Set against the backdrop of Popocatépetl volcano, our film team ventured into unchartered territories to capture the essence of life in Puebla, Mexico. We entered into the world of Carlos del Rio, cycling under the shadow of a volcano, stopping for tacos in pueblitos and learning the secret of the perfect mezcalita. We felt very fortunate to capture our opening shot of Carlos cycling under the volcano, as just one week after shooting, Popocatépetl began spewing ash, closing schools and disrupting flights!

Interviewing Carlos in his home, we learned about his love of the handmade, whether it’s the skilfully designed and artistically painted frame of his Pegoretti bicycle, or the traditional talavera ceramics of his hometown. By a stroke of serendipity, our shoot coincided with Mother’s Day, which in Mexico is celebrated with a verve we’d never before seen. It's in these unexpected moments that documentary magic unfolds – a mariachi band serenading the mothers in a factory we were filming in was the perfect testament to this.

This film marks the exciting first chapter in a new series – short films that celebrate Pegoretti riders across the globe. Each episode promises to capture the essence of cycling and adventure, weaving a unique tapestry of landscapes and cultures, all seen through the eyes of a passionate cyclist.

Next stop: New York!