The Ride Companion

The mountain bike podcast that sometimes forgets to talk about mountain bikes...

TOP MOMENT: The Reality of Being a Pro Rider with Sam Hockenhull 08/09/2026

10 Years of The Ride Companion 08/05/2026

10 Years of The Ride Companion Ten years ago, I recorded the first version of this podcast from my bedroom with no microphone, no experience and absolutely no idea what I was doing. More than 460 episodes later, I wanted to sit down and reflect on some of the milestones that reflected where this all started. On my own, in a room, still with no idea what I'm doing. This is a solo reflection on the terrible early recordings, the guests and messages that changed everything, meeting Olly Wilkins, creating Lockdown Companion, building our first studios, the arrival of Doug and Naomi, the Rob Warner episode, Hardline, Marin Bikes, Warner’s Race Companion and where TRC Media House could go next. I also answer listener questions about nearly giving up, my favourite guests, the sacrifices behind making the show sustainable and what ten years of podcasting has taught me. Most importantly though, this is a THANK YOU to everyone who has watched, listened, subscribed, supported the show or trusted us to tell their story. It began without a plan and, honestly, it still doesn’t have much of one! Thank you for an incredible ten years. Peace and love. Episode Sponsors:- - Looking to book an RV or a camp site for an EPIC adventure? Check out our new friends at h and enter code RIDE at checkout to remove all service fees! - Feedback Sports: You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/42323685

TOP MOMENT: Mathew Pritchard LIVED With Chickens For A Failed TV Show?! 08/02/2026

Sam ‘Dave’ Hockenhull From Manchester City Academy to Professional Mountain Biker 07/29/2026

TOP MOMENT: adidas tech lands in downhill 07/26/2026

Mathew Pritchard Talks Sobriety, Fame, The Road Of Excess & Life After Dirty Sanchez 07/22/2026

Mathew Pritchard Talks Sobriety, Fame, The Road Of Excess & Life After Dirty Sanchez Mathew Pritchard is best known as one of the stars of MTV’s Dirty Sanchez but, this chat goes far beyond the stories everyone has already heard... In this episode, Mathew joins Davi and Olly to talk about who he was before the fame, how skateboarding shaped his life, how Pritchard vs Dainton became Dirty Sanchez, what MTV saw in the group and what life was really like when the show exploded around the world. Mathew opens up about the difference between 'Mathew' and 'Pritchard', the pressure to perform in public, the money, the partying, the loss of routine and what happened when the fame slowly dwindled away. He also speaks honestly about addiction, anxiety, going cold turkey on 6 October 2022, the support system that helped him through and why routine, training, food and purpose are now central to his life. The conversation also covers The Road of Excess, Mathew’s new documentary about rowing across the Atlantic, fame, excess, addiction, mental health and life after Dirty Sanchez. Plus veganism, Dirty Vegan, Dirty Health, Ironman Wales, Everest plans, why mountain bikers are 'nuts' and whether a Dirty Sanchez reunion could ever happen. Go see The Road Of Excess: https://mbentertainment.co.uk/the-road-of-excess/ Don't forget to book your ticket to TRC Live on 31st of July, details here: Get early access & ad-free episodes → Episode Sponsors:- - RX Sport: RX Sport are your one stop eyewear shop. From prescription sunglasses, to riding glasses and everything in-between. Use code TRC at https://rxsport.avln.me/c/kdvMdXvBBUjH for a deal on Pit Viper products! - invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at https://www.invisiframe.co.uk You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/42125890

A Note From Olly 07/20/2026

Alan Milway on adidas Tech, World Cup Politics & the Secret to Going Faster 07/15/2026

Alan Milway on adidas Tech, World Cup Politics & the Secret to Going Faster Alan Milway joins Davi and Olly for an inside look at the Norco x adidas Race Division and the realities of coaching riders at the sharp end of the UCI Downhill World Cup. Alan explains why what feels fast on a downhill bike isn’t always fast, how he uses split-screen analysis and trackside timing to improve line choice, and why some elite riders need to slow down to actually go faster. There's also discussion around the tiny margins deciding World Cup qualification, the psychology of missing finals and why more practice could potentially make downhill racing more dangerous. This episode also covers athlete and product development with adidas, F1 inspired technology, changing race lines, mental fatigue, caffeine, junior women being prevented from hitting features, protected riders, privateers and whether World Cup downhill is doing enough to create genuine sporting heroes. Alan also shares the full story of suffering a perforated bowel, undergoing emergency surgery and experiencing some terrifying hallucinations during his recovery. We hope you enjoy this episode! - Don't forget to book your ticket to TRC Live on 31st of July, details here: - Get early access & ad-free episodes → Episode Sponsors:- - LAKA Insurance: Don’t risk it, head to to learn more and get 30 days FREE cover on us! - WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at - Feedback Sports: https://feedbacksports.com You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/42056605

Warner's Race Companion: La Thuile World Cup 07/07/2026

Stag Do Refunds, Ghost Stories & Strava Crimes - Listener Questions Special 07/01/2026

Andrew Neethling Brings Mass-Start Banter, World Cup Bench Racing & DH’s Biggest Debates 06/24/2026

Andrew Neethling Brings Mass-Start Banter, World Cup Bench Racing & DH’s Biggest Debates Andrew 'Needles' Neethling joins The Ride Companion for a full race-chat episode covering the current state of World Cup downhill, the brutal new qualifying format, Luca Shaw missing finals after winning a World Cup, Finn Iles’ incredible back to back wins, Anna Newkirk’s breakout victory, team pressure, privateers, broadcast storylines and what downhill needs to do to grow. We also get into Andrew’s wild Mountain of Hell experience, his unofficial top-10 before a controversial DQ, arm pump, bike setup for mass-start racing, World Cup salaries, team dynamics, Warner’s Race Companion and why downhill racers are basically modern-day gladiators. - Don't forget to book your ticket to TRC Live on 31st of July, details here: - Get early access & ad-free episodes → Episode Sponsors:- - Looking to book an RV or a camp site for an EPIC adventure? Check out our new friends at and enter code RIDE at checkout to remove all service fees! - Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at - invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/41791320

Loam & Away Teaser: Things We Can't Make Make Sense! 06/22/2026

Sam Reynolds & Euan Bowen On Concussions, Crashes & Brain Health In MTB 06/17/2026

Sam Reynolds & Euan Bowen On Concussions, Crashes & Brain Health In MTB Crashing is part of mountain biking but, how much do we really understand about what happens to the brain when we hit our head? On this episode of The Ride Companion, Davi and Olly are joined by HIT Recognition founder Euan Bowen and Sam Reynolds for an eye opening conversation about concussions, head impacts, brain health and the future of safety in MTB. Euan explains how HIT Recognition started as a university project inspired by concussion in rugby, before developing into a head impact monitoring platform now being used across mountain biking, rugby, motocross, ice hockey and more. Sam Reynolds also shares his personal experience with serious concussion, including the crash that left him unable to finish sentences, struggling with noise, forgetting words and wondering whether he would fully recover. He explains why having real data could have helped him make better decisions around competing and recovery. This conversation covers everything from MTB crash culture, to World Cup downhill practice loads, kids in bike parks, helmets, rotational forces, CTE, concussion symptoms, recovery, and why brain health might become as important as training load in action sports. HIT Recognition has offered the TRC family a discount should you wish to get yourself a HIT device. Simply use THERIDECOMPANION discount code online at Episode Sponsors:- - RX Sport: RX Sport are your one stop eyewear shop. From prescription sunglasses, to riding glasses and everything in-between. Use code TRC at for a deal on Evil Eye products! - LAKA Insurance: Don’t risk it, head to https://laka.co/trc to learn more and get 30 days FREE cover on us! Get early access & ad-free episodes → You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/41655545

Loam & Away Teaser: Are We Aliens? 06/15/2026

Warner's Race Companion: Leogang Downhill World Cup 06/13/2026

Olly's Dream MTB Trip, Vanta Jam Chaos & World Cup Dramas 06/10/2026

Olly's Dream MTB Trip, Vanta Jam Chaos & World Cup Dramas Davi and Olly are back in studio for a proper catch-up episode covering everything from Vanta Jam to Olly’s dream trip to Japan, Luca Shaw’s first Downhill World Cup win, the Enhanced Games controversy, Japanese snacks, sumo wrestling, live commentary nerves and the future of MTB. Davi breaks down what really happened at Vanta Jam at BikePark Wales, including Rob Warner’s last-minute car trouble, Dan Paley's commentary, Sam Pilgrim blowing minds, Harry Gascoigne’s style, brutal weather, hailstorms and why live event commentary is WAY harder than it looks. Olly then shares more from his bucket list trip to Japan, riding e-bikes in search of perfect loam, travelling through Tokyo with bike bags, experiencing Japanese culture, discovering sumo wrestling, eating convenience store food and preparing for the premiere of the Japan MTB film. The boys also dive into the latest UCI Downhill World Cup action, including Luca Shaw finally taking his first World Cup win and discuss whether downhill racing is better when the riders are separated by huge margins or tiny fractions of a second. Plus, the lads discuss the controversial Enhanced Games, whether performance-enhancing drugs really unlock superhuman performances, Japanese Kit Kats, mochi balls, listener questions and whether mountain biking could one day become augmented reality. Episode Sponsors:- - WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at - Feedback Sports: https://feedbacksports.com Get early access & ad-free episodes → You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/41569660

Nathan Bennett Explains Why Japan Might Be Mountain Biking’s Best Kept Secret 06/03/2026

32” Wheel Debate, Sea Otter, Japan Loam Hunting & Mexico Street Race Builds 05/27/2026

32” Wheel Debate, Sea Otter, Japan Loam Hunting & Mexico Street Race Builds This week on The Ride Companion, Davi and Olly are finally back in the studio for a proper catch-up after a wild few weeks of travel and big life moments. Davi breaks down the full California trip, from cruising the Pacific Coast Highway and visiting Sea Otter, to heading to Marin Bikes HQ and reflecting on a full-circle moment that started with a teenage dream of living in America. Olly shares the plans behind his upcoming Japan trip, why he’s obsessed with hunting perfect loam and why Japan might be one of the dream mountain bike destinations he’s been thinking about for years. There’s also a deep dive into the madness of building and testing an urban downhill/freeride course in Mexico, including extreme heat, huge crowds, cartel helicopters, Slavic’s wild crash, judging freeride runs, Sam Pilgrim, Bienve Aguado, Nikolai Rogatkin, Wes Sends and the future of young MTB talent. Plus, the lads discuss Sea Otter, Marin Bikes, the birthplace of mountain biking, baseball caps, riding shorts, job satisfaction, street racing and loads more... Episode Sponsors:- - WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at - RX Sport: RX Sport are your one stop eyewear shop. From prescription sunglasses, to riding glasses and everything in-between. Use code TRC at https://www.rxsport.co.uk for a deal on Pit Viper products! - Feedback Sports: https://feedbacksports.com Get early access & ad-free episodes → You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/41377980

Matt Cipes: Marin Bikes Product Boss On The Future Of MTB & E-Bike Development 05/20/2026

Matt Cipes: Marin Bikes Product Boss On The Future Of MTB & E-Bike Development On this episode of The Ride Companion, we’re joined by Matt “Cippy” Cipes from Marin Bikes. Cippy is Marin’s Category Manager for performance mountain bikes, which means he plays a huge role in shaping the brand’s full suspension bikes, e-bikes, spec choices, geometry, suspension feel, pricing, development timelines and overall ride quality. Recorded at Marin Bikes HQ in California, this episode dives into the history of Marin County as one of the birthplaces of mountain biking, the origins of Marin’s 'Made For Fun' ethos, how a mountain bike goes from idea to production and why developing an e-bike is far more complicated than simply adding a motor and battery. Cippy also gives an honest take on the current e-bike power arms race, why Marin isn’t rushing to chase huge motor numbers, what brands should really be focusing on and how ride quality still matters more than spec-sheet bragging rights. We also get into 32" wheels, XC’s comeback, the future of analogue mountain bikes, the new Marin TAM, the development of the Alpine Trail E, why Marin looks to moto for certain design ideas, and what kind of rider feedback is actually useful when creating a new bike. Enjoy this deep dive into Marin Bikes, product development, mountain bike history and the future of MTB! Episode Sponsors:- - WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at - Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at https://www.themudhugger.co.uk Get early access & ad-free episodes → You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/41335095

Wyn Masters Shares What Really Happened In South Korea 05/13/2026

Wyn Masters Shares What Really Happened In South Korea Wyn Masters is back on The Ride Companion after a brutal crash at the opening round of the 2026 UCI Downhill World Cup in South Korea. Fresh from the Mona YongPyong World Cup, Wyn joins Davi and Olly to explain exactly what happened in the crash that left him with a fractured wrist and a serious AC joint injury. Wyn breaks down the controversial B-line, the lack of visibility, rider traffic, marshal positioning, shortened practice, and why he believes the crash was completely avoidable. This episode goes way beyond the injury. Wyn shares his thoughts on whether the South Korea World Cup was ready to host a race, the cost of sending teams across the world, the 'hardtail guy' controversy, whether World Cup downhill is becoming too expensive and what makes a great World Cup venue. The guys also get into Asa Vermette’s unbelievable elite World Cup debut win, Loïc Bruni and Amaury Pierron’s performances, Jackson Goldstone’s pressure as defending champion, the rise of young riders, women’s downhill, Valentina Höll’s new vlog series, the Gates Gearbox $100k challenge, pro rider salaries, Wyn’s viral video about mountain bike earnings, and what it really takes to race 100 World Cups. This is a huge episode with one of the most important and respected voices in mountain biking. Episode Sponsors:- - RX Sport: RX Sport are your one stop eyewear shop. From prescription sunglasses, to riding glasses and everything in-between. Use code TRC at for a deal on Pit Viper products! - LAKA Insurance: Don’t risk it, head to to learn more and get 30 days FREE cover on us! Get early access & ad-free episodes → You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/41246875

Martha Gill & Janelle Soukup On Pioneering Women’s MTB While Keeping It Fun 05/06/2026

Martha Gill & Janelle Soukup On Pioneering Women’s MTB While Keeping It Fun Martha Gill and Janelle Soukup join The Ride Companion for a powerful conversation about the progression of women’s mountain biking, freeride, racing, mentorship and what it takes to build a career in the sport. During this episode Martha Gill, the 2024 Queen of Crankworx and long time Marin Bikes athlete, shares her journey from cross-country racing and Olympic hopeful to enduro, Crankworx, Lucid and helping support the next generation of riders. Janelle Soukup talks through her rapid rise into freeride mountain biking, from selling her ATV to buy her first mountain bike, discovering events like Hannah Bergemann’s Hangtime, earning a place at Natural Selection, becoming Whip-Off World Champion and receiving the invite to Red Bull Rampage. Together, Martha and Janelle discuss the pressure of Rampage, fear, progression, sponsorship, the state of women’s mountain biking, the importance of opportunity and why the next generation of female riders is pushing the sport further than ever before. This is a proper insight into two women helping shape the future of mountain biking... Of course, BIG thanks to the Marin Bikes team for helping make this episode happen! Episode Sponsors:- - Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at https://www.themudhugger.co.uk - LAKA Insurance: Don’t risk it, head to https://laka.co/trc to learn more and get 30 days FREE cover on us! Get early access & ad-free episodes → You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/41139435

Matt VanEnkevort, The CEO Who Revived Marin Bikes 04/29/2026

Matt VanEnkevort, The CEO Who Revived Marin Bikes Davi visited Marin Bikes HQ in California to sit down with CEO Matt VanEnkevort to learn the real story behind how one of mountain biking’s most iconic brands rebuilt itself around one simple idea, MADE FOR FUN. On this episode of The Ride Companion Matt shares the story of joining Marin in 2012, when the brand was in serious trouble and how the team rebuilt the company, the product range and the culture. This conversation covers Marin’s early history, the brand’s near-bankruptcy, the reality of being a bike company CEO, the chaos of the Covid bike boom, why Marin avoids chasing hype, how they choose athletes and Matt’s honest thoughts on the current state of the bike industry, ebikes and where the cycling could be heading. Episode Sponsors:- - Get an exclusive 15% discount on Saily data plans! Use code trc at checkout. Download Saily app or go to to learn more - NordVPN has you covered for all your VPN needs so you can take your favorite shows everywhere + remain safe online! for more - WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at Get early access & ad-free episodes → You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/41048290

The Retro MTB Challenge, Looksmaxxing, Bosch Updates & Social Media Addiction Lawsuits 04/15/2026

Gee & Dan Atherton Reveal The Future Of Red Bull Hardline 04/09/2026

Gee & Dan Atherton Reveal The Future Of Red Bull Hardline Dan and Gee Atherton have HUGE Red Bull Hardline updates! On this episode of The Ride Companion Dan and Gee, Atherton reveal the debut of Red Bull Hardline British Columbia, coming to Cypress Mountain near Vancouver on October 17th 2026. Designed by Dan and Gee Atherton, the course will bring the gnarliest downhill race in the world to one of the most iconic mountain bike regions on the planet. The guys also explain why Red Bull Hardline Wales will take a break in 2026 as the team prepares to build an entirely new course for 2027 along with offering a few insights into what to expect. Gee also breaks down his latest Nepal film project, sharing the reality of riding and filming deep in the Himalayas, while Dan talks about life building Dyfi Bike Park, creating the next generation of riders through the Atherton Academy, the launch of the brand new Atherton Bikes E-170 e-bike and loads more. Red Bull Hardline BC will be broadcast live on Red Bull TV and the Red Bull Bike YouTube channel on Saturday October 17th 2026. We hope you enjoy this banger episode with Dan & Gee Atherton! Episode Sponsors:- - Fan of quality tools and want to geek out? Feedback Sports is available from your local bike shop, online retailers such as Saddleback and Bike 24, plus directly from - LAKA → Don't risk it folks, get your bike insured with LAKA and get 30days free on us. Learn more at - Manta Sleep: Get 10% off with code theridecompanion at - Kecks → 10% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at Get early access & ad-free episodes → You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/40748630

Danny Hart: Inside The Mind Of A Downhill World Champion 04/01/2026

Danny Hart: Inside The Mind Of A Downhill World Champion Danny Hart joins The Ride Companion for a BANGER episode! In this episode, Danny takes us deep inside the world of World Cup downhill racing. He talks openly about pressure, qualifying formats and how the sport has evolved since his legendary 2011 Champery World Champs run which cemented his name in mountain biking history. Danny shares what it was like winning world championships at such a young age, the highs and lows of a long racing career and how he’s managed to stay competitive in one of the toughest sports in the world. From travelling the globe with his family in a camper van to battling the new generation of riders like Jackson Goldstone, Amaury Pierron and Loïc Bruni, this episode gives a rare look into the mindset of a rider who has spent his life chasing speed. We also dive into race preparation, training, bike setup, the mental side of racing, and what really happens behind the scenes at the Downhill World Cup. Danny explains why racing is often far more intense than it looks on TV, and why even after decades in the sport, nothing compares to the feeling of dropping into a race run. We hope you enjoy this episode with Danny Hart! Episode Sponsors:- - Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at - LAKA → Don't risk it folks, get your bike insured with LAKA and get 30days free on us. Learn more at - Manta Sleep: Get 10% off with code theridecompanion at - Kecks → 10% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at Get early access & ad-free episodes → You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/40636505

Andrew Dodd on 20 Years in the Bike Industry: Truths, Reviews & The State of MTB 03/25/2026

Andrew Dodd on 20 Years in the Bike Industry: Truths, Reviews & The State of MTB Andrew Dodd aka Doddy is the podcast! Doddy is a man who has lived through every era of mountain bike media, from the golden age of print magazines at MBUK to YouTube with Global Mountain Bike Network and now working inside the industry with Mondraker. We dive deep into the evolution of mountain biking, how bike media really works behind the scenes, and why the modern bike industry might be overcomplicating things. Doddy shares untold stories from his time testing thousands of bikes, what it was like reviewing products when magazines could make or break brands, and how the rise of YouTube, TikTok and influencers has completely changed the landscape. We also get into why modern bikes might be 'too much', the truth about bike reviews (then vs now), the explosion of content and how it affects riders, e-bikes, gravel bikes and industry trends, burnout from working in bike media, what actually makes mountain biking fun and much more. This is one of the most insightful conversations we’ve had about the bike industry — from someone who’s seen it all, we hope you enjoy it! Episode Sponsors:- - Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at - WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at - Manta Sleep: Get 10% off with code theridecompanion at - Kecks → 10% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at Get early access & ad-free episodes → You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/40587170

Top Moment: Sam Reynolds on slopestyle's golden years 03/22/2026

Dom Ferris of Trash Free Trails on Trail Litter and How We Fix It 03/18/2026

Dom Ferris of Trash Free Trails on Trail Litter and How We Fix It Dom Ferris, founder of Trash Free Trails joins The Ride Companion to talk about one of the biggest issues affecting every rider, runner and outdoor space user: single-use pollution on our trails. Dom explains how Trash Free Trails started, why trail litter is about far more than 'bad behaviour' and how mountain bikers can take real ownership of the places they ride. The conversation goes deep into MTB trail stewardship, nature connection, mental health, community action and the systems that keep single-use pollution showing up in the outdoors. We also dive into the data behind trail litter, the reality of what’s being found on UK trails, why drinks cans, bottles, gels and food packaging are such a major problem along with how new legislation like a deposit return scheme could help change things. There’s loads in here too on trail culture, bike park responsibility, how to make cleanups more positive, and why Dom believes outrage alone won’t solve anything. If you care about mountain biking, trail building, riding spots, the outdoor community, litter picking, environmental action, access to nature and keeping trails clean, this is an episode you need to hear and share with your community. We hope you enjoy the episode! Learn more about Trash Free Trails and the Spring clean at Episode Sponsors:- - Want an easy way to tick your daily nutritional needs? Support the show and get 15% OFF HUEL products with code ‘RIDE’ at https://huel.com/. Unlock a healthier, easier way to eat with Huel — nutritionally complete meals in minutes, so you can focus on what really matters… biking. - Fan of quality tools and want to geek out? Feedback Sports is available from your local bike shop, online retailers such as Saddleback and Bike 24, plus directly from - WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at https://uk.worx.com Get early access & ad-free episodes → You can also support our long term partners: Marin Bikes → Focus Bikes → SRAM: adidas FiveTen: invisiFrame: 15% off with code REFRESHANDRIDE at Troy Lee Designs → 10% off with code theridecompanion at Manta Sleep → 10% off with code theridecompanion HUEL → 15% off with code RIDE: Mudhugger → Get 10% off with code ridecompanion10 at Compex → 20% off with code THERIDECOMPANION: Igloo → Kecks → use code THERIDECOMPANION for 10% off Feedback Sports: WORX → 15% off with code THERIDECOMPANION at HKT Products → 10% off with code PODCAST at Follow The Ride Companion Instagram YouTube Olly Wilkins Instagram YouTube YouTube clips and BTS channel Get official Ride Companion merch, find old episodes and more 📝 Contact Us & Business: Edited By: Doug Tucker, onlyflightdispatch.com & TRC Media House /episode/index/show/thehktpodcast/id/40474980

Top Moment: Brendan Fairclough on why Monster entered downhill 03/15/2026

Olly is a Dad!! 03/11/2026

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