This week I’m joined by Mathieu Dupelle. Next year will mark Mathieu’s 20th year on the mountain bike World Cup scene, working with some of the best riders on the planet. We sat down to chat about Mathieu’s time with the Syndicate, looking after riders like Steve Peat and Nathan Rennie. We cover his time with the late great Stevie Smith, and the last 10 years that he’s been working with Connor Fearon at Kona. Mathieu has some great stories from back in the day, and some awesome insight into the sport. What goes on in team manager meetings? What does it take to do well at an EWS these days? We chat about all that and plenty more. So sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with Mathieu Dupelle.

You can find Mathieu on Instagram @dupelle. Connor's Instagram is @connorahoyhoy and Miranda's is @mirandamillermtb.

Also if you want to check out their race team work, then head to @join.the.union.

Supporting Partners

Nukeproof

Nukeproof have just launched their Autumn/Winter clothing range. There are merino tops and socks, a waterproof jacket, a soft shell jacket and some nice warm gloves. I've been using all of it as the seasons change here in the UK and I've been really impressed.

For a chance to win one of their awesome lightweight, waterproof, breathable Blackline jackets, plus some Sam Hill signature grips and pedals, all you need to do is to answer an easy question over at downtimepodcast.com/nukeproof before 9th December. One lucky winner will be chosen at random by the Nukeproof team.

We Are One Composites

This episode is supported by We Are One Composites. We Are One have been big supporters of what I’m doing from the start, and for that I’m really grateful. They also make amazing carbon fibre wheels which are hand made in Canada. I’m running their Faction 29er rims on my bike, and they look and feel amazing. They’ve managed to find the sweet spot between stiffness and compliance, making a wheel that tracks, but doesn’t feel harsh to ride.

They’ve got a whole line up of products, so there is always something to suit your needs. Head to weareonecomposites.com and check out what they have to offer. If you’re tempted, then as a Downtime listener, they are offering you 15% off rim-only products during August. All you need to do is enter the code ‘wesupply2021‘ at the checkout.

Podcast Stuff

Downtime EP

Downtime EP issue 1 is now available at downtimepodcast.com/ep. EP takes inspiration from the guests and topics of the podcast, 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.

A Downtime EP subscription is the perfect Christmas gift for your partner who rides, your riding buddies, or a nice little treat for yourself. Just head over to downtimepodcast.com/ep and you’ll be able to save yourself £5 off of the cover price with an annual subscription for just £20 plus postage. You've got until 17th October if you want EP issue 1 to be part of your subscription, so don't hang about.

Merch

My 2021 Spring/Summer merch is here, including our first ever recycled t-shirts. 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.

Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don’t forget to subscribe. It’s free and means you’ll get every episode delivered to your device as soon as it’s available. You'll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast...