Finn Iles and Kev Joly are a rider/mechanic combo that are doing big things in World Cup downhill racing right now. With two 2nd places already this season, despite Finn suffering a pretty serious concussion earlier in the season. We sat down to chat about how they work together and get some insight into the processes that they use which enabled them to take a brand new prototype bike and race it to second place on its first-ever race outing. That result shows how well these two work together and how well they understand the challenges of setting up a fast race bike.

We also chat about Finn’s concussion and how he approached his return to riding and racing. This was a super interesting conversation for me, with some incredible insight into just how good the top teams are. So sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Finn Iles and Kev Joly.

You can find Finn Iles on Instagram @finniles and Kev @kevjoly and the team @specializedgravity.

Supporting Partners

Magura

I’ve been using the Magura MT7 Pro brakes since late last year, and I recently posted that they were the best brakes I’ve ever used. A couple of people got in touch to as if that was really the case and my honest answer is yes they are. The power is insane, but it’s totally controllable, and they are the only brakes that I’ve been able to keep working just as well as when I first fitted them.

What’s more, Magura have their #customizeyourbrake programme which allows you to get the brake set up perfectly for you, as you can change the brake lever, the pads, the discs and make some aesthetic changes too.

You can check out the entire range of Magura brakes, and the #customizeyourbrake programme over at magura.com.

Leatt

I’ve been using some of Leatt’s most recent collection of clothing and I’ve been really impressed. For me there have been a few stand out items. The Trail 1.0 Jacket is super small and lightweight and is the perfect jacket to get you out of trouble. Stick it in your pack and forget about it. The Trail 1.0 Jersey is ultra-lightweight and has panels of Ice Yarn which is made of recycled coffee and has a cooling touch effect. The Trail 3.0 Shorts are cut slim, stretchy and super comfortable to wear. They also come with a top quality Italian made chamois liner.

If you want to check out what Leatt have to offer, then you can see the entire range at leatt.com and get hold of them at your local bike shop or online.

CushCore

Want to go bigger, corner harder and ride faster with total confidence then CushCore have got you covered. The first choice of a huge amount of the top EWS and DH racers, CushCore is way more than just an insert to reduce your chance of punctures. CushCore really does change the way your bike rides for the better. Head over to cushcore.com and check it out.

Podcast Stuff

Downtime EP

Downtime EP issue 2 is now available at downtimepodcast.com/ep. EP takes inspiration from the guests and topics of the podcast. It expands on them, and takes them into a stunning print-only format. EP is the perfect companion for some quiet time away from the distractions of modern life. Beautiful to have and hold, and a timeless piece of mountain bike history.

Just head over to downtimepodcast.com/ep to save yourself £5 off of the cover price with an annual subscription for just £20 plus postage or you can purchase EP1, or EP2 on their own too.

Merch

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.

Follow Us

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.