Inside the world of Downhill and Enduro MTB
Welcome to Downtime Goes Downhill, a podcast mini-series that’s bringing you along for the ride, as we have a go at racing downhill.
Downtime Goes Downhill wouldn’t be happening without the support of some incredible brands. So a massive thanks to Canyon bikes, Fox suspension, Wahoo Fitness, Fox clothing and protection, Maxxis tyres, Magura brakes and We Are One Composites wheels.
This is season two, episode one and I’m joined by Jonny and Ben to dig into our pre-season preparation. With a season of racing under our belts, have we learned our lessons and got everything dialled, or are we woefully under-prepared for what lies ahead. As always, it’s an open and honest chat about the realities of three 40 something Dads giving downhill a go. So sit back, hit play and listen to Downtime Goes Downhill with me, Ben and Jonny.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube from 8pm BST on 9th May, here.
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo – Sadie Aldridge
Today, we’re joined by world champion, world cup overall winner and winner of round one of the 2024 season in Fort William, Vali Höll. From dominating the 2023 World Cup season to making significant off-season changes like moving out of her parents’ home and heading back to YT, Vali gives us an exclusive peek into her world. Tune in as we explore what it’s like to be the rider to beat, hear about Vali’s efforts to secure out-of-industry sponsorships, her exciting new web series, riding the new YT Tues and more. It’s clear to see that Vali is not only growing in speed and skill, but also in her comfort with who she is and where she belongs in the sport. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Vali Höll.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here.
You can follow Vali on Instagram @valihoell and you can watch her brand new web series on her YouTube channel here.
If you want to get your hands on the best riding and most robust wheels you’ll ever own, then you can do so right now with 20% off all wheelsets for Downtime listeners. Just head over to weareonecomposites.com and use the code ‘DowntimeMay20‘ at the checkout.
Magura’s fully adjustable HC3 lever, once an aftermarket gem, is now available straight from the factory with MT7 brakes. This means you can fine-tune your braking experience like never before, adjusting braking force on the fly to match the trail conditions perfectly.
Exciting news doesn’t stop there – for a limited time, you can snag a full set of MT7 HC3 brakes and Storm HC brake discs, front and rear, for just 399 Euro. But hurry, prices may vary in other regions. Head to magura.com now.
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo – Downtime Podcast
What a way to start the season. Fort William didn’t disappoint and brought us a brutal track and incredible racing. We also saw some exciting new technology on the race track for the first time. There’s a lot to discuss as the covers were finally pulled back on the 2024 World Cup downhill series. So sit back, hit play and listen to your Maxxis Tyres post-race show from Fort William, with Neko Mulally and Olly Morris.
Maxxis is synonymous with performance and racing and is the winningest brand in the history of World Cup and EWS racing. No matter where or how you ride, Maxxis has the tyres for you with a wide range of tread patterns, casing and compound options.
You can check out the entire range of Maxxis tyres over at Maxxis.com, and find the tyres at your local Maxxis dealer. You can also give them a follow on instagram where they are @maxxisbike.
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo – Pete Scullion
This is the pilot for something a little different, where I’ll be supported by Fox suspension and given access to their suspension guru and race team manager, Jordi Cortes, and each episode we’ll be joined by one of Fox’s roster of incredible athletes, to find out more about them and dig into their performance at the races and how they’ve worked alongside Fox to get their suspension singing and to be as Dialed as possible on track.
This week Jordi and I are joined by Jackson Goldstone to discuss that incredible mont Sainte Anne race run last season, as well as chatting about his injury, expected recovery and his plans ahead of making a full return to racing. So sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Jackson Goldstone and Jordi Cortes.
This season, alongside Fox’s very own Jordi Cortes, they are providing us access to their roster of incredible athletes, to find out more about them and dig into their performance at the races and how they’ve worked alongside Fox to get their suspension singing and to be as Dialed as possible on track. Head to ridefox.com to checkout their latest range.
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo – Sven Martin
Today, we’re joined by athlete, presenter and podcaster, Andrew Neethling. We’ll be diving into Andrew’s remarkable journey, from his professional career to the invaluable lessons he gleaned from his father, shaping his path to success. Discover how Andrew navigated the challenges of reaching the top of his sport on a shoestring budget, and why a ride with the legend, Travis Pastrana, is a blur in his memory. And, of course, we’ll get Andrew’s insider scoop on who to keep an eye on in the upcoming downhill racing season. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Andrew Neethling.
You can also watch this episode here.
You can find Andrew on Instagram @andrewneethling and hear his podcast here.
The books Andrew recommended are Ego Is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday and Solve For Happy by Mo Gawdat.
If you want to get your hands on the best riding and most robust wheels you’ll ever own, then you can do so right now with 20% off all wheelsets for Downtime listeners. Just head over to weareonecomposites.com and use the code ‘DowntimeMay20‘ at the checkout.
Wahoo’s products have been key to my fitness for a number of years now. Their KICKR indoor trainer and ELEMNTRoam and Bolt get a lot of use. Their gear also gets better with free software updates and Wahoo’s latest update will be bringing music control and GoPro control to your bike computer. Check out the entire range over at wahoofitness.com.
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo – Ryan Franklin
Alright folks, after that long winter we are finally going world cup racing again and this is your Maxxis tyres pre-race show for the opening round of the downhill world up in Fort William, where I’ll be joined by coach to the stars, Chris Kilmurray to get the inside line on the unique demands of Fort William and we’ll be talking about who we’re excited to watch as the race season gets going. So sit back, hit play and listen to this Fort William World Cup pre-race show with Chris Kilmurray.
Maxxis is synonymous with performance and racing and is the winningest brand in the history of World Cup and EWS racing. No matter where or how you ride, Maxxis has the tyres for you with a wide range of tread patterns, casing and compound options.
You can check out the entire range of Maxxis tyres over at Maxxis.com, and find the tyres at your local Maxxis dealer. You can also give them a follow on instagram where they are @maxxisbike.
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo – Nathan Hughes
Today, we have the privilege of welcoming Benoit Coulanges to the show. Benoit embodies dedication and commitment, embarking on an 11-year odyssey with a clear goal: to take a World Cup victory. Throughout this time of ups and downs, challenges and successes, Benoit has remained laser focused on his target. We’ll journey back to his incredible silver medal finish at the 2021 World Championships in Val di Sole, where victory slipped through his fingers by the narrowest of margins. From there, we’ll unravel the tale of his extraordinary 2023 season, characterised by unwavering perseverance, unyielding dedication, and ultimately, triumph.
Of course, we’ll celebrate Benoit’s first-ever DH World Cup win in Les Gets and all the emotions that came with it. Where does Benoit go from here? We’ll find out in this episode. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Benoit Coulanges.
You can also watch this episode here.
You can follow Benoit on Instagram @benoitcoulanges and you can watch Commencal’s film about his Les Gets win here.
Are you looking for a new ride? Well, the Canyon Trail Sale has started so that you can shred for less and save big on your next bike. With no better way to start your season than with a brand new, world-class mountain bike, you can save up to 30% on your dream Canyon. Head over to canyon.com now to find out more.
Wahoo’s products have been key to my fitness for a number of years now. Their KICKR indoor trainer and ELEMNTRoam and Bolt get a lot of use. Their gear also gets better with free software updates and Wahoo’s latest update will be bringing music control and GoPro control to your bike computer. Check out the entire range over at wahoofitness.com.
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo – Jey Crunch
This week we have something a bit different for you. At Downtime we’re all about the gravity side of things, but if you’ve ever fancied dipping your toe into the waters of other cycling disciplines then I’ve got a podcast recommendation for you, that’s hosted by none other than Eliot Jackson and Rob Warner.
Just Ride from Red Bull sees Eliot and Rob jump into the worlds of BMX, gravel, road racing… they’ve even spoken to someone who circumnavigated the globe on a penny farthing! In each episode, Rob and Eliot are joined by a different guest from the world of cycling, to share crazy stories and compare notes about this incredible community. Of course, mountain biking also features, and this week I’ve got a short clip of a Just Ride episode with downhill superstar, Rachel Atherton to share with you.
If you enjoy the clip and want to hear more, then search for Just Ride in your favourite podcast app or head here.
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo – Red Bull Content Pool
Today, we’re joined by Katy Winton. In this episode, Katy opens up about her journey through burnout, the unexpected end of GT Factory Racing, and the reality of trying to find a team in the current economic climate. But fear not – Katy’s resilience shines through as she shares how she’s navigated these challenges and changes and found fulfilment outside of the tape. Hear how Katy is getting on with working a 9 to 5 and how she’s going to be working with Crankworx to help elevate the event coverage. I’ll also be asking Katy about her plans for 2024. As always, Katy brings an open and honest chat with heaps of energy. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Katy Winton.
You can also watch this episode here.
You can follow Katy on Instagram @misswinton and on her YouTube channel here.
Are you looking for a new ride? Well, the Canyon Trail Sale has started so that you can shred for less and save big on your next bike. With no better way to start your season than with a brand new, world-class mountain bike, you can save up to 30% on your dream Canyon. Head over to canyon.com now to find out more.
Wahoo’s products have been key to my fitness for a number of years now. Their KICKR indoor trainer and ELEMNTRoam and Bolt get a lot of use. Their gear also gets better with free software updates and Wahoo’s latest update will be bringing music control and GoPro control to your bike computer. Check out the entire range over at wahoofitness.com.
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Photo – Jake Hood
Today, I’m joined by Dan Griffiths, aka Moonhead Media, known for his stunning mountain bike photography. In this episode, we’re going beyond the photos, diving deep into Dan’s personal journey. From capturing those jaw-dropping moments to confronting the challenges of mental health, Dan shares his unfiltered story with us.
We’ll hear how Dan’s journey has been marked by bold leaps of faith and unwavering trust in the universe. He’s been brave enough to go all in, following his passion and embracing the unknown with open arms. Prepare to be inspired as we dive into the heart of creativity and courage. So, it’s time to sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with the man behind Moonhead Media, Dan Griffiths.
You can also watch this episode here.
You can follow Dan on Instagram @moonhead_media or over on his website moonheadmedia.com.
The books Dan mentioned were ‘The Power of Now’ by Eckhart Tolle and ‘The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success‘ by Deepak Chopra.
7mesh‘s commitment to crafting top quality, innovative mountain bike clothing is second to none. They’ve just launched their Spring/Summer 2024 Mountain Bike collection with heaps of vibrant new colours and an update to their awesome trail pant, the Glidepath. Downtime listeners get 20% off until 1st May 2024, using the code downtimex7mesh20 at the checkout on 7mesh.com.
Wahoo’s products have been key to my fitness for a number of years now. Their KICKR indoor trainer and ELEMNTRoam and Bolt get a lot of use. Their gear also gets better with free software updates and Wahoo’s latest update will be bringing music control and GoPro control to your bike computer. Check out the entire range over at wahoofitness.com.
I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That’s less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here.
If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that’s using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.
If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I’ll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I’ve been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter.
Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments.
For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.
Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it’s available and it’s totally free. You’ll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there.
Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes
Your feedback is valuable to us. Should you encounter any bugs, glitches, lack of functionality or other problems, please email us on [email protected] or join Moon.FM Telegram Group where you can talk directly to the dev team who are happy to answer any queries.