Mad Mike (Mike Shaw) – since 2000

Nick origin:  Mike is well known for his speed on descents; it’s a sight to behold.  Thus, ‘Mad Mike’ was born, however we actually know he simply has masses of skill and confidence in this regard – rather than an actual madness!

What other 6am-ers may say about Mad Mike:  Mad Mike is a fantastic guy with a heart of gold.  He is the youngest of the three Shaw brothers in the group – Jeff and Pete are the older identical twins – and he’s the epitome of the euro-pro.  Always tanned, tallish and slim and a smooth and reliable rider in a peleton.  Mike is a dedicated dad to his beautiful girls and supports them relentlessly in their sporting and other pursuits.

From a cycling perspective, Mike is best known for his descending ability.  He drops like a rock and wears out very few rims due to the fact that he rarely uses his brakes.  His skill on a descent is something to behold and any rider looking for tips on riding downhills could do no better than to get a few from Mike.  In absolute seriousness, the Tour de France peleton would not go quicker down hill than Mad Mike.

He is one of the longest serving 6am-er members thanks to his brother being one of the founders.

What Mad Mike says about himself:

Personal:

• Age/DOB:  40yrs 12/02/1971
• Height/Weight:  185cm/80kgs
• Occupation:  Communications technician (Telstra)
• Marital status:  Married
• Kids (sex/age):  3 girls  -  16,13,10
• Favourite quote/life motto:  

Cycling:

• Joined the 6am-ers in: 2000
  
• Was introduced to the 6am-ers by:  Brother 2Laps
• Cycling club:  Australian Defence Force Cycling Club
• Current bike:  Specialized Tarmac – Ultegra group – Durace wheels
• Why I rid:  I ride to keep fit and I love it!  I have been part of a club on and off since I was 17.
• Significant cycling achievement:  Tour of Bright 2011 a little under done but managed around 54th? In masters 123, also riding away in my first c grade road race after riding 30ks to get there when 17years old to win and then kept riding home!
• Major goal for the coming year:  2012 Tour of Bright
• Favourite ride (non 6am-er route):  My Wednesday night Dandenongs.  Peaceful and quiet.  Except of course, riding to and from the Basin!
• Favourite ride (6am-er route):  That’s hard – I enjoy them all now but I do love our Kinglake ride with Flat Rock Road and the sprint session down into Warrandyte.
• Favourite cycling event:  Tour of Bright is my favourite event but if you’re talking about pro races it’s gotta be the Tour Down Under and the Tour de France and Paris Robaix.