Rider Interview: Liv Taylor

At PEMBREE, we're passionate about supporting the next generation of riders who are pushing the limits of performance and progression. Today, we're excited to introduce one of the newest members of the PEMBREE family, Liv Taylor, better known as @livshreds.

Competing in the highly competitive U17 female downhill category, Liv has already established herself as one of the UK's most promising young talents. With a British National Championship title to her name and an impressive fourth-place finish at the European Championships in Champéry, she's quickly making her mark on the international racing scene.

Racing across the IXS European Cup circuit with Viris Nukeproof Racing, Liv combines technical skill, physical strength, and determination. We caught up with her to learn more about her racing journey, inspirations, favourite tracks, and what keeps her motivated.

Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Liv Taylor (@livshreds). I am a downhill racer in the U17 female category, focusing on the IXS European Cups.

Where are you from?

I live in Warwickshire, England, and I’m also originally from here.

Who are you riding for this season?

This year I’m riding for Viris Nukeproof Racing.

What has been the highlight of your racing career so far?

My racing highlight has probably been winning the British National Championships and also coming fourth at the European Championships in Champéry.

Do you have a favourite race track?

I don’t have one definite favourite, but my top tracks are Fort William and Champéry, although that might change once I get to race a few more IXS tracks!

What would you say are your biggest strengths as a rider?

I’d probably say my strengths are jumps and my physical strength. I train a lot off the bike too, which definitely helps.

What's been the most challenging part of racing?

For me, the most difficult thing has been the mental side, especially learning how to deal with bad practice sessions and crashes while still staying confident and present for race runs.

What do you enjoy most about being a downhill racer?

There are so many good things about being a racer! I love getting to travel to all the new places my bike takes me, and I also just really love riding.

What's your current bike setup?

Right now, I’m riding a Nukeproof Dissent in a size NP2. It’s such a good race bike and is amazing on jumps as well as technical sections.

Who inspired you growing up?

I’ve always really looked up to Rachel Atherton and Tahnee Seagrave. They’ve inspired me since I was very young, and it’s been so cool to watch British women win World Cups.

What do you enjoy doing when you're not riding?

When I’m not riding, I like riding my horse Lilly and generally being outside doing anything adrenaline-filled!

Quick Fire Round

Favourite film?

I’ve got a few favourites, including Happy Gilmore and Anyone But You.

Favourite food and drink?

My favourite food is probably sushi, especially salmon, and I also love a matcha to go with it.

Biggest pet peeve?

Slow walkers and loud breathing. I don’t know why, but for some reason it just makes me go crazy!

What would you be doing if you weren't racing bikes?

At the moment, I’m still in school doing my exams, but if I didn’t continue with biking, I’d probably go into Law or Economics, which are subjects I currently study.

What advice would you give to younger riders looking to get into racing?

Ride your bike as much as possible, but also don’t take riding too seriously. Every time you ride, make sure you allow yourself time to have fun on your bike too.

What PEMBREE components are you currently running?

I’m running the PEMBREE 40mm Rise Bars in silver, which I’ve recently switched to after previously running a 20mm rise. I also run the PEMBREE Performance Grips, which I absolutely love as someone who is extremely picky about grips! Along with that, I use the PEMBREE seatpost and seat clamp.

Final Thoughts

Liv's achievements at such a young age are impressive, but what stands out even more is her attitude towards racing. From learning to overcome the mental challenges of competition to balancing school, training, and international travel, she demonstrates the dedication and maturity needed to succeed at the highest level.

We're proud to have Liv riding with PEMBREE components and excited to be part of her journey as she continues to develop as a racer.

With her determination, work ethic, and passion for riding, there's no doubt that Liv has an exciting future ahead. We can't wait to see what the rest of the season brings as she takes on more IXS European Cup events and continues to represent British downhill racing on the international stage.

Thanks to Liv for taking the time to chat with us, and be sure to follow her journey as she chases more podiums and unforgettable race experiences.