For the pros, there is intense pressure to perform above-and-beyond the competition. From some of the stories we’ve heard from former pro riders, it seems clear that this pressure can come (albeit in hushed tones and in dark corners) from team management, sponsors, and teammates. Dope and perform, or we’ll find someone else who will do it.

For the amateurs (and some pros), the pressure to dope comes from pure ego. They want to win, and they will do anything necessary to get an advantage. Most of us look for legal and ethical advantages such as lighter components, power meters, smarter training, etc. Some, however, look for any advantage no matter how morally questionable those methods might be.

I don’t know whether or not doping is as widespread in professional mountain biking as it is perceived to be in professional road racing. What I do know is that doping, like lying and cheating in all their forms, will always exist. As in every other aspect of life, there are good people and bad people. I just wish we could all pay attention to the good people and ignore the bad.

I do believe that doping/ cheating in the dirt is still more prevalnet than most people would like to think. Remember Filip Meirhage?