The Santa Cruz Syndicate has a new manager and it’s not necessarily who you’d expect. Rob Copeland’s background isn’t racing or the MTB industry, it’s psychology and academia, yet now he leads one of the most exciting teams in the sport. With years spent at Sheffield Hallam University studying performance and human behaviour, could Rob be the man to shake up how MTB teams are run? In this episode we dive into what drew him to the Syndicate, how he made the transition from academia to elite sport, what he’s already started implementing, and how he plans to lead some of the best athletes on the planet into the future. This is a conversation about vision, strategy, and the future of a team that’s looking to redefine mountain bike racing. So sit back, hit play and check out this episode with Rob Copeland.

You can also watch this episode on YouTube here.

Follow the Syndicate on Instagram @santacruzsyndicate and on YouTube here.

Podcast Stuff

Sponsoring Partners

Santa Cruz Bicycles

This episode is a paid partnership with Santa Cruz Bicycles who helped make this conversation possible. You can check out their entire range over at santacruzbicycles.com.

Loam Pass

Picture this, over 70 epic mountain bike destinations across North and South America. Two free days at each, a third at half price, and no blackout dates. Just you, your bike, and an endless world of trails. Even better, there’s loads of new spots to explore this year, including Highland in New Hampshire and KRB in New Mexico.

Well that’s what you get with Loam Pass. For just $250, you unlock over 100 days of riding across top bike parks, shuttles, and trail systems. Whether you’re chasing park laps or finding hidden gems, it’s got you covered.

But don’t hang around, that early bird price ends May 1st 2026. Head to loampass.com, grab your pass, and start planning those road trips.

PNW Components

This episode is sponsored by PNW Components. I’ve been riding their Loam Carbon Handlebar and have been impressed with the ride quality, maintaining a positive steering feel, while reducing the vibration you feel through the bar. Tested to the highest standards, shaped to give you all day comfort with modern bike geo and with a lifetime warranty. It’s no surprise that it’s fast become PNW’s best selling product. Check them out at pnwcomponents.com.

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