Insider MTB (iMTB)

This conversation delves into the world of mountain biking through the eyes of John Tomac, a legendary figure in cycling. The discussion covers his transition from BMX racing to mountain biking, his early experiences in the sport, and the evolution of competitive mountain biking. Tomac shares insights into the challenges and triumphs he faced, the rise of organized racing, and his unique approach to cycling, including his experimentation with drop bars. The conversation highlights the passion and dedication that define the mountain biking community. This conversation delves into the evolution of gravel bikes, the transition from BMX to mountain biking, and the personal journey of John Tomac as he navigates the competitive cycling landscape. It highlights the development of the Tomac signature bike, the cultural differences in road racing, and the challenges posed by doping in the sport. Tomac shares insights on his experiences with various teams, including Yeti and Giant, and reflects on the changes in the cycling industry over the years. This conversation delves into the evolution of mountain biking, focusing on the technological advancements, competitive dynamics, and personal experiences of a prominent cyclist during the 90s. The speaker shares insights on the transition from cross-country to downhill racing, the impact of the X Games, the challenges of doping in the sport, and the financial incentives that shaped the cycling landscape. The discussion also touches on the introduction of clipless pedals and the overall growth of mountain biking as a competitive sport. In this segment, the conversation delves into the evolution of cycling technology, particularly focusing on clipless pedals and the transition to larger wheel sizes. The speakers discuss the significance of Tomac bikes and Intense bikes in the downhill racing scene, as well as the challenges faced in the mountain bike market. The licensing journey of Tomac bikes is also explored, highlighting the complexities of maintaining a brand in a competitive industry. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the evolution of mountain biking and cycling culture, exploring personal experiences, training methods, and the competitive spirit that drives athletes. They discuss the significance of Durango as a cycling hub, the impact of technology on the sport, and share anecdotes from their racing careers, including a connection to the BMX movie 'Rad'. The conversation also touches on the future of cycling brands and events, reflecting on the vibrant history and promising future of the sport.

In this podcast episode, Austin White and Ty Kady discuss the relaunch of their podcast and the exciting developments in the cycling community, particularly focusing on the upcoming USXC Open races. They emphasize the importance of live streaming and content creation in promoting the sport and supporting young athletes. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by the cycling industry, the need for better coverage, and the potential for growth in American cycling. They also highlight innovations in live streaming technology and the significance of course design in racing dynamics. The episode concludes with a look ahead to future events and the importance of engaging the next generation of cyclists.

The show "Spencer & Austin" features engaging conversations between hosts Austin White and Spencer Rathkamp, along with guest appearances like Tanner Kietzman. The discussions revolve around mountain biking, trail building, and the cycling community in Southern California. They delve into topics such as the challenges of maintaining trails, the potential for cycling events in the area, and the passion for creating and riding exciting trails. The show also highlights personal stories and experiences, offering insights into the hosts' and guests' lives and their contributions to the biking community.

Join us for an engaging episode as we dive into the world of mountain biking with Vernon Felton, a seasoned expert with over three decades of experience. From his early days as an associate editor at Mountain Biker Magazine to his influential roles at Bike Magazine, Pinkbike, and now Canyon Bikes, Vernon shares his journey through the evolving landscape of cycling. Discover his insights on the industry's technological advancements, the impact of COVID, and the future of biking. Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or new to the sport, this episode offers a unique perspective on the passion and innovation driving the mountain biking community.

In this episode, host Austin White interviews Tom Spiegel from Team Big Bear, discussing the rich history of mountain biking, the evolution of events, and the impact of sponsorships. They explore the growth of the sport, the challenges faced over the years, and the importance of inclusivity, particularly for women in cycling. The conversation also touches on innovations in mountain biking events and the future of the sport. This conversation explores the evolution of cycling, particularly focusing on gravel riding, the state of American cycling compared to Europe, and the rise of gravity sports. The speakers reflect on the transition from Super D to Enduro racing, the changing landscape of mountain biking, and the consolidation within the cycling industry. They also share personal anecdotes and insights into the competitive nature of cycling and the importance of youth cycling leagues. In this segment of the conversation, the speakers delve into the evolution of mountain biking, sharing personal anecdotes and experiences that highlight the innovations in the sport. They reflect on the joy of riding, the importance of family connections, and the excitement of planning biking adventures. The discussion also emphasizes the growing youth engagement in mountain biking and the positive environment it fosters. The speakers share their thoughts on the past and future of the sport, concluding with life lessons learned through their biking adventures. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into their shared passion for mountain biking, recounting adventurous stories and discussing the evolution of the sport. They explore the impact of e-bikes on cycling culture and racing, highlighting the fun and accessibility they bring. The conversation also addresses the challenges faced by race promoters, particularly regarding insurance costs and the saturation of racing events. Overall, the discussion reflects a deep love for biking and a concern for its future in the face of changing dynamics. The conversation delves into the complexities of legal responsibilities in sports events, the challenges faced by event promoters, and the unique experiences that can arise in the world of cycling and mountain biking. The speakers share memorable stories from their experiences, including the impact of weather on events and the evolution of racing formats. They also reflect on the legends of mountain biking and the importance of community in the sport.

In this conversation, Austin White interviews Zach Israel, the mountain bike category manager for Specialized in North America. They discuss the recent innovations in e-bikes, particularly the Levo Gen 5, and the implications of speed regulations in

In this episode, the hosts engage in a lively conversation with Derek Teel, the founder of Dialed Health, discussing his journey from a pro downhill racer to a fitness trainer. They explore the importance of strength training for cyclists, particularly in the Enduro discipline, and how it can enhance performance. The discussion also touches on the evolution of cycling techniques, the significance of proper training regimens, and the unique challenges faced by athletes in different cycling disciplines. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the themes of competition, personal growth, and the impact of community support following a traumatic accident. They share experiences from mountain biking, reflect on the lessons learned from near-death experiences, and discuss the importance of patience and safety while riding. The conversation highlights the emotional and financial challenges faced after an accident, emphasizing the power of community in providing support during difficult times. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of community resilience, the challenges of coaching, personal recovery from injury, future goals in fitness, and strategies for success on social media. They emphasize the kindness found in their community, the need for a balanced approach to coaching, and the significance of strength training in recovery. The discussion also delves into the evolving landscape of social media engagement and the importance of creating content that resonates with their audience. In this conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of mountain biking, including the remarkable comeback of rider Jackson Goldstone, the evolution of the Red Bull Hardline event, and the future of bike technology. They delve into the challenges facing analog bike sales, the impact of natural disasters on the biking community, and the potential introduction of a new wheel size. The conversation wraps up with a preview of upcoming events and live coverage.

In this episode, Austin White and Spencer Rathkamp reconnect after a brief hiatus, discussing their personal experiences in motocross and cycling, the introduction of a new sponsor, and plans for live event coverage. They delve into the challenges and dynamics of the cycling retail industry, including insights on brand strategies and market trends. The episode features a guest, Liam Woods from Worldwide Cyclery, who shares his perspective on the online retail landscape and the impact of recent industry changes. In this segment of the conversation, the speakers discuss the evolution of the cycling industry, focusing on the Kettle brand's growth and the challenges faced during the COVID pandemic. They delve into personal journeys in cycling, career development, and the importance of community engagement in local racing. The conversation also highlights the complexities of trail management and the political landscape affecting trail systems in Southern California. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of navigating federal and state lands for mountain biking, the rise of underground racing communities, and the evolution of racing formats. They share personal experiences with poison oak and poodle dog brush, discuss the intriguing life of an FBI agent who is also a cyclist, and explore the exciting adventures offered by Chasing Epic. The conversation wraps up with plans for upcoming races and personal goals in the biking community. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the balance between racing and enjoying mountain biking, sharing personal experiences from races like the Downeyville Classic. They delve into bike setup, race preparation, and the social aspects of racing, emphasizing the camaraderie among riders. The conversation also touches on future races, training goals, and the logistics of planning adventures together, highlighting the importance of teamwork and shared experiences in the biking community.

In this episode, Austin White discusses various aspects of the cycling world, including upcoming events, athlete perspectives, and the impact of the Lifetime series on the sport. He introduces guest Alexey Vermeulen, who shares his journey from road cycling to mountain biking and insights on the evolving landscape of gravel racing. The conversation delves into the challenges athletes face, the importance of community support, and the future of professional cycling. In this conversation, Alexey Vermeulen and Austin White discuss the evolution of gravel racing, the challenges of live streaming events, the importance of sponsorship and investment in cycling, the need for authenticity among athletes, and the influence of the UCI on competitive cycling. They explore how these factors impact viewer engagement and the future of the sport. In this conversation, Alexey Vermeulen and Austin White delve into the intricacies of professional cycling, discussing the dynamics of racing, the evolution of mountain biking and gravel racing, and the challenges athletes face when transitioning between disciplines. They explore the significance of feed zones, the controversies surrounding race rules, and the complex issue of doping in cycling. The discussion also highlights the mental aspects of racing and the unique mindset required to succeed in competitive environments. In this engaging conversation, Alexey Vermeulen shares his unique approach to training and racing, emphasizing the importance of adapting to altitude and sea level, the simplicity of his training methods, and the significance of knowing one's body. The discussion also touches on the competitive spirit in cycling, memorable experiences from races, and the camaraderie among athletes. Vermeulen's light-hearted banter with host Austin White adds a humorous touch, making for an entertaining and insightful episode.

In this episode, hosts Austin White and Spencer Rathkamp discuss various topics in the mountain biking world, including the recent Red Bull Rampage event, the emergence of women in the sport, judging controversies, and the current state of the cycling industry. They also introduce a new fan engagement segment and analyze the dominance of Keegan Swenson in the Lifetime Series. In this segment, the conversation explores various themes surrounding mountain biking, including the challenges and opportunities presented by e-bike racing, the role of Liv Factory Racing, and the complexities of UCI regulations. Elizabeth Walker provides insights into the communication challenges faced by teams and the impact of commercialization on the sport. The discussion also touches on the importance of regional events and the need for financial support in cycling, particularly in the context of Enduro racing. In this segment of the conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of Enduro racing, the implications of UCI rules, and the evolution of kit regulations. They discuss the financial aspects of racing, the importance of branding for athletes, and the strategic decisions teams must make to succeed. The conversation also touches on the broadcasting challenges faced by cycling events and the need for better accessibility for fans. In this conversation, Austin White and Elizabeth Walker delve into various aspects of cycling, coaching, and athlete dynamics. They discuss the balance between luck and talent in sports, the importance of empowering athletes in decision-making, and the evolving role of mental coaching. The conversation also touches on the influence of road cycling on mountain biking, the challenges of gravel racing, and the need for a supportive team environment. Throughout, they emphasize the significance of emotional intelligence and the mental aspects of racing while also addressing the changing dynamics within cycling teams.

In this engaging conversation, Georgia Astle shares her journey from racing to becoming a prominent freeride mountain biker. She discusses her experiences growing up in Whistler, the impact of events like Crankworx and Formation on her career, and the significance of being part of the DaVinci Global team. Georgia also highlights the importance of collaboration in gear development with Outdoor Research and the excitement surrounding the inaugural Women's Rampage. The discussion touches on the evolution of women's mountain biking, the community aspect of the sport, and the bright future for young female riders. In this engaging conversation, the hosts and their guest discuss their experiences at Crankworx, life in Australia and New Zealand, and the impact of COVID-19 on their outdoor adventures. They delve into the joys of dirt biking, the importance of coffee culture, and the thrill of adventure riding in remote locations. The discussion highlights the balance between comfort and adventure, showcasing the unique experiences that come with exploring the great outdoors.

In this episode, hosts Austin White and Spencer Rathkamp discuss various topics related to mountain biking, including upcoming events, UCI regulations, and the latest technology from Fox Factory. They are joined by Jordi Cortes, the global race department manager at Fox, who shares insights on the Neo shock technology and its implications for mountain biking. The conversation also touches on the challenges facing the sport, including the impact of new regulations and the future of mountain biking events. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of mountain biking, including the infrastructure and community surrounding it, the experiences at World Cup events, the challenges of travel for cyclists, the current state of racing in the U.S., the future of Enduro racing, and innovations in suspension technology.

In this episode, Austin White and Spencer Rathkamp are joined by Sean Estes, the senior product marketing manager at Fox. They discuss various topics, including their experiences at Sea Otter, Sean's home renovation projects, the cost of mountain bikes compared to dirt bikes, and the rise of Keegan Swenson in the endurance racing scene. They also touch on the Lifetime Series and the advantages of older riders in endurance events. The conversation covers topics such as Keegan Swenson's impressive riding skills, the use of dropper posts in races like Leadville, the similarities between cross racing and motocross, the early days of the A1 ride, the introduction of e-bikes by Specialized, and the impact of e-bikes on the mountain biking community. The conversation in this part focuses on the rise of e-bikes and their impact on the mountain biking industry. The hosts discuss the surge in e-bike popularity during the pandemic and how it has contributed to the growth of cycling. They also explore the differences between e-bikes and analog bikes, including the experience of riding them and the benefits they offer to different types of riders. The conversation then shifts to the recent launch of a new dropper post by Fox and the marketing efforts behind it. The hosts discuss the advantages of Kashima coating and its impact on performance and longevity. They also touch on the importance of stiffness and weight in bike components and how it affects overall performance. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the BC Bike Race and the experience of riding in British Columbia. In this part of the conversation, Sean and Austin discuss their preference for riding the trails in Whistler rather than the park. They talk about the popularity of the park during Crankworx and how the trails get crowded and worn out. They mention the appeal of the Valley trails and the option of e-bike access. They also discuss some specific trails in Whistler that they enjoy, such as Into the Mystic, Lord of the Squirrels, and Bring on the Weekend. The conversation then shifts to Sean's role at Fox and the different brands under the Fox umbrella. They talk about the company's focus on suspension and their efforts to align the different brands within the company. They also briefly mention their interest in off-road truck racing and the Baja 1000. The conversation ends with a discussion about their experiences at Interbike and the NorCal SoCal Showdown race in Bakersfield. In this final part of the conversation, the hosts discuss the state of the industry and the future of Enduro racing. They touch on the challenges faced by the industry due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent surge in demand for bikes. They also explore the evolution of Enduro racing and its current identity crisis. The conversation concludes with a discussion about upcoming events and plans for future episodes of the podcast.

In this conversation, Austin White and Spencer Rathkamp interview Rae Morrison, an experienced mountain bike racer. They discuss various topics, including Rae's experience at Sea Otter, her retirement plans, and her new role as a riding coach for the Liv Racing XC team. Ray shares insights into her racing career, her decision to retire, and her recent success in races. She also talks about the challenges and opportunities of being a riding coach and the importance of tire pressure in XC racing. In this part of the conversation, the hosts and Rae discuss her experience racing in industry events and the challenges of broadcasting and promoting enduro racing. They also touch on the growth of women's racing and the importance of inclusivity in the sport. Rae shares her perspective on the changes she has seen in the industry and the need for continued support for local events and grassroots racing. They also discuss the difficulties of being away from home for extended periods of time and the financial implications of racing internationally. In this final part of the conversation, Rae discusses the challenges of traveling with bikes and the cost-effectiveness of staying in Europe rather than going home. She also talks about the feeling of coming home after being away for a long time and the importance of decompressing. The conversation then shifts to the dynamics of Rae and Jesse's relationship, with Rae sharing how they navigate disagreements and work together as a team. The conversation concludes with Rae sharing her recent elbow injury and the emergency surgery she had to undergo, highlighting the importance of seeking medical help early on.

In this conversation, Austin and Spencer discuss various topics including cross country racing, technical trails, Nino Schurter's skills, and the Downieville race. They also touch on the controversy surrounding e-bikes and the use of TrainerRoad for training. Jonathan Lee, a guest from TrainerRoad, joins the conversation and talks about the company's approach to marketing and their support for athletes. In this part of the conversation, the hosts discuss the use of TrainerRoad by professional cyclists and the training process for the Olympics. They also talk about the role of genetics, work ethic, and team support in an athlete's journey to the Olympics. The conversation then shifts to a discussion about TrainerRoad and its goal of using AI to make cyclists faster. The hosts also touch on their own cycling backgrounds and preferences. They discuss the importance of data-driven training and the challenges faced by athletes in the pursuit of Olympic qualification. The conversation concludes with a discussion about specialized bikes and chainring choices for different race courses. The conversation explores the unique talents of Tom Pidcock and his ability to excel in multiple disciplines of cycling. The hosts discuss the possibility of Pidcock participating in both the XCO race and the road race at the Olympics, and the challenges he may face. They also touch on the selection process for building a team and developing young riders. The conversation then shifts to the evolution of cross-country courses and the bikes designed to handle them. The hosts discuss the technical skills required by modern riders and the importance of developing those skills at a young age. They also touch on the design and development of specialized bikes for different race formats. The conversation covers the topic of the impact of weight on performance in cycling. The participants discuss how weight is often overestimated in terms of affecting race times and how compliance and other factors can have a positive impact on performance. They also talk about the role of carbon components in improving the feel and performance of a bike, rather than just reducing weight. The conversation then shifts to predictions for the Olympics, with the participants sharing their top picks for the men's and women's categories.

In this conversation, Austin White and Spencer Rathkamp discuss various topics including their recent experiences, upcoming races, and the state of the mountain bike industry. They also talk about the Red Bull Hardline event and the dangerous jump that was eventually removed. Tobin Ortenblad joins the conversation and shares his experience as a world champion in single-speed cyclocross. They also touch on the rules and regulations of UCI races and Tobin's transition to gravel racing. The conversation covers the differences between racing cross and gravel, the training schedules for each discipline, and the excitement and challenges of cyclocross racing. The guests discuss the physical demands of cross racing, the explosiveness and speed required, and the importance of volume and cumulative training. They also touch on the changing landscape of professional racing, with younger riders becoming more competitive and the shift towards gravel racing. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the Crusher and the Tusher race and the possibility of Keegan racing cyclocross in the future. The conversation in this part focuses on the dynamics of gravel racing, particularly the challenges faced in races like Unbound. The lack of teamwork and the reluctance to chase breakaways are highlighted as factors that make it difficult to control the race. The importance of conditions, such as mud and technical sections, in breaking up the field is also discussed. The conversation touches on the need for more teammates and the tactics used to try and make breaks stick. The different rulebooks for each race are mentioned, highlighting the unique nature of each event. Keegan and Tobin discuss their dynamic as teammates and how it has evolved over the years. They talk about their experiences racing together, including the Leadville race where they worked together to help Keegan set a record. They also discuss the team dynamics and support they receive from Santa Cruz. Keegan talks about his transition from XC racing to gravel racing and how it has been a new challenge for him. They also mention their involvement in other disciplines like Enduro and Cyclocross. In this part of the conversation, the hosts discuss upcoming races and their experiences in gravel racing. They mention the Grand Prix, Gravel Nationals, and Gravel Worlds in Belgium. They joke about taking the McTubbin bike to Belgium and breaking up the team. They also talk about their experiences in gravel racing, including tire choices and the intensity of the racing. They discuss the popularity of gravel racing in Europe and the differences between road racing and gravel racing. They also mention their experiences in the USA National Gravel Championships and the challenges they faced during the race. The conversation ends with a discussion about their training and preparation for races. In this final part of the conversation, the hosts discuss Keegan Swenson's success in cyclocross and his tattoos. They also touch on the sustainability of gravel racing and its appeal to different types of riders. The hosts express their own preferences for mountain biking and discuss the potential challenges and future of the gravel industry. They wrap up the episode with plans for future guests and encourage listeners to follow them on social media.

In this conversation, Austin White and Jay Pleet discuss their recent adventures and experiences at racing events. They talk about the challenges they faced, including technical difficulties, travel mishaps, and extreme weather conditions. They also introduce their guest, Rochelle, who shares her experience racing in the women's e-bike class and the pro women's class. They discuss the decision to race on an e-bike and the advantages and disadvantages of different bike choices. The conversation touches on topics such as the difficulty of the trails, the impact of weather conditions on racing, and the camaraderie among racers. Rachel discusses her experience racing downhill at Windrock and the challenges of riding a dual crown bike. She talks about her strategy for pushing her bike up the hills and the perception of riding a dual crown bike in the race. She also mentions her plans to race more BMEs and her decision to buy a new bike, debating between a Bronson and a Nomad. In this part of the conversation, the discussion revolves around race schedules, sponsorship, and the controversial topic of OnlyFans. Rachel mentions her potential conflicts with race schedules and her decision to disclose her sponsorship with OnlyFans to her current sponsors. The conversation also touches on frame sponsorship and the challenges of finding a downhill race bike that fits her well. The hosts express their surprise and curiosity about the sponsorship dynamics in the women's class of mountain biking. In this part of the conversation, Rachel discusses her plans to buy an enduro bike and participate in the Sunrise race. She reflects on her previous experiences racing with different bikes and the importance of being prepared. Austin and Jay discuss the challenges of racing at high altitudes and the possibility of muddy conditions at the upcoming race. They also mention the younger generation of riders who are stepping up their game and the benefits of having a team in terms of support and leverage. In this part of the conversation, Nik Nestoroff discusses his tools and gear, including his toolbox from Harbor Freight and his custom-designed kits from Pearl Izumi. They also talk about the potential growth of North American racing and the possibility of European riders coming to compete. They discuss the strategy and mindset needed for different race venues, such as the raw and gnarly trails at Windrock and the unique challenges of the Sunrise race. Nik shares his experience of racing at these venues and the importance of a strong mindset on day two of the race. Enduro racing requires a combination of physical fitness, mental strength, bike skills, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. The mental aspect of the sport is crucial, as riders need to be comfortable pushing their limits and throwing themselves into challenging sections. The speed and intensity of Enduro racing can change dramatically from practice to race day, and riders often find themselves going much faster during the race. The sport attracts both professional riders and amateurs who are passionate about the thrill and challenge of Enduro. Despite the risks involved, riders of all levels share a love for the sport and the unique experiences it offers.

Round 1 of the Big Mountain Enduro kicked off over the weekend with the largest Enduro purse ever. We have both winners of the Men's and Women's classes on the pod to talk about how the weekend went, along with Rob from BME to talk about the event and Windrock coming up this weekend. World Cup kicked off this weekend for the downhill crew; grab some insight and thoughts.

In this conversation, Austin, Ty, and Spencer discuss the recent World Cup and Olympic points standings in mountain biking. They analyze the performance of American riders, including Christopher Blevins and Riley Amos, and the potential impact on their chances of qualifying for the Olympics. They also touch on the complexity of the Olympic qualification process and the importance of team tactics. The conversation highlights the excitement and competitiveness of the sport and the potential for American riders to make a strong showing in the upcoming Olympics. The conversation discusses the differences between cycling and motocross in terms of athlete participation and selectivity. It also explores the prestige and incentives associated with participating in the Olympics. The hosts speculate on the potential location of the mountain biking events for the upcoming Olympics in Los Angeles and discuss the development of successful cyclists in Durango, Colorado. In this final part of the conversation, Ty Kady, Austin White, and Spencer Rathkamp discuss the potential for US mountain bikers to compete in the Olympics. They talk about the importance of training with top-level athletes and the challenges of riding mountain bikes compared to motocross. They also discuss the selection process for the Olympic team and the performances of young riders like Riley Amos and Bjorn Riley. The conversation concludes with a discussion about upcoming events and the future of mountain biking in the US.

Overall, this episode of the Insider MTB podcast delves into various aspects of the mountain biking world, focusing on the US Cup, the challenges and future of XC racing, the importance of personalities and social aspects in the sport, as well as discussions on various racing paths taken by athletes, financial realities of being an Olympic athlete, and the impact of spectator experience on the industry. The hosts and guests provide insightful commentary on the current state of the sport and potential directions for future growth and development.