Before we begin, please bow your heads. We will take a minute of silence in loving memory of the victims of the great chainless massacre, forever remembered here on June 14, 2015. The downhill world may never be the same again. Thanks for exploding our minds Aaron Gwin.



Dougie Fresh goes through some changes to the bike with Ratty before he heads off to the gondola.
A new day and it's still all to play for after the trials and tribulations of qualifying. Dougie Fresh goes through some changes to the bike with Ratty at the Syndicate pit before he heads off to the gondola.

Marcello radios up to the woods before his first practic to get the scoop on the ever-changing ruts and roots.
Marcelo radios up to the woods before his first practice to get the scoop on the ever-changing ruts and roots.
CRC s Joe Smith gets suited and booted for another day of rough and tumble in the mountains.
CRC's Joe Smith gets suited and booted for another day of rough and tumble in the mountains.


A strong warm-up at the Mondraker pit for Austria s Markus Pekoll with a big day ahead of him. He would go onto make his return to the top 20 after a disatrous beginning to his season.
A strong warm-up at the Mondraker pit for Austria's Markus Pekoll, with a big day ahead of him. He would go onto make his return to the top 20 after a disastrous beginning to his season.

Brook and George grab a quick lunch before their race runs.
Brook and George grab a quick lunch before their race runs.
There are things even a MadDogGerman will not touch
There are things even a MadDog German will not touch.

The 2010 winner and 2012 World Champion makes his way to the start looking for a Leogang three-peat.
The 2010 winner and 2012 World Champion makes his way to the start looking for a Leogang three-peat.

Tahnee Seagrave has arrived. Her second second in row.
The women's fight was on this afternoon and Tahnee Seagrave showed up all guns blazing. She nailed her second 'second' in a row.

Jill Kintner Boosting the finish line jump with ease. Jill took fifth place.
Jill Kintner boosting the finish line jump in the wind with ease.
Jill Kinter made her way right back to the podium where she left off with a fifth place.
Jill made her way right back to the podium, where she left off, with a fifth place.


Poor Manon Carpenter will already be trying to etch Leogang 2015 from her memory. Mistakes on track were followed by getting blown through the tape for a DQ. Next time
Poor Manon Carpenter will already be trying to etch Leogang 2015 from her memory. Mistakes on track were followed by getting blown through the tape for a DQ. Next time!

Manon Carpenter couldn t get a break this weekend. Winds were gusting on the finish line jump and she blew the tape on the landing.
Manon Carpenter fighting gusting winds on the finish line jump and blowing the tape on the landing.

Emmeline Ragot was fastest at split one but it wasn t enough for the win. Ragot placed third.
Emmeline Ragot was fastest at split one but couldn't hold onto it for the win, coming down for third.

Emmeline Ragot continues to have a fantasic season with another 3rd place finish.
Emmeline Ragot continues to have a fantastic season with another 3rd place finish but was of course hoping for more here in Leogang.

Emilie Siegenthaler made her first podium appearance today in 4th
Emilie Siegenthaler hit the ground running today and shot to her best WC performance since Fort William last year.
Emelie Siegenthaler very stoked indeed to hit the podium after a bit of a sabbatical.
Siegenthaler very stoked indeed to hit the podium after a bit of a sabbatical.


With back to back wins Rachel Atherton now has a commanding lead on the World Cup series.
With back to back wins, Rachel Atherton now has a commanding lead on the World Cup series.

Your Women s top three here in Leogang.
Your women's top three here in Leogang.

Kathy Sessler takes a pull off the champagne during the awards ceremony.
Kathy Sessler takes a pull of the champagne during the awards ceremony.
Rachel Atherton was all smiles after two wins in a row.
Rachel Atherton was all smiles after two wins in a row.


Laurie Greenland just didn t have enough to match Crimmins today and leaves Leogang without the covetet number 1 plate
In the junior race Laurie Greenland just didn't have enough to match Crimmins today and leaves Leogang without the coveted number 1 plate. Of course the battle continues...

Jacob Dickson took second for the juniors.
Jacob Dickson looked brilliant here all weekend and landed second place on his new Orange.
French junior Thribaut Laly destroyed the top section today and looked deadly serious mostly everywhere else for fourth place.
French junior, Thribaut Laly, destroyed the top section today and looked deadly serious mostly everywhere else for fourth place.

Andrew Crimmins took the win for the juniors and the points lead today.
Andrew Crimmins stormed the win for the juniors, and the overall points lead today.

One small step for Crimmins one giant leap for team Australia.
One small step for Crimmins, one giant leap for team Australia.

Some race runs go your way some don t. Just sucks when it happens on the finish line jump.
Some race runs go your way, some don't. Just sucks when it happens on the finish line jump. Florent Payet, on for a top 20, blows up.

Sam Blenkinsop looked totally badass here in Austria. That didn t translate to a winning time this time around but instead a 3 41 the same second as team mate Harry Heath in 16th who rode to his best result of the season so far.
Sam Blenkinsop looked totally badass here in Austria. That didn't translate to a winning time this time around, but instead a 3:41, the same second as team mate Harry Heath in 16th who rode to his best result of the season so far.

All the lads. Lined up in front of the big creen to watch their friends on the live feed.
All the lads. Lined up in front of the big screen to watch their friends on the live feed.

Mike Jones had a tough day today and finished well down the order.
Mike Jones had a tough day today and finished well down the order.

It s good to see the Bull Dog battling it out in the top 10 but it would be even better to see him as a regular on the podium.
It's good to see the Bull Dog battling it out in the top 10, but it would be even better to see him as a regular on the podium.

SRAM kept thing festive and authentic with a local band pumping out live music from the roof of their truck all day.
SRAM kept things festive and authentic with a local band pumping out live music from the roof of their truck all day.

Marcelo bringing it home to another tp ten finish.
Marcelo Gutierrez bringing it home to another top ten finish.
Marcelo Gutierrez has been putting in hard work and it shows. Marcelo was tenth today.
Marcelo has been putting in the hard work to catch up with the world's fastest.

Loic Bruni has had some massive crashes this weekend and would put down the first fast time of the day but it was only good enough for 8th in the end
Loic Bruni has had some massive crashes this weekend and would put down the first fast time of the day but it was only good enough for 8th in the end.

It s possible Loic Bruni wanted this win more than anyone else. It s possible he wanted in too much. After crossing the line in the green it was obvious he didn t think he d done enough.
It's possible Loic wanted this win more than anyone else... It's possible he wanted it too much. After crossing the line in the green it was obvious he didn't think he'd done enough to ride the hotseat out until the end.

There s no question as to what this fan came to see
There's no question as to what this fan came to see

Ratboy looking only around 3.5 seconds off his old-self today sending it to 7th place.
Ratboy looking only around 3.5 seconds off his old-self today, sending it to 7th place.
Ratty finished seventh today. Not bad for a guy with a separated shoulder.
Not bad for a guy with a metal foot and a freshly separated shoulder.

Steve Smith obviously frustrated and disappointed with himself after crashing near the top of the track.
Steve Smith, obviously frustrated and disappointed with himself after crashing near the top of the track.

Greg Minnaar literally bonked his head on the arch of the start gate. Not the best way to start a race but he still finished fifth.
Greg Minnaar literally bonked his head on the arch of the start gate. Not the best way to start a race but he still finished 5th coming from 31st on the top split.
Greg Minnaar had a big mishap out of the gate snagging his helmet in the start gate and loosing precious time. With times as tight as they were today it certainly cost him a few places.
What could have been for Greg.... With times as tight as they were today his headbutt certainly cost him a few places and some quality points.


Steve Peat always the master of ceremony
Steve Peat, always the master of ceremony.

Mistakes before the top split would salt Gee s game today and second in the speed trap could only push him up the ranks to 6th sadly missing the podium.
Mistakes before the top split would salt Gee's game today and second in the speed trap could only push him up the ranks to 6th, sadly missing the podium.

Troy Brosnan manuals over the finish to fourth place.
Troy Brosnan warps over the finish-line with a manual to get back on the podium once again in fourth place.

Troy Brosnan knew he threw down a good run as soon as he crossed the line.
Brosnan was feeling it and knew he'd thrown down a good run as soon as he crossed the line.

Remi Thirion is not human. Watching him move his body and bike around through the gnarliest terrain is a sight to behold.
Remi Thirion is not human. Watching him move his body and bike around through the gnarliest terrain is a sight to behold.

Remi Thirion proves he is truly the upper crust of downhill bicycle racing incase you had a doubt in your mind.
Remi Thirion proves he is truly the upper crust of downhill bicycle racing in case you had a doubt in your mind. World Champ wannabes look out in Andorra.
When Remi crossed the line with an amazing run many thought he had the race won.
When Remi crossed the line with an amazing run, many thought he had the race won.

Remi Thirion.



bigquotesI'm really happy to be able to confirm my level on the bike... This season I'm feeling good and the track this year was better for me, definitely I preferred the new section in the wood and the fresh section before, it's all a lot more testing for all riders. I made some mistakes in the first and second woods, but nevermind, I'm happy!


Remi Thirion





YEAH CONNA
YEAH CONNA!!!

First podium and a massive second place for Connor Kona Fearon. First in splits 1 and 2 only brought down by AG on the dash to the line.
First podium and a massive second place for Connor 'Kona' Fearon.
Connor Fearon
First in splits 1 and 2, only brought down by AG on the dash to the line.


bigquotesIt doesn't feel real, it feels so weird right now, but I'm so stoked! I've been around the top 10 here before and I thought I'd be happy with that again, but qualifying so well I thought 'ah this is it!' and I wanted to do it. I'd been riding good the last few races, but was unlucky, crashing in the first one and flatting at Fort William, now this has boosted my confidence so much and I can't wait to keep it going


Connor Fearon



What can we say about Aaron Gwin s run. He did a complete run down a pretty physical track and into a headwind with no chain and still won. Another run that will go down in history.
What can we say about Aaron Gwin's run. He did a complete run down a pretty physical track and into a headwind with no chain and still won. Another run that will go down in history.

Full tuck and carrying speed without a chain. Gwin went full beast on this track.
Full tuck and carrying speed without a chain. Gwin went full beast on this track.
Gwin came across the line with no chain. I was channeling Neko.
Gwin came across the line with no chain. "I was channeling Neko."

What a day for Aaron Gwin and Team Specialized
What a day for Aaron Gwin and Team Specialized.


When life throws you lemons just smash the field anyway.
When life throws you lemons, just smash the field anyway.
Did Aaron Gwin just put Sram and Shimano out of business with a race run Find out on a forum near you...
Did Aaron Gwin just put SRAM and Shimano out of business with a race run? Find out on a forum near you...

Yesterday we asked is Aaron Gwin a wizard but that barely covers it. The odds seem to conspire against him every time on the mountain since his initial win in 2011 but today there was not a single thing that could stand in his way.
Yesterday we asked 'is Aaron Gwin a wizard?' But that barely covers it. The odds have seemed to conspire against him every time on this mountain following his initial win in 2011, but today there was not a single thing that could stand in his way. He smashed the field without a single pedal-stroke after the start gate.

Connor Fearon collects his own price money.
Connor Fearon collecting his prize money. Make sure you ask for a beer if you see him out tonight.
Gwin may have won the race but Connor Fearon dominated the podium.
Gwin may have won the race, but Connor dominated the podium.

Taylor Vernon strong arms a tent steak during pit break down.
Taylor Vernon strong arms a tent stake during pit break down.
Smith takes one last twenty push up penalty for the weekend.
Smith takes one last twenty push-up penalty for the weekend.

Leaders of the World.
Leaders of the World.

What. A. Race. Leogang once again delivered another round for the history books.
What. A. Race. Leogang delivers a race to just about melt the history books. Discuss...




Check out all of our World Cup DH pics here.




About the Photographers

Dave Trumpore • Age: 35 • Years Shooting: 4
Dave spent the bulk of the past 17 years racing professionally before realizing that despite qualifying for the random World Cup final here and there, the next generation was just way too fast and way more talented. Upon hanging up his racing boots in 2010, it would be a few years until Dave picked up a camera and started shooting the odd race here and there as a way to stay in touch with all the friends he had made over the years, and the rest as they say is history. In just a few years time his photos have graced the pages of just about every MTB magazine and major media outlet, while his commercial client list includes a who's who of the cycling industry, and he is lucky enough to shoot regularly with some of the best riders on the planet. Currently at Pinkbike, Dave shoots the Downhill WC and the Enduro World Series as well as contributing to the occasional editorial story.


Matthew Delorme • Age: 40 • Years Shooting: 8
Matthew DeLorme is just one of Pinkbike’s motley crew of World Cup Photographers. He currently lives out of a Ogio bag, and calls the road his home. Delorme works for Trek Bicycle, covering their MTB racing programs. He can usually be found laying in the dirt trackside, cracking jokes and saying things that make little to no sense. He enjoys capturing accessory moments and the journey every bit as much as catching the action shot.



Nathan Hughes • Age: 28 • Years Shooting: 2
Nathan Hughes was snared as mainstay Pinbike media crew for the 2013 World Cup season and has been trapped behind the lens and the keyboard ever since. In between the biggest bike events of the year Nathan can be found on client shoots, making far-off travel stories and trying to catch a moment to spin the pedals himself. A great appreciation of the wilderness, the fear of a normal life and the quest for the perfect picture will have him hooked and looking to raise the bar for years to come.


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Member since Jul 19, 2007
313 articles

205 Comments
  • 251 3
 I love watching the video recaps but the photo recaps are so on point lately its ridiculious
  • 36 7
 I love both, because biking !

"Did Aaron Gwin just put SRAM and Shimano out of business with a race run? "

No - source; everyone who is not Aaron Gwin or Neko
  • 17 0
 That was one of the most gristly photog compositions I've ever had grind past me. My eyes are bleeding from the amazing shots- composition, lighting, story telling. It doesn't make me want to ride my bike as much as it makes me feel the kinship with my forrest crew. MTB forever.
  • 1 0
 I found exactly the shot I've been looking for.....Fearon's face at that moment. Can't imagine how he feels.
  • 4 0
 Crazy amazing photos. Like, .. watch and learn.
  • 2 1
 There is one very important thing about the last shot with Rachel and Aaron........the ammount of media is incredible. It took so much work when we started racing to get some recognition but is here and now. Cheers
  • 4 0
 Im lucky to have witnessed downhill greatness as it's best. A repeat of aron gwin's out of this world performance may or may not happen again in my lifetime....but who knows, maybe another kind of greatness may happen just around the start gate
  • 3 0
 Should be re-titled to "The Gwizard of Aus"
  • 4 0
 Finn Illes is on his way.... keep on eye on that guy... I think we gonna see some great stuff from Finn too!
  • 132 1
 I honestly believed we have witnessed the defining moment of downhill this generation. There are so many to choose from; Danny's run at Champery, Stevie Smith's championship run, even Gwin's tireless run at the same venue last year. There may be Gwin haters out there, but I do not believe they can see this and not have respect for the amount of skill and dedication he has to the sport and pushing the limits of DH.
  • 37 5
 I never got the vibe that gwin was that hated...
  • 37 3
 Not that I think he's despised, but I've definitely read comments over the years that show some bitterness towards Gwin winning or doing well in races.
  • 34 0
 It's very strange some people are hating him seven after yesterday's run. Have your opinions, but you gotta be blind or just plain grumpy not to at least appreciate what he did yesterday, these aren't your local boys having some fun in the woods, it's the fastest riders in the world and they all gave it absolutely everything.
  • 17 0
 2011 called, they want their gwin haters back
  • 94 34
 Gee is far more annoying than Gwin anyday
  • 19 1
 Another defining moment for your list: The super exciting 2013 season, in particular Stevie's win at Mt. Ste. Anne after the downpour that prevented everyone else from beating Gee's pre-rain time. The win that set him rolling on the path to dominating the season. Even the fact that that year the season overall title battle between Gee and Stevie came down to the final race.
  • 37 9
 @raoulduke2k
I would like to hear how Gee managed to annoy you?
Gee dont smile to the camera, he doesnt like media, and he took multiple wins from your fav rider, is that why you feel annoyed?
  • 15 27
flag jaame (Jun 14, 2015 at 22:25) (Below Threshold)
 I always hope he loses. Even yesterday I was cheering when his bike broke. The more I think about it though, the more respect I have for him. He's turned my attitude around with that run. Fair enough if always goes on about God, and seems like he doesn't know how to have fun, but shit me, when you ride like that win cares? I'm going to cheer for him from now on. Him, and the revolution in bike design I think this is going to propagate. In ten years I see the sport of downhill being chainless.
  • 65 5
 With all due respect, Aaron throws one or two words about his own relation to God or religion and then a bunch of paranoid, prime quality morons blow it to the size of Vatican dome. Awesome stuff Aaron! Winning without a chain is like Messner proving that Everest can be climbed without supplementary oxygen. All the best of luck! Thank you for entertaining us and blowing life back into DH and MTB
  • 7 0
 Especially in leogang... WTF.. i mean in Meribel i would have almost understood.. but in leogang.. where there are maby 600 meters just for paddeling.. Aaron... just like troy said.. you´re a crazy mf .. (i hope no offence was taken)
  • 2 1
 Waki I am itching to see what your idea for a chainless bike looks like. I'm thinking single pivot with pretty much a straight beam frame between head tube and rear axle. Main pivot somewhere along that line, which will be a high pivot, with the shock and linkage on the underside. The foot pegs will be suspended from this main spar. It would possibly be advantageous to engineer in some vertical movement for the pegs to improve weight distribution through corners. Maybe a kind of seesaw with elastomer inserts so the pegs can move but not flap around freely. The tech regs could be announced a couple of years ahead of time just like in motorsport. What are your thoughts?
  • 4 0
 Heroic performance end of story !

How he did it across that straight in the wind who knows, maybe it lifted a bit but who cares, he fully deserved that, fully lit ? Exploded more like!!!

So many great performances from the others too especially Connor.
  • 10 36
flag jamesrbrown (Jun 15, 2015 at 2:06) (Below Threshold)
 Props to Gwinn for the run, but it was only possible because the wind died down, so he tucked top section and got a similar time to others, but then he had conserved all his energy not pedaling to pump the crap out of the bottom section, where others had pedaled into the wind for 30 seconds and had a lot less enegry.. If he had the head wind like others, he would have ground to a halt. Just sayin...
  • 11 0
 Connor came down 3 mins before Gwin, and Remi 3 mins before that. The wind was the same for your top three. I was at the finish and it was still blowing up the mountain. There were about 10 guys that probsbly had a little extra wind as it did pick up alittle harder for a short while, but it never went away. There was wind all day.
  • 13 0
 @jaame - specifically for your request my friend:
www.pinkbike.com/photo/12347375
  • 5 2
 I think the problem with Gwin is that he's so good - like he's figured something out about DH racing that no-one else knows - that when he's on form no-one else has a chance to get close for an entire season. I'd be willing to bet now that he'll win at least 3 of the 4 remaining world cups this season and by an average of more than 2.5 seconds. No other rider has dominated like that to the point the races are predictable. Not Minnaar, not Hill, I don't think even Vouilloz annihilated entire seasons like this.
  • 3 2
 It is not inconceivable that Gwin had a lucky escape from wind, but don't try to take anything away from his performance. He won even when handicapped. He's an amazing rider. I was rooting for Sam Hill to win the world champs this year but I'm switching to the gwinner. I think he thoroughly deserves to win a world title. Doing it chainless is a distinct possibility too!
  • 3 0
 wingguy - all it takes is an injury and this years World Cup series is one big cripple-show already. Predictability does not exist in Downhill MTB other than who is surely NOT going to win a WorldCup title. Like Joe Fastlocalton who qualified 78th.
  • 4 0
 Where did you find pic waki? It's dated 2014. Just like 9/11... Someone knew something
  • 5 0
 I was there, took it from MTBnews.de photographers camera as we he was taking sht after eating a very long vurst and a bunch of kartofeln. I sat hidden behind toilet. Dude never noticed anything. It's a Val Di Sole prototype.
  • 3 1
 Rachel atherton
  • 1 0
 GT DHi
  • 9 17
flag will-oddy1 (Jun 15, 2015 at 5:30) (Below Threshold)
 @raoulduke2k how does gee annoy you? you f*ggot
  • 2 0
 Hahha! Trolled by @WAKIdesigns . Excellent!
  • 4 0
 do you think Gwin's strategy/line selection completely changes once his chain broke? Or did he stick to his original line choices? Did he switch to chainless mode and ad lib that entire run on the fly, or did he stick with the lines he wanted?
  • 3 0
 @davetrump any thoughts around that it may have been faster to just tuck and pump the motorway and that standing and pedaling may have been more windage leading you to "feel" like you were going faster?

BTW Great photos and coverage!
  • 6 0
 First off, props to Gwin/Fearon/Rach. Judging by the way others improved there quali times by 2-3 seconds, Gwin seemingly only lost a second or two, as he improved by 1 second. He did look super smooth, and his bike clearly dialled. Can't wait for Lenzerheide.

Second, I cannot imagine how Gee ever annoyed anyone, the guy has always been the epitome of mountain biking. I have to question all those upvoted that comment, is it just a question of nationalism/disrespect/incivility/ignorance?

Can't say I have ever felt anything but respect, to all pro downhill racers. One of many things that seems to increasingly in short supply: respect.
  • 6 0
 @zzRider - certain riders annoy certain people for no rational reason at all, in most cases taking words out riders mouths, interpreting them, distorting and accusing them of own treats. If potential "hater" hasn't met the guy in person and does deal with him daily, hasn't seen or heard anything point at a particular flaw of character then only psychological projection comes into play. Hence I give you 90% chance that bloke that openly speaks dislike for Gee gets sht for taking all sorts of irrelevant things in life too seriously, perceives himself too stiff and is ashamed of it.
  • 3 0
 @dhx42 I don't think he went faster on the motorway; he came in 0.8 seconds off the pace on that split if I remember correctly. So I think it's likely he actually did lose time there. He just caught the holy spirit and made up close to 1 sec on the bottom split. But I'm sure tucking and getting a little rest on that section benefited his time further down on the course. It's exactly what the announcers were talking about during Ratboy's run; different racers make different choices where to expend their energy. Gwin probably would have done it differently if he had a chain, but it seems the tradeoff worked in this case (even though he didn't really have a choice!).

Anyway.... what a beast.
  • 11 0
 Same goes for Aaron and religion. A truly rational mind, working in tune with ideas of scientific approach to life, that is "I don't know, I don't even trust my own eyes, I have to find out, I say only things I learned myself or from people being actual experts in what they say", could fire up every time he hears the word "God". It just points out at insecurity of not knowing, having unresolved existential issues therefore they must join a club like "atheists" and try to prove to the unspecified peers that he is worthy of being in it, but not by his own actions, rather by throwing sht at the "other team".
  • 2 7
flag raoulduke2k (Jun 15, 2015 at 8:14) (Below Threshold)
 @will-oddy1 what's wrong man, you sound upset - you gonna cry?
  • 16 0
 @WAKIdesigns you nailed it in that last comment dude. I honestly cannot fathom why people get even the least bit irritated by knowing that an athlete is religious (or not). I could understand if he was an a*shole to people, or if he was a huge hypocrite and spoke about his faith constantly but acted horribly away from the racetrack.... but I've never heard a single bad story about the guy. I feel like everyone and their mother has some story about meeting AG at an event and having a great conversation, or sharing a beer, being invited to hang out, or whatever. If you choose to hate a person like that because of what he believes in... then you can chalk that up to your own prejudice and insecurity; it's no fault of Gwin's.

Personally I'm grateful we have such classy representatives of the sport. To be massively skilled and a great competitor, yet humble, kind, and principled takes a special kind of person. If I had kids I wouldn't really want them idolizing athletes in general (or just about anyone, honestly), but if they wanted to be more like AG I'd be pretty okay with that.
  • 2 0
 @bkm303 Very true, but he was like 20 something at split 1. Maybe I'm wrong, but doesn't that mean he was able to pull back time on the motorway?

Looking at the results, a bunch of guys in the top 10 didn't have great split 1 times. Gwin, GM, and Gee were able to pull a ton of time back in the middle and end of the course. Think that supports your theory since those are probably 3 of the more savvy racers out there right now
  • 1 0
 @dhx42 Oh you might be right then, I didn't remember them saying anything about the 1st split. Do they have all the split times somewhere?
  • 1 0
 @bkm303 Splits are on the official results sheet. Gwin was only 1.198 behind Fearon at Split 1.
  • 4 0
 I don't consider myself a religious person, but I have no issues with people who want to celebrate their own faiths. Gwin is an absolutely superb athlete, and as @bkm303 says, a great credit to the sport.

As for the Gee bashing, how the f*ck can people not respect a man who has competed in Rampage? And races as hard as anyone out there? Have they not seen the crashes he has taken en route to where he is now? Or watched the quarry bombing video of him and Dan? Another super talented rider, who might not be as much of a personality as others, but should pretty much have earned the admiration of 'fans' of the sport.
  • 17 1
 I think many people's unrealized problem with Aaron is that he is intelligent, quite honest yet reserved and not speaking much of "stoke" language. Then he has this bold, composed, precise style of riding unlike Hill or Hart who are all over the place, looking like they barely hold onto the bike. He looks a bit similar to Minnaar in that respect. Even Stevie Smith and Gee are a bit loose, charging into sht rather than flowing through the holes. Ratboy bends around like rubber man hahaha. Gwin, Minnaar though, they rarely look like someone who saves it all the time, so you don't go, oooh aaaah, ooou uuuuuh, aaaaaa, they just bomb through the track, ruling it.

It is sad that first his problem was "Muricah", then "Specialized" now "God". Some people's life mission is the search for stained underwear of good men. They must find proof that they are not as bad as they often see themselves in the mirror. Idealizing is a necessary step in life, everyone kid, even university student, needs role models, but at some point I believe, everyone should grow to be more aware of such mechanism in their heads, learn to use them deliberately so it starts to plays for you, not against you

Cheers! Big Grin
  • 1 0
 You hit the nail on the head, WAKI. Stevie Smith is always going on about his mum( who wouldn't, she's great), yet no one takes the mick because he's 'gnarly', features in famous film segments, wears a bad ass 'tache and looks to be a bit of a ladies's man. Gwin just has something/someone to be thankful to for his success, be it God, one's mum, sister or whatever; he just doesn't see the need to post drunken videos of post-Leogang accordion shenanigans or wheelie-ing a quad bike into a car.
With all due respect to Danny Hart (I think he's bloody mint as a competitor and a rider), it's getting really old now when every time a raindrop lands on a race track everyone loses their shits with how Danny Hart will rip the entire field apart, as if everyone else doesn't even know which way to spin their cranks when it's muddy. Let's not forget Gwin was right behind Danny in sectors 1 and 3 in 'that' race.
A lot of people seem to think that only riders leading a certain lifestyle (and riding style) should be mint downhillers, thus the general dislike/hate for Gee and Aaron.
They're not 'exciting', but surely if calm and collected demolishes exciting then that's pretty damn exciting in itself.
  • 1 6
flag jaame (Jun 15, 2015 at 21:48) (Below Threshold)
 I'm gwinner's new biggest fan, and when you're that good you're entitled to believe whatever you want in my book. Allow me to shed some light anyway no how others may feel. Steve Smith is right to thank his mum, since she has helped him in a tangible way. God has not helped anyone since God is not real. Ergo, claiming God helped you is tantamount to being crazy in some people's eyes. Also, religious people are all hypocrites, and the stronger the belief, the bigger the knob (in most cases, but not this case because gwinner is awesome).
  • 74 1
 I love seeing such a grounded and mellow dude win in such a dominating fashion. Bravo Aaron.
  • 15 0
 Don't forget humble ran into him at a Fontana race before last season and shot the shit with him for a bit. Wouldn't even know he was as good as he is talking to the guy. So down to earth!
  • 21 1
 He is definitely a humble guy. He sold me 4 brand new (in the bag) Troy Lee T-shirts and brand new Troy Lee trail shorts with Specialized logos on them (they didn't fit him, still had tags on them) all for $20. That is a cool guy. Spreading the love.
  • 4 6
 Shit you may have just landed him in some trouble with TLD, ha!
  • 4 1
 No, those shirts and riding shorts are represented in another county only furthering their reach with advertising in local trail centers, social media, and all around town. I think that is exactly what they are hoping for. They didn't fit him so he might as well pass on the love.
  • 2 0
 TLD/Specialized may be hoping for it, but they wouldn’t have bargained on the fact that Gwin went on to effectively give them to someone else because they didn’t fit him.

Seems like a nice gesture to me.
  • 1 0
 All racers pass on their old kit. Half of North wales rides in kit or on bikes that used to be Athertons :p
  • 3 0
 Jesus Christ guys it was a joke! But thanks for your lesson on the International business strategies of TLD...they should probably start selling all their jerseys for $5 each now to reach a wider market.
  • 59 3
 Ratboy dropped monster respectively because he simply "doesn't drink the product" and doesn't want to endorse a company if he doesn't even like the product
  • 32 3
 class act that Rat,minaar doesn't have an energy drink sponsor and I've always respected him for that.Energy drinks(redbull,monster and the likes)are garbage.
  • 7 1
 Props to Ratboy!
  • 10 1
 @rideonjon Sure these drinks are garbage, but RedBull is way more than just a drink. They have massive benefits for athletes (completely different system to other brands, their athletes are actually employees), and they are very involved in media, which some guys love. Jerome Clementz said he signed with Monster because he thought he would get the opportunity to do tons of videos and cool projects.
Had he signed with RedBull, he'd probably still be there.
  • 9 0
 I can see both sides of it, but economically speaking you'd be foolish to turn it down. You have a finite time to earn money in sport. Downhill isn't exactly well paid. Ratty lives on a barge. Take the money is my advice, even if you don't use the product. Ten years of endorsement could be a house.
  • 7 1
 Which is why I respect both sides. But you HAVE to respect someone who lives not for money.
  • 2 0
 Slightly related. He raced with a gopro, is the banning over?
  • 9 0
 I'd like to see the Drink Water support cross over into DH. Sure the energy drink companies throw a lot of coin into the sport, but floggin the sugar filled shit to kids is getting old. Hats off to Ratboy for standing for something.
  • 1 0
 I think he's just making himself available in hopes of getting a new drink sponsor a la Mullaly.
  • 44 2
 *Bonk!* "f*ckin UCI doing everything they can to slow down a non-trade team!"
  • 42 1
 Big day for Kona! Fearon 2nd, Crimmins 1st, Malloy 15th and Bizet taking first at 26trix.
  • 8 1
 YEAH BABY!
  • 5 10
flag colincolin (Jun 15, 2015 at 2:29) (Below Threshold)
 Not a Single snap this weekend. I am impressed.
  • 12 2
 I'd be rather impressed if you can snap a Kona while riding it colin.
  • 5 1
 YEAH CONNA!
  • 2 1
 That's been such a long time coming ... I was totally stoked for him yesterday. Now all I need is for Loic Bruni to actually win a WC race this season, and I'll crack a beer and be happy.
  • 1 0
 www.pinkbike.com/photo/12404327 -- @Kona pls stop trolling and build better bikes!
  • 1 1
 Go look at a mirror and that's the one who really trolls. If you really want it, I can give you a whole bunch of broken frames of other brands. So that you can blackmail them a great amount of money.
  • 27 0
 The Gwizard
  • 24 0
 You know what amazes me about that picture of Remi? Look at the direction his bike is going and then at the direction he's looking. Talk about keeping your eyes ahead!
  • 68 0
 He may be french, but he's got some good body english.
  • 1 1
 He's a handsome devil too!
  • 21 0
 Kathy drinking that bottle of Champagne! haha

The sign that says "Price Money" not Prize Money
  • 3 0
 Because they've translated from German. The German word 'preis', can be translated as either prize or price.
  • 17 0
 Finally all the Loeogang haters ( who have never been there) can't talk s**t anymore about how pedaly the track is... Thanks Aaron!
  • 1 1
 ^this!
  • 18 0
 Gwin pinned it harder than Ferris Buhler did on his day off.
  • 3 0
 i see trent. I see.
  • 3 0
 AARON GWIN!!!
  • 13 1
 June 14, not June 6. But awesome feature nonetheless! I literally lept out of my chair and yelled like a little girl when Gwin won.
  • 3 0
 I said " omg" about 15 times after he won. And I'm a 32 year old father who likes heavy metal and fps shooters. I never say "omg"!!!
  • 3 0
 Yeah, my new chocolate lab got VERY excited when I started jumping up and down at the end of that run! I also almost hit my ceiling fan.
  • 3 0
 I was holding my daughter (7 mo) and she got startled and started crying because I yelled so loud!!
  • 11 0
 So, looking at Troy's and Gwin's race kits. Wondering why UCI didn't have a problem with how different they look. Shenanigans I tells ya!
  • 9 0
 Thought same thing, that's a pretty loose interpretation of "identical"
  • 2 0
 Minaar and Rat look nothing alike...they have two different sponsors....Just like Gwin and Brosnon...TLD and Spec.
  • 1 0
 Troy isnt on TLD anymore... Full factory Specialized kit!
  • 1 0
 You are correct....Gwin is on TLD and Brosnon is on Spec.
  • 1 0
 Oh crap just realized i completely misread your comment! Totally didn't mean to try and correct you!
  • 2 0
 Because of the UCI ruling, they decided not to care about similarities – so yeah, Rat wore black and red and not white and red. Before that, they were pretty darn close, minus the secondary sponsor logo differences. Closer than the Spec jerseys.

p.vitalmtb.com/photos/forums/2015/02/13/2004/s1200_syndicatejerseys.jpg
  • 7 0
 Unreal race, still in shock. Absolutely legendary run from Aaron, I'm already counting down the days to Lenzerheide world cup!
  • 4 0
 The section after the final rock drop was basically flat and a pure pedaling section. Watching the race other riders were hammering on the pedals after the final berm out of the tunnel. Gwin with no chain had to coast the section and he STILL won. Watching it was pretty amazing. Hard to imagine how much he would have won by with a chain. I was trying to explain the win to the missis who does not really bike much "What do you mean he won with no chain?? That's impossible?? You think I'm an idiot, no one can do that!!" Well, he did lover and his name is Aaron Gwin and he is a goddamm machine!
  • 4 0
 His bike must have been so quiet, Would have been Glorious.
  • 10 2
 Anyone know why Monster dropped Ratboy?
  • 56 1
 Or did ratboy drop monster? #drinkwater
  • 4 2
 I've been dying to know this for the last few months. Anyone got the intel?
  • 2 1
 also wondered that...
  • 1 1
 for what I heard it was the other way around.
  • 7 2
 Newcastle Brown Ale - you listening ? Big Grin
  • 1 0
 So that's why they took on Mannon! Not saying she doesn't deserve it, just saying that Monster has extra money on their hands and decided to sponsor another badass rider.

Back to Josh, what is "50:01"?
  • 7 1
 50:01 =2 stroke mix.braaap.
  • 3 0
 Ratboy wasn't drinking the stuff which I would say is part of his contract. he doesn't like it an didn't want to drink. Massive props to him though it is such shit stuff.
  • 8 1
 Put water in a monster bottle and keep taking the money you tit!
  • 1 0
 If its because he doesn't like the stuff then I don't blame him. I tried it once, oddly enough at Leogang a few years ago, and I thought it was dreadful. I think I poured it down the drain actually
  • 4 1
 Very confusing Title by the way. Is it Wizard of Aus meaning: Austria or Australia?

Hat's off to Gwin I honestly couldn't believe that happened. His prayers have been answered and dedication and complete devotion has earned him that.
  • 2 0
 @Will123456 hello my fellow austrian

you are correct -> wizzard af AUT (as in Austria) :-)
  • 16 0
 My finely honed investigatory skills reveal that since they were racing in Austria and Aaron Gwin isn't Australian, it probably means Austria. But then, I am a professional detective, so I can see why less practiced minds may have had trouble with it.
  • 2 0
 But Connor, he killed it for such a young bloke.
  • 1 0
 @wingguy
it is not about finding out where the worldcup took place, it is about correct basic information about the country the media guys write about.

...now i am off chasing some `roos ;-)
  • 2 0
 It's a pun in a mtb article, not a nationality code on a UN document. Seriously, Wizard of Aut? On what level does that joke work?

It's odd, most of the Germanic people I know are aren't at all like the serious, no sense of humour stereotype. I guess you must be the exception Wink
  • 3 0
 Basically, Leogang is a checkers-or-wreckers track for Gwin. He's going to win barring brake or tire/rim failures, essentially.

This track has done so much to establish his legendary status in victory and defeat...definitely a track that has earned him a lot of fans that would be indifferent to him otherwise.
  • 2 7
flag jaame (Jun 15, 2015 at 1:09) (Below Threshold)
 I strongly disliked him two days ago. Now he's my favourite rider. I'm willing to ignore all the God comments because he's such a boss!
  • 7 1
 ALIEN G1WN. In 2016 without frame?
  • 8 0
 No, just without his front wheel. He'll manual/wheelie down the track.
  • 13 0
 without a handlebars....he will just hold his fork
  • 3 0
 He'll ride a unicycle
  • 2 1
 No one of those mountain scooter things!
  • 8 2
 Sponsored by KTM. Coincidence? I think not.
  • 2 0
 gwinn was already mentally prepared to smash the course before breaking the chain. after that, his words " nope not today" just show is hunger and mental strengh for winning and e just got the bonus motivation to overcome unexpected. his believe in his god just gave him the security in himself needed to do such an heroic run. and of course luck has to be on your side. hat's off to him. let the haters whine, he is above that.
  • 5 0
 How much money do the riders win at WC races?
  • 1 0
 Best DH race ever! Gwin's run...everyone pretty much covered it. But Thirion's run was almost as impressive! His lines and flow are like an artistic masterpiece. There should be a subjective score for how well a rider looks coming down the mountain, he would ace it almost every time! And what is up with race direction DQ'ing Manon?! How on earth is she supposed to control how the wind blows her over the track? Sooooo harsh!
  • 1 0
 I got unreasonably excited when "the final countdown" started playing during Brosnan's run. It would have been even more perfect had it been Gwin's run. This is downhill mountain biking folks. What a race.
  • 8 3
 Look mum, no chain!
  • 4 0
 Thats a race to remember.
  • 3 0
 Amazing racing day, I am glad I got to watch that online, definitely the most exciting day I can remember in a while!
  • 3 0
 Wow, such beautiful pics....makes me so glad I'm a gravity junkie!!
  • 3 0
 So is Fearon the only one still on a 26"?
  • 3 0
 He's on 650b I think.
  • 1 0
 Yeah, it's about time. Let's wait and see what will be released officially in August.
  • 2 2
 Downhill bikes, no chain needed and therefore no derailleur, cassette, gear cable, shifter...hell, you don' even need cranks, chain rings, bottom bracket or pedals... What kind of bike is that?
  • 2 0
 Gwin went so fast he lost half his Moto pants on the way down. And grew some Stars and Stripes on his arms....
  • 2 1
 Another myth is down: the advantage of super fit downhill riders like Gee Atherton. DH is still about the technique and the mental strength of not giving up!
  • 4 0
 AG is about as fit as anyone on the circuit Id say.
  • 2 0
 Anyone can explain about Smith's push-ups at KONA's pit? I guess that's something related to their results?
  • 2 0
 Also want to know this
  • 1 0
 Chain Reaction team had a thing this weekend that anybody saying anything bad about Leogang had to do 20 push-ups.
  • 1 0
 Thanks dude. I think that Smith is Steve Smith according to the pic?
  • 3 0
 Without a doubt, AG and Chuck Norris have something in common!
  • 1 0
 What's amazing about Gwin's run isn't that he did it without a chain - it's that he did is with all those other archaic "drivetrain" parts weighing the bike down.
  • 1 0
 Look back at his 2011 season 5 first place wins. No one has ever done that especially an American. Then 4 in his 2012 season. When he is on point he is a machine
  • 4 2
 Unbelievable run. What Tyre is Gwin riding on the front?
  • 3 0
 New hillbilly
  • 2 0
 "Yeah, well, you know, that's just, like, your opinion, man."
  • 4 1
 #PeatyBarmaid
  • 3 0
 He is Aaron Muad'Dib.
  • 2 0
 The pic of Bruni on the wall ride is simply awesome
  • 1 0
 Did Aaron Gwin just put SRAM and Shimano out of business with a race run? Find out on a forum near you HAHA
  • 1 0
 Great photos and a brilliant race. The improved Leogang really showed up the differences in style between the top riders
  • 2 0
 Time for a challenge Gwin vs Neko
Who's faster on the same track?
  • 6 6
 He didn't put Sram out of business.....they have been out for me since day one! Shimano!!!!
  • 1 0
 Gwin, the King of the Seven Realms! :p
  • 3 1
 Gwin!
  • 2 0
 Epic photography.
  • 1 0
 Still don't get how a chain could break like that
  • 1 14
flag rideonjon (Jun 14, 2015 at 22:52) (Below Threshold)
 crappy job by his mechanic,i would say.No matter what a beast Gwin is he's not snapping chains.
  • 4 0
 Too much power. Too much traction. Something had to give.
  • 1 0
 where are the neck brace??
  • 2 0
 Price money,
  • 1 0
 I'd love to know what the prize purse is for these races
  • 1 0
 Hmmm i wonder who's tire is on the front of Gwin winning bike?
  • 2 3
 l am not a racer but its bad when mtn bikers are worried about wind. jeez sound like a bunch of roadies! just take your chain off and go for it. haha
  • 3 2
 How many negative props can I get for this comment??
  • 2 1
 madness
  • 2 1
 Yeah Kona!
  • 1 0
 Gwin makes history!
  • 2 1
 #GWINNING
  • 1 2
 La magia no existe, Gwin tuvo suerte con el viento... Eso no quita que en éste año sea el mejor.
  • 1 1
 Is Aaron Gwin a wizard? No. Aaron Gwin is SPECIALIZED.
  • 1 0
 Rad shots!
  • 3 5
 specialized, santacruz, specialized, next time the winner will be santacruz
  • 6 7
 Gwin is GOAT
  • 8 3
 Minnaar
  • 5 5
 Gwin is GOAT
  • 11 19
flag rockyflowtbay (Jun 14, 2015 at 20:16) (Below Threshold)
 When he wins multiple World champs then you can start comparing him to Minnaar, Hill and Nico. The true greats.
  • 27 7
 When Minnar, Hill and Nico win a World Cup without a chain then you can start comparing them to Gwin.
  • 13 5
 Well being that Minnaar had been around for over a decade and has 17 WC wins, Gwin at 5-6 seasons and already has 12-13 WC wins, I'd say he's nothing short of "A Great". I wouldn't consider Hart "A Great", even with a World Champ title, as he has yet to win a World Cup race. Gwin showing the dominance he has been since his first World Cup race he is 2nd only to the Alien. Since the competition is so much tighter and more dense, I'd say Gwin is well on his way to being the GOAT. Alien only really had Peaty and Barel has serious competition; Gwin has a solid 20+ competitors that could take the win at any race.
  • 14 6
 Sorry dude but this isn't even a discussion. Great run for sure. Unreal race by Gwin. But you cannot call him GOAT. He's not even close to Minnaar. Minnaar has 3 world champ titles, 3 overall titles, and last year was they first time since 2008 he hasn't finished in the top 3 for the overall. Minnaar's beat the alien, peaty, hill, in both World champs and the overall. Gwin has a way to go, but he's on pace to be a legend for sure. Hoping for an equally exciting rest of the season. Great seeing some new blood on the podium this weekend
  • 3 3
 MotoX has Ricky Carmichael. MotoGP has Valentino Rossi. F1 has Michael Schumacher. WRC has Sebastien Loeb. CC has Julien Absalon. MTB has.........gotta be Nicolas Vouilloz. 5 x series wins and 16 x cup wins. Overall series by far means the most, and he has the most. But it's not as clear cut as other racing series.
  • 6 1
 Nope ACC is the winningest.
  • 6 3
 Its cute when a bunch of young bucks have opinions but dont know the history of the sport that they are commenting on.
  • 4 1
 Let's not forget when Gwinner put 8 SECONDS into Minnaar on a DRY Val Di Sole track. Almost as amazing as winning a WC with no chain.

www.pinkbike.com/video/261255
  • 9 6
 Its cute when stubborn old man is being a stubborn old man and gets a little scrunch in their bunch.
  • 2 0
 lol, I'm almost 40... but hey I still consider myself a young buck.
  • 7 1
 ha....that got to you..... its funny to see these kids think that downhill racing started in 2009.
  • 4 0
 Gwin is a pure blood wizard, Lord Nico Voldemort approves.

@scriz, I am turning 34 this year and I don't ride road bikes, yet I have already developed dash-dot morning pee. 10 more years and I won't be able to trust any of my farts.
  • 2 0
 Jesus @WAKIdesigns you are so funny. Love ya! haha
  • 2 0
 Never trust a fart after 35.
  • 2 0
 Never waste hard wood after 35
  • 1 0
 How do you even quantify GOAT? I doubt even Aaron would say that about himself. He is damn good, but so are so many others.
  • 3 0
 @scriz thanks for that video. better commentating then. I miss the old warner
  • 1 0
 If AG bags this year and at least 2 more, and rainbows b4 retirement. ..he'd be the goat.
  • 4 0
 In a sport that is so dangerous with little longevity Gwin still has a lot to prove. There is no doubt that he has had his years of domination, but things can change fast in this sport. Look at Hill in the early 2000s, smashing riders times by double digits, but with strong competition and injures he has been slowed down. Thats why Minnaar is such a freak, winning rainbow jerseys a decade apart, that will never happen again.
  • 2 0
 The field is way more competitive now than it was a decade ago. Many wrote Gwin off in 2013, now he's back putting 4 seconds into everyone at Lourdes and winning the gnarliest version of Leogang without a chain. Rainbows are overrated.
  • 1 2
 Is it though? How many different riders have won a WC in the last 5 years since AG won his first....eight. Thats 8 in the last 45 races or so. I actually think there is less parity now than before. Also you must have not seen the movie, Won't Back Down. Worlds is the biggest race for every rider, including your boy, Gwin.
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