Video: And The Winner Is... - Pinkbike Academy Episode 10

189 Comments

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Matturalistic FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:53)

The second Evan said he quit his job to be there, not only did I want him to win, but I knew he had it. That is exactly the type of commitment that they want. Sure, he lost the race (by 2 seconds if you subtract the 5 lost to a mechanical - which was ONLY 5 seconds considering he couldn't pedal at all for half of the stage), but he offers a ton of love toward the sport (the fact that he took 2.5 years to build a trail is testament to that). He is modest, coachable, had a clear desire to do content, and is the type of rider that they can build a brand around, whether he is winning or not...

To that end, keep in mind that while we only saw limited racing, the other challenges were important as well. If you aren't winning at an EWS level, you aren't selling bikes for just being there. You need to build a narrative, and provide marketing in other ways. The fact that Evan wants to race some smaller circuits might allow Orbea to focus their market plan better with time and demographic in mind.

Well done PB for putting this on, and congrats too all the riders. Stoked for Evan. I think he is the rightful winner of this competition. Best of luck next season!

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salespunk (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:03)

Evan was definitely the right choice of the final three, although they all had their positives. The show was great because it demonstrated the kind of commitment and diverse requirements of getting a contract today. It is not just about raw speed, a rider has to be the full package.

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bike-lair (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:14)

For all the hate on the types of challenges and the way they did the eliminations, their system picked out a skilled and passionate rider who will make a great pro racer IMO

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sspiff FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:43)

Evan wasn't only the most consistent rider, he was also the most humble by a long shot.

The other two only focused on why they were the best, Evan reflected on how his competitors were awesome riders and ambassadors to cycling, but that he fit this particular package the best.

If I were a bike company he is the exact rider I'd want: building others up while still kicking ass.

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Ktron (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:29)

Good to see he won. I couldn't get past episode 2 with all the bs reality TV elimination show shtick, but still wanted to know who won.

13 1

ocnlogan (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:43)

@sspiff:

Exactly.

He's on pace. Although Ben won the overall at the event, as you said, especially considering the mechanical, the difference in time isn't very significant. Even the top EWS racers flip flop on who takes each stage/race.

He also had more defined media plans, showcased more commitment (the trail he built, and quitting the job), and has an approachable demeanor that comes across well.

And he's got the attitude that isn't just willing, but excited to continue learning from those at the upper echelons of the sport. I'd have hired him as well.

Not putting Jo or Ben down at all, as they were both good contestants as well. I'm sure if they choose to pursue it, with the level of exposure they have had now, it would be much easier to seek out other sponsors/contracts if they choose to do so.

Also, I (and many others) called this when his edit came out yesterday. The timing was oddly specific

waldo-uribe (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:52)

Agree. im sad for ben, i was hoping that orbea made a deal with him anyway.

Kickaxe (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:13)

@uribefache: Ben is apparently sponsored by Commencal anyway, wouldn’t worry too much about him

SuperHighBeam (Dec 17, 2020 at 16:30)

@uribefache: Ben is a better fit for UCI World Cup DH. He's much more relatable to that crowd. I'm sure he can find his way over there.

finclarke (Dec 17, 2020 at 23:06)

@SuperHighBeam: would be great to see him there in a few years

NMK187 (Dec 18, 2020 at 10:03)

Thanks Pinkbike, I really enjoyed this series. Congrats Evan!

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ReformedRoadie (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:50)

The two who didn't win accepted the loss gracefully...imagine that...

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stunnanumma1 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:30)

you mean they didnt file 50 lawsuits?

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SendItEveryday (Dec 17, 2020 at 12:37)

wow, canadians are great!

20 2

CSharp (Dec 17, 2020 at 13:06)

LOL, that's because they weren't clowns.

19 98

DylanH93 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 13:32) (Below Threshold)

Refreshing to see a contest without fraud these days.

12 0

Krby805 (Dec 17, 2020 at 13:51)

this one must have passed under Hugo Chavez's radar

21 8

ReformedRoadie (Dec 17, 2020 at 13:59)

@DylanH93: Most fraud is the figment of the imagination...usually imagined when the contest in question doesn't go your way.

archibaldbarisol (Dec 18, 2020 at 9:50)

@SendItEveryday: Indeed. For this metaphor, I'd say "rational, thoughtful human beings."

archibaldbarisol (Dec 18, 2020 at 9:51)

@DylanH93: Refreshing to see a contest that isn't preemptively contested with "fraud."

139 2

leftypumpkin (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:28)

Congrats Evan (from the guys that ride with your dad).

AndrewKeen (Dec 17, 2020 at 21:27)

I second that!!

101 1

willdavidson9595 (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:01)

I think the dude with the Orbea Rallon will win.

vtdownhiller FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:29)

LOL

rtclark FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 19:40)

This whole time I thought it was a stumpjumper

pedalt0themedal (Dec 17, 2020 at 21:22)

and fox suspention

vtdownhiller FL (Dec 18, 2020 at 3:27)

@rtclark: bro actually

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djharder81 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:30)

Hell yes Evan Wall! Congratulations mate, was awesome to see you grow as a racer when we were racing the early BC Enduro series, always knew you had what it takes to be a Pro racer!

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RossLo (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:30)

What a great series! Please do this again next year! One point of criticism, add more racing early on so we can see the riders in action.

13 1

mtmc99 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:43)

Agreed, the show was a fun watch but I would also like to see a bit more racing earlier in the season. It seems like the right folks made it to the end but it would be nice to have a feel for how quick all these folks are earlier in the season.

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TrevZ (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:00) (Below Threshold)

No thanks it was kinda boring and we aren't 14 year olds that need reality tv. Put the money towards more sponsorship of underrepresented groups instead.

thingswelike FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:14)

I actually forgot how fast Ben and Evan were until the last two episodes!

BrutalSyl (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:22)

Yeah, fun series but it did took a while before we got to see timed runs. Other than that, I never watch elimination shows, there is a lot of drama and cringy moments but I guess that this is how tv is done nowadays. Stoked to see that dude win, he looked like a relaxed laid back dude that can definetly ride a bike. 25 grands ! jeez ! a lot of money ! Hope it was worth PB !

8tom8 (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:58)

@TrevZ: the only thing I would swap this for is a grim donut race team with cathro and barelli

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wobblegoblin (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:34)

I wanna see a Naked and Afraid on a Double Black Diamond season. . .

joehandlebar (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:57)

@mtmc99: For sure. Although I would imagine the amount of time spent capturing and editing the footage was the main obstacle. Just as unfortunate though....another obstacle is the waning attention span for the average YT watcher. Some of us could easily watch an hour of racing while everyone else just skips to the end after the first 90 seconds.

IMeasureStuff (Dec 17, 2020 at 12:42)

I think they announced on the podcast that PBA is definitely happening again.

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bookem13 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 13:52)

Can we have a series for old, crusty, Mechanics? We could compete to be Evans race tech.

8tom8 (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:56)

@bookem13: that would be good I would love that

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DangOLDangus (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:15)

downvote all you want, but I enjoyed the hell out of this! Thanks, Pinkbike! Stoked for Evan!

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createthemess (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:28)

Stoked for Evan, he's the people's champ and the right guy for Pinkbike and Orbea. Clearly Ben's insanely fast and going pro without any help from the Challenge. Also, his attitude fits right in with Elite riders - he's so intense and ruthless I question whether he's even Canadian!

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JayUpNorth (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:00)

Clearly you have never watched hockey.

31 0

iammarkstewart (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:33)

Definite high fives to all the competitors, stoked for Evan!

But also some high fives for the crew and production. I enjoyed watching this series, and bonus mentions for the judges. Ms. Chappetta has been a great addition to PB and continued to match the high bar she's set while on this series. I enjoyed all the guest judges and their inputs (Mr. Vanderham was a bonus). However, I'm not sure what it is with the French panache, but enjoyed the extended stay of Mr. Cousinie. Accent, unwavering focus on the big picture, just the right hint of sporadic smile and humour.

I hope this is an annual thing, and next year maybe try Levy hosting, @christinachappetta as anchor, and @remymetailler for co-judging and mandatory accent content.

Alexisjmorgan (Dec 17, 2020 at 13:06)

Agreed, though the entertainment (& accent) value would be upped even further with Yoann Barelli! Remy is phenomenal, don't get me wrong, and involving him and @stevev88 would be sweet, but if we're going for entertainment, nobody makes me laugh like Yoann (unless its Remy's remarks whilst following Yoann!). That and without question the Grim Donut needs to make a showing in the future.

Would also love to see a creative trail build section (e.g., Matt MacDuff's recent Title bit...granted that was a huge amount of work), but creative riding, skills on skinnies, etc. - all of that is where bike brands are built.

Well done PB!

stevev88 (Dec 18, 2020 at 19:33)

@Alexisjmorgan: wooo!

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Andykmn (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:49)

Whatever you thought of the content, the production quality of this was top notch. Passionate people behind the scenes, cameras, and screens. This last episode was extremely well editted with the riding, voice over, music and interviews stichted together very well.

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swenzowski (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:39)

Would be interesting to know what sponsorships these peeps already had going into the series. I could be wrong but I think Ben already had a pro contract with Commencal which is why I didn't think he would win. The show was great exposure for him and Commencal though.

thg80 (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:56)

It seems that you are correct regarding Commencal:

ca.linkedin.com/in/ben-wallace-1238081b8

napguy FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:16)

Awesome to hear, amazing opportunity for Ben!

fedfox (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:54)

Great news!! I hope Jo gets one as well. It will be interesting to keep track of Ben and Evan in the EWS. Thank you Pink Bike

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axcooper (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:06)

It can't be much of a contract if he's willing to go a reality TV show to win another one.

TheR FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:33)

@thg80: I’m surprised if Commencal was a sponsor they’d let him be seen on another bike, or let him ride for an opportunity to be sponsored by someone else.

thg80 (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:01)

@TheR: I think the same. Maybe Ben's LinkedIn profile is not up to date. But it is interesting that he is/was already riding for a bike manufacturer.

swenzowski (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:53)

@TheR: check out his IG. He's been posting clips on the Commencal tagging them and his other sponsors throughout the show airing.

If I was Commencal I'd be happy that one of my riders was getting such great exposure. I had heard of Ben Wallace, but just thought he was Mark's brother or something. Now I am following him and will lookout for his future results.

TheR FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:50)

@swenzowski: Well, they clearly let him do it. I guess it’s win-win for everyone. But it’s not very common in the sports sponsorship world. Maybe the fact he wasn’t too well know allowed him this opportunity.

SendItEveryday (Dec 17, 2020 at 12:38)

yeah and evan was with Ibis I think

swenzowski (Dec 18, 2020 at 4:32)

@TheR: yeah I agree, definitely unconventional. But it definitely helped him get his name out there, now here we are talking about Commencal for no other reason than because of this show lol

danielstutt (Dec 18, 2020 at 5:03)

@SendItEveryday: his PB profile says he was riding a 2015 Giant Reign

swenzowski (Dec 18, 2020 at 6:10)

@danielstutt: he probably hasn't updated it since 2015 lol look at his IG

danielstutt (Dec 18, 2020 at 8:00)

@swenzowski: haha ok probably true, I don't use IG so haven't seen

racerfacer FL (Dec 18, 2020 at 8:10)

just like people complained about the pros entering the GoPro contest ($10K), $25K is a big deal for these riders, bigger than what they are currently getting. I think it was unrealistic for people to expect Pinkbike to pick a rider who came out of nowhere, except maybe a bro deal, when the prize was much greater than what the local "pros" were getting.

swenzowski (Dec 18, 2020 at 8:14)

@racerfacer: And the dope thing about it is it's taxed like any other income, you don't have to pay any extra taxes due to it being prize money:

"As a Canadian resident, the Canada Revenue Agency (the CRA) does not require a contest or sweepstakes prize winner to pay fees or taxes of any kind on your prize winnings. ... The CRA considers these 'prizes' as a type of salary, and the value of the prize will be taxable under the terms of employment income."

sauce: turbotax.intuit.ca/tips/are-my-prize-or-lottery-winnings-taxed-3743#:~:text=Lotteries,organization%20are%20generally%20tax%2Dfree.

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jcc0042 (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:07)

I think it's worth noting that Ben seems to have received way more training and has significantly better riding form than Evan, but really isn't any faster. Evan was the best choice in terms of racing ceiling. Imagine how fast he may be when the Orbea team teach him to bend at his hips more than in his knees.

ericolsen (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:52)

I agree with you that Evan’s form could improve, just like anyone’s. But if you look at top DH riders like Loic you’ll actually see a similar chest up style. If anything a chest up riding style with large range of motion in the legs is more advanced and requires balancing the hips over the BB to maintain front end grip. This allows for more subtle hub rotation and has advantages in corners over a simple hip hinge riding style. Rant over lol

ericolsen (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:53)

*hip rotation

jcc0042 (Dec 17, 2020 at 16:13)

@ericolsen: I don't disagree with the fact that some top downhillers bend at both their hips and knees to give more of an athletic stance. I'm more specifically referring to how he opens his knees to get further bend there, instead of keeping his knees in line and transferring a bit of that bend to his hips so that he isn't compromising lower body power.

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PeterWojnar (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:55)

Couldn't be more stoked for Evan, guy has the most infectious attitude about bike riding of anyone I know! Can't think of anyone better deserving of the win.

mammal (Dec 17, 2020 at 12:18)

Great edit with him the other day, Peter. Definitely pulling for the guy more so, after watching that.

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oragy (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:00)

*Ben gets snubbed because of lack of media presence*

Also Ben: Drops banger free ride almost immediately after the show

iRiderPB (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:35)

Right? The only contestant whos riding got me stoked to ride myself was Ben. Style and speed. Beating Evan at his own game.

j3ff100 (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:40)

Agreed, Bens IG quality is way to good to get snubbed for lack of media presence.

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recneps57 (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:49)

If you look at his IG though, it's WAY better after PBA than it was before, clearly he took the feedback and is getting better at this part of the job.

nice-guy (Dec 18, 2020 at 7:30)

Could you plz give a link to his edit?

13 1

qman11 (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:18)

Hell yes, Evan!! Man I remember the summer days building jumps/trails on the neighbourhood ridge here in YYC way back when with you/Alex and the rest of the boys! Seems like soooo freaken long ago!

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CrawfordMTB (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:36)

jr academy next summer? 15+

stunnanumma1 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:31)

sheeet - i get schooled by them every race

Hardnacks (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:02)

100% no doubt he earned it. Perfect way to end it. I didn't think about this until now, but could you imagine what the riders on the Obrea team are thinking? You've worked so hard to get to were you are, and now some winner of a contest is going to be on the team? I could see people being pissed about it. That's a huge reason why I think Evan is the perfect person to win. No doubt he'll be the best teammate. Great job evan, can't wait to follow you on the EWS circuit.

withdignityifnotalacrity (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:22)

@ocnlogan: it helps that he has great speed. Once he starts posting results, doubts shall fade.

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TheR FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:36)

Put simply: the right guy won.

Aleven (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:37)

The racing was the best part of this whole series. It was just riveting watching Evan and Ben go back and forth. I was wishing they'd show more clips of how they each did on particular sections.

It was also awesome to see Jo close that gap on Christina in stage 6. Showed that she's faster on tech than she is on flow.

I am looking forward to another season of this. Hopefully they tweek the format so that

1) eliminations are based on races, so that...
2) there's a race every episode, and...
3) those kiddie contests earn things like -5 seconds on their next stage

Congrats to Evan Wall...he showed fantastic character throughout and I'm looking forward to seeing what he does with his career!!

Mero3880 (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:27)

Massive congrats, Evan. I think you represent the passion and spirit of mountain biking admirably and will be an excellent ambassador. Orbea have a great asset in you. Thanks to PB for this series. It was fun, inspiring and made me want to get out and ride.

Edendino (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:35)

Well deserved!!! The guy is humble, positive and talented rider. I’m looking forward to watching him taking good results on the EWS

Davemk (Dec 17, 2020 at 15:16)

Congrats Evan! Also great job PinkBike for stepping out of the box to provide original MTB content that highlighted great people and the sport we all love. I hope they bring back a bigger and better PinkBike Academy next year that has 20 contestants (10 male/10 Female) with a male and female winner. But, keep competitions mixed including the team comps. I also hope that there is a bigger focus on racing and media content since those are the really services that sponsored athletes provide to a bike company, and less mechanical comps (or stupid simon says rules based scavenger hunts). Overall I liked it, it was entertaining with a high production value. Great work.

madmon (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:58)

I for one was surprised I loved thisss storey so much. At first I wa skeptical and thought it was a joke that might harm a real contestant like winning "best new rising artist" at the JUNOs and we all know that is the kiss of death.
after weeks watching I hold Pinkbike in HIGH regard here and have been converted.
ALL 3 are winners and I would have chosen the same 3 and the same winner.
Dude quit his job and wants to be a mountain bike ambassador.
........he already is.

jut8 (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:29)

They all crushed it! Stoked for Evan on the Win, however a part of me was wishing after handing Evan the check, Jason was going to throw something in like "You three worked so well as team, you will be joining Evan as teammates in 2021" Stoked for all of them, such a cool thing to watch.

cem1224 (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:49)

Congrats Evan and Kudos to Pinkbike for putting this Pinkbike Academy! More Seasons to come!

mammal (Dec 17, 2020 at 12:17)

Congrats Evan! Well deserved. Hope you make the most of it, and use this opportunity as a spring-board to great things for a long time.

CSharp (Dec 17, 2020 at 13:03)

Congrats Evan, for winning the Pinkbike Academy and the Pro Tour contract! Enjoy your dreams and the fun you're gonna get! Cheers!

woofer2609 (Dec 17, 2020 at 13:26)

For me, with this series, it's like we've reached the point where specialty content created for the web is superior to cable, etc (with a few HBO exceptions, etc.)

Kashima (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:19)

He deserved it

napguy FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:14)

I cant imagine how hard the news would be for Ben and Jo but they looked stoked for Evan. Good on ya guys!

barlow2 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 12:18)

Well Done PB, I really enjoyed watching this series during my Thursday lunch break. Best of luck Evan!!

adrian-montgomery (Dec 17, 2020 at 12:23)

I'm excited to see where each of these contestants grow from this experience.

TimnberG (Dec 18, 2020 at 6:38)

Dearest Pinkbike Crew, I sincerely would like to apologize for my negative comments about putting on a reality tv show style competition. After watching a couple episodes it grew on my and by the end of the season I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks for putting this together and hopefully there will be more seasons to come.

Mkolacz7 (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:26)

Evan was my day one favorite. Stoked for you bud!

UncleGrandpa62 (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:02)

Next show just race, no video or picture bs contests, also don't lump them all in one group competing for 1 contract. Have the men vs men, women vs women, have two winners, two contracts.

theredbike (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:09)

In this game Evan's always ready for more. They tried to push him to his limits but they ain't know that Evan's been here before.

letsgoridebikes18 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:15)

So good! Looking forward to watching where you take this Evan!

ProudMTBdad1974 (Dec 17, 2020 at 12:30)

I liked Jo. She seems real, grounded, creative, and fun. I hope to get my youngest up to Squamish one day and in for a lesson with her.

aer0 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:44)

They all had so much stoke and positivity but Evans was just infectious. Ben was a little bit young and eager, instant gratification feeling but im sure he has a huge future ahead of him. I hope some sponsors pick up Jo and back her coaching and racing efforts, she has potential to go next level for sure

bctrailblazer68 (Dec 17, 2020 at 23:19)

Thank you Pinkbike and the participants. All your hard work in creating this project is truly appreciated, Good shit and good fun! Fam loved it! Personally, I would have liked to seen it split ~$8333 per and have them all be picked up by the sponsor(s). They all have something to offer, whether it be individually or collectively.

Merry Christmas and thanks again

torro86 (Dec 20, 2020 at 22:05)

Loved watched Ben’s smooth style but was pulling for Evan. He’s the full package and his attitude and commitment inspired me throughout the series. I loved the episode where he rebuilt that fork like he was making a bed...no big deal. That guy is homegrown and so relatable. I can’t wait to ride my bike and be a good dude at the same time! Great series PB, hope this becomes a yearly!

biketrailman (Dec 17, 2020 at 16:54)

Evan was an amazing rider and what he did to get where he is requires so much skill but if he wouldn't have been able to win I would think Jo would be the right person to take the prize.

cool3 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:52)

Congrats to Evan. He had the best answers, best attitude and he's fast. With some work and good coaching, he'll go far!

Edendino (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:51)

I have a feeling that some bike brand will offer Ben a contract regardless because he’s fast and young with a good potential as a pro rider

the-patrick (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:34)

Sounds like he was already riding for Commencal

bishskate (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:56)

Hell ya, Evan is definitely the right pick. Crazy talent and drive while also being so chill and approachable. He'll be an asset to any team.

mw2bonn (Dec 24, 2020 at 19:02)

Wrong all wrong. First off, Ben is the fastest. Second is that Evan is only 3 years older than Ben. Three years older and slower. the younger guy will learn and smoke that old fart. as an old fart ... i'm more than able to present a thoughtful marketing campaign ... but i am slow as fu...ck you do not want me as your race ambassador albeit that i am slow. wrong .... wrong .... wrong... Ben will to learn to communicate to all of the bullshitting things he needs to say. .

Edtheshred (Dec 18, 2020 at 1:43)

Enjoyed the season, maybe more racing/ridding next time.
Evan was the rightful winner and seems like a top bloke.
Congratulations Evan. Unlucky Ben next time!

emiliooo35 (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:59)

Heck yeah!!!! I'm guilty of skipping to the end to find out LOL

SimbaandHiggins (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:54)

The best man won! It will be fun to follow Evan into the 2021 season.

Echaniz (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:12)

Evan was for sure in my top 3 straight from the beginning, loved his attitude towards biking and life in general he irradiates such a good vibe. Congrats man!!!!

vtdownhiller FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:56)

When he said he quit his job it was over

swissironrider FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:14)

Cool series!
Maybe next year instead of simulating races, why not send them to an actual race?

dldewar (Dec 17, 2020 at 12:44)

I am not sure if I liked the format overall but I watched all of them except this episode when I skipped to the end to confirm that Ben won.

I would change the format a little:

1) report times and results with ratings so the audience knows exactly how people stepped up. A table after each measured event with times etc. Would add 5 seconds.
2) give each competitor one mechanical mulligan for the event. Evan had a one time mechanical and there was a flat tire earlier in the event. My suggestion would be that they get to re do one run if they have a mechanical if they elect to use it - they would have to choose not knowing others times. They can use anytime during event. Every rider has a mechanical at some point. When you start having many and no one else has them either you have bad luck or it is indicative of something to improve in your riding style.
3) I am fine with comparing Jo to Christina BUT to be fair a male pro should have also done the run to put Evan and Bens performances in perspective. All shown on a graph or table of course.

Look forward to next year.

dldewar (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:22)

I meant Evan of course!

Assclapp FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 15:47)

Pros don’t get mullies for tires and mechs. And I don’t think Jo necessarily had to beat Christina, just demonstrate that she was in the ballpark. And as someone said before both Evan and Ben have posted good results in national races (including EWS qualifier in Evans case) so whether or not they have pro pace isn’t really a big question mark.

dldewar (Dec 17, 2020 at 23:08)

@Assclapp: Agreed on the Ballpark - but we were not even told how the times compared.... heck did we see really any times? I had no idea how Evan and Ben do - I only watch the show- but good point.

dihanventer (Dec 17, 2020 at 17:09)

Next show : pinkbike trail academy! Trail building in a reality tv home renovation format - please

E30m3 (Dec 17, 2020 at 18:05)

This was such a well done series. I hope PB continues to do it. The right person won for sure. Great job

tuskenraider (Dec 17, 2020 at 19:57)

Great job winning Evan, well deserved! Would have been interesting to see Adam from The Privateer running the courses as a comparison in times..............

KiwiSheep FL (Dec 18, 2020 at 0:02)

$25k is so little money to live on for a year! They must give extra for coaches/gym membership/travel/accommodation. Is that below minimum wage in Canada?

danielstutt (Dec 18, 2020 at 5:07)

Think PB paid the $25k as a prize for winning. Orbea are providing a contract which I guess has its own remuneration.

pballbiker (Dec 19, 2020 at 23:13)

Pink bike academy was soon good. It takes it out of the mainstream media of what mountain bike should be like. Favorite episode must be the scavenger hunt.

princeofgenovia (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:50)

Ok, so where do I put in my application for The Real World: Big White Bike Park?

(Evan, congrats bud!! Well deserved)

Bigdave46 (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:09)

Nice work Evan!!! I got to see you race in your first year, I was blown away by your skill as a kid. Congrats on the win

wgmmm98 (Dec 17, 2020 at 18:07)

First time my favorite from episode 1 has ever gone on to win a reality show. Congrats Evan!

hanstock21 (Dec 18, 2020 at 0:20)

World record for the amount of times "like" is used in a sentence. Glad Evan won, top rider and humble personality !!

nastic (Dec 18, 2020 at 9:01)

Yeah Evan, keep sending it and keep being you buddy!

foshizz (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:12)

Gimli the dwarf

p-m-z (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:37)

Don't look at the comments before I watch It. Don't look at the comments before I watch It... ugg

swissironrider FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:16)

Can you please make a freeride/slopestyle edition of this?

StumpHumper45 (Dec 17, 2020 at 12:31)

Ben lost me with the alter ego sunglasses BS he pulled at the beginning of the show. Glad the right guy won!

jimbsport FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:16)

when he said he quit his job and build a trail for 2.5 years this dude is commited to bike

maxgod (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:40)

Can we buy those Rallon for cheap now? I'll take Ben's gray one

Skooks (Dec 17, 2020 at 16:42)

I enjoyed watching this way more than I thought I would!

mhoshal (Dec 17, 2020 at 20:58)

Such a humble guy!! Not sure why but he reminds me of like a Canadian McGazza.

edummann (Dec 17, 2020 at 21:15)

Stoked Evan won. Rad rider with a killer attitude!

zeusdreadbeard (Dec 17, 2020 at 23:44)

Best man won. But get Ben the downhill racer on pinker factory racing with "Privateer" Cathro and the donut

thetruejb (Dec 18, 2020 at 0:18)

Glad to see Evan won but I still feel like my boy Addison got robbed

jesses-g FL (Dec 31, 2020 at 16:22)

Does anyone know what PB did with all the GoPros they used? Are they selling them?

bermbanger (Dec 17, 2020 at 15:42)

As cringe as this segment was to watch, you made the right decision.

quikker (Dec 18, 2020 at 1:27)

I'm already sitting here and waiting for Pinkbike Academy Series 2021

BreakLikeTheWind (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:16)

Is it more Great British Sewing Bee than Love Island?

ROOTminus1 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:17)

Jason Lucas is good, but he's no Joe Lycett

blanshard16 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:36)

Alright PB if you can pull this off you can update the Fantasy names for next year

10 10

TrevZ (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:59)

Why did they hide the comment thread where people talked about how little they care about this content?

32 6

yeagermeister28 (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:39)

Heavily downvoted comments always get hidden. At the bottom of the comments you can make them visible. That said, complaining about free content that you are not forced to watch is dumb and deserves being hidden.

AC-130 (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:19)

"Time tickin! Time tickin!" Who else randomly sings that throughout the day now??

iduckett FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:10)

No, that's too much, I've been weighing something...

steezysam FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:58)

@iduckett: omg all the time, glad I'm not the only one

pgomez (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:44)

23:27 cue Lawrence of Arabia soundtrack. Wut?

blast-off (Dec 17, 2020 at 17:44)

Thanks for the great series, PB. Really enjoyed this!

j-p-i (Dec 21, 2020 at 14:29)

Awesome awesome series

Really hope we see another PB Academy next year!

richardkapp (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:38)

Season 2 please!!!

mtnbiker49 (Dec 17, 2020 at 15:53)

Thank goodness. The best all-rounder.

jyemen FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:51)

Love it!

11 12

fruchtriegel (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:50)

I have to tell you "Pinkbike" that I don't like how you made this video series. that reality show format didn't work for me.

littleskull99 (Dec 17, 2020 at 16:45)

No one got robbed.

maxnomas (Dec 17, 2020 at 18:52)

Well diserved Evan

mw2bonn (Dec 18, 2020 at 21:10)

confident rider equals .... losers

older but didnt't show success ... winner.

hmmmmm .... is there a fix?

punkwrench76 (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:33)

Solid kid,congrats!

pilhadastinky (Dec 17, 2020 at 17:49)

Stocked for Evan!

vtdownhiller FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:34)

who wins?

dirty505 (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:05)

My boss.

Below threshold threads are hidden

6 15

Sopiarz3 (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:08)

Ben’s going to be like the famous America Idol runner ups.

Evan to me is a forgettable rider with a monotone personality that I’m not to take the effort to check his results.

With Ben you have that love/hate dichotomy that’s great for marketing. It going to get you to look for updates to see his successes if you like him or search for bad results if you don’t.

maxnomas (Dec 17, 2020 at 18:52)

30 psi on my minnions

6 10

dmarsh15 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:53)

Its finally over!

markcorrigan FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:37)

meh

2 11

JackRalston30 (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:36)

Ben should have won because one word POTENTIAL.

13 1

wobblegoblin (Dec 17, 2020 at 10:28)

How does he have more potential as a 20 year old that couldn't beat a 21 year old???

6 18

lacuna (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:35)

who are these people?

18 9

uh-no (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:03)

more notable than you, that's for sure lmao

33 89

michaelheinrich FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:11)

Glad it’s over! Didn’t watch a single episode. Can we go back to „normal“ bike stuff now, please?

20 43

taskmgr (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:16) (Below Threshold)

I didn't watch one either. I feel good about my choices

16 50

TrevZ (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:17) (Below Threshold)

Yeah this is stupid reality tv shit get it off my bike site please.

64 16

Supergirl56 FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:18)

I actually really liked watching this. now you can downvote me.

59 6

juicebanger FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:37)

Complainers complaining about the free content they don't have to watch..

41 4

jmhills (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:46)

How can you be glad that something is over if you have never actually watched it or interacted with it, short of bitching in the comments section?

20 2

Barrold (Dec 17, 2020 at 7:56)

There is other content on PB. you can just look at that and not this. Also, congratulations on baiting me into this slightly salty reply.

4 13

michaelheinrich FL (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:42) (Below Threshold)

I like controversy- different people have different opinions, there is mine on top here.
For those who said how to comment on stuff I haven’t even watched: watched the first five minutes of episode one and was annoyed. PB waving annoying stuff in my face every week annoys me to and I wanna let them know I’m happy it’s over and not to put energy/money into stuff like that.
@Barrold gotcha

thegoodflow (Dec 17, 2020 at 8:56)

the pba fans need a content filter so they can have a safe space like the e-peddlers

uh-no (Dec 17, 2020 at 9:05)

lmao you just admitted to clicking into this *just* to leave this complaining comment. Either you're a liar or narcissist. Go back to your jake paul twitter feed, zoomer

iammarkstewart (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:10)

@Germanmike: Controversy like:

"Didn’t watch a single episode" but moving on to the even more paradoxical "I haven’t even watched: watched the first five minutes of episode one".

What's next? Actually, nevermind. GTFO.

taskmgr (Dec 17, 2020 at 11:43)

@iammarkstewart: it's an opinion. Some people like things and some people don't. Pinkbike would even more horrible if people didn't express their opinions

iammarkstewart (Dec 17, 2020 at 14:36)

@makripper: It's not an opinion when you can get your own opinion straight. You don't like it, but you didn't watch it, still didn't watch it but oh you watched a little, Whatever.

taskmgr (Dec 17, 2020 at 16:40)

@iammarkstewart: if you don't like the content. You don't have to watch it. I watched one of the last season privateer ones and didn't like it either. I'm not sure why I am even explaining this to you. Welcome to the internet. Not everyone likes everything you like.

iammarkstewart (Dec 17, 2020 at 23:52)

@makripper: You really are 99. I don't have any issue with not liking the content. It's the reasoning that makes no sense. At any rate, not sure why I am even explaining this to you. Welcome to comprehension. Not everyone gets it.

taskmgr (Dec 18, 2020 at 11:47)

@iammarkstewart: oh we get it. Trust me.

Video: And The Winner Is... - Pinkbike Academy Episode 10

Who did you expect to win Pinkbike Academy?

Who did you want to win Pinkbike Academy?