RECON MTB Podcast

Osad

• 
  #26 What Riders Get Wrong About MTB Suspension Setup 16.07.2026 47min

  Lawrence from Speed Shop Aptos joins Nic and Allan on episode 26 of the Recon MTB podcast to drop some suspension knowledge! Many riders have their suspension info and setup completely WRONG and we think this info can help a lot. Don’t miss it!
• 
  #25 The E-Bike Designed for Purist MTBers - Revel Rerun Review 15.07.2026 32min

  Is the Revel Rerun the best lightweight e-bike of 2026? Nic and Alan from the Recon MTB Podcast put the Revel Rerun to the test, and it made them question everything they thought they needed in an e-bike.In this review they break down the Bosch SX motor, Canfield CBF suspension platform, mullet setup, 170mm front / 165mm rear travel, and whether the $5,599 price tag is actually a steal in today's market.Topics covered:- Revel Rerun full specs & geometry breakdown- Canfield CBF suspension — what makes it different- Lightweight vs full-power e-bike: which actually makes sense?- Bosch SX motor feel, battery life & real-world range- Who this bike is actually for- Is $5,599 good value in 2026?- One-bike quiver? Seriously?
• 
  #24 He Sold His Bike Company… Then Bought It Back When It Failed 30.04.2026 33min

  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.
• 
  #23 Matt and Jono Jones Build the MTB Video Game That No One Else Could 30.04.2026 8min

  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.
• 
  #22 Are You Wearing the Wrong MTB Helmet? 01.04.2026 1t 4min

  🪖 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.
• 
  #21 Racing in MEXICO Was Not What We Expected... 01.04.2026 33min

  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 👀
• 
  #20 What Is ACTUALLY Going On In MTB? 2026 Predictions 16.01.2026 34min

  🔮 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.
• 
  What ACTUALLY Went Wrong At Rampage 2025 04.12.2025 7min

  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
• 
  #19 Legend Cam Zink on Rampage, Bike Business, and Success 22.11.2025 1t 34min

  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.
• 
  #18 America’s Return to World Cup Downhill 19.11.2025 27min

  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!
• 
  #17 Drama Behind FOX US Open and World Cup Downhill 26.10.2025 29min

  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's Behind the Scenes of Rampage 24.10.2025 5min

  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
• 
  Riders Are Risking Their Lives At Rampage, But Is It Worth It? 20.10.2025 4min

  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
• 
  Why Is It So HARD To Get Into Red Bull Rampage? 19.10.2025 3min

  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
• 
  The Unspoken Problems of Red Bull Rampage w/ Kyle Strait 18.10.2025 6min

  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
• 
  Is Red Bull Rampage Turning Into a Slopestyle Event? 11.10.2025 12min

  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
• 
  #16 Why Kyle Strait Isn't Going To Red Bull Rampage This Year 29.09.2025 57min

  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.
• 
  Eliminating Headset Creaking Forever 22.09.2025 5min

  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.
• 
  #15 What if Bike Companies Listened to Riders? 13.09.2025 31min

  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.
• 
  The Part Of Bike Racing You Don’t See 11.09.2025 7min

  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