RECON MTB Podcast

🪖 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.