Product management is more than just a profession—it’s an art of balancing strategy, creativity, and execution. With the WTB Makers Collective Blog series, we believe in amplifying the voices of those who build, iterate, and innovate daily. This blog series spotlights cycling industry product managers from around the world, sharing their unique perspectives, challenges, and triumphs as they navigate the ever-evolving landscape.
Cannondale’s Mountain Bike Product Manager: Meet Ian Moore
In the world of cycling, few roles require a blend of passion, technical expertise, and hands-on experience quite like that of a Mountain Bike Product Manager. It’s a position that demands an in-depth understanding of rider needs, market trends, and the small but critical details that make a bike perform flawlessly on the trail.
For Ian Moore, the Mountain Bike Product Manager at Cannondale, his journey into the industry started long before he was designing bikes—it began as a kid, wrenching on bikes in his backyard and racing crits and mountain bikes whenever he could. Now, after years of experience spanning bike shops, race teams, and major industry brands, he’s shaping the next generation of Cannondale mountain bikes.
Let’s take a behind-the-scenes look at Ian’s journey, his insights on bike design, and what drives his passion for making bikes better for every rider.
From Backyard Mechanic to Bike Industry Pro
Ian’s introduction to cycling started with his father’s unexpected decision to get the family into riding. Even though his dad wasn’t a cyclist, he introduced Ian and his brother to road riding, taking them on 30-40 mile rides when they were just kids.
Realizing his kids were hooked, Ian’s dad told them they needed to learn how to fix their own bikes. So, he bought them a repair stand and tools, and Ian and his brother got to work—starting with their mom’s bike, of course.
From Race Circuits to Product Development
After spending years as the 'weird kid' riding to school and racing after class, Ian took his passion for bikes to the next level. He worked as a mechanic at Bontrager, Ritchey, and on the NORBA and World Cup circuits, where he transitioned from dirtbag team mechanic to one of the top race teams in the world.
Designing Bikes for Every Rider
As a Mountain Bike Product Manager, Ian knows that every bike is designed with a specific rider in mind. Whether it's an entry-level hardtail or a high-end race machine, the key is understanding who that bike is for and what experience they need to have.
What Makes Cannondale Special?
For Ian, working at Cannondale is about innovation and pushing boundaries. The company has always been known for its pioneering spirit and commitment to developing cutting-edge bikes.
WTB Gear Ian Rides & Loves
When it comes to WTB products, Ian is a longtime fan of the Nano tire—a legendary tread pattern that has stood the test of time.
Riding, Pets & Life Outside of Work
When Ian isn’t designing bikes or talking about them, he’s still riding them. He also shares his home with three pets: Eileen, a three-legged Terrier Schnauzer; Scarlett, a Terrier Schnauzer mix; and Lia, the family cat.
Final Thoughts: Passion Fuels Progress
Ian Moore’s journey from backyard mechanic to Mountain Bike Product Manager at Cannondale is proof that passion, persistence, and hands-on experience are the keys to shaping the future of the bike industry.
Whether it’s designing an entry-level hardtail that gets someone hooked on the sport or refining high-performance technology for seasoned riders, Ian’s focus is always on the experience of the rider.
Want to ride with the same gear Ian trusts?
Check out the legendary WTB Nano tires and explore WTB’s full lineup of mountain and gravel gear.