Introducing Nina Suzuki, our 2024 Flatland Rider of the Year! This prestigious award, made possible through the generous support of Vans, Kink BMX, Fit Bike Co, Odyssey BMX, and GT Bicycles, celebrates Nina’s incredible achievements in flatland BMX this past year.
From Tokyo, Japan, 16-year-old Nina Suzuki has taken the flatland BMX world by storm in 2024, cementing her place as one of the most extraordinary riders in the discipline. Hailing from Japan, a country with deep roots in flatland culture, Nina has made history with a string of groundbreaking victories this year. Her winning streak began on home soil at FISE Enoshima, where she captivated fans with her flawless artistry and technique. She went on to dominate the international stage, claiming first place at FISE Montpellier in France, FISE World Shanghai in China, and the prestigious Flat Ark. Today, we’re thrilled to share a brief interview with her as she reflects on her journey, her phenomenal season, and her future ambitions.
How did you get into BMX? I started with @aizawa_flatland. When I went to a local bicycle shop to buy my brother’s bicycle, I noticed that BMX was really cool, so I decided to try it out for the first time.
What languages do you speak? Japanese
Top three songs on your playlist?
- Wonderland Song by Yo-Sea
- 1999 Song by Hitsujibungaku
- What Do I Know? Song by Ed Sheeran
Three people who inspire you and why? Yohei Uchino, Naoto Tamaru and Ryo Katagiri Because he is my teacher and riding is cool. I respect them very much.
What do you do when you’re not riding? Play the drums and read books
Favourite person to ride or train with? Ayuna Miyashima, Yui Kiyomune
Favourite shoes to ride in? PUMA
Your biggest fear? Nothing
Your proudest accomplishment? I was able to win the FISE UCI BMX World Cup overall in 2024.
Your worst habit? Nothing
What is a memorable experience you had that couldn’t have happened without BMX? I was able to go to various places.
Your top three future goals you want to achieve?
- I want to get a new trick, I want to learn new techniques
- Win the World Championship.
- I want to make BMX Flatland an Olympic event. I would like to try the FISE tournament as well.
