risks with my image. Always looking out for the newest coolest things. Now, I stay on my vintage piece. Cannon Mitchel also helped influence my style the past year, those are my boys. Really, I just wear comfy sweats and baggy jeans. I don’t do the most, like I used to. Sometimes when I step out, I wear my necklace and my Louis, but that’s engraved in me. At this point, I’m just comfortable with myself, I finally attained the comfort I always looked for--keeping it organic!
When you’re not on two wheels, what do you find yourself doing most? With the family man, being a dad and doing it to the fullest. You know just hanging out with my son taking him where he feels like going. Also, welcoming my daughter end of April!
Congrats! After riding for Haro for over a decade, what new ventures have you been stoked about? I recently got the Rivette road bike and like I said, I’m a dad and there are other ways that I want to exercise and get out into San Diego. I live in such a beautiful city and I’ve been able to see it in a different way. I really enjoy it! It’s not like BMX where I’m taking it seriously. It’s not about the “spot” or “location” like BMX, it’s more about the journey. The Rivette, it’s just about the journey. I go on a pedal, decide to turn left/right, end up getting lost, it doesn’t matter. I’m finding new things about San Diego. After 30 years, I’m learning about all the bike routes that have been here the whole time.
How do you set goals for yourself now? Are they more about progression, legacy, or something else? Hmm, I guess legacy in that sense...For me, it’s just about being consistent and keeping up with the riding I’ve always done. It is always about progression. I’m always pushing myself. That’s why it takes me so long to get certain lines or get certain clips. But I think consistency, as far as putting out videos and clips I’m proud of, will help continue my legacy.
Give a listen to Chad’s playlist here...
