Takashi Tsukamoto

Takashi Tsukamoto has spent more than four decades around bicycles, but what stands out most is not the number of years. It is the consistency. While generations of riders have come and gone, technology has transformed the sport, and downhill racing has become faster than ever, his approach has remained remarkably simple: ride because he enjoys it, keep learning, and always strive to improve.

More Than Four Decades of Riding

For many riders, mountain biking becomes a chapter in life. For Takashi Tsukamoto, it has simply become life itself.

His journey began with BMX racing at the age of 14 before discovering mountain biking at 16. Since then, riding has never been something separate from everyday life.

“I’m doing what I just want to do like daily work, so nothing has changed for over 40 years.”

That philosophy explains why he continues to line up alongside riders young enough to be his children. The goal is no longer proving he is faster than everyone else.

Instead, it is something much more personal.

“I’m not fast like young guys so I just try to keep the best and trying to break my best time on the weekend”.

It is a mindset that reflects the heart of mountain biking itself. Progress is measured not against others, but against the rider you were yesterday.

Watching the Sport Evolve

Few riders have witnessed the evolution of mountain biking as closely as Takashi San.

His first mountain bike was a rigid bike fitted with narrow 17 mm rims and cantilever brakes—a world away from today’s long-travel suspension bikes equipped with powerful hydraulic disc brakes.

He considers suspension and disc brakes the two greatest technological advances during his career, dramatically changing what riders are capable of on the trail.

Yet despite those advances, he believes the fundamentals have never changed.

“Bikes are just bikes. They have no motors and no computer devices, so I learn when I get new things and I just try to control”.

Rather than relying on technology, he has always focused on adapting to it, understanding that better equipment only reaches its potential when paired with rider skill and experience.

The Mental Side of Downhill

Downhill racing is often viewed as a physical sport, but Takashi San believes the biggest challenge lies elsewhere.

High speeds, technical terrain and races decided in only a few minutes demand complete concentration.

His solution is surprisingly uncomplicated.

“I keep relaxing when I’m not riding bikes for controlling myself.”

By staying calm away from the race course, he is able to give everything when the start gate opens. It is a lesson that comes from decades of experience, recognising that mental preparation is just as important as physical fitness.

Still Learning, Still Improving

After more than 40 years, many athletes would be content looking back on their achievements.

Takashi San prefers looking forward.

“All things what I get on bikes is under my responsibility so I still can grow up and can be stronger.”

There is a quiet humility in that statement. Rather than attributing success or failure to talent, circumstances or luck, he accepts responsibility for his own development.

It is a philosophy that has allowed him to remain motivated long after many riders have retired.

The Greatest Reward

While racing has delivered competition, adventure and personal growth, Takashi San believes its greatest gift has been the people.

Bike racing introduced him to riders of every age and background, becoming a place where lifelong lessons are learned both on and off the bike.

“Bike racing is just a part of your life but I think it is nice place to learn all sorts of things since there are so many people of various ages and experienced adults here.”

Perhaps even more importantly, it opened the door to friendships that extend far beyond Japan.

Throughout his career he has built lasting relationships with riders across Asia, particularly in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Indonesia.

Those friendships have become one of the strongest reasons he continues to race.

“The reason I still am racing is probably I want to have friends and have fun with them through bike racing.”

Riding for the Right Reasons

In an era where racing is often measured by podiums, sponsorships and social media, Takashi Tsukamoto offers a refreshing reminder of what keeps many riders coming back to the trails.

Mountain biking is about challenging yourself, embracing change without losing sight of the fundamentals, and sharing unforgettable experiences with people who become lifelong friends.

After more than four decades on two wheels, he is still chasing personal bests, still learning, and still finding joy in every race weekend.

That may be the greatest achievement of all.