Cody YorkBMXer, homeowner, sandwich delivery man, Troy Merkle. Launch Gallery »As the deadline for Giant's new "Ride Life" looms, Dayton, Ohio's Troy Merkle is making last minute plans to get his finals clips in. Merkle has been steadily filming for the last year for the project, and his brand of tech, flatland-influenced street riding will be featured heavily in the video. Recently, while still filming for the video, we sat down to talk about the new video with Troy.
ESPN.com: How's filming going for your part in the new Giant video? I know your deadline is coming up fast for the beginning of the year -- do you have enough clips for your part yet?
Merkle: Filming for the video has been great. Being apart of the team and the project has been a huge motivation. I feel I have been riding better now than I ever have because of it. I would say I am getting close to finishing it up. The team has been shredding all summer and I am excited to see the video come together.
Troy Merkle and "Ride Life"
Troy Merkle gets in his last minute bangers for the new Giant Bicycles video. Check the photos. Gallery
Will we see any flatland-infused street clips from you in your part?
I'm sure there will be a few flatland inspired maneuvers mixed in.
It's going to be cold and snowy here in Ohio next month, do you guy's have plans to film this month?
We are trying to make one more trip out to California to escape winter and finish the video.
You recently bought a house in Dayton, Ohio, of all places, why Dayton? Does anyone live with you?
About a year ago I got a really good deal on a two story house here in Dayton. It's been a lot of work but its super rewarding and it's something I am glad that I did. I have a roommate Bryan who I have known for years through riding.
What inspired you to run a freecoaster int he first place?
I always noticed riders like Luc-E and Paul Osicka using them and I always wanted to try it. Finally in 2005 I got my hands on one and never went back.
Cody YorkRail ride in Michigan. Launch Gallery »I know you mentioned you were psyched to see that Seth Kimbrough was running a freecoaster these days too. What other riders would you like to see ride one?
When freecoasters became more popular, it was interesting to see which riders made the switch. I think it would be rad to watch Ruben ride a freecoaster.
Aside from riding, you also work part-time delivering sandwiches, how's that? What's your favorite kind of sandwich?
I've worked as a late night delivery driver at Jimmy Johns here in Dayton for a couple years now. It's a good job and works well with my riding. My favorite sandwich would be the Club Lulu.
Lastly, what are some of your future plans, what's next after your done filming for the Giant video?
Just to keep riding and traveling as much as possible. Live life to the fullest.
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