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BikeBiz caught up with Moore Large brand manager Joe Poyzer to talk about the past, present and future of mountain biking.
What are the key progress points between the creation of mountain biking and now?
I think there are too many to mention but I can indicate where the greatest spikes of popularity have been. I think the industry saw a huge growth in sale when frames went from steel to ‘reliable’ alloy. I can remember quite a few instances of early alloy frames not lasting too long but once that was sorted it seemed as though everyone suddenly needed a new bike.
Progressive suspension platforms and wheel sizes have been the big movement in the past five to seven years, but I would say one of the best things about MTB is its splinter groups that have formed so quickly, From DH, Enduro, Trail, Dirt jump, XC race, Family, steel hardtail etc. There are so many options for people to move about in. People can pick DH for a few seasons and then decide that Enduro is more their thing.
How is the mountain bike market for Moore Large at the moment?
It’s fantastic; the need for a dedicated MTB such as Polygon shows that. Well priced, alloy hardtail models have been a staple diet for so many of our dealers over the past few years. Going into the more specialist category like DH, we have had a great success.
What are the latest and most exciting things happening to mountain bikes?
If I were to be biased it would be the arrival of the new Polygon Squareone. Its thrown the rulebook out of the window and rides like nothing I have ever tried. It’s like a monster truck going downhill giving you the confidence to ride far bigger things than you would normally ride and climbs like a tractor making any obstacle rideable.
Are there any other brands or products that are exiting you at the moment?
O’Neal are a brand that is starting to pay more attention to trail riding, which is going to be a huge door opener for us. It has started producing technical wear and its soft goods have become very fashionable at reasonable prices.
Do you think that mountain bikers are lifers? Will there always be a massive market for it?
I think a lot of the new MTB riders are cyclists now and will stick to two wheels in some way or another. It’s a different age group who have taken up MTB which I think will stay around for quite a while. How much they will carry on spending in that sport is the real mystery.
There’s been so many fads throughout the years, how do we know what will remain a key innovation and what won’t stand the test of time?
The only thing that will stay the same will be the wheel shape!
How does Moore Large remain on the cutting edge of mountain bike tech?
We have just employed 2 UCI DH world Cup racers who should be able keep us ahead of the pack. Always handy have around!
