Interview: Jarvis, "the Sherco man"
By TMX Archives on 8th Aug 06
The British rider Graham Jarvis was the first official Sherco rider; Graham actually started riding for Sherco when the brand was first introduced back in 1998.
In its first season, Graham gave Sherco their first international victory in the prestigious SSDT which gave an enormous amount of credibility to the recently created new brand. Since then the path of the rider and the brand have united hand in hand, success after success, Graham has won international and national events for Sherco, thus creating an indissoluble image in which it is difficult to separate Sherco from Graham and Graham from Sherco. Graham has become the very best ambassador for Sherco around the world. Starting in 2005, the 31 year old rider from Canterbury has taken a turn in his sports career by competing in the extreme tests of Enduro racing. Graham has achieved some very surprising and impressive results, continuing to promote his winning ways and showing that he is a versatile and industrious rider.
This year you won the SSDT again. What's your secret to keep winning this event in front of the youngest riders?
Good preparation is the key to success in this event. The Sherco 290 is exceptional in Scottish sections. Experience also plays a big part at the SSDT.
In your opinion what is the evolution of the Sherco since your first victory in 1999?
There has been an all round improvement to the Sherco suspension, engine and much better handling.
This year you are participating in trials and enduro events with very surprising results. What is the reason for this change?
I like enduros and the Sherco 450 is a fun bike to ride at any level. After many years ride trials it is good to do something different.
What is your strongest point in order to be at the same level as other expert enduro riders?
Trials skills definitely help in enduros. I have good fitness from trials and the mental skills I've got from top level trials certainly help a lot.
What type of enduro races do you prefer?
Extreme enduros come naturally but I need to work hard on my motocross style, but I love all races.
What bike are you using to ride enduros? Do you have any improvements in respect of the production model?
The Sherco 450 is really good straight from production. I just put handguards, O-ring chain and titanium footrests on and adjust the suspension to my preference.
Do you think that the Sherco is at the same level as other more experienced enduro brands?
The Sherco is a bike for all levels of riders. I've not found another brand as good. I love it.
Seeing your great results, can we see you riding other type of enduro events, like the World Championship?
I'd like to ride some for experience but I'm still riding many trials so its difficult at the present time to fit into my schedule.