The toughest SOB mountain biker: My friend Cam Zink

Cam Zink and Red Bull Rampage: Pushing the Limits of Freeride Mountain Biking Few athletes embody the spirit of freeride mountain biking like Cam Zink. With a career that spans two decades, Zink has become a legend for his fearless style and massive stunts, earning multiple titles at the iconic Red Bull Rampage—the most extreme and prestigious event in mountain biking. As a friend and peer in the cycling community, Zink's journey is not only a story of adrenaline and innovation but also a reflection of what it takes to be at the top of a sport that demands creativity, grit, and courage. 

Red Bull Rampage: Where Legends Are Made

Red Bull Rampage, held in the desert cliffs of Utah, is not just any competition—it’s a test of limits, pitting the world’s best freeriders against treacherous terrain, dizzying drops, and exposed ridgelines. Since its debut in 2001, Rampage has evolved into the ultimate showcase of mountain bike progression, with riders crafting their own lines to express creativity and push the boundaries of what’s possible on two wheels. 

For Zink, Rampage is a playground where he’s thrived, landing not just podium finishes but creating some of the most memorable moments in mountain biking history. His 2010 win came with a bold 360 drop—an audacious move that has since become synonymous with his riding style. 

The Legacy of Cam Zink: Fearless Progression 

Zink’s reputation is built on his ability to go bigger and risk more than most riders. In 2014, he set a world record by landing a 100-foot backflip off a dirt jump in Mammoth, California—solidifying his place in freeride history. What sets Zink apart isn’t just his technical skill, but his unrelenting attitude toward fear: he openly discusses how fear management is part of his process, and how overcoming it is what makes his achievements so fulfilling. 

Zink has often said, “Fear is inevitable, but quitting is a choice.” This mindset has not only guided him through risky stunts but also helped him recover from numerous injuries, including broken bones and concussions—common hazards in a career like his. 

2023 Rampage Win: Still Dominating at the Top 

Even with years in the sport and a few gray hairs, Zink remains at the pinnacle. In 2023, at the age of 37, Zink shocked the mountain biking world by taking another Red Bull Rampage victory with a run that was as daring as it was clean. His ability to blend old-school freeride tricks with modern flow shows that he’s not just surviving but thriving in a sport that has evolved significantly over the years. The win highlighted that age is just a number, especially for someone whose passion burns as fiercely as ever. 

Beyond the Bike: Zink Bikes and Giving Back 

Zink’s commitment to freeriding isn’t limited to competitions. He’s ventured into entrepreneurship by launching his own brand, Zink Bikes, offering high-quality U.S.-built mountain bikes designed for the toughest trails and conditions. With his personal experience riding some of the most unforgiving terrain on earth, Zink ensures that his bikes reflect the same durability and precision that have defined his riding career. 

He’s also been outspoken about mental health in action sports and the importance of building a positive community within freeride mountain biking. Zink supports up-and-coming riders, offering mentorship and creating spaces where the next generation can grow. 

The Friendship Factor: More Than Just a Rider 

For those fortunate to know Zink personally, it’s clear that he’s not just an incredible athlete—he’s a genuine friend who values loyalty and camaraderie. Whether it's riding trails with friends, mentoring young riders, or hanging out at events, Zink is known for bringing a down-to-earth vibe to a sport that’s often larger than life. 

Cam Zink’s Crash at Red Bull Rampage 2024 

At the 2024 Red Bull Rampage, Cam Zink had a rough day at the office with a harrowing crash. Known for pushing boundaries, Zink attempted a backflip off a massive feature, but a crosswind caught him mid-air, sending him into a brutal impact on the jagged landscape below. He walked away with six broken ribs near his spine and a punctured lung—an injury that required an emergency airlift from the site and immediate medical treatment. 

The crash was a heart-stopping moment, especially considering Zink’s long history with Rampage, where he has always been known for daring tricks and massive drops. Despite the pain and uncertainty of the fall, Zink later updated fans with news that he was stable and cleared to fly home. His resilience embodies the spirit of the event: a raw, risky, and unapologetically thrilling challenge that separates the boldest riders from the rest. 

While the injury will keep him off the bike for some time, fans are eager to see what’s next from Zink, who has not only left an indelible mark on mountain biking but also ventured into launching his own bike brand earlier this year.

Zink and the Future of Freeride MTB

Whether it’s sending jaw-dropping tricks at Rampage, riding trails with friends, or building bikes that withstand the toughest conditions, Cam Zink embodies what it means to live and breathe mountain biking. His journey reminds us that fear can be conquered, records are made to be broken, and legends aren’t born—they’re made by those who dare to go bigger. 

Keep an eye on Zink Bikes and the next edition of Red Bull Rampage—because with Cam Zink, you never know what game-changing move might come next. 

Zink Bikes? 

Cam Zink has expanded his influence in the mountain biking world with the launch of Zink Bikes, a new brand focused on freeride and downhill designs. This venture represents years of development, with Zink personally overseeing numerous prototypes and revisions to create bikes that meet his vision for performance on challenging terrain. 

The first release from Zink Bikes features a downhill frame with 27.5-inch wheels front and rear, offering 180-190 mm of travel in the rear and 200 mm up front. Zink emphasized that this bike is tailored for big freeride events like Rampage, calling it his “favorite downhill bike ever.” What’s more, the bikes are handbuilt in the U.S., reflecting Zink’s commitment to quality and innovation - Source - THE LOAM WOLF - CANADIAN CYCLING MAGAZINE

Zink's move into bike manufacturing coincides with his established success in freeride competitions, including his legendary Red Bull Rampage victories. The brand’s ethos mirrors his riding style—aggressive, innovative, and unrelenting—making it an exciting prospect for riders looking to push the limits on the mountain. Keep an eye out as Zink Bikes enters the market soon, with pre-orders expected to generate serious buzz.

Beyond bikes 

Cam Zink has been running Sensus Grips, a company he founded in 2009, which has become a staple in the mountain biking world. Known for their comfortable, performance-driven grip designs, Sensus has built a reputation among riders of all levels. The company offers a range of products, from signature grips designed with other pros to components like gloves and handlebars, all reflecting Zink’s rider-centric philosophy. With Sensus, Zink has managed to create not just a product line, but a brand rooted in the spirit of freeride and community. This blend of entrepreneurial ambition, product design, and rider insight cements Zink’s legacy—not just as a world-class competitor but also as a builder of brands that resonate with the broader MTB culture.