GSMBC TALK WITH Neko Mulally – The Goal is the Same: How to Go Fastest from Start to Finish

Written By Paul Howard
Mountain Bike Racing

Neko is a man of many hats seen shredding here at the Tennessee National 2025 | PHOTO: @ljm_images_

Interview with Neko Mulally – The Goal is the Same: How to Go Fastest from Start to Finish

This week, Kristian and Paul sit down with the one and only Neko Mulally — professional downhill racer, bike designer, commentator, and Team Owner of Frameworks Racing.

Neko is a true powerhouse in the world of downhill mountain biking, and we were thrilled to catch up with him amidst his packed schedule. In this episode, we dive into everything from racing strategy and coaching insights to bike design, technique, and what it really takes to go fastest from start to finish.

Whether you're a seasoned rider or just a fan of the sport, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration. Tune in and enjoy the ride!

  • Who is Neko?

  • How did Neko learn to race?

  • Lessons in training

  • How to get better at technique 

  • Determination and racing

  • Origins of determination

  • Grit and Success

  • The link between determination and creativity

  • What characteristics does Neko look for when building his team

  • The journey to running a team starts with a bike

  • Frameworks as a risk-taking endeavor

  • Why details matter

  • Meeting Asa – investing in success

  • Angel – Attention to details

  • The performance relationship between details and resilience 

  • Anna – the perfect fit

  • How a lot of racers are within a small window of finishing time, but all do it differently

  • How different body types impact technique 

  • Is it better to have technique before strength or strength before technique?

  • How to get the 2% more out of performance: Is it technique or other Performance Factors?

  • Critiquing technique vs. Pros and Cons of choices

  • Techniques are just tools

  • The racing triangle: Technique, Bike Set up, and Strength

  • At the race – you’re there to take the test, not to study

  • Pros and Cons of access to coaching for young racers

  • The value of sports psychology and racing in reframing success in racing and life

Paul Howard
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