I remember learning how to ride a bike. It was magical. In that brief moment it all clicked. Reality met fantasy. My ability to balance, pedal and steer dramatically collided with my dreams of flying and feeling the wind against my face. In life there aren’t many of these moments, so it’s refreshing to meet people who preserve them through their daily work. Brendt does that.

While sitting in the Pink Pony in the Lower East Side on that rainy spring Saturday, we caught up with Brendt – founder of the Bicycle Film festival. As we ate brunch, Brendt broke down his philosophies on life, the film festival and his desires to create an outlet for folks who love riding bikes.

Brendt started the Bicycle Film Festival (BFF) in 2000 for folks who are into all styles of bikes and biking. Whether you’re into Tall Bike Jousting, Track Bikes, BMX, Alleycats, Critical Mass, Bike Polo or whatever, the people behind BFF have either ridden or screened it. BFF brings together all aspects of bicycling to advocate for its ability to transport us in many ways – physically and mentally.

Last year’s festival caught some serious momentum. More than 17,000 people attended BFF’s tour through various cities. This year it will hit 10 locations. So get ready for the ride. Brendt was kind enough to give Dork a look into the journey known as the Bicycle Film Festival.

DM: When did you develop your passion for bicycles and riding?

BB: For me it all started as a kid. When I was younger I never got off my bike. I was always riding. You couldn’t get me off that bike. You know those things as a kid that you didn’t want to stop doing? Riding my bike was one of them. I would fall asleep and dream about being on a bike. I slowed down a little bit in high school, but I’ve been riding all my life. I love it.

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