Josh Bryceland: The Rat of Downhill Mountain Biking

Josh Bryceland, also known as “Ratboy” or “The Rat”, is a professional downhill mountain biker from England. He has made a name for himself in the mountain biking community through his impressive riding skills, laid-back personality, and unique style.

Early Life and Career

Josh Bryceland was born on March 23, 1990, in Chesterfield, England. He grew up in a family of motocross riders, but he found his true passion in mountain biking. At the age of 15, he started racing downhill and quickly made a name for himself.

In 2011, Josh joined the Santa Cruz Syndicate team, where he competed alongside some of the biggest names in the sport, such as Steve Peat and Greg Minnaar. He continued to impress on the world stage, winning the 2014 UCI Downhill Mountain Bike World Cup Championship.

Style and Personality

Josh Bryceland is known for his unique riding style, which combines technical precision with a relaxed and playful approach. He is often seen pulling tricks and jumps mid-race, something that is not common in downhill mountain biking.

Off the bike, Josh is known for his laid-back personality and sense of humor. He often jokes around with his fellow riders and is not afraid to be himself. This has made him a fan favorite in the mountain biking community.

Injuries and Retirement

Despite his success on the world stage, Josh Bryceland has had his fair share of injuries. In 2015, he suffered a serious injury to his foot that required surgery and kept him off the bike for several months. He also suffered a broken collarbone in 2016 and a back injury in 2017.

In 2018, Josh announced his retirement from professional downhill racing. He cited his desire to focus on other aspects of mountain biking, such as freeriding and making videos. However, he still participates in events and competitions from time to time.

Legacy and Impact

Josh Bryceland’s impact on the sport of downhill mountain biking cannot be overstated. His unique style and personality have made him a fan favorite, and his success on the world stage has inspired a new generation of riders. He has also played a significant role in the growth of the sport’s freeride and video-making scenes.

In addition to his professional riding career, Josh has also worked on several projects aimed at getting more people involved in mountain biking. He has collaborated with companies such as GoPro and Red Bull to create videos that showcase the sport’s fun and accessible side.

Conclusion

Josh Bryceland may have retired from professional downhill racing, but his impact on the sport will be felt for years to come. He has inspired a new generation of riders with his unique style and personality, and his work off the bike has helped to grow the sport’s popularity. The mountain biking community will always remember “The Rat” as one of the greats.