Sam Reynolds has a new home. The freeride icon and Darkfest pioneer has officially joined the AON Racing team for 2025—and his new setup is as bold and groundbreaking as his riding. Built around the revolutionary GAMUX platform, Sam’s decision wasn’t just about a frame or team—it was about componentry that represents the future of gravity riding. That means Manitou suspension, Hayes brakes, Pinion gearbox, and Gates belt drive.
This isn’t just a new chapter. It’s a full-system upgrade.
AON Racing: More Than a Team
At a time when many World Cup programs are scaling back, Sam’s new contract is a breath of fresh air. Led by downhill world champion Reece Wilson, AON Racing isn’t just assembling a roster—it’s building a movement. And part of that movement is embracing cutting-edge technology and giving riders like Sam a voice in development.
“It was the excitement from the team that persuaded me,” says Reynolds. “The fact that the whole setup is working together—frame, suspension, drivetrain—was a massive pull.”
The Manitou Advantage: Dorado at the Core
A freerider’s suspension takes brutal punishment. From bike park laps to 100-foot step-ups, it needs to be supple when it matters and strong when it counts. Sam’s first ride on the Manitou Dorado was all it took.
“I’d never ridden Manitou before—but I love the Dorados. They look like motocross forks, and they ride insane. The supple feel, the support into takeoffs… I’ve never felt anything like it,” he says.
Thanks to deep collaboration between Manitou and GAMUX, the Dorado’s kinematics have been tuned specifically to work with the unique weight distribution of the gearbox and belt system, optimizing traction and big-hit performance.
Hayes Brakes: Precision You Can Rely On
When you’re going full gas into a 90-foot jump, hesitation isn’t an option. That’s why Sam’s build features Hayes Dominion brakes—offering legendary modulation, massive power, and rock-solid consistency in all conditions.
“The purple Hayes brakes look sick—but more than that, they feel totally dialed,” Sam notes. Whether scrubbing speed before a takeoff or controlling a steep chute, Hayes gives him absolute control.
Pinion & Gates: Future-Proof Drivetrain Tech
Reynolds’ new GAMUX rig features a Pinion gearbox mated to a Gates Carbon Drive belt, a system that’s been turning heads across both downhill and freeride circuits. For Sam, the benefits were immediately clear:
Silence: “It’s absolutely silent. You only hear the tires and suspension. Pedaling feels like floating.”
Durability: No more broken chains or derailleurs—a familiar frustration for big-mountain riders.
Performance: The unsprung weight is drastically reduced, making the rear end far more responsive. “It’s noticeably more supple on the way into jumps. The traction is insane.”
Add in electric shifting (even without pedaling), and Reynolds describes the feel as “like riding a Formula 1 bike.”
Ready for Anything
With Darkfest’s 10th anniversary on the horizon, Sam’s new bike will be going from freeride parks to full-speed DH tracks. Thanks to a clever design, the platform adapts from 170mm Enduro mode to full 200mm downhill with just a few swaps—no compromise required.
“This one bike can do it all. I can ride Crabapple hits in Whistler, then rip down the mountain—just swap the shock and wheels.”
One Team, One Vision
At AON, every detail matters. The team voted on key component partners—and riders had a say. It’s no coincidence they chose Manitou, Hayes, Pinion, and Gates. Together, they’re building not just bikes, but the future of performance mountain biking.
Welcome to the Family, Sam
We’re beyond proud to support Sam Reynolds as he steps into this new era of freeride. With Manitou suspension, Hayes braking, Pinion gearbox, and Gates belt drive, he’s riding a system that’s as bold and innovative as he is.
Darkfest, Whistler, Hardline—wherever Sam goes next, one thing’s for sure:
He’s all in. And so are we.
