Welcome back to the #1 MTB newsletter brought to you by RECON, mountain biking’s fastest growing media brand and online store.

On today's ride:

•  🏁 Complete Lists: DH, XCO and Enduro Teams 2024 finalized

•  ⚡️ Worldstage: Crankworx Season Start and new SSL Top Event

• 🚵‍♀️ Made in Germany: The new Intend Flash 38
  

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👇 Quick Picks

🚨 4X is NOT dead - the fan-favourite Races are back for 2026

The 4X Pro Tour returns in 2026 with a four round race series taking place between June and September. The action starts on June 6 in Dobrany, Czech Republic, followed by round two on July 11 in Jablonec, Czech Republic. Round three heads to Val Di Sole, Italy, on August 28, before the season wraps up on September 12 in Szczawno Zdroj, Poland. The tour will once again bring together the world’s best 4X riders to see who is fastest on the international stage.

🦈 Slopestyle superstar Tim Bringer without Bike-Sponsor

Slopestyle is one of the most iconic disciplines in MTB. It’s made for spectators, full of big tricks, and driven by strong personalities. The women’s field is pushing progression hard, and the men keep raising the level every season. Still, sponsors don’t seem to match that energy. With Tim Bringer now also riding without a bike sponsor, it’s clear something’s off. We hope bike brands step up and start paying slopestyle riders what they truly deserve. Looking ahead to 2026, we’re stoked to see top-level slopestyle contests return.

🫡 Simple but fun: Nukeproof Tracker Hardtail series 2026

Nukeproof drops a new budget hardtail. The now Belgium based brand targets riders buying their first mountain bike with the new Tracker series. It is an aluminum hardtail that sits below the tougher Scout in the lineup. The Tracker comes with a 100 mm fork, more relaxed geometry, and is available in both 27.5 and 29 inch wheels to keep things friendly and accessible. Prices range from 599 € for the entry model up to 1099 € for the top spec, making it a strong value option for new riders while helping Nukeproof fund projects like their DH race team.

RACING

🔄 The 2026 MTB World Cup teams are finally locked in

After months of rumors, leaks, and wild paddock guesses, the waiting game is over. The UCI has officially dropped the full team list for the 2026 MTB World Cup season. Riders, teams, managers, everything is now on the table.

In total, 83 teams have registered as UCI MTB teams for 2026. Across those teams, 496 riders are officially signed on. That number is more than just a statistic, because it marks a clear shift in the sport.

For the first time since 2009, fewer than 100 teams will line up for a full World Cup season. In fact, this is the lowest number of registered teams since 2007, when only 67 squads were on the books. Rising costs and shrinking budgets are clearly leaving their mark on elite mountain biking. Some riders like Laurie Greenland are kind of burnt out from many years on the circus and switch their focus on filming and other projects outside the tapes!

New teams, new projects, and some big returns

Even with fewer teams overall, there are still plenty of fresh stories. Commencal is doubling down once again and adds Commencal 101 to the grid. The new squad features Baptiste Pierron, Sacha Brizin, and Oriol Cuadrat Castells.

Crestline is starting a new chapter after Aaron Gwin moved on to Frameworks. Instead of chasing another superstar, Crestline built a young and future focused lineup around Bode Burke, joined by Alden Pate, Frida Rønning, and Gavin Tomlinson. YT Industries remains present in the pits with the YT RD squad, keeping its development driven race program alive.

One of the biggest headlines is Unno’s full return to the World Cup. The brand is back with factory teams in both Cross Country and Downhill. For DH, Unno teams up with Rogue Racing and signs Veronika Widmann, adding serious experience to the roster.

World Series status decides who really matters

Shortly after the UCI released its team list, Warner Bros. Discovery Sports followed up with the announcement everyone was waiting for. They revealed the teams that receive World Series status for 2026.

A total of 40 teams, split between Gravity and Endurance, secured this top tier license. World Series teams get guaranteed entry for all World Cup rounds in their category and prime real estate in the pits. In today’s World Cup circus, that visibility is almost as important as results. The decision was based purely on points and rider standings as of October 28, 2025. Team changes for 2026 did not affect the ranking. This means strong 2025 performance mattered more than reshuffling star riders over the winter.

New this year is the license structure:

• The top 10 teams receive a two year license

• Teams ranked 11 to 15 get a one year license

• Five additional teams receive one year wildcard licenses

Adidas enters the World Cup paddock

One of the most interesting developments flies a bit under the radar but could be huge long term. Norco’s new title sponsor is Adidas. A global brand stepping into downhill racing sends a strong signal. With bike brands struggling under high development costs and shrinking margins, outside industry sponsors are becoming essential. Adidas joining the World Cup could be a blueprint for how teams survive and grow in the future.

BUT: As always, the World Series list creates winners and losers. The most notable absence is Pivot Factory Racing with Bernard Kerr and newly Dylan Maples. Missing out on a permanent license is far from ideal, especially for sponsor visibility and pit placement.

Pivot will likely fight for one of the eight race by race wildcard slots that are available at every World Cup round. Still, the uncertainty makes long term planning difficult and underlines how valuable World Series status has become.

Entry paths still exist for teams and privateers

Teams without World Series status are not completely locked out. Full teams can apply for event wildcards, while individual riders still have several ways to qualify.

Champions, high ranked Elite, U23, and Junior riders can enter based on their UCI rankings. On top of that, so called golden tickets go to top five finishers at Continental Series races. These allow riders to start one World Cup round in the same season, as long as they are not already part of a World Series team.

Big names on the list, even if they never race

The UCI rider list should not be overanalyzed. Legends like Greg Minnaar and Rachel Atherton are still officially registered. In Rachel’s case, a comeback is extremely unlikely as she is currently pregnant.

Registering riders does not seem to significantly impact team costs, which explains why many teams list large rosters. At the same time, several development and B teams disappeared. Specialized’s former Gen S team is gone, while young riders now appear directly under the factory banner. It is likely a cheaper and simpler way to get juniors World Cup experience.

Looking ahead to 2026

Most transfers were already known, but there are still a few interesting storylines. Richie Rude returns to Downhill racing after a tough 2025 season. Yeti did not sign a clear replacement for Camille Balanche, but Matilda Melton will make her Elite debut. Crestline focuses fully on youth development after Gwin’s departure.

Fewer teams, bigger pressure, and more outside sponsors. The 2026 season feels like a turning point for World Cup mountain biking. Whether that leads to a healthier sport or even tougher competition remains to be seen, but one thing is clear. The gate drops are going to matter more than ever.

All registered Downhill teams for the 2026 season

Alongside the storylines and sponsor moves, the official UCI list also gives a clear overview of who will actually line up in the downhill paddock this year. Below is a look at the registered DH teams for 2026, without going into individual rider rosters.

Factory and World Series level teams

• Canyon DH Racing

• Santa Cruz Syndicate

• Commencal Muc-Off by Riding Addiction

• Orbea FMD Racing

• Mondraker Factory Racing DH

• Yeti Fox Factory Race Team

• Cube Factory Racing

• Specialized Gravity

• Trek Unbroken DH

• Commencal Schwalbe by Les Orres

World Series teams with one year licence

• Norco x adidas Race Division

• MS Racing

• Nukeproof Axess Racing

• Unno Factory Racing DH

• Giant Factory Off Road Team DH

Wildcard World Series teams

• Santa Cruz Burgtec by Goodman

• Scott Downhill Factory

• Frameworks Racing TRP

• AON Racing

• Continental Atherton

Additional registered UCI Downhill teams

• Commencal 101

• Crestline Speed Shop

• Cube Next Gen

• Outlaw Intense Racing

• Pivot Factory Racing

• Stoic Racing

• Team High Country

• The Alliance

• YT RD

This list shows just how concentrated elite downhill racing has become. While the total number of teams is shrinking, the remaining field is stacked with experienced factory programs, long standing privateer projects, and a growing number of youth focused squads trying to break through at World Cup level.

EVENTS

📏 Crankworx: The Slopestyle Super League is here

Slopestyle is stepping into a new era. The Slopestyle Super League is officially rolling into its very first season, and it is already shaking things up in a big way. Launched at the end of 2025, the league was built to push the sport forward. More contests, more chances for riders, and more high level action for fans all around the world. With another major stop now revealed and the season opener right around the corner, the 2026 calendar is finally coming together.

A fresh chapter with a legendary contest

The Freeride Mountain Bike Association has now lifted the curtain on one of the last mystery events of the season. Bikefest Kalnica is officially part of the Slopestyle Super League. Known for years as Birell Bikefest, this contest is a true classic. It is the longest running event on the FMB World Tour and has only ever taken a break during the Covid year in 2020. For a long time, Kalnica has been a key stop for riders looking to prove themselves in Slopestyle.

After years as a Silver level contest, Bikefest Kalnica now moves up to Gold level in the new league. That means more points, more pressure, and a bigger stage for everyone involved. It also locks Kalnica in as one of the most important stops of the season. Fans can watch online or head straight to the Freeride Bikepark Kalnica in Slovakia from May 29 to May 31 to feel the vibe in person.

A season that goes around the world

With only one event still waiting to be announced, the first SSL season already looks like a true world tour. It starts in Aotearoa New Zealand, moves through Europe, and then finishes with three back to back Slopestyle events in Canada over the summer. From one side of the globe to the other, Slopestyle fans are getting a front row seat.

Ōtautahi sets the standard

The season kicks off at Crankworx Christchurch from February 19 to 22. The Ōtautahi Slopestyle opens the SSL with the first of five events. It all goes down at Christchurch Adventure Park, and as a Gold level contest, the expectations are high. The course has already shown what it can deliver, with several riders returning after competing there last year. This time, it is about setting the tone for the entire league. Rising talents and local wildcards will line up against established stars who used to dominate the old Crankworx Slopestyle World Championship. Everyone is on the same start list now, and nothing is guaranteed.

A stacked rider list

The lineup for Christchurch is seriously deep. Riders from all over the world are ready to drop in, mixing proven winners with hungry newcomers. From big names like Nicholi Rogatkin and David Godziek to standout women like Natasha Miller and Alma Wiggberg, the field promises heavy tricks and close battles. Fans can find all updates through Crankworx channels, and if you cannot make it to New Zealand, the finals will be streamed live on the Crankworx YouTube channel.

What comes next

After Christchurch, the league stays in Aotearoa and heads to Crankworx Rotorua from March 11 to 15. There, the famous Slopestyle in Memory of McGazza will mark the first Diamond level contest of the season.

The Slopestyle Super League is built to open new paths to the top, not just for riders but also for event organizers. At the same time, the FMB World Tour keeps supporting progression with Bronze and Silver contests across the globe. The full calendar for those events will drop on social media in the coming weeks. One thing is clear already. Slopestyle is leveling up, and 2026 is just the beginning.

PRODUCT

🚲 Intend Flash 38 – Built to Go Hard

Lightweight elegance is old news. Intend is turning the page with the new Flash 38, a fork that is all about strength, control, and confidence when things get steep and fast. With massive 38 mm stanchions, a super solid crown, and the brand new Smooth Operator damper, this upside down fork is clearly aimed at enduro, gravity, and modern e bikes.

Intend’s message is clear. Extra weight uphill is no longer the main concern, especially on e bikes. Downhill, more mass can actually mean better grip, more calm feedback, and a more planted ride. The Flash 38 follows exactly that idea and focuses fully on stiffness and ride quality.

Made for Enduro and Gravity Riding

The Flash 38 is an upside down suspension fork with a travel range from 160 to 190 mm. Travel can be adjusted internally using the included spacers. Intend switches to the new TravelRanger air spring, replacing the older Travelizer system. Damping is handled by the Smooth Operator cartridge.

Claimed weight is 2,620 grams including aluminum lower guards. Offset is 44 mm. The fork is available now, while the Smooth Operator damper can also be bought separately from the end of January. Price for the Flash 38 is 2,349 euros including one axle. Axles in 15 mm or 20 mm cost 49 euros. The Smooth Operator damper alone is priced at 139 euros.

Serious Focus on Torsional Stiffness

Upside down forks often get criticized for flex. Intend designed the Flash 38 specifically to shut down that discussion. The heart of the fork is the crown, which is machined from a single block of aluminum and weighs 479 grams on its own. It is built to resist twisting forces under hard braking and aggressive cornering.

At the dropouts, Intend uses a new double clamp design. This allows riders to run either a 15 mm or 20 mm axle without changing the dropouts. The steerer tube is also beefed up, with 6 mm wall thickness at the lower section and 3 mm at the upper section.

Zero Gap Technology

One of the most interesting details is how the crown connects to the stanchions. Instead of sitting the tube on a shoulder inside the crown, Intend uses what they call Zero Gap technology. The lower face of the crown sits directly against the stanchion with no axial gap.

This direct contact is meant to transfer loads straight into the crown, increase stiffness, and eliminate tiny movements that can appear under heavy stress. The goal is a more precise feel at the front wheel, especially when pushing hard through rough terrain.

Smooth Operator Damping

The new Smooth Operator damper is designed to give more support in low and mid speed compression while keeping high speed hits under control. It avoids preload on the shim stack, which is intended to reduce hand fatigue on long and rough descents.

At the core of the system is an oscillator unit with a large 18 mm shim stack that allows high oil flow. A blow off shim opens at higher damping speeds to prevent harsh spikes in force when smashing into big impacts. Smooth Operator is fully backward compatible with older Intend forks, making it an easy upgrade for existing users.

With the Flash 38, Intend clearly commits to the gravity side of riding. Big tubes, smart engineering, and a damper focused on control rather than comfort alone. This fork is not about being light. It is about riding harder, faster, and with more confidence when the trail points down.

🏁 Video Of The Week

Like the legendary DropinTV series but in modern times with crazy skills by Flowryder:

🎧 Podcast Of The Week

We talk about what`s waiting for us in 2026 - it is gonna be a great year for MTB:

This newsletter is written with ❤️ every week by the Recon Team with a special shoutout to Marc Brodesser!