In 2001, the Spaniard set a world record: the highest vertical drop-off on a BMX (over four metres). David Cachon became world champion in MTB trials twice before focussing entirely on bike adventures. Today, he hunts trails in Jordan, Morocco, Mongolia and many other regions of the world. He documents his experiences in film clips and photo stories. However, his favourite place to ride is in his native Pyrenees, where he lives with his family.
David Cachon can do pretty much anything on two wheels: BMX, motocross, gravel bikes, downhillers, trail bikes and, of course, his mountain bike.
Dream swap
Who would you like to swap lives with for a day - and why?
I am extremely curious. I can think of many. I could say Donald Trump, for example, or astronaut Alexander Gerst. But what interests me most is what rapper Snoop Dogg's everyday life looks like: who he hangs out with, what he does, what he eats for breakfast. I leave the rest to the imagination.
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Films to make you laugh
Which film makes you laugh?
I'm actually more into horror and sci-fi, but one classic still makes me laugh: The incredible journey in a crazy aeroplane (in the original "Airplane"). And thanks to my children I have Shrek rediscovered - quite funny, to be honest.
Second home
In which country would you like to have a second home?
Miami. Multicultural, entrepreneurial, with a strong Latin American community - a place where I can well imagine spending part of the year.
Biggest challenge
What was the biggest challenge of your life?
In terms of sport, certainly my early years in mountain bike trials with two world championship titles - extremely demanding both mentally and physically. But in life as a whole, the biggest challenge was becoming the father of twins. Hard, wonderful, life-changing.
What makes you happy?
What makes you happy?
A simple smile or a friendly gesture from strangers. That gives me the feeling that there is still hope for humanity.
Most formative experience
What experience has shaped your life the most?
There are two big ones. Firstly, my younger years, when I travelled around the world on my bike, taking part in competitions and shows - often without any money. That taught me everything: about people, work, values, even about money.
And secondly, becoming a father. Nobody prepares you for how much children change you. This love is different - deeper, stronger, hard to explain.
Favourite spot
Where is your favourite place to go biking?
Yes, I often look up to the high mountains in the Alps and Dolomites. But my favourite place to go is the Pyrenees. They are close to where I live and are completely "underrated". Because they are wild, often really lonely and full of incredible landscapes. Not to mention the super trails.
Series junkie
Do you watch series? Which one right now?
I'm addicted to some series. I watch an episode almost every night before going to bed. Most recently the latest seasons of: Stranger Things and It: Welcome to Derry.
Fridge essentials
What should not be missing in your fridge?
Greek yoghurt and sweet and sour cucumber.
What makes you angry?
What really annoys you?
People without empathy. And selfishness that only aims to benefit themselves.
Abandoned dream
What dream have you given up on?
Living in different countries for longer periods of time. I used to want to spend a year here and a year there. With a family, that's no longer realistic - but there are other, more beautiful dreams.
Bad and good habits
Which habits should you get rid of - and which should you acquire?
I should drink less coffee - at least I've already reduced that a bit. And I should urgently become more organised. I haven't managed that yet. I'm pure chaos.
Biggest test of courage
What was your biggest test of courage?
A spin on a cliff in Malta. I had to ride at high speed through an extremely narrow section - barely wider than my handlebars. One small mistake and I would have plunged many metres into the depths. I only really realised the real danger afterwards.
Missed things in life
What have you missed in life?
I think not. I was always free, curious and open. I've tried out a lot of things, experienced them and learnt from them - and left nothing unfinished.
The most impressive stunt
What was the most impressive stunt you've ever seen?
It wasn't a trick as such, but the jump, which was huge and technically brutal. It was in Peynier, France. The jump looked impossible for all of us. Luis Lacondeguy didn't hesitate for a moment and pulled a backflip on his first attempt. That completely blew me away. Big respect to Luis!
Favourite edit
What was the last edit that impressed you?
The The Collective (ROAM)-part with the song "Two Shoes" by The Cat Empire. One of the most emotional mountain bike edits ever - pure vibes, pure community.
Favourite toys
Which of your fun tools is particularly close to your heart?
Oh boy, there are so many. If I have to limit myself to two: my off-road motorbike and my snowboard.
More time for...
What do you need more time for?
For learning, travelling, trying out new sports - and seeing the world.
What are you really bad at?
Is there anything you can't do?
DIY. Oh dear, I'm so bad at DIY. I hate it - and always need a handy friend to help me out. No, not assist - help. It's best if he does it himself.
Scroll trap
Where do you get stuck on Instagram or YouTube?
At Urbex: exploring abandoned places. I can't get enough of that. It feels like a treasure hunt in time.
Best relaxation
What's the best way to relax?
With a nap, a siesta. Typically Spanish - pure relaxation, especially in summer.
What do you like to spend money on?
What would you spend a lot of money on?
For everything that drives, flies or glides: Cars, motorbikes, bikes, boards, skis, climbing equipment.
Dimitri Lehner
Editor
