The world of cycling technology is gaining a fresh voice. Logan Jones-Wilkins joins Velo as its new Tech Editor, bringing a unique blend of racing experience, technical curiosity, and storytelling prowess to the team. For Jones-Wilkins, this isn’t just a job. it’s the culmination of a lifelong passion for two wheels, fueled by a deep understanding of the evolving technology that drives the sport. He describes his connection to cycling as knowing “ball” – a playful, internet-coded way of saying he understands the sport’s intricacies as deeply as any mainstream American understands football, baseball, or basketball.
Jones-Wilkins’ journey to Velo began with a childhood introduction to cycling, a moment he vividly remembers: his older brother removing the training wheels from his first bike at the age of four. That initial freedom sparked a lifelong obsession. He raced on the road throughout his junior career, achieving a seventh-place finish at his final junior nationals event. While competitive racing was a significant part of his early cycling life, he found himself drawn to the freedom and exploration offered by gravel riding, a discipline that truly blossomed around 2019. Living in Charlottesville, Virginia, necessitated a bike capable of handling varied terrain, leading him to trade 24mm tires on a Diamondback road bike for something more versatile.
From the Racecourse to the Newsroom
That shift to gravel wasn’t just about the riding experience; it ignited a fascination with the technology behind it. Jones-Wilkins’ academic path at the University of Richmond, where he earned a degree in journalism, further solidified his ability to connect with and communicate about the sport he loved. He continued to race, even achieving an 18th-place finish at the notoriously challenging Unbound 200 in 2021, a result he acknowledges is challenging to replicate. However, the experience proved invaluable in honing his storytelling skills. “Gravel racing and my degree in journalism proved to work together in a way that made all my cycling commitments feel more productive,” he explains.
Since graduating in 2023, Jones-Wilkins has been building his experience as a freelance cycling journalist, contributing to various publications. Now, he’s bringing that expertise to a full-time role with Velo, a position he describes as “the best encapsulation of everything I have done up to this point.” He recognizes the importance of owning one’s expertise in an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, and believes his deep understanding of cycling, combined with his storytelling abilities, will be a valuable asset.
A Dual Focus: Gravel and Road Tech
As Velo’s Tech Editor, Jones-Wilkins will be responsible for covering the latest innovations in cycling technology, with a particular focus on both gravel and road disciplines. He’ll be based in Phoenix, Arizona, working alongside Senior Tech Editor Josh Ross, who is located in the Pacific Northwest. This geographic split allows Velo to cover a wider range of riding conditions and perspectives. “With Josh based out of the Pacific Northwest, we have our climates covered,” Jones-Wilkins explains. “He loves the road, I do a bit more on gravel, so that will be a major area of focus for my riding and testing.”
Beyond the technical aspects of cycling, Jones-Wilkins brings a broader cultural awareness to his work. He’s a dedicated fan of the Arizona Diamondbacks, often listening to baseball games on the radio while riding, and has a keen interest in music and film. He intends to weave these passions into his coverage, recognizing that cycling exists within a larger societal context. “Cycling is, after all, a perfect place to reflect the rest of the world,” he says. “As much as we are outsiders, we do live in a society, and ignoring a good crossover is just no fun.”
What to Expect from Velo’s New Tech Editor
Jones-Wilkins’ approach to tech coverage will be rooted in hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the needs of cyclists. He plans to leverage his background in both road and gravel racing to provide insightful reviews, in-depth analysis, and engaging storytelling. He’s eager to explore the latest innovations in components, apparel, and accessories, and to share his findings with the Velo audience through stories, podcasts, and videos. He’s also committed to staying ahead of the curve, anticipating future trends and exploring the intersection of technology and cycling.
Readers can expect to spot Jones-Wilkins’ first pieces appearing on Velo in the coming weeks, with a focus on early-season gravel tech and preparations for the upcoming road racing calendar. He’s excited to connect with the cycling community and to contribute to the ongoing conversation about the future of the sport. As he settles into his role, Jones-Wilkins will be actively seeking feedback from readers and exploring new ways to deliver engaging and informative content.
The cycling tech landscape is constantly evolving, and Jones-Wilkins is poised to be a leading voice in covering these changes. His upcoming coverage will include a deep dive into the latest advancements in electronic shifting, aerodynamic optimization, and tire technology, as well as a gaze at the emerging trends in sustainable cycling practices. He’ll also be reporting on the latest developments in bike fit and biomechanics, helping cyclists of all levels optimize their performance and comfort.
We invite you to share your thoughts and questions with Logan as he begins this new chapter at Velo. Leave a comment below, or connect with us on social media to join the conversation.
