In our continuing series of employee spotlights, we're thrilled to offer you an insider's glimpse into Bicycles Quilicot and the dedicated individuals driving our success. Today, let's get acquainted with Clément, our esteemed Marketing and E-commerce Manager and, more importantly, an avid cycling aficionado!
"Hello, I'm Clément, and I've proudly been part of the Bicycles Quilicot family for over seven years now. In my role as the Marketing and E-commerce Manager, I'm tasked with spearheading the growth of our online storefront alongside overseeing all the marketing and communication strategies for our brand. While my primary base is at our Rosemont location, you'll frequently find me on the move, visiting our various branches."
"Cycling has been in my blood since I was a young child—it's a passion passed down through generations in my family. Both my father and grandfather were competitive road cyclists. As for me, my journey began with mountain biking around the age of 7 or 8. I then dedicated fifteen years of my weekends to competing, primarily in cross-country (XC) races.
"I'm fortunate enough to have a collection of bikes tailored to my three primary cycling disciplines: road, gravel, and mountain biking.
In the realm of mountain biking, I'm thrilled to be hitting the trails on the Specialized Stumpjumper Evo Expert T-Type this year. After several seasons on a Pivot Switchblade—a bike celebrated for its adaptability—I was eager to explore something new. The Stumpjumper Evo Expert emerged as an outstanding choice, incorporating all the modern features one could wish for: 29" wheels, boost axles, the innovative Sram T-Type technology, and the Sram AXS drivetrain. It's a model of versatility, boasting a sleek design that perfectly aligns with my preferences. Nowadays, all-mountain/enduro bikes steal the spotlight for me. The evolution of these bikes has transformed them into incredible all-rounders, equally adept at climbing as they are exhilarating on descents, and capable of conquering any terrain with confidence and ease.
When it comes to road cycling, my go-to is the BMC Teammachine SLR Two, a bike that feels like it was made just for me. Its remarkable versatility allows for swift rides and challenging climbs alike. It's not just efficient and stylish, but also lightweight, featuring the iconic BMC Teammachine geometry that has captivated many over the years. This bike has even accompanied me on lightpacking adventures and epic rides exceeding 10 hours, without a single compromise in performance. Although it has been the flagship performance model in the BMC lineup for many years, the incredible fit and feel I experience on this bike have left me with no desire to switch to a more endurance-focused model or anything else.
In grave, I've spent several seasons aboard a Marin Headlands, a truly outstanding and somewhat unique choice for gravel paths and trails. Its exceptional value for money makes it an excellent pick for anyone looking to dive into the full spectrum of gravel riding. Whether it's bikepacking adventures or competitive racing, the Marin Headlands stands up to the challenge. It's a versatile bike that can handle just about anything thrown its way!"
"There's a myriad of gear I'd love to recommend, but let's narrow it down to a few essentials! First off, I've been an unwavering advocate for Oakley eyewear for as long as I can remember. Their standout design, unparalleled comfort, superior lens quality, and the impressive variety of models tailored to each cycling discipline have truly won me over. Over time, I've amassed quite a collection and I find myself using almost every pair!
When hitting the mountain bike trails, one accessory I rarely leave behind is a hip pack, either from Evoc or Dakine. They're ideal for the majority of my rides. You can select from various sizes to fit your specific needs. Far less bulky than a backpack yet significantly safer than heading out with nothing at all, I find them to be the perfect solution for carrying the essentials in terms of repairs and nutrition.
Speaking of nutrition, my go-to energy bars are the Skratch Crispy Rice Cakes, which I recommend enjoying as much as you like :)
Lastly, a piece of advice about gear: don't overlook the importance of your choice in cycling shoes. They're crucial for comfort during those long hours spent pedaling. Compromising on footwear is not an option for me. Moreover, a well-chosen, high-quality, stiff shoe can actually enhance your power output (especially on road and gravel). While perhaps not as eye-catching as some bike components, investing an extra $100 or $200 in a pair of quality shoes can significantly boost both your comfort and performance."
" When it comes to recommendations for my favorite cycling locations, having lived abroad, I've had the privilege of exploring various stunning locales across Europe. Among these, the Dolomites in Italy have left an indelible mark on me with their unparalleled scenic beauty. Cycling in the Dolomites is like moving through a continuous postcard, with routes that are equally inviting for road cycling, mountain biking, or gravel riding—the choice is yours!
As for mountain biking, while the Alps offer numerous incredible spots, British Columbia has captured my heart. Should you have the opportunity to ride there, 'Lord of the Squirrels' stands out as one of the most magnificent trails I've ever experienced. The ascent offers breathtaking views, and the descent is exhilarating, to say the least. Covering approximately 1500m of vertical drop in less than 30km, it promises an unforgettable adventure. 'Dark Crystal' is another remarkable trail, especially for enduro enthusiasts, offering an exceptional riding experience.
On the road, my recent exploration of Colombia has been a revelation, especially its rich cycling culture! The country's diverse landscapes and welcoming communities make it a fantastic destination for cyclists looking to immerse themselves in a vibrant biking scene.
Turning our attention closer to home, Quebec deserves a special mention for being an ideal haven for gravel enthusiasts. Its rolling, varied terrain provides the perfect backdrop for discovering the province's distinct regions. The Eastern Townships, particularly around Bromont or Sutton, is among my top picks, offering a plethora of routes that cater to all levels of cyclists. The Laurentians, too, are brimming with opportunities for adventure, presenting numerous trails that promise memorable rides. I must highlight the Big Red, an event that stands out not only for the physical challenge it poses but also for its exceptional organization and the lively spirit that envelops it year after year."
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