Who is Charlie Hatton?
A guy who likes to go fast on a bike.
What are you best known for?
Probably, now, for winning the 2023 World Championships.
What are you up to in 2024?
Recovering from my injury in Loudenvielle, and probably lots of motorbike trials through the winter.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Wake up, have a good breakfast, then do some sort of training in the morning, eat lunch, and then more training in the afternoon, mixed in with some form of riding something with two wheels.
Where do you call home, and what’s the riding like?
Although I live in south Shropshire now, I'd have to go with the Forest of Dean [in Gloucestershire] – that’s where I’ve done most of my riding (and was raised). I took it for granted when I was younger, but to be able to just ride out the door onto hours and hours of trails is insane. [The limited elevation] means a short descent and a punchy climb, but you can do loads of runs.
First riding memory?
Outside of my house was a big mound – a slag heap, I guess – and I'd push up and ride down, all day long. We built some jumps on it, I was probably five to six years old.
What gets you excited to ride?
Pushing the limits, finding the edge of grip and going flat out!
When was the last time you were really stoked?
After winning the Worlds.
Who’s your favourite person/people to ride with?
I ride a lot with Joe Breeden, and we both like the trials element of it. We’ll often be going down a trail and try to ride off the main line as much as possible, which makes you find really creative lines, and that’s good fun.
Any unusual bike set-up preferences?
Not unusual, but I run my brake levers really close to my grips, about 10mm away. It leaves my hand very straight, not pulling over for the brake.
Other hobbies or interests?
Trials motorbikes and cars.
If you could only ride one location ever again, where would that be?
I’d have to say Whistler, because of the variety. You’ve got big jumps and also really technical trails.
Best trail you’ve ridden this year?
I really liked the bottom section of Loudenvielle, in the wet – that was sick.
Scariest thing you’ve done on a bike?
One thing no one knows about you?
I’m actually a qualified Zumba instructor.
Biggest ride of your life?
It’s got to be the World Championships.
What’s your biggest weakness?
Maybe I could be better in believing in myself.
Most treasured possession?
My gold Atherton bike.
Favourite item of clothing?
My Endura world champ's jersey.
What three things would you want on a desert island?
A phone, so I could get out of there as quick as I could, and lots of water and food.
What advice would you give your 13-year-old self?
It’s just a process. Keep doing you, and if you’re enjoying it, good things will come.
Who is Charlie Hatton?
Charlie has been a home-brewed favourite on the UK downhill scene for a few years now, but when, in August 2023, he nailed and railed the slippery slopes of Fort William's Nevis Range to find his own crock of gold at the bottom he truly became a great of the sport – a world champion.
Words: Steve Thomas
Pictures: Steve Behr
