Introducing: Joseph Best

Welcome to CCC Introduces, our series spotlighting the incredible contributors who give their time and energy to Cycling Culture Club.

Today we head to Newark, New Jersey, meeting Joseph Best. Picking up cycling in the pandemic, Joseph didn't let cycling's stereotypes deter him and instead has carved out a community where he's accepted for who he is as a rider and otherwise.

Socials: @josephtheebest

Words: Joseph Best

Tell us about yourself

Yerrrrrr! I'm Joseph Best, yep, that's my actual last name, or surname for non-Americans! Got into cycling during the pandemic, haven't stopped since. My athletic background is football, wrestling, basketball and parkour!

What do you love about cycling?

The community, the new family I've gained, genuine encouragement. I love the support system that is the cycling community. It's always pushing you through your goals. I love going on group rides with my fast friends and getting dropped, it's obviously my favourite part of cycling because I do it so much.

I like that the bike becomes an extension of you. I've really hit my stride with my current bike build and I feel like it really represents me. A true juxtaposition: aluminium frame, carbon everything else, and then my 290 lbs body on that bike, fully kitted and sprinting down the street.

What barriers have you faced in cycling?

My weight is my biggest issue. Sizing for kits is never consistent across brands, so I can't shop from brands I haven't already tried on. And to try on new brands I need to know people who are my size, and there aren't many people my size in cycling.

Why were you interested in contributing?

I'm interested in bringing my energy, bridging some cultures, breaking down some walls. Making the sport just a little more accessible for the next generation.

If you're comfortable, tell us about your personal experience of diversity in cycling

Cyclists aren't a monolith. We all come from differing backgrounds; we have a bunch of things that dictate how, why and when we ride. I've come to realise that cycling very fast is fun, and so is sightseeing. The camaraderie. It all goes into a nice pot and makes a good stew.

Your fondest memory on the bike

My fondest memory is actually a new one. This year I cycled 90 miles from Newark to Philadelphia. It was such a great time and for an amazing cause, the HBCU Scholarship Ride. It was also one of my big goals to cover that distance.

Where are you from: Newark, NJ, USA

Where do you live: Newark, NJ, USA

Are you part of a club/team: Black Watts