Our story, mission, and the people who make it all possible
Coach Tyler brings over 30 years of experience competing, exploring, and finding joy on two wheels and two feet. Through Northwest Devo, he is committed to giving back to the sport that shaped him — passing along hard-earned lessons while helping young riders build confidence, character, and a lifelong love of cycling
As the former manager of Bikers Edge Torrington — the former home base of the Devo team — Tyler plays a central role in growing the local cycling community and creating opportunities for the next generation of riders. He is also a proud team parent; his daughter Elliott rides with the Explorers group and is excited to take on her first NEYC race season.
Coach Ben hasn't been riding bikes very long but it became an instant passion that he shares with his son, Joshua. Formerly working full time at Bikers Edge has turned this passion into a career. Learning how to maintain and fix bikes while building his skills as a rider. Outside of riding Ben enjoys cooking, camping and generally being outside.
Coach Brian A 22 year veteran high school Special Education teacher at Bristol Central HS. Father of two boys Lance and Lincoln who raced mountain bikes for several years both XC and Enduro. Husband to Kathy for 23 years. 13 years as the head wrestling coach at BC along with assistant coach of girls and boys soccer, baseball and football. Stated mountain biking for 10 years while assisting his sons with racing. Founding member/trail builder of Bike Bristol trail system at Rockwell Park. Completed 1st season with Northwest Devo and enjoyed the true family environment that has been created.
Coach Eric is a founding member of the Northwest Devo program looking to give back to the kids and the community within the mountain bike industry. Organizing trail clean ups, group rides and making everyone a better rider have been staples in his career. He’s been riding for 15 plus years, focusing in on gravel, trail and downhill riding. With a love of bikes and getting more people on bikes is what fuels his passion for the sport.
Lane Maher is a semi-serious mountain bike racer from Harwinton, Connecticut. His story ranges from being a part of several cycling World Championships, to being a railroad conductor in upstate New York, to a collegiate athlete at CCSU and landing at a Transportation Engineer in current times. He has a lifelong love for cycling, railroads, and music. Lane looks forward to a great year of racing with the support of the Northwest Devo crew.
Hi, I’m Jessica. I’m a mom of three busy kids—Mason (20), Cora (13), and Josslyn (10). I teach Special Education at Bristol Central High School, and when I’m not working, I love spending time with family and friends. Being outdoors is my favorite reset, whether that’s hiking, walking, cross-country skiing, or biking. Cora joined the Devo team in 2025 and in one short year, finished the season ranked first in her class in the Race Day XC series. Her success reflects strong coaching, determination, and being part of a unique, biking family.
Coach Mike Brignano from Harwinton, CT. I attended Farmington High School, where I was a Class L state wrestling champion and team captain of the 2007 FHS wrestling team. I started riding bikes as a kid to get around town—building jumps by the river or racing friends down Mountain Road.
I’ve spent the last 15 years in the renewables industry, building high-performing teams and transforming energy infrastructure across New England. Fast forward to 2024: In the middle of a career change, my oldest son got hooked on riding, and his little brother followed suit. My wife and I, as a family, kicked off our first XC race season in 2025—and we haven’t looked back.
The woods and nature hold a special place in our hearts, and being part of a community of like-minded, hard-working people inspires us daily to be our best selves.
Whether you're a rider looking to join the team, a volunteer wanting to help, or a supporter interested in our mission, there's a place for you in the Dirt Gremlins family.