In this show, Andrew sets out to pick apart the habits, routines and strategies that Top Athletes and Industry leaders use to reach the pinnacle of cycling. Including their early beginnings, bouncing back from adversity, and candid untold stories from life on the road. As a professional international downhill mountain biker, and now commentator, Andrew “ Needles “ Neethling brings 18 years of experience in all aspects of the Cycling Industry.
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Sep 29, 2026 · 1:25:14
Whistler delivered one of the wildest World Cups of the season. Asa Vermette took his 2nd Elite World Cup win, while home favourites Finn Iles and Jackson Goldstone somehow…
Sep 15, 2026 · 1:22:26
Kilian Bron has built a life around turning dreams into reality — from racing and winning the Mountain of Hell four times to riding some of the world's most incredible and…
Sep 1, 2026 · 54:33
World Championships delivered one of the most intense races of the season. Jackson Goldstone held his nerve to take the Elite Men's rainbow jersey after an incredible final…
Aug 24, 2026 · 57:04
Les Gets delivered one of the wildest World Cup weekends of the season. Max Alran claimed his first Elite World Cup win, Hattie Harden took the women's victory, and the weekend…
Aug 18, 2026 · 1:18:01
Graham Agassiz has been one of freeride mountain biking's most influential riders for nearly two decades, but this conversation goes far beyond big jumps and Rampage. Andrew…
Aug 4, 2026 · 1:03:07
Vero Sandler has become one of the most influential riders in women's freeride mountain biking, but her journey started on the World Cup downhill circuit. In this episode, Vero…
Jul 28, 2026 · 1:47:56
Blake Samson has lived a life most riders have never heard about. Before becoming one of mountain biking's most recognisable presenters and content creators, Blake grew up on a…
Jul 21, 2026 · 1:02:53
Clemens "C-Dog" Kaudela joins the show to share the story behind DarkFest's biggest jumps, his engineering approach to building world-class freeride features, lessons from…
Jul 14, 2026 · 58:42
Jordan Williams continued his incredible form, the level of racing reached new heights, and qualifying proved once again that simply making the finals is becoming one of the…
Jul 7, 2026 · 1:03:38
The La Thuile World Cup delivered one of the most demanding downhill races of the season. Jordan Williams finally claimed his first Elite World Cup victory, Vali Höll returned to…
Jun 30, 2026 · 1:13:36
British downhill racer Ethan Craik joins the podcast to share his journey from Junior World Cup Champion to one of the sport's most exciting rising talents. We dive into the…
Jun 23, 2026 · 57:39
The 2026 World Cup Downhill season rolled into Lenzerheide, and once again the Swiss classic delivered some of the tightest racing of the year. Wyn Masters joins me for another…
Jun 15, 2026 · 58:40
Leogang delivered exactly what Leogang always seems to deliver: mud, mayhem and unforgettable racing. Ed Masters joins me on Bench Racing to unpack Finn Iles' emotional return to…
Jun 3, 2026 · 1:07:02
The 2026 World Cup Downhill season rolled into France for Round 2, and Loudenvielle delivered one of the most unpredictable races we've seen in years. Photographer and World Cup…
May 26, 2026 · 1:53:10
South African freerider, racer and all-round character Theo Erlangsen joins the podcast for one of the most honest MTB conversations yet. We dive into how Darkfest changed the…
May 12, 2026 · 1:11:40
XC racing has evolved fast. Technical tracks, aggressive riding styles, modern bikes and a new generation bringing personality back into the sport. Cannondale Factory riders Luca…
May 8, 2026 · 1:12:49
The 2026 World Cup Downhill season has arrived, and we are kicking things off with a massive review of the historic first round in South Korea. Alan Milway joins me for the first…
Apr 21, 2026 · 1:32:27
The 2026 Downhill World Cup season is ON! Join legendary photographer Sven Martin as we dive deep into the upcoming year of thrilling races on this episode of Bench Racing. Get…
Apr 8, 2026 · 1:20:58
After more than two decades at the top of cross-country mountain biking, Nino Schurter reflects on life after stepping away from full-time racing. In one of his first in-depth…
Mar 24, 2026 · 1:16:05
Luke Meier-Smith went from growing up on a small avocado farm in Australia to standing on top of a World Cup podium — but the path there was anything but smooth. In this episode,…
Mar 20, 2026 · 1:12:01
From backyard jumps to one of the biggest freeride events on the planet. Sam Reynolds dives into Darkfest’s 10-year legacy, the progression of big air, and what the future holds.…
Mar 11, 2026 · 1:56:37
Tom Van Steenbergen has built a career pushing the limits of Freeride mountain biking. From landing world-record front flips at Red Bull Rampage to surviving some of the most…
Feb 24, 2026 · 1:27:20
Randy Lawrence has lived multiple lifetimes in two-wheel sport. From wrenching in the golden era of 90’s motocross — working alongside icons like Jeremy McGrath — to racing…
Feb 19, 2026 · 1:18:22
Randy Lawrence has lived multiple lifetimes in two-wheel sport. From wrenching in the golden era of 90’s motocross — working alongside icons like Jeremy McGrath — to racing…
Jan 27, 2026 · 1:13:24
In this episode of Moving the Needle, Andreas Kolb opens up about the hardest season of his career — racing under pressure, dealing with uncertainty behind the scenes, and…
Jan 13, 2026 · 1:09:32
Dakotah Norton opens up about a career-threatening hip injury, the tough recovery no one saw, and how he found his way back to form during the 2025 season. He also breaks down…
Jan 7, 2026 · 12:23
Dakotah Norton opens up about his major 2026 team move, what led to the decision, and why this next chapter feels different. In this short clip, Dak talks mindset, long-term…
Dec 23, 2025 · 1:41:57
Former World Cup downhiller Dean Lucas opens up about the crash that left him temporarily paralysed, the terrifying minutes where he thought he'd never walk again, and the…
Dec 9, 2025 · 1:18:51
How much training do you actually need… and how much is just noise? Fit4Racing’s Jonny Thompson jumps back on the show to break down the myths and mistakes riders make in the…
Nov 25, 2025 · 1:18:50
Dirk Friel, co-founder of TrainingPeaks, joins Needles to dive into the evolution of data-driven coaching — from the early fax-machine days of training logs to the cutting-edge…
Nov 11, 2025 · 1:05:01
After a decade on the World Cup circuit, Luca Shaw pieced together his best season yet — finishing third overall and riding with more confidence than ever. In this season review,…
Oct 28, 2025 · 1:36:53
In this episode of Moving the Needle, Andrew chats with Connor Fearon, the Australian downhill legend who traded podiums for power tools. They dive into his racing journey, the…
Oct 14, 2025 · 1:19:36
The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race…
Oct 7, 2025 · 1:07:11
The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Wyn Masters is my co-hosts for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race…
Sep 24, 2025 · 29:34
We’re diving into the 2025 US OPEN of Downhill with none other than Race Organiser and Founder, Clay Harper. Clay takes us inside the vision, the riders to watch, and what makes…
Sep 24, 2025 · 1:16:19
The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and racing Legend Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes…
Sep 10, 2025 · 1:06:10
The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Wyn Masters is my co-hosts for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race…
Sep 2, 2025 · 1:00:28
The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Wyn Masters is my co-hosts for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race…
Aug 26, 2025 · 1:23:41
In this episode, Andrew sits down with John Lawlor – former World Cup downhill racer turned acclaimed MTB filmmaker. From racing at the highest level to documenting Ireland’s…
Aug 12, 2025 · 2:07:20
In this deep, wide-ranging conversation, Andrew sits down once again with Dr. Jason Richardson — former BMX world champion turned sport psychologist — to explore the mental side…
Jul 29, 2025 · 52:32
Olly Wilkins is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down RED BULL…
Jul 15, 2025 · 1:09:29
The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Sven Martin and Ed Masters are my co-hosts for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes…
Jul 8, 2025 · 1:02:26
The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Wyn Masters is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race…
Jun 24, 2025 · 1:07:08
The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and racing Legend Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes…
Jun 10, 2025 · 1:04:00
The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and racing Legend Alan Milmay is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes…
Jun 3, 2025 · 1:21:14
The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and racing Legend Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes…
May 20, 2025 · 1:08:54
The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and racing Legend Wyn Masters is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes…
May 6, 2025 · 1:45:01
The 2025 Downhill World Cup season is ON! Join legendary photographer Sven Martin and renowned coach Alan Milway as they dive deep into the upcoming year of thrilling races on…
Apr 22, 2025 · 1:18:47
In this raw and revealing conversation, Aaron Gwin opens up like never before — sharing the true cost of chasing greatness in downhill racing. From battling injuries and…
Apr 10, 2025 · 1:28:37
In this raw and revealing conversation, Aaron Gwin opens up like never before — sharing the true cost of chasing greatness in downhill racing. From battling injuries and…
Mar 25, 2025 · 1:58:48
In this episode of Moving the Needle, we sit down with one of the most naturally gifted and enduring riders in downhill mountain biking— Sam Blenkinsop . From his humble…
Mar 11, 2025 · 2:15:51
Three-time Downhill World Champion Fabien Barel dives deep into the mindset, preparation, and mental strategies that shaped his legendary career. From his relentless pursuit of…
Feb 25, 2025 · 1:51:16
Jonny from Fit4Racing has worked with some of the world’s fastest mountain bikers, helping them push the limits of strength, endurance, and resilience. But what makes top riders…
Feb 11, 2025 · 1:12:54
Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down RED BULL…
Feb 4, 2025 · 1:11:14
What does it take to raise not just one but two world-class mountain bikers? In this episode, we sit down with Tony Seagrave, the father of Tahnee and Kaos Seagrave, to uncover…
Jan 23, 2025 · 2:01:21
In this exclusive episode, we sit down with Greg Minnaar, the undisputed greatest of all time in downhill mountain biking. After over two decades of dominating the World Cup…
Jan 7, 2025 · 1:58:06
In this exclusive episode, Danny Hart opens up about his challenging 2024 season, what it takes to back yourself, and his exciting new chapter with Norco Factory Racing. Hear all…
Jan 3, 2025 · 29:17
In this exclusive episode, Danny Hart opens up about his exciting new chapter with Norco Race Division. Hear all about the moment he got the call from downhill legend Greg…
Dec 24, 2024 · 1:37:03
Todd Barber , co-founder of Red Bull Rampage, joins us to share the incredible journey behind one of the most iconic freeride mountain biking events in the world. From Rampage’s…
Dec 10, 2024 · 2:14:42
In this episode, we dive into the world of elite mountain biking with Jamie Read, of Athlete Optimization, a renowned high-performance MTB coach who’s helped some of the sport’s…
Nov 28, 2024 · 1:23:21
In anticipation of the Deathgrip 2 release here is a rerelease of the episode if you missed it with exclusive Deathgrip 2 chat and his " retirement " Brendan Fairclough known as…
Nov 26, 2024 · 1:33:33
In this episode, we sit down with Clay Harper, the driving force behind the Monster Energy Pro Downhill Series and a Co-Founder of the US Open. A lifelong advocate for mountain…
Nov 12, 2024 · 1:43:45
Luca Shaw is one of the fastest and most skilled racers in the world of Downhill Mountain Biking. In a sport where risk-taking is often rewarded, Luca’s calculated approach sets…
Oct 29, 2024 · 1:40:55
Anton Thelander was a mountain biking slopestyle phenom, rising to the pinnacle of the sport and sharing podiums with his childhood idols. Imagine reaching the summit of your…
Oct 15, 2024 · 1:26:00
Rampage 2024. What an incredible event! Join us as we welcome Cam McCaul, the freeride legend and on-site announcer, to the show to dissect all the action. This year marked a…
Oct 8, 2024 · 2:04:15
The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race…
Sep 24, 2024 · 1:27:38
Jaxson Riddle is a rising star in freeride mountain biking. Known for his fearless approach and innovative style, he is carving his own unique path in the sport, pushing…
Sep 10, 2024 · 1:32:52
The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Alan Milway is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race…
Sep 2, 2024 · 1:31:22
The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and SvenMartin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race…
Aug 27, 2024 · 2:04:56
Mark Rodgers, while being heavily involved in the Motocross world in recent years, has a history steeped in Mountain Bike Legends. His family was instrumental in bringing over…
Aug 20, 2024 · 2:30:43
Nigel Page is a true icon in the world of MTB and Downhill racing. With a storied career that includes clinching an X Games medal during the peak of downhill racing, Page has…
Aug 6, 2024 · 1:23:21
Brendan Fairclough known as BRENDOG is one of the biggest stars in MTB. The original free racer is back on the show to chat about "retirement" from World Cup racing..sort of, his…
Jul 23, 2024 · 1:36:42
The takeover episode is where I turn the tables on the boys from THE RIDE COMPANION and interview Olly Wilkins and Davi Birks in their studio. Davi was the man who pushed me to…
Jul 9, 2024 · 1:17:58
The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Wyn Masters is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race…
Jul 2, 2024 · 1:34:04
Harriet Burbidge-Smith , is a leading figure in women's freeride mountain biking. Harriet, known as Haz, has made waves with her fearless riding and dedication to pushing the…
Jun 18, 2024 · 1:07:08
The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Wyn Masters and Eric Carter are my co-hosts for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review…
Jun 11, 2024 · 1:46:05
The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race…
Jun 4, 2024 · 1:46:37
J ackson Goldstone was destined for greatness in MTB, and what a dream first year in Elite Downhill MTB he had. Hailing from Squamish, BC, Jackson signed his first autograph at 6…
May 21, 2024 · 1:51:56
The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Alan Milway is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race…
May 7, 2024 · 1:33:44
The 2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and HERE Other Episode Sponsors: AG1 AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel…
Apr 23, 2024 · 1:47:29
2024 World Cup Downhill racing is here and HERE Other Episode Sponsors: AG1 AG1 is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs…
Apr 9, 2024 · 1:50:05
Chris Seager , better known as Seags to the MTB industry has grown up as a humble filmer to now regarded as one of the top filmers of this new generation. Teaming up with Brendan…
Mar 26, 2024 · 1:34:43
Anka Martin has had an incredible and unique career in Mountain Biking. Anka started MTB in her twenties and then turned Pro competing in Downhill on the world stage. She…
Mar 12, 2024 · 2:18:33
Dakotah Norton had a late start to his Downhill career but that is not holding him back. Humble beginnings to World Cup Podiums and Multiple US National Titles. This conversation…
Feb 27, 2024 · 1:12:55
Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down RED BULL…
Feb 20, 2024 · 2:27:17
Oscar Saiz was a top Downhill racer with an illustrious career spanning 2 decades. He is now one of the most sought-after technical coaches in MTB and Road. Join this fascinating…
Feb 6, 2024 · 1:55:39
Neko Mulally , a gravity-defying force of downhill mountain biking, needs little introduction. With a career marked by podium finishes and National Titles, Neko has solidified…
Jan 23, 2024 · 2:13:59
Aaron Chase is a freeride Mountain Bike OG and Legend. From conquering the world to navigating a near career-ending back injury. Discover the heart-pounding tales, the thrill of…
Jan 9, 2024 · 2:00:55
Andreas Kolb came from very humble beginnings as a car mechanic and now can call himself a World Cup winner. Kolb has exploded onto the scene in the last 2 years of racing. Strap…
Dec 19, 2023 · 2:12:21
Grant "Chopper " Fielder is an icon in the British and World MTB scene. He joins the show as he shares the untold stories behind his fearless career. Tune in as we explore the…
Dec 5, 2023 · 1:35:19
Myriam Nicole has made waves in the world of downhill mountain biking, leaving a lasting legacy that has inspired generations of riders. From her early days as an up-and-coming…
Nov 21, 2023 · 2:07:09
Rogatkin started riding BMX at the age of five and became a professional at age 13. He switched to mountain biking and rode the FMB World Tour as a rookie. In the 2015 season, he…
Nov 7, 2023 · 1:40:55
Caroline Buchanan is a 3 x BMX World Champion, 5 x Mountain Bike World Champion, and Dual Olympian Athlete, Caroline has been riding the bike for well over two decades. As one of…
Oct 24, 2023 · 1:11:16
Rampage 2023 was one for the history books. What is it really like to be there? What is it like to actually judge it from start to finish? Freeride Legend "Bearclaw" jumps on to…
Oct 10, 2023 · 2:00:13
The 2023 World Cup Downhill racing season is here and Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after…
Oct 3, 2023 · 1:24:51
The 2023 World Cup Downhill racing season is here and Alan Milway is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after…
Sep 26, 2023 · 2:14:45
Tomas Lemoine is easily one of the most talented and creative riders out there. Competing in Slopestyle, Speed and Style, and Pumptrack at the Crankworx World Tour. Lemoine…
Sep 12, 2023 · 1:20:52
The 2023 World Cup Downhill racing season is here and Wyn Masters is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after…
Sep 5, 2023 · 1:36:03
The 2023 World Cup Downhill racing season is here and Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after…
Aug 29, 2023 · 1:23:18
The 2023 World Cup Downhill racing season is here and Alan Milway is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after…
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