Dirty Freehub is proud to announce the induction of David Toste of West Linn, Oregon into the Gravel Champs Hall of Fame, honoring his dedication to both the gravel cycling community and advocacy for those living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Diagnosed with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis in 2021, David has refused to let the disease define him. Instead, he has turned to cycling as a source of resilience, empowerment, and connection. David has logged more than 3,000 miles in a year, completed his first century ride at Bike MS Oregon (2024), and a year later completed the full Bike MS ride covering 146 miles over two days.
David’s cycling journey began when he received a State All-Road bike through Meat Fight, a nonprofit dedicated to helping those with MS stay active. Today, he rides a Cervélo Áspero, embracing both gravel and road adventures. Beyond the bike, David serves as an MS Activist for the National MS Society, traveling to Washington, D.C. for the past three years to advocate for policy change. He is also an MS Patient Ambassador and mentor, offering support and guidance to young adults newly navigating life with MS.
“David defines what it means to be a Gravel Champ,” said Linda English, Co-Founder of Dirty Freehub. “He is so passionate about cycling, including gravel, and he’s always embracing the MS community to ride bikes as a way to stay healthy, both mentally and physically. He inspires everyone to ride!”
“In addition, I just have to admire him for 3 weeks after having COVID toasting me on the 7 mile hill climb out of the Dalles. He cranked the 1,500 feet just straight up, smiling the whole way.” said Linda English. “While his name is pronounced Tossed, we call him Toast in our organization. He sure has earned the title.”
When not on the bike or advocating, David enjoys spending time with his family near Portland or snowboarding down Mt. Hood. His story is a testament to the transformative power of cycling to build strength, resilience, and community.
About the Dirty Freehub Hall of Fame
The Gravel Champs Hall of Fame by Dirty Freehub celebrates riders who embody the spirit of gravel cycling—community, adventure, grit, and advocacy. Gravel Champs are recognized not only for their accomplishments on the bike but also for how they inspire and uplift others.This program is funded by kind donations from our cycling community and a grant from Travel Oregon.
About Dirty Freehub
Dirty Freehub is a nonprofit dedicated to growing the gravel cycling community through curated routes, storytelling, and advocacy. Based in Oregon, Dirty Freehub promotes gravel cycling while highlighting the cultural, historical, and environmental significance of the landscapes we ride. Dirty Freehub has over 13,000 miles of curated gravel route guides and 20,000 followers.
Media Contact:
Linda English
Executive Director, Dirty Freehub
Email: linda@dirtyfreehub.org
