You’re an original, and SWFT rides empower you to stay true to you. From work to play and anything in between, we want to celebrate the thrill that comes with being unapologetically you. Our newest series, What Moves Us, is a celebration of the creators, doers, movers and shakers that make the SWFT community what it is.
You’re an original, and SWFT rides empower you to stay true to you. From work to play and anything in between, we want to celebrate the thrill that comes with being unapologetically you. Our newest series, What Moves Us, is a celebration of the creators, doers, movers and shakers that make the SWFT community what it is.
Our SWFT BMX-style e-bike just launched. Recently we sat down with Donovan Howard, an avid BMXer in Brooklyn, NY to speak about our launch collaboration. We talked about how he got started in the BMX world, how it felt to ride a SWFT e-bike, and where he sees the future headed as a BMX rider.
SWFT: How did you get started with BMX?
Donovan: I grew up in a neighborhood where a bike was always available. Everyone was just riding around the neighborhood with friends doing wheelies from sun-up to sundown. Then I came across a group of people that were into action sports, got introduced to the X-games, and afterwards, I had to get myself a BMX bike. The rest is history.
What do you like about SWFT?
SWFT e-bikes are a fun alternative to the everyday pedaling lifestyle. From the different styles of SWFT e-bikes, they have something that’s fun for everybody. Electric bikes are great for a fun day of cruising and taking in what’s around you.
What is the difference between the SWFT BMX bike and a regular BMX bike?
The SWFT BMX e-bike isn’t made for heavy tricks like a regular BMX bike BUT it has the same feel and puts you in the mindset to want to shred the streets. Also, it takes less out of you physically because it’s got an electric motor, so you just can also just enjoy vibing around the city.
Any fun moments while shooting?
My most fun moment while shooting was blasting down the streets doing peg manuals at 20mph! It’s nice to hit that speed without doing all the pedaling to get there.
What was it like to ride the bike around, his favorite part about it?
The bike was fun and comfortable for long rides. My favorite thing about the bike was how close it feels to a BMX bike. I’m a fan of how lightweight it is, and how the battery is perfectly hidden. Just an all around dope bike.
Would you recommend the SWFT BMX e-bike?
Totally. It’s just an all-around great electric build, and for it to be the first of its kind, SWFT’s BMX e-bike functions very well and has the feel of an original BMX bike. It’s nice that it’s affordable, and it’s groundbreaking. Definitely a great bike for BMX bike lovers looking for an alternative ride.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far during your BMX career?
I’ve been blessed not to have serious injuries so I would say the biggest challenge I’ve faced so far is thinking of my next move. We are in a space that’s fairly small to other action sport brands but also have a lot of opportunities because it’s also so new. Not going the traditional BMX route like X-Games etc is out-of-the-box in the BMX world, but soon, by working hard I’ll show people that more things are possible in BMX.