Do you have a certain crowd that you're shooting for to become your customers or are you happy with any sale? Ryan Sher: In any business, of course you’re happy with any sales. With Subrosa, we are doing our best to offer something for every style of rider. Our team is small but diverse, and we feel that diversity will be reflected in our product line.
What makes Subrosa stand out from the other companies?
Ryan Sher: This project is a group effort, with many people involved. From the riders, to the sales staff and designers at Sparky’s Distribution, everyone has useful input on the decisions we make on a daily basis. I feel it’s a perfect balance between the behind the scenes help, and the products and goods that we will be releasing.
What takes up most of your time? Ryan Sher: Right now, still being in the beginning stages of this project, research takes up most of my time. Constant e-mails, phone calls, and planning. Having two business owners (Ron Bonner, The Shadow Conspiracy, and Rich Hirsch, Lotek) is a huge help. We are already doing our first team trip, so a lot of work has gone into that.
Has that sidekick been making overtime? Ryan Sher: I was having some problems with the SK3, so I sold it. Big mistake! Hahaha, I’m on the hunt for another one.
Are you more aware of what team tours, promotions and advertising costs since you started the company?
Ryan Sher: I’ve gone on enough trips in the past that I know how expensive they are, it’s just different when you’re paying for it. We’re already doing our first team trip, so it’s been interesting planning it all out. With advertising and promotions, we’re currently exploring different options to stretch those dollars as far as we can.
Who's all on the team?
Ryan Sher: Hoang Tran, Eli Platt, Rich Hirsch, and me.
Short answers/comments:
-You couldn't have pulled this off without: Ron Bonner and everyone at Sparky’s Distribution, Rich Hirsch, Hoang Tran, and Eli Platt
-Internet advertising or magazines: Pricey
-Subrosa Video: Probably on YouTube already, and it’s not even done!
-Europe: Soooo many spots.
-Smokey and the Bandit: They should remake it, I’ll be Burt.
-2007: Best year ever!
-The Shadow Conspiracy: Family
-Myspace: So bad it’s good.
Thank list: Ron Bonner and everyone at Sparky’s distribution, Rich, Hoang, Eli, my parents, GOODS mail order and all the rider owned shops, FatBMX.com, Sarah Grace, West Linn and O.C. skate parks, and Kronik Energy Drink.
Pics: Subrosa/BdJ
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.