Seller Spotlight: David Johnson

This week's Seller Spotlight is on David Johnson! He currently has several incredible vintage bikes from his collection for sale on BikeList, including this 1955 Rotrax and this 1960s T.J. Quick!

Now for our five easy questions!

How did you get into bikes?
I have been riding bikes since I was a kid. I am now 72. I started more serious riding in the 1970's on a 10 speed Raleigh Grand Prix then moved up to a custom Raleigh USA racing bike with full Campagnolo. Twelve years ago I opened a bike shop as a side business to serve people on Iowa's High Trestle Trail. I rented and repaired bikes and built up an extensive collection of English, Italian, French and American bikes. I sold my bike building and downsized to repairs only. With a smaller space I ended up selling most of my collection. I have about a half a dozen classics left, but I am keeping a 1947 copper plated Wilier with Campy Corsa shifting and a mint condition 1974 Raleigh International with full Campy.

What bike do you ride the most?
I ride an ICE trike on the trail almost exclusively. My aging body likes the recumbent position plus I just enjoy the trike viewpoint.

What is your favorite bike ride?
I have ridden many segments of RAGBRAI over the last 40 years. My favorite ride of all time was the Eroica California a few years ago on my 1961 Hetchins. Iowa's BRR Ride in February is my current favorite. RAGBRAI has gotten too big and commercial for my tastes.

Campy or Shimano?
I prefer Campagnolo on my classics. I had a Raleigh Prestige with Suntour Superbe Pro that was excellent and I put thousands of miles on that ride. I have also used older Shimano DuraAce on an Eddy Merckx and DeRosa.

Any big plans for the next year?
I plan on to keep riding the trails in Iowa to stay in shape and meet interesting people from all over the world. I also volunteer on several committees to promote trail building and tourism.