or maybe he just likes the low-key vibes of working with neko and has a good support system where he is. playing the long game of success, comfort, familiarity and fun vs short game of some cash but with a team that may not culturally gel or a bike that doesn't work for him right away.
That is such an epic photo and symbolic of the frameworks ethos. Rides bikes, have fun! But yeah, I have to wonder, he would be deserving of a significant wage now. Is Whitely in his management circle?