YT USA and Cam Zink Part Ways - Updated December 3rd

Dec 1, 2017 at 13:46
by Pinkbike Staff  
No pain No gain


Thanks to an Instagram story posted by Cam Zink reading "Official last day as YT USA," it appears that he will no longer be involved in YT Industries' USA operations.

Cam has been involved in the business since early 2015. Whether this means that another company will be taking over operations, YT is planning on running warehousing and distribution themselves, or something else entirely remains to be seen. Will we see Zink aboard a new bike in 2018? [UPDATE: he's still riding YT for the coming years]

Updated info below.
NA


UPDATE — December 3, 2017

Cam has confirmed he's still riding YT. YT's CEO Markus Flossman elaborated that "all existing customers will have full warranty and service on their bikes. Most importantly, Cam is still on YT and will be part of our team for the next years. He just handed over his duties in the operational side of the business and will now fully focus on his riding career and related projects."

YT's full press release below.


YT USA // Change of Business Structure

We are pleased to announce a structural change in the distribution strategy of YT in the USA. Instead of going through a service and distribution partner, our subsidiary YT Industries USA Inc. will be running the US business as of the 01.12.2017.

This means we can now fully implement our European direct sales strategy in the USA, offering several advantages for US customers, such as more attractive pricing, improved service and increased availability of bikes.

The new Head Office of YT Industries USA Inc. is based in San Clemente, California.

We would like to take the opportunity to thank Cam Zink for his support in running a service and distribution center in Reno for us over the last 3 years. Cam will remain with YT Industries as an athlete and continue to contribute to the business as part of the YT Family.

We are looking forward to delivering even more #GoodTimes to the USA.


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223 Comments
  • 193 2
 I’m gonna go out on a limb and say that Zink and YT aren’t parting ways.
Perhaps some name change or some play on words.
He didn’t say last day “at” YT USA
He said last day “as”
  • 18 2
 Exactly, it says no longer “involved in YT Industries USA operations.” Probably just won’t be running the business side. Still rocking YT for sure.
  • 12 0
 YT Industries USA - - - - is my guess based on corporate filings in August of 2017.
  • 51 320
flag jclnv (Dec 1, 2017 at 15:45) (Below Threshold)
 Ruthless company. Screwing LBS globally and US rider owned distribution. Makes me proud to ride Specialized.
  • 85 5
 @jclnv: hahahahahahahaha -or as they say in Spain jajajajajajajajajajaja
  • 12 3
 yea totally a name change to move on to something bigger! cuz that was zink does, he goes bigger than last time, every time. business moves included.
  • 54 43
 @endlessblockades: How do direct brands support the LBS's? The shops in my area make large contributions to the trails.

Specialized do vastly more trail work than YT. They also provide grants to trail organizations.
  • 18 9
 @jclnv: Through their service departments, but this is an old pointless argument you can't win. I support 3 shops in SF, the rest are on their own. I owe them nothing.
  • 216 36
 @jclnv: 1 YT owner builds better trails than 12 Specialized owners.
  • 22 9
 @JDFF: Bam, roasted. This.
  • 19 7
 @JDFF dude for real. check out Ogden bike park some time
  • 73 28
 @jclnv: I am still confused as to why Ina capitalist system we're still defending certain business models as having a right to life.

They don't. If Amazon can offer me parts cheaper than my LBS then Amazon is my new bike shop. Local shops are a great place to have a beer, but otherwise just a place to get charged too much and have someone, who may or may not have any idea what they're doing, take three days to fix something that takes less than an hour start to finish.

I understand the hardship involved for all those involved. But the writing is on the wall: I worked at a bike shop and bounced the second I realized commencal and YT have their business models operating well.
  • 25 4
 @jclnv: when you can afford your bike you are able to donate to to your local trail. YT has created affordable high end bikes, as well as canyon. With the few thousand dollars saved in the purchase of your bike you can become a supporter of your local trail group.
  • 4 0
 @wiscobiker: Was rad riding there while I worked for MAVIC.
  • 9 3
 @LoganKM1982: well put. In order to survive, they have to offer you something you can't get on the internet. Are they doing that? In most cases, no.
  • 3 0
 @wiscobiker: Dude what hahahahaha. OBP was built before YT was even available in America.
  • 15 34
flag jclnv (Dec 1, 2017 at 18:41) (Below Threshold)
 @dwmetalfab: Oh yes I'm sure the average YT owner gives as much as most LBS do for trail maintenance... Not to mention organizing trail days, giving breaks to builders etc.
  • 4 18
flag jclnv (Dec 1, 2017 at 18:42) (Below Threshold)
 @JDFF: What does that even mean?
  • 27 13
 @jclnv: where I live the folks on YT's (and other random brands) do way more trailbuilding than average Joe's who purchase Specialized (purchase, not actually riding trails). Around my parts Specialized is popular on paved bike paths and comfort bikes. Dudes on YT's, Kona's, Transition' s, Evils, SC, Norco, etc... actually ride and build. I actually would have no where to ride if my local Specialized dealer was building trails. So maybe my numbers were askew. More like 0.5 YT's to 37 Specialized.
  • 7 5
 @nickyp132: im just saying the crew who builds that place and added in the 60' 2 years ago a lot of them (including myself) ride YT's
  • 5 13
flag jclnv (Dec 1, 2017 at 21:00) (Below Threshold)
 @JDFF: that is bizarre.
  • 18 5
 @LoganKM1982: problem is crony capitalists like amazon take corporate subsidies/welfare.... how can little guys win when the big guys have rigged the system
  • 3 1
 Funny dude ???? @jclnv:
  • 14 2
 @dwmetalfab: Don't kid yourself though. Money saved is money spent on MTB upgrades, not donated to trail work.
  • 23 7
 @jcnlv - so first you don’t like Jesus and now you moralize on direct sales companies. You obviously have some guilt issues from owning a Specialized Wink
  • 11 0
 @SCCC120: yt is moving from Reno to southern California, Mr Zink lives in Reno, it could be that simple.
  • 14 5
 @jclnv: you really do own a specialized! And you are talking shit on Bike direct company’s you should really look into the company you support.
  • 2 2
 @inverted180: BINGO!
  • 6 3
 all this ‘shops support trail building nonsense’. Let me put it another way. If we bought bikes and bits from shops we would not need trails as hardly anyone would ride as they could not afford it.
Just as we have moved on from hideous geometry and 80mm elastomer forks, we have moved on from traditional buying models.
  • 3 4
 @JDFF: Our local trail system, slalom track, freeride line, and dirt jumps beg to differ
  • 16 2
 @jclnv: Specialized is one of the most ruthless companies in the world. If you knew someone deep in there dealer network you would understand. Personally I think the industry is trying to hold onto an old business model that is no longer viable in this age. Had shops and bike companies pivoted when the writing was on the wall then they would still be in the game. Just like every other industry that has fallen because of resistance to change or thinking they deserve to continue making money the same way they did for decades. Evolve or Die! --Disclaimer (I still ride a Spesh, only cause I know a guy)
  • 12 3
 @JDFF: it seems like both brands have followers that are dicks!!!
  • 3 2
 @Dcp584: hmm...I suspect you live somewhere with limited/flat terrain or you may not be "in" with the folks building the real trails that you aren't aware of???
  • 4 0
 @jclnv: come out for a visit. I'd be glad to show you the trails.
  • 1 0
 Damn straight!
  • 2 0
 @jclnv: not bizarre, just not that intelligent of a comment. Your right, bikes shops and local riding clubs, good ones, do contribute a lot to our local scenes. If we are lucky. I know our local club continues to do things that make our trails awesome. Maybe the people who feel otherwise aren't as lucky to have engaged and positive local shops or clubs. My point is that there is room for both. Yt has initiatives of its own as well. Research both sides and choose the one that tickles your pickle.
  • 4 6
 @inverted180: what? Amazon is helping the low income like me, afford more things...just like costco.
  • 3 5
 New socal office taking over. Inventory was always the problem.
  • 11 5
 @LoganKM1982: As of next year new old stock parts from SRAM and Shimano are only going to be available from online retailers. Need a 2017 or older part and you sure as hell are not getting it from a LBS. On top of that if you deal with the big three (Specialized, Trek, or Giant) they want 85% of you retail space. That's not just bikes, but hard goods, and soft goods. They also require premium retail space which means a location between the Apple Store and Starbucks.

Example:

I have always rode WTB saddles. The last two time I had to buy online because none of my LBS stock them. They only stocked saddles from the big three, and then there was this hard sell to one they had in stock. They didn't act like they wanted to special order one.

Other things that are killing the LBS model... staffing. I often walk into shops and there are five sales guys doing nothing but sitting behind the counter doing nothing. Half the time I don't even get a greeting when I walk in. Even if they are doing nothing. The LBS culture has been taken over by a bunch of young hipsters that could care less if the shop succeeds.
  • 3 1
 @Duderz7: sounds about right. Too bad we CA riders have to pay 400$ more a bike so YT can be in a more bigtime spot. Still gonna support them though, they have some of the best free beer at the Sea Otter. Closer to AG and industry movers and of course, Fontucky.
  • 2 3
 Word. As per the article posted below that apparently many people haven't bothered to read,

"If you follow the bike industry closely, you probably know that Cam Zink has been at the helm for YT USA. You probably also know that Zink rides as an athlete for YT. With the new office, Zink will no longer lead distribution but will continue as an athlete and contribute to the business."
  • 3 2
 @MikeGruhler: the fall of the bike shop has little to do with not pivoting. If you want to talk about the most evil company's why don't you look at the other big s. ever wonder why a cassette is 20$ cheaper online? Look into it. Aren't all of these bikes made in Taiwan and China you think yt and canyon pay there factory's better then spec or trek and then sell you a bike for no profit?
  • 3 2
 @JDFF: That's pretty generalized man.. Lol.. Lots of dope riders on spec where I live in the canadian rockies.. Lots of dope riders on a lot of brands... Not to many average Joe's on sworks stumpys round my parts, or carbon expert model enduros... Usually very good riders..
  • 4 2
 @ilovedust: You can't make comparisons coming from the UK. The involvement of shops in trail building in many areas of North America is pivotal to many trail networks.
  • 2 1
 @jclnv: Well, I know the owners 2 local bike shops and they both say selling bikes is a pretty minor part of their business, what makes the businesses work is 85% mechanical services and about 15% bike sales. As a side note they both love Canyons bikes they make them a lot of money
  • 10 0
 @jclnv: In terms of new bikes, if it wasn't for companies like YT and Canyon, I wouldn't have been able to buy a new DH Bike. Then I went to my LBS and bought my helmet and pads, my spares, get my forks serviced and generally spend time promoting them on social media for helping the locals with parts and advice. Oh and abusing their coffee.

If I hadn't been able to buy a DH bike for 70% the price of the ones in the shop, I wouldn't have had spare money to buy all those things or send more business their way.

The model is changing. Workshop/Accessories/clothing etc are obviously preferred services in person, but when it comes to bikes the math makes sense to have a sit on the bike you want down the trails when you see one so the size is right, then order it from wherever is cheapest. Some of us just can't keep up with the ever increasing industry prices.
  • 3 0
 @loganflores: Had shops switched to online sales 10+ years ago they would most likely be in a better position today. Just like the music and movie industry failed to change and lost billions in revenue since the days of Napster. Doesn't help that Chinese manufacturers are extorting these companies to release there products after they already paid to have them made. There even pitting them against each other in a bidding war to see who gets there new bikes first. Sounds crazy but totally true, just need to talk with the right person to find out this stuff.
  • 19 3
 @MikeGruhler: I am a bit tired of glorifying LBS. Half of shops in my town and in town I lived before were filled with a*sholes that I would never give a single penny to. One of them went out of business two years ago and I won’t cry after them. They didn’t fail bcause of online scales, they failed because they were elitist pricks and it turned out that they had little clue about running the books. In my old town, there was a shop owner who used to tell clients with high voice that he knows better than them. Oh yeah, the dude being shouted at was a complete idiot, but it still doesn’t give the owner any right to carry himself as an all time know all. So chill out.

Also what kind of stupid idea it is to tell people that if they get a cheap bike they should donate money to the trails building organisation. In what world do you live?! How long have you got in life with being so naive?
  • 1 0
 @endlessblockades: Which shops? Still trying to find a good shop here. Just moved to SF.
  • 2 0
 @michaeldorian: Elevation Bike Co in SF is good. @elevationsf
  • 1 0
 @inverted180: Damn it, you again?! Haha go back to the political thread before we have to fight! lol
  • 6 0
 It looks like Specialized spends 10x amount of money on e-bikes development compare to mountian bikes. As far as I see, they could care less about cycling in a long term, all they care is to make a quick buck. Luckly people start realizing that.
  • 5 2
 @RedRedRe: they would be silly to put too much focus on E-bikes. If moto companies will move in, and judging by yamaha they want to, they will demolish the market with their expertize and tech for the price
  • 2 0
 @JDFF: ahahahaha
  • 5 3
 @LoganKM1982: Bam someone understands! Overall quality of life increases when supply and demand are balanced.

However, I will say, you also have to think that shops do serve a purpose - they can offer service that most people, even with the knowledge, won't be able to do at home, and they offer parts immediately in stock, among other things. So sometimes you support a business because you want them to be there to offer you services you value. A lot of shops will get priced out, because they don't offer anything more than an online shop. However, many shops do, and those will be the ones that survive.

I buy ammo, dog treats, and other things from a ranch and feed store down the street, because I want that shop to be there when I need something on a Saturday morning in Driggs, ID. They have fine prices, but obviously can't compete with the selection and sales I can find online. If I always buy online, that shop might not be there and I will be SOL when I run out of .22lr on a snowy Friday afternoon, or blow out my leather work gloves and don't want to drive to another town or wait for shipping.
  • 2 0
 @tacoma73: ytusa now out of socal
  • 1 0
 @bhd13: yes, when you have to compromise on your bike components because of money than you are likely to spend your extra cash on upgrades. My point is that there is no compromise when you buy factory direct. You get what you want for a price that easeir to swallow. Leaving your extra cash for donations. Orrrr you don't have to work a second job so you can donate time.
  • 1 0
 @RichPune: that’s a bingo!
  • 2 0
 @jclnv: well if thats a critical point for you perhaps with the $1500-2000 you save when buying your bike from YT or other direct, plus the $3-600 per year you would save from buying parts online......... maybe you can donate that to the local trails...... that would be a lot more than a LBS would be willing to donate per bike sold.......

Maybe you already do a lot of digging and do donate to the local networks... maybe you dont..... but choice is good. ( in trails and in bikes & parts).......
  • 2 3
 @SillyTorque: True but let's be honest, hardly anyone donates to local trail building orgs unless they pay a yearly fee. There are motivated builders (thank f*ck) and there are people (most) who spend every penny looking rad and moan that the piss wet trails they're eroding suck. LBS have an invested interested in local trails being good which practically insures investment.

Besides, YT doesn't make any bikes I'm interested in.
  • 4 3
 @jaame:
@jaame:
Really?
I can-and do- bring my bike to my LBS and have adjustments, repairs, parts R&R'd WHILE I WAIT.
I can also try/size a bike before I buy it, along with shoes, helmets, gloves, not to mention if I ever have a problem with a part I bought there, I can simply return it back to the store for repair/replacement, ON THE SPOT.
NONE of this is able to be done over the internet. N-O-N-E
I find it hilarious when internet shoppers brag about how they just pop into their LBS to try on helmets/shoes/gloves, then go buy it on the web. Even for them, their LBS provides a service that their chosen supplier can't match-and a service that won't be around for much longer if people keep using their LBS for a showroom.
  • 11 1
 I have no idea how can someone look for any correlation between the make of owned bike and willingness to donate to trail building/ participate in trail building. It's beyond my wildest pattern recognition tendencies.
  • 1 0
 @dhtahoe2010: The last line you typed sums up the problem in general with retail. The notion of customer service is a lost art. I am not young anymore, but also not an old curmudgeon yelling at kids to get off my lawn. That said, walking into a store these days and expecting to get any service or assistance is is a recipe for disaster. Go in educated about what you want, ask if they have it, walk out and go to the next shop if they say they don't asking for a part to be ordered is useless. A buddy of mine tried to buy a frame from a LBS (since closed) locally, the frame was a previous year's model. The warehouse claimed to have 3 left when he was in the shop talking to the sales guy. Weeks went by and he went in to ask when the frame would arrive. He was greeted with a response of "oh, right, you wanted me to order that one right?" When said sales guy called their distributor, the frame was totally sold out, and his dream bike stayed as a dream. At least if I screw up my own online order I have no one to blame but myself. And the Hippies. And the Communists.
  • 2 0
 @WAKIdesigns: I know what you mean, there are already e-bikes made by motorcycles company. But in my opinion they lack the bicycle building experience, i.e. pedaling, low weight etc. etc. I have seen one made in spain but weighted 60 pounds. It did look better than any other e-bike, but it does not take much.
Regardless, I hope they just burn in hell.
  • 2 1
 @RedRedRe: they will make the motor and the frame then buy Suntour Durolux to them.
  • 3 0
 @WAKIdesigns: I think it's a regional thing. Really depends on local shop involvement, style of trails, and local advocacy groups. For what it's worth the past few days of building in my neck of the woods involved a Gorilla Gravity, YT, Ragely, Giant, Transition and a Yeti. Yes, there is a local Specialized dealer in town, but those dudes aren't getting rad.
  • 3 0
 @dwmetalfab: Agreed. If the price is close, I will support the local, little guy. But when we are talking about a purchase that is $6000, and then there is a product that is just as good/or better, for $4000, that is a big difference! When it's close, I support local, but with huge price differences like this, I might actually buy a new bike. Last new bike I bought was on proform in college... and I graduated in 2002...
  • 1 0
 @jclnv: There is a bike brand for everyone, litterally. Your Spesh is no better then the YT, just more expensive

LBS's are fading fast. Most in my area have converted into yuppie cafe/tap rooms. Over charge and under serve. I stay away at all cost.

I'm sure your LBS has a huge grin on their face when you come walkin' in with yer Spesh. Cha-ching.
  • 1 3
 @Mtb4joe: YT's are dated crap. They're still selling Capra's from 2014 LOL!
  • 1 0
 @jclnv: if their "crap" why are people buying 3 year old bikes? Nobody would buy a 2014 Specialized. Have you ridden a "crapra" haha. A bear to pedal up, but a blast on the way down. Just ask the legend Brett Tippie! I choose to ride an SB6C, but I'm not going to call it the best bike brand in the world. Just the best for me.
  • 1 3
 @Mtb4joe: Because they're cheap.
  • 2 0
 @jclnv: to each their one, but in my opinion "cheap" is the bike that comes loaded with house brand parts. Down to the tires! I would take the inexpensive option rolling on Maxxis.
  • 1 3
 @Mtb4joe: They save money by not changing carbon moulds for years. Plus external cable routing etc.

You can change tires, you can't change a reach number that's at least 20mm too short per size.
  • 2 0
 @jclnv: is just a salty hater. 20mm to short for an xc monkey in spandex. If it doesn't fit you, it doesn't mean it's" too short" haha! Numbers are numbers. I choose a bike because it fits/feels right, not because the geo numbers are on trend. You want to by a brand new bike and change parts? Have you ever ridden a YT? Or are just another spec sheet expert?
  • 3 0
 @jclnv: there is one actual flaw that Capra has and you didn’t mention it. It goes away if you install a coil shock or Float X2. Anyways, coming from Spec you are in no position to school others on geo.
  • 1 2
 @Mtb4joe: I can't ride one. Unless I ran a 125mm dropper max on a large or a 60mm stem on a medium.

You see, numbers matter.

Yeah I know it's too progressive. I actually think that's it's best attribute. The 18 Enduro geo isn't far off perfect IMO. Rear centre 10mm too short but otherwise good.
  • 2 1
 @jclnv: no disrespect man, but you’re a bit too deep into this. Go ride a BMX in a skate park or a 12” hotrock on a pumptrack and come back to me. 99% of this game is about the relation of your bum with the BB while 99% of bikes are great these days, This isn’t 2005. The E29 is great, the rest is as everything else.
  • 1 0
 @jclnv: For sure this bike isn't right for you, but humans come in all sizes and shapes. It fits some people and more importantly fits their budget. I don't choose to ride one, but I know people who do. And they rip on it! If you had the choice between a 3 or 4 year old used rig or this one because of your budget, would you take the beat up used bike?
  • 96 1
 10 to one Huffy finally came thru with that big dollar deal...
  • 26 3
 finally, a sponsor that can supply zink's insatiable need for top tube foam pads. keep dem man grapes protekted...
  • 13 0
 I predict a Huffy Green Machine 720ing a canyon gap into a mad wall ride drift at Rampage 2018
  • 92 7
 Possible name change to MAT, Middle Aged Talent?
  • 9 2
 definetely would be more accurate concerning the typical customer in Germany nowadays. despite still promoting that young outlaw attitude, they are full mainstram now. and i dont understand why everyone overseas are cheering them as the saviour of mountainbiking. they are not. solid bikes, good prices, smart marketing, but in the end they just make money like everybody else
  • 65 1
 Specialized wants gwin on their bike and it was cheaper to purchase yt?
  • 6 0
 that reminds me of when Burton purchased Forum, then closed it.
  • 3 0
 @ismasan: i still can't get over that one...
  • 3 0
 @RONDAL: #forumforever
  • 2 0
 @ismasan: Burton only bought Forum cause they wanted to use that stupid "freedom channel" or "freedom groove" or whatever the f*ck that dumbass binding mounting system was called, for their shit. Which Ride was doing with the Horseshoe way before that which also sucked but was dope AF at the time because they came up with it for baseless bindings. Never cared for Burton much and NEVER cared for Forum because Peter Line seemed madd douchey.
  • 39 0
 I emailed YT about a bike question and received a response saying that their USA operation was currently closing and they were in the process of standing up a new one. They directed me to email their HQ email in Germany...this is clearly more than Zink, and has to do more with an operational change in the US.
  • 6 2
 x2
When I attempted to go the the YT US website a week ago or so, I kept getting directed to the German website.
What if you purchased a bike from the US distributor and you need a warranty part etc.?
It would suck to find out you can no longer get taken care of by the US distributor via a PB story about a vague CK tweet
That would DEFINITELY steer me clear of doing business with this company in the future
  • 2 4
 @YoKev: Don't worry, I've know about this for a while, and I know the US market will be better off with whats coming...
  • 7 6
 @YoKev: What if YT is closing down in USA? Must be Mexicos fault, you know the wall they paid for!


...Don't take my comment to serius though ????
  • 1 8
flag re-ride66 (Dec 2, 2017 at 14:19) (Below Threshold)
 @YoKev: Hey, sorry that this happened to you. Lot's of people only look at what this bike cost vs that bike cost.The cost of customer service and support was not added to the purchase. Roll the dice with Canyon and YT and get burned or maybe not. I like to drive down to my LBS and let them deal with my warranty problems.
  • 5 0
 @YoKev: Not as bad as YT Canada. Email about buying a bike, they reply and it takes about 2 years to show up, email about a warranty/spare parts or service you just get ignored.
  • 25 0
 www.bikemag.com/news/yt-usa-changes-business-structure
  • 4 0
 Thank you for posting this. Too bad no one is reading it, but that clears things up nicely.
  • 3 0
 Good research. Thank you
  • 3 0
 Thanks.
  • 3 0
 Right up the road from Canyon’s US distribution in Carlsbad...?? That’s a little suspect.
  • 4 0
 Sell bikes cheap, yet open shop in a high rent area????
  • 16 2
 Bummer. Have bought multiple bikes from YT USA because of Brad, Howey and Cam. If not for them, I would not have bought from YT based on their European reputation for crap customer service. I am guessing that YT teminated Zink’s distributorship so they could make more money themselves.
  • 4 2
 Too cynical. Reno can get boring unless you have a personal bike ranch.
  • 1 0
 @carym, I've heard horror stories about the Canadian rep but I've had quite positive experience with the European HQ. Also heard mostly good opinions on the net.
  • 18 1
 YT have to go?
  • 1 0
 . .
  • 6 20
flag vinay FL (Dec 1, 2017 at 14:13) (Below Threshold)
 Back in the day you either had young talented kids who couldn't afford the bike that was good enough for competition use. They got the cheaper and less stable freeride bikes (think the later Bighit bikes when the Demo got the true DH geo) so that was the challenge. YT set out to change that. Stick to one build for every model (so that was basically one DH bike with one available spec) so that they could be cheaper than having so many versions. This way they could cater for the "Young Talent" who desperately needed a competition worthy bike. Basically: "shut up and go ride". I think it was a great model. Later on they diversified their line up to become more of a price-fighter and I think that is the way they entered the North American market. There isn't anything that makes them any more appealing to the youth than other cheaper brands. Actually I think it is striking that YT signs an established name like Gwin whereas a "dentist" brand like Yeti pulls out new young talent (ironically, this includes Gwin).

So even though YT probably are doing great at what they do now, the name YT isn't fitting anymore. In particularly not for the North American market. So I think they're just going to change the name to something more fitting. I'll leave it to the PB crowd to help (current) YT with something appropriate.
  • 16 1
 @vinay: this has nothing to do with Cam's story. What's the relevance?
  • 2 3
 @vhdh666: It says "last day as YT USA" in the article so I thought tomorrow they'll have a new name. I haven't figured out how this instagram thing works (when I click the link I'm getting a new page with loads of links but no story) so I don't know what Cam's story is.
  • 5 0
 @vinay: I was in the market for a new dh bike and I looked at the yt and the nukeproof pulse, pulse had a way better spec for the price. The price on yt has slowly been rising
  • 1 0
 @vinay: IG 'Story' only works on the mobile IG app, not the site. from what I've seen anyway.
  • 2 0
 @blakemoss: That's because Hill isn't on the Pulse any longer and Gwin is winning the WCs
  • 1 0
 @endlessblockades: Has anyone read the IG 'story' then? I tried m.pinkbike.com (on my computer, SuSE linux, Seamonkey browser) but it brings me back to this website. But my interpretation of "last day as YT USA" was different from what PB reckons it "appears that...". So maybe the IG story clarifies the whole thing. Otherwise, tomorrow is Monday and we'll hear about the "first day as ...".

@blakemoss : Yeah I honestly wonder what would have happened if they would have stuck to their original approach. That is, have only one single spec for each model so that they had the possibility to buy their components cheap and also be able to switch to a different component supplier if one doesn't deliver on time. I think it could have worked. Then again, if you want to sell bikes in North America, it seems you need to sell carbon frames too. At least judging by the PB comment section when a brand releases an aluminium bike of over 3000USD.
  • 1 0
 @vinay: agree but I don't think they really call themselves young talent anymore as it sounds kinda lame. Same situation with ns bikes, originally called 'north shore extreme', later nsx then ns bikes. I read somewhere that the owners felt the original name became a bit cheesy as it's not the 90s/early 00s anymore when everything was labeled 'extreme'.
  • 1 0
 @bonkywonky: Yeah, I think it was a great move by NS. When "overbuilt" and "extreme" went out of fashion, they were quick to show the more tender side behind the creators of the Shinburger. I'm sure they would otherwise have gone the way of the dodo/pornking. The only "overbuilt/hardcore" brand name that springs to mind that could stand the test of time is the Irish incarnation of Nukeproof.

I'm not slaying YT for catering for a wider audience. After all, the crowd in their 30s/40's may not have that much time to ride as their original target group, but there simply is much more money to make. Nothing against that. I just expected that they might change their name because of that just like NS did. After all, as a 38 year old I may also not buy and ride a bike called "teen spirit", "school's out" or "champion of the future".

Speaking of NS, I saw Sam Pilgrim in Amsterdam a couple of weeks ago. I came from the ferry when he entered so we didn't chat. He was with another rider who I didn't recognize. But both had cameras on their helmets so they probably have some video in the works. Looking forward to that, curious what they did there!
  • 2 0
 @vinay: "Yeah, I think it was a great move by NS. When "overbuilt" and "extreme" went out of fashion, they were quick to show the more tender side behind the creators of the Shinburger."

Wasn't the Shinburger pedal made by Brooklyn Machine Works?
  • 1 0
 @thekaiser: Yeah, you're absolutely correct there! I do recall NS also used to have some mean pedals but then I forgot which they were. Or well, maybe I just saw these pedals on one of their bikes.
  • 16 2
 Howie and Cam did me so right. It felt so good to deal with them. Best presales postsales and CS ever. His IG profile still says YT so I wouldn't get too turnt about it.
  • 13 2
 Yeah, the guys and gals at @yt-USA Reno are fantastic
  • 4 1
 @kwapik: So true - Brad was an excellent service rep and tended to my warranties (non YT related) immediately and with upgrades. I'd get another YT in a heartbeat.
  • 12 2
 Man this is super sad. I live 15 minutes from YT USA and they have helped me out so much. The customer service you got over there and warranty service blows away any bike shop. I love my YT Capra which is a bench mark bike as are all of there other bikes. My 9 year son was heart broker as he loves Cameron so much and YT. All of you haters go shove you don't know what you are talking about. RIP YT USA and thanks for everything!!
  • 3 0
 I think moving to Cali is a bad business move! Their operating costs are going to double.
  • 13 0
 I say someone puts a question mark after the caption since we don't actually know
  • 14 1
 Thank you. What’s up with this misinformation click bait bs pinkbike? You have a heading like that with no real facts/info?
  • 6 0
 In the MTBR article today, YT said that Cam will still be a sponsored rider and part of the company. Thanks for the clickbait PB.
  • 3 1
 Yup, doesn't say anything about him leaving. To me this signals a name change or something. Total click bait no information article.
  • 10 1
 more freeride less slopestyle
  • 6 1
 Free markets are awesome. I love that direct to consumers create tension in the bike industry. Healthy competition always has a trickle down to consumer effect. I’m a bike park manager and in the past few years I am always amazed at how many Commencal, yt and other direct to consumer brands in the lift line. At the same time, you still see big brand bikes as well that are current year models. It’s an exciting time in the bike industry where every brand is finding their way and adjusting their inventory production levels according to strategic forecasting. As the years go by, we will undoubtedly see more direct to consumer brands, we will also see more and more people learning self supported bike maintenance. This is a great thing, it creates. Healthy balance and self progression in the sport. The lbs will always be there and the giant lbs will always make it hard for the little lbs. it’s the way the world works, and there’s nothing that can be done, they all serve the people in which they serve
  • 1 0
 Change is always painful. I think long term, direct sales can help shops. No need to inventory expensive bikes with little profit, they stock lower and mid level bikes which are profitable, and they focus on repair and service which is their best and most reliable profit center.
  • 5 0
 YT USA – Change of Business Structure

We are pleased to announce a structural change in the distribution strategy of YT in the USA. Instead of going through a service and distribution partner, our subsidiary YT Industries USA Inc. will be running the US business as of the 1st Dec, 2017.

This means we can now fully implement our European direct sales strategy in the USA, offering several advantages for US customers, such as more attractive pricing, improved service and increased availability of bikes.

The new Head Office of YT Industries USA Inc. is based in San Clemente, California.

We would like to take the opportunity to thank Cam Zink for his support in running a service and distribution center in Reno for us over the last 3 years. Cam will remain with YT Industries as an athlete and continue to contribute to the business as part of the YT family.

We are looking forward to delivering even more #GoodTimes to the USA.

About YT Industries

In 2008, CEO Markus Flossmann founded YT with the aim of building competition-ready, affordable dirt jump and slopestyle mountain bikes for talented young riders. After nine years, the product range includes high-end downhill, enduro, and trail bikes, which are regularly awarded with prestigious prizes. The secret of success: high quality products, fair prices, the direct selling method which eliminates the profit margins of middlemen, an unmatched reputation and last but not least, a team of world-class riders like Cam Zink, Andreu Lacondeguy, Aaron Gwin and Brett Tippie who are all part of the YT family.
  • 14 5
 Cam Zink is YT.
  • 9 0
 YT on the moon.
  • 8 0
 At least they are having good whisky (without the E)
  • 4 0
 They are looking for a new head of global sales:

www.yt-industries.com/campaign/index/emotionId/294

The Krauts will do this: lessons learned with Cam these last 3 years and now open up their own distribution in the US, the same concept as in Germany.
  • 5 1
 Krauts? What is this Hogan's Heroes? They're Jerrys if you want to be culturally insensitive.
  • 5 0
 @endlessblockades: Jerry is the proper slur for Germans if you're British, I believe for Americans Krauts would be correct
  • 6 0
 I’ve heard on good authority that he will be riding a Raleigh chopper for 2018 season.
  • 3 0
 Too bad! I am a Canadian yt owner and the yt USA crew helped me out many times when I had questions or setup issues. Contacting yt Canada is literally impossible and the customer service is pretty rough. If that's how they plan to run the new USA system, may as well just shut it down now.
  • 2 0
 We managed to drop by in the last month of their YT operation in early November. The guys were really welcoming, on top of that, I had a chat with the man of the house Cam Zink. There were no signs of them closing down and the warehouse was packed with freshly delivered YT bikes.
  • 3 0
 Oh come on, you couldn't find a better pic of Cam NOT checking a bandage? Maybe standing next to a bike, or looking at a bike...or maybe even a freaking 100 FOOT BACKFLIP DROP!?!?
  • 4 0
 With the enigmatic "as", it could be a name change. Heck, might even be a reference to the office if they are moving?
  • 8 0
 @yt-USA is now @YTIndustries USA. The new location of the warehouse is in San Clemente CA
  • 2 0
 @kwapik: YUP, YT Industries are set up on a Job board, with what looks to be a Head office email as the contact. So YT Germany, taking over US distro themselves.
  • 8 1
 @kwapik: Bad idea, they should have set up outside of CA so their largest market doesn't have to pay sales tax.
  • 5 0
 @kwapik: NOOOOOOO! SALES TAX!!! BOOOOO well, I guess those potholes could use some work.
  • 2 0
 @kwapik: Make sense. German bosses need a winter vacation home where they can shred not worrying about snow.
  • 3 0
 This -> www.malakye.com/companyprofile/7921/yt-industries-usa-inc
  • 1 0
 Spitting distance to San Clemente Single Tracks.
  • 1 0
 NEWCOMER, UNDERDOG – MARKET LEADER

"YT Industries is a fast growing mountain bike brand deeply rooted in the segments of gravity and trail riding. With our award winning bikes (including best in class from uncountable global bike magazines). We are taking the bike market by storm since 2008. By 2015 we had already achieved market leadership in the European gravity mtb sector and today we have a global presence, distributing our bikes worldwide, with branches in North and South America, Asia, Africa and NZ/Australia. In 2016 we successfully expanded our product portfolio to the mainstream market and are executing the next big step in our company history.Worldwide we employ more than 80 bike loving talents with the knack of thinking tomorrow and acting today."


Who's gonna run YT-Africa in Timbuktu?
  • 2 2
 It probably makes business sense to have the bikes fresh off of the boat from Taiwan stay in California and then ship them to their new homes. Rather than from Taiwan to California, then to Reno and then on to customers homes. ??? Lucky for me San Clemente is 15 minuets from my house! ????????
  • 3 1
 I mean Commencal and Canyon are 10 minuets from me to the south...
  • 2 1
 San Pedro is probably a better port than Oakland. Plus they don;t need to truck them over the Sierra Nevada. A longshoresman's strike held up the container my bike was on for a week 2 years ago
  • 4 0
 I think the higher operating costs and higher wages in California would be worse than the cost of trucking.. I feel bad for Reno I think they needed this.
  • 3 0
 @Gregorysmithj1: Yes, I would have preferred they stayed in NV too. A closer, more scenic drive for me. Reno area is about to blow up with major tech, so I wouldn't worry about their economy too much.
  • 1 0
 According to and article YT is moving to California to set up a direct-to-consumer model. Same as they currently have in Europe.

www.bikemag.com/news/yt-usa-changes-business-structure
  • 6 1
 Y not?
  • 9 4
 Aaron Gwin is YT
  • 14 0
 Howie Zink is YT
  • 4 0
 @endlessblockades: For sure, Dealt with Howie while getting my Jeffsy, dude was super helpful and straight forward through the whole process. Very open communication. I wish more places had customer service like Howie provided me.
  • 2 0
 @MaliceFox: Howie was super great to deal with getting my '15 Tues. and it shipped earlier than expected \m/
  • 1 0
 He said last day 'as' YT usa, implying that he himself is YT in North America. It seems like he'll just be stepping down from the business side and he won't be the 'YT usa' guy anymore.
  • 6 1
 YT to be renamed AG
  • 1 0
 censored self.
  • 4 1
 Probably just going to spend more time helping Kyle get down a second run.
  • 2 0
 lols
  • 3 1
 Hopefully just because he's not their US distributor anymore, doesn't necessarily mean he won't still be riding their bikes?
  • 3 3
 It's pretty clear they had some supply chain and or inventory management issues. Each size of each bike is in stock in maybe 1-2 trim levels at a time. Hopefully they can get that sorted and Cam can go ride more bikes.
  • 8 1
 Hahahahahahaha - try ordering a Knolly - then you will know what supply chain issues really feel like.
  • 1 0
 @RichPune: Or the Cortina Europa I tried to order for 2 years......
  • 2 0
 @RichPune: Hahaha fair point, but you can be forgiven when you are a small passion-project brand with loyal fans. With YT's aggressive pricing and massive marketing budget, I get the sense they are in it to sell bikes.
  • 4 0
 Stay In RENO!
  • 1 1
 YT totally transformed the Reno riding scene. San Clemente hotels used to be 1/2 the price in the winter. Look's like the Socal night rates won't be changing from here on out.
  • 2 0
 YT needed clout in the US, Zink fam made it happen, Now the ZInk fam can relax and ride YT bikes.
  • 1 1
 @inverted180 So what’s your solution to crony capatislism? It’s it’s good to be critical but better to have a viable solution.
  • 3 0
 2018 Team rumors NOW
  • 3 0
 team rumors has been running deep over at vital for a couple months now
  • 11 8
 Y Trump Industries?
  • 2 0
 Murican ninja turtles suicide squad !!!
  • 2 1
 How's this news? I could’ve come to the same deduction on my own following him on Instagram...
  • 1 0
 Zero inventory in the US right now... less to move to Cali I suppose. Makes sense from an import logistics point of view.
  • 1 0
 Yep...nothing for cam to sell. See how socal office does.
  • 3 0
 SENSUS GRIPS BABY
  • 1 0
 Prices will Go up a little more now. Socal real estate aint cheap! Especially in San Clemente.
  • 1 0
 According to @YTIndustries - the move will result in better pricing.
  • 3 4
 Nothing is cheap in California. But, majority keeps voting left...?
  • 3 0
 Click bait
  • 3 1
 Horrible journalism here.
  • 1 3
 Iam sorry but to all the clowns that don't support small bike shops or small business trying to make a living, there's a reason why they charge more, dumb dumbs! it's not always about your back pocket there's a bigger picture.
  • 2 0
 If YT needs a local rider in Cali I know a guy ????????‍♂️
  • 2 0
 YT global
  • 2 1
 better check yo self before you wreck yo self
  • 1 0
 is this intense bikes big news?
  • 1 0
 Intense have announced to UK dealers that they are now consumer direct in the UK, maybe thats it or they could Ben expanding the direct to consumer globally?
  • 2 0
 YT Global Coalition
  • 2 1
 Uh last day as ? Sounds like a distribution business change.
  • 2 1
 Intense has an announcement Monday, hmmm.....
  • 1 0
 YP Cuz when ya gotta go, ya gotta go.
  • 3 3
 Kind of saw it coming when he posted his Capra for sale a couple of weeks ago
  • 1 0
 YT fired him because he did not won Rampage? :-D
  • 1 0
 Trey jones and now Zink, damn
  • 4 3
 Clickbait article... PB is $ hungry
  • 3 4
 total click bait, this is a bullshit title and article to sell bikes for yt, the us distribution changes locations that it
  • 2 2
 The multiple bottles of booze suggest a celebration of some bigger partner ship, not a parting of ways
  • 1 0
 Whatever you gotta do so that your bikes are backordered 99% of the time
  • 1 0
 Frame only options now possibly?
  • 1 0
 Great. Now I can sleep and now the sun will rise tomorrow.
  • 2 2
 Seem to be taking the break up pretty well. Wonder what the real deal is.
  • 1 0
 Chilliwack AF
  • 1 0
 Say what Eek
  • 1 0
 Intense vs yt
  • 1 0
 YT-zink 2018
  • 1 0
 Yt global
  • 1 0
 #onpolygonbikes
  • 3 4
 Nice choices for celebratory drinks!
  • 2 2
 deleted
  • 2 0
 Nope just past 24 hours
  • 1 2
 Looks like Cam deleted it from his IG
  • 4 5
 syndicate.
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