RECON MTB Podcast

Adam Miller joins the podcast live from the Sea Otter Classic to tell the full story of Revel Bikes — from scrappy startup to private equity exit, and back again. He breaks down what it really took to build Revel from the ground up: seven credit cards, employees living at his house, and sleeping in factory dorm rooms in Asia to save every dollar. What started as a passion for making bikes he actually wanted to ride eventually turned into one of the most respected names in full-suspension mountain biking.The conversation digs into what makes the CBF suspension platform so different, why Revel's bikes keep winning bike of the year, and how a geometry philosophy of "progressive, but not too progressive" is quietly outperforming flashier alternatives. Adam also gets into the decision to go mostly direct-to-consumer, how that unlocked a 25–35% price drop without sacrificing quality, and why their small team in Taichung hand-builds every order to spec.They also get into the harder lessons — what really happened after the private equity sale, how Adam bought the company back after it failed, and why rebuilding small and lean with the original crew might be the smartest thing he's ever done.

Matt and Jono Jones join the podcast to break down how they went from riding bikes at the highest level to building Mavrix — a virtual bike park designed to be ridden anytime, anywhere.They talk about Matt’s journey from slopestyle competitions and huge freeride features to YouTube, and how that path eventually led into game development. What started as a passion project quickly turned into years of work recreating the feel of real mountain biking in a digital world.The conversation dives into the challenges of translating real-world riding into gameplay, why most bike games never quite get it right, and how their approach flips that idea on its head. They also share how the game is already inspiring riders in reverse — with players getting into MTB after experiencing it virtually.

🪖 MTB Helmet Safety Deep Dive + Crash Data Insights (w/ Simon Fisher & Allan Cooke)In this episode of the RECON MTB podcast, the crew is joined by helmet design expert Simon Fisher (founder of Headspace Design Lab, with experience at Giro, Bell, and Specialized) alongside Allan Cooke, ex professional BMX athlete and XGames gold medalist, for a deep dive into the realities of mountain bike helmet safety.They break down surprising real-world crash data (including insights from Pinkbike Friday Fails), why many accidents happen during “easy” riding, and the truth behind full-face vs half-shell protection across MTB, BMX, and beyond. Simon also shares insider knowledge from decades in helmet design - covering testing, materials, and what actually makes a helmet effective when it matters most.Plus, they discuss when it’s time to replace your helmet, common misconceptions riders still believe, and how to choose the right protection for your riding style.This episode is brought to you by Leatt, a leader in rider protection with advanced testing and innovation at the core of their gear.📌 If you ride bikes, this one could genuinely change how you think about safety.

We went to Mexico City… to race TransAzteca 🇲🇽🚵‍♂️In this episode of the podcast, Nic and ReconMTB head south to take on the TransAzteca — and quickly realize this trip is about way more than racing.From the insane high-altitude trails around Mexico City to the unreal food and culture, this place completely surprised us.Nic sits down with local legend and TransAzteca race organizer Mau de Avila to talk about:– What makes TransAzteca such a unique race– How events like this can boost tourism– The rapidly growing trail network and riding community– And why more riders should be looking at Mexico for racing and adventureSo many people overlook Mexico when it comes to mountain biking… but after this trip, we’re convinced that needs to change.If Mexico wasn’t on your riding bucket list before — it might be now 👀

🔮 2026 MTB Predictions + Forbidden Dreadnought ReviewIn this episode of the RECON podcast, Nic and Allan dust off the crystal ball and throw down their spicy predictions for the world of MTB in 2026, from team shakeups to game-changing products and the riders to watch.Plus, after months of riding, they give their no-BS review of the Forbidden Dreadnought V2, where it shines, where it struggles, and who it’s actually for.📌 Whether you're here for bold takes or gear talk, you’ll want to stick around.

Cam Zink breaks down what actually went wrong at this year’s Red Bull Rampage. From surprising crashes to the conditions riders were fighting against, Cam gives his raw take on why this year’s event was so chaotic. If you want real insight from someone who’s been in the game for decades, this clip is it.Full podcast episode: https://youtu.be/hX1ndAySlCw

Nic Bean sits down with MTB legend Cam Zink for a deep dive into the life of one of freeride’s most iconic riders—known for world-record flips, rider-built events, founding bike brands, and a style that changed the sport.They cover everything from the story behind the record-breaking backflip and creating The Zink Invitational, to the inside scoop on Rampage, judging, and how freeride has evolved. Cam also shares the origins of Sensus Grips and Zink Bikes, and why he stepped into the business side of MTB.From fatherhood and legacy to what keeps him hungry after decades in the game, this is Cam Zink—unfiltered.If you’re into MTB, entrepreneurship, or stories about pushing the edge of what’s possible—this one hits different.

In this episode, Nic and Allan talk about the return of UCI World Cup downhill to American soil. The 2025 Downhill World Cup Season was an exciting one, and it could be the start of a multi year expansion for the sport. With that, Juniors will be aging up, taking on the current top pros. They get into the details Juniors VS. Elites, best locations for more World Cups, and more. Enjoy!

In this episode of the Recon Podcast, Nic Bean and Allan Cooke sit down to talk all things US Open of Downhill, from the massive(?) payout and standout performances, to what made this year’s event such a statement for North American racing.They also look ahead to the Lake Placid World Cup, sharing thoughts on what to expect from the course, who’s looking fast right now, and how the new U.S. rounds could reshape the future of the sport.Plus, some open talk about what’s happening in the MTB industry — rider moves, brand strategies, content trends, and where things might be heading as 2026 starts to take shape.🎙️ Hosts: Nic Bean & Allan Cooke

Kyle Strait shares some of his wildest memories from Red Bull Rampage. From unforgettable runs to near disasters, he recounts what it’s really like to ride and survive one of mountain biking’s most extreme events. Pure behind-the-scenes storytelling from a Rampage legend.Full podcast is here: https://youtu.be/p_U6zxz5cyE

Kyle Strait reflects on whether the risk of riding Red Bull Rampage is truly worth it. He talks about the highs of stomping a dream run, the financial and physical risks involved, and how the event has evolved over the years. A raw and honest take on what it really costs to chase glory at Rampage.Full podcast is here: https://youtu.be/p_U6zxz5cyE

Nic Bean and Kyle Strait break down how new riders find their way into Red Bull Rampage. Kyle explains how years of digging and building give rookies an edge, why past qualification systems didn’t always work, and the pressure of riding in such a strict format. He also shares his thoughts on feeder events, the need for a junior Rampage, and how the current system still feels inconsistent.Full podcast is here: https://youtu.be/p_U6zxz5cyE

Kyle Strait opens up about the hidden challenges riders face at Red Bull Rampage. He shares how much riders actually invest just to compete, why builders are their lifeline, and how the financial side of Rampage doesn’t always add up. A rare, honest look behind the scenes of the biggest freeride event in the world.Full podcast is here: https://youtu.be/p_U6zxz5cyE

Kyle Strait has seen it all.In this clip, Nic Bean sits down with the only rider to compete in every Red Bull Rampage, from its raw, rowdy beginnings to today’s sculpted super lines.They dive into how the event has evolved:from small dig crews to full build teams,from pick-and-ride lines to massive pre-sculpted features,from dry desert days to water trucks and rest days.But with all that progress… comes some tough questions.Are we moving away from freeride’s roots?Has Rampage become more about big tricks on big booters — and less about reading the mountain?Or is this just the natural evolution of the sport?Watch the full clip and decide for yourself.Full episode here: https://youtu.be/p_U6zxz5cyE

Nic Bean heads down to Strait Acres to sit down with legendary freerider Kyle Strait for a raw, honest conversation that you won’t hear anywhere else. They talk all things Red Bull Rampage, from the wildest behind-the-scenes moments to the scariest features he’s ever ridden, and why Kyle won’t be competing in Rampage 2025.This one goes deep. Kyle opens up about his career highs, brutal injuries, and what it’s really like to ride the gnarliest event in MTB. They get into the stuff you’d never know as a spectator, the unspoken rules, the pressure, the politics, and how the sport has changed over the years.Whether you’re a diehard fan or just want a peek behind the curtain of one of MTB’s biggest legends, this episode hits different.

Allan and Nic dive into one of the most annoying problems in mountain biking: headset creaks. From the classic quick fixes to the long-term solutions, they swap stories, compare what’s worked (and what hasn’t), and get into the details of how to finally silence that dreaded noise for good and improve bearing longevity. Whether it’s about grease, torque settings, upgrading parts, to design, this clip is a mix of practical tips and real rider experiences that every mountain biker can relate to.

Nic and Allan pull out the crystal ball and dive into what the bike industry really needs—both from the perspective of riders and as people with years of firsthand experience. With plenty of stories, insights, and unfiltered opinions, this episode takes a hard look at where the industry is headed, what’s holding it back, and how it can better serve the riders who keep it alive.

Nic Bean and Charlie Murray get real about the hidden side of racing life. From constant travel and jet lag to the pressure of back-to-back events, they unpack why the pro dream isn’t always what it seems—and why balance matters as much as results.Full episode here: https://youtu.be/69CU_l4wupA

What happens when the wrong tool is brought to the biggest stage? Charlie Murray tells Nic the wild story of lining up at the Enduro World Cup on an "trail" bike, what it taught him about adaptability, and how much equipment really matters at the highest levelFull episode here: https://youtu.be/69CU_l4wupA

Charlie Murray shares his perspective on enduro’s place in mountain biking and why the discipline deserves more recognition. He and Nic dig into how enduro reflects the riding most people actually do, and the frustration of seeing it overshadowed on the world stage.Full episode here: https://youtu.be/69CU_l4wupA

In this episode, Nic Bean sits down with Enduro World Cup standout Charlie Murray to dive into life as a professional mountain bike racer. From dialing in bike setup to navigating the highs and lows of a long season, Charlie shares the trials, tribulations, and triumphs that come with competing at the top of the sport. The conversation covers the grind of worldwide travel, the mental battles behind the races, and what it really takes to push through challenges and chase results on the global stage.

Nic dives into the story behind Theory Racing, the independent Enduro World Cup team he built from scratch. From developing young talent like Bailey Christie to supporting Julie DuPont’s top-5 chase, they discuss the challenges of running a privateer squad—and why Enduro needs teams like this to survive.Here is the full episode: https://youtu.be/xGJ5M8NSVv4

Adrian and Nic discuss Henry Quinney’s surprising departure from Pinkbike to launch Quarter HP, his new high-end bike review channel. They break down why this move matters—will independent reviews shake up the industry? Plus, they analyze his first videos, the "mystery rider" bit, and whether this could change how we judge bikes forever.Full episode link here: https://youtu.be/xGJ5M8NSVv4

Is downhill MTB really more dangerous than road cycling? Nic and Adrian debate Tom Pidcock’s controversial take, comparing crashes, skill levels, and the mental game in both sports. From peloton pileups to Hardline’s insane drops—which discipline demands more from its riders?Here is the full episode: https://youtu.be/xGJ5M8NSVv4

Adrian and Nic break down the biggest moments from Red Bull Hardline 2025, including Asa Vermette’s insane run and Louise Ferguson’s historic finish. They also discuss Jackson Goldstone’s absence—was skipping Hardline the right call? Plus, Henry Quinney’s new bike review channel, the debate over MTB vs. road racing danger, and an inside look at Nic’s Theory Racing Enduro team.

Nic Bean and Allan Cooke kick things off with Vincent Tupin’s massive crash in Switzerland—an unreal freeride line that pushed the limits of bike and body. They break down what went wrong, how gnarly the risk is getting in freeride MTB, and what this kind of riding means for the sport’s future.Here is the full episode: https://youtu.be/DcoaJGBUNHUHuge credit and kudos to Vincent Tupin and his filmer Fast Fokus. They are legends.

Vinny T Sends It, YT Restructures, and the DH Battle Heats Up | ReconMTB PodcastNic Bean and Allan Cooke are back to break down one of the wildest sends of the year—Vincent Tupin’s jaw-dropping 122-foot drop—and what it says about the progression (and risk) in freeride MTB (and equipment?). The crew dives into the current state of the mountain bike industry, YT’s recent restructuring, and the financial turbulence hitting brands across the board. They don’t hold back on what the industry needs to do better.Then it’s onto World Cup DH: the Jackson vs. Loic rivalry, the fallout from Andorra, and what’s on the line heading into Les Gets and the rest of the season.Another heavy-hitting ReconMTB episode—raw, honest, and fully tapped in.

From racing the Enduro World Series to going viral bombing San Francisco’s steepest hills, Teddy Hayden shares his wild ride—both on the bike and behind the scenes. He opens up about building Cyclo, the struggles of Strava policing, suspension setups, e-bikes, and what it’s really like creating MTB content in the city. Then the tables turn, and Teddy flips the script—grilling Recon’s own Nick Bean in a surprise role reversal.

Are Canadian kids taking over the Downhill World Cup scene? Nic Bean and Allan Cooke dive into how Jackson Goldstone and Gracey Hemstreet are making serious waves in the DH world. From insane race results to their unique backgrounds and riding styles, the crew breaks down what’s fueling their success and why the future of downhill might just be painted red and white.Shop your MTB essentials: https://reconmtb.com

YT Industries is going through big changes—and we’re breaking it down. From major team shifts to a fresh brand vision, Nic Bean and Allan Cooke dive into what’s behind the restructure, what it could mean for YT’s future, and whether the brand can keep its core identity as it grows. Is this a reset, a comeback, or something else entirely?Here is the full episode: https://youtu.be/DcoaJGBUNHU

Allan Cooke and Nic Bean dive into the future of the Enduro World Cup and why it’s been such a challenge to bring the sport to a broader audience. From the struggles of capturing the action for media to the potential solutions that could finally make Enduro shine, they break down what needs to change and why there’s still so much hope for the format if done right.Tune in for insights on the sport’s evolution, the unique challenges of covering Enduro, and what could be the turning point for its global popularity.Shop the latest MTB gear: https://reconmtb.com

Everyone uses Strava—but is it really built for mountain bikers? In this episode, Teddy Hayden sits down with Nic Bean to unpack the surprising lack of innovation in MTB software. They dive into why Strava might be holding the sport back, what’s missing for trail riders, and how the future could look if someone finally built tools for mountain bikers, not just roadies. From untapped tech to rider-first ideas—this one’s for anyone who’s ever questioned their KOM obsession.Full episode link: https://youtu.be/DPcbhCD5wB8

Adrian Galamba and Allan Cooke dive into Orbea’s new Rallon—a bike that’s turning heads for its ability to transform between a full-blown DH machine and an enduro weapon. They break down how Orbea achieved this “two bikes in one” design, discuss geometry changes, suspension tweaks, and who this bike is really for. Is the Rallon the ultimate quiver killer? Tune in and find out.Shop for your new MTB gear at ReconMTB.com, you could win a new bike!Full episode: https://youtu.be/PmR6EEuMbPo?si=_wCz6Z5DALTdU3x2

Clickers, compression, rebound… it never ends. In this episode, Teddy Hayden and Nic Bean dive into the suspension setup rabbit hole—where tuning becomes obsession, and more dials don’t always mean better rides. They break down why some bikes are becoming over-customized, how brands try to balance performance and usability, and what happens when you chase perfect suspension and lose the plot.Full episode link: https://youtu.be/DPcbhCD5wB8

In this episode, Allan Cooke sits down with Adrian Galamba to explore a major shift happening in action sports: are pro athletes rethinking how they approach competition while injured? For years, riders would do everything possible to race through the pain, but today’s generation may be playing by a different set of rules.With new income streams from social media, sponsorships, and personal branding, do athletes feel less pressure to show up on race day at all costs? Allan and Adrian unpack what this shift means for the sport, the culture, and the future of competition.

Adrian Galamba and Allan Cooke tackle the big question facing downhill bikes: are traditional drivetrains holding back future designs, or is the gearbox revolution inevitable? They debate whether the newest DH bikes risk becoming obsolete without gearboxes, and weigh the trade-offs between classic drivetrains and the freedom gearbox systems offer for frame design. Plus, they share their picks for riders to watch who could deliver standout performances this season. Shop for your new MTB products on Reconmtb.com, you could win a bike!Full episode: https://youtu.be/vDLix9XSN7o?si=EFfW6GngldWwWNaZ

Allan Cooke and Adrian Galamba dive deep into the electrified world of e-bikes. They unpack the tricky balance between delivering more power and managing battery consumption—where performance gains meet diminishing returns. Expect heated takes on assist modes, the point of "too much torque," and what the future of eMTB might look like if power overshadows play.Full episode: https://youtu.be/vDLix9XSN7o?si=EFfW6GngldWwWNaZ

In this episode, Allan Cooke sits down with Christian Rigal to talk about his journey from BMX to mountain biking. Christian shares how his deep love for BMX shaped his style on the MTB, bringing creativity and a fresh perspective to the trails. They dive into the skills that translate between the two worlds, Christian’s passion for building epic trails right in his backyard, and what fuels his endless drive to ride and film.Tune in for a conversation full of riding stories, trail-building insights, and what it means to keep progressing as a rider, no matter the bike.

Join hosts Nic Bean and Allan Cooke in this episode of the RECON MTB podcast as they unpack the biggest shake-up in downhill racing: the new Q1/Q2 World Cup qualifying format. They dive into the implications of removing protected rider status, what this means for the sport’s competitive edge, and how the Enduro World Cup is shifting. Plus, they spotlight the impressive rise of junior racers making waves in downhill.Shop for your mountain biking gear at our store for a chance to win a new Forbidden Dreadnought 3: https://reconmtb.com/Check out this month’s giveaway bike: https://reconmtb.com/blogs/news/annou...

Adrian Galamba is back to guest host this episode with Allan Cooke to reflect on world cup controversies, Tahnee Seagrave's the new Orbea DH bike, and the state of slopestyle witnessed by Allan at Crankworx. Shop for your mountain biking products on our store: https://reconmtb.com/Check out this month's giveaway bike: https://reconmtb.com/blogs/news/announcing-recon-mtb-giveaway-3-every-1-spent-1-entry

In this episode, RECON Co-Founder Nic Bean interviews Toby Ricco, the founder of Bimotal, a next-gen tech company becoming famous for electrifying analog bikes. They discuss Toby's engineering background, the challenges of creating a modular powertrain for traditional bikes, and the potential impact on the e-bike market. The conversation also touches on future developments, including a mid-drive motor with impressive torque, and the broader implications for electric mobility, including applications in wheelchairs.Buy the Bimotal Elevate on ReconMTB.com here and get 2000 entries to winning a Forbidden Dreadnought: https://reconmtb.com/products/elevate-ebike-motor-system

In #6, co-host Allan Cooke is joined by guest co-host Adrian Galamba - a former pro motocross racer who transitioned to mountain biking. The guys dive into how riders react to fear on the trail, the tech behind Canyon's new Sender, and whether gearbox drivetrains are finally catching on. They also cover Loïc Bruni’s custom Brembo brake setup and what it means for pro-level performance. Plus, NorCal's unique MTB scene, the rise of World Cup talent, and Adrian’s perspective from inside one of the world’s most influential bike brands.USA customers – shop from 10k+ MTB products and win a Forbidden Dreadnought 3: www.ReconMTB.comWant to listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts?https://open.spotify.com/episode/2XwtXsVnfA0k2pYStCDG5n?si=c78002efcee94386Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/recon-mtb-podcast/id1805747145Like & subscribe so you never miss a future episode!Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reconmtb

Join hosts Nic Bean and Allan Cooke in this episode of the Recon MTB podcast as they dive into the latest happenings in the mountain biking world. The duo discusses the controversial rise of powerful e-bikes, the implications for trail access, and the potential for a downhill bike with pegs. They also touch on the upcoming Hardline event in Wales, featuring riders like Rat Boy and Kade Edwards.Shop from 10,000+ MTB products that might win you a new bike: https://reconmtb.com/00:00: Intro03:06 - E-bike Industry News06:08 - User Abuse of E-bike Features07:04 - Future of E-bikes17:18 - Hardline Wales Preview20:11 - Atherton Gearbox Prototype#mtb #mountainbiking #mtbpodcast

In this episode, RECON creator Justin Rausch ( @one_mtb ) interviews Sebastian Bauer ( @nrmlmtber ). They discuss his journey from growing up in Novato, California, to becoming a prominent figure in the mountain biking community. Sebastian shares how he and his brother started riding bikes as kids, their first mountain biking experience in Whistler, and how the 2020 pandemic led him to create content for Instagram. He talks about the challenges and successes of building a brand that resonates with larger riders and the impact his videos have had on inspiring others. The episode also delves into his past work in the bike industry, his experience with content creation, and a memorable yet nerve-wracking public speaking event for Specialized.00:00 - Introduction and Specialized Speech Incident00:53 - Post Sea Otter Discussion.03:28 - Introduction to Sebastian and NRML MTBer03:54 - Childhood and Early Biking Experiences09:13 - Transition to MTB and Impact of 202016:14 - Early Work in the Bike Industry and High School Experiences24:03 - Importance of Personal Branding for Riders33:05 - Favorite Video Projects and Specialized Levo SL Filming Experience#nrmlmtber #mountainbiking #mtb #cycling #bikes

In episode #3, Nic Bean and Allan Cooke recap the Sea Otter Classic, highlighting the debut of FOX's new inverted fork and the buzz around DJI's e-bike motor. They discuss the impressive performances of riders like Tahnee Seagrave and Ryan Pinkerton at the World Cup test event in Portugal, as well as the innovations from brands like Santa Cruz and Scott. The guys also touch on the excitement of the dual slalom races and the importance of product testing in the evolving MTB landscape.00:00 - Intro02:04 - Inverted Fox Fork Discussion06:14 - E-Bikes and DJI Motor Insights10:27 - Santa Cruz Bullet and Market Position21:13 - World Cup Test Event in Portugal30:04 - Sea Otter Racing Highlights and ResultsUSA customers - shop from 10k+ MTB products: www.ReconMTB.comListen to the podcast on other platforms if you're on the go: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2XwtXsVnfA0k2pYStCDG5n?si=c78002efcee94386Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/recon-mtb-podcast/id1805747145Like and subscribe so you never miss a future episode! Follow RECON MTB on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reconmtb#mtb #mtbpodcast

In episode #2, Nic Bean and Allan Cooke dive into the latest in MTB. They discuss SRAM's new mechanical T-type transmission and the new FOX 36 and 36 SL fork. The guys also discuss the upcoming Sea Otter Classic, their dream MTB vacations, and the insanity of Red Bull Cerro Abajo. 00:00 - Intro 00:48 - SRAM's New Transmission10:00 - Fox 36 Fork Updates14:50 - Red Bull Cerro Abajo Is Insane17:11 - Sea Otter Classic Preview / Background24:35 - Build Your Ultimate MTB Trip Buy the SRAM Eagle 90 Mechanical T-Type Derailleur on RECON: https://reconmtb.com/products/sram-eagle-90-mechanical-derailleurBuy the MY26 Fox 36 Factory 29in Fork on RECON: https://reconmtb.com/products/my26-fox-36-grip-x2-factory-29in-forkThe Future Of MTB Shopping: www.ReconMTB.comListen to the podcast on other platforms if you're on the go: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2XwtXsVnfA0k2pYStCDG5n?si=c78002efcee94386Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/recon-mtb-podcast/id1805747145Like and subscribe so you never miss a future episode! Follow RECON MTB on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reconmtb#mtb #mtbpodcast

EPISODE 1! Nic Bean and Allan Cooke sit down in the RECON studio to cover the latest and greatest in MTB. The boys discuss the launch of ReconMTB.com and its fresh take on MTB content and commerce, the current state of the MTB industry, the impact of new technologies like SRAM's compact e-bike motor and Fox's 34SL fork, and predictions for the upcoming racing season, including the rise of new talents like Kaidan Ingersoll in slopestyle and Lachlan Stevens-McNabb in downhill racing. Tune in for a banger and let us know what you think. 00:00 - Intro00:44 - Recon MTB Launch and Vision06:58 - Crankworx Rotorua Highlights09:52 - Southern Hemisphere Racing Dynamics11:06 - Audience Q&A: Favorite Riders and Hub Preferences14:02 - New SRAM Compact E-Bike Motor16:16 - Fox 34SL Fork and Suspension Trends20:44 - Predictions for the 2025 Season (XC, DH, EDR, Slopestyle)The Future Of MTB Shopping: www.ReconMTB.comLike and subscribe so you never miss a future episode! Follow RECON MTB on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reconmtbListen to the podcast on other platforms if you're on the go: #mtb #mountainbiking