In an evolving landscape where traditional sponsorships in the mountain biking world face increasing pressures, professional freeride athlete Carson Storch has forged a groundbreaking partnership with Kubota, a leading Japanese manufacturer of construction equipment, for his 2026 season. This unprecedented collaboration signals a new era for athlete funding, as Storch gains the freedom to choose his own equipment while benefiting from the substantial backing of an unconventional title sponsor. The agreement not only supports his competitive endeavors but also empowers his passion for extensive trail development.
Freeride Star Carson Storch Forges Innovative Partnership with Kubota
In early 2026, the mountain biking community was abuzz with the news that Carson Storch, a renowned professional freeride mountain biker, had secured a primary sponsorship deal with Kubota, a Japanese heavy machinery company, rather than a conventional bicycle brand. This strategic alliance arrives at a crucial juncture for the mountain biking industry, which has recently grappled with financial uncertainties impacting traditional sponsorships. Storch expressed immense gratitude for Kubota's backing, emphasizing that this unique arrangement allows him unparalleled flexibility to select any bike frame he chooses, which will then carry the Kubota branding.
A significant aspect of this partnership involves Storch's ambitious trail-building initiatives. He is set to utilize Kubota's advanced equipment, specifically a U55-5 compact excavator and an SVL 97-3 compact track loader, for various projects across his home state of Oregon. These powerful machines, with excavators alone costing upwards of $82,000, underscore the substantial investment Kubota is making. Theresa Duncan, Associate Marketing and Advertising Director at Kubota Tractor Corporation, highlighted the natural synergy between Storch's upbringing, which involved digging and constructing jumps, and Kubota's mission to support hardworking individuals who carve new paths and tackle demanding tasks.
Storch shared his hopes that his innovative approach to sponsorship will inspire fellow riders to explore diverse funding opportunities beyond the confines of the mountain biking sector. He acknowledged the current difficulties within the industry but maintained optimism for its resurgence, believing that the sport's rapid growth should attract non-endemic companies. This sentiment echoes a similar partnership established in 2024 between fellow mountain biker Aaron Gwin and Windrock Bike Park with Kubota, providing the park's crew with heavy machinery for trail maintenance and construction.
At 32 years old, Storch's career is marked by exceptional technical prowess and a distinctive riding style. He commenced his competitive journey in jump and flowstyle at age 17, achieving notable podium finishes at the prestigious Red Bull Rampage in 2016 and 2023, alongside a first-place victory at the 2021 Proving Grounds. Despite a career-threatening injury in 2015, Storch has maintained an active presence in major events and film productions, including the acclaimed 'North of Nightfall.' His commitment extends beyond competition, as he actively contributes to trail development and community engagement in his hometown.
For the 2026 season, Storch plans to debut a prototype Kubota-orange Zink Bikes DH frame at the Natural Selection Bike competition in Queenstown, New Zealand. While Red Bull Rampage remains a key objective, he also has several film projects underway. In addition to the Zink frame, Storch intends to ride Propain e-bikes and the Propain Rage downhill bike. Although he foregoes a traditional frame sponsor, Red Bull continues to be his primary backer, complemented by enduring partnerships with endemic brands such as Giro, Shimano, Outdoor Research, and SR Suntour.
This pioneering collaboration between Carson Storch and Kubota represents a pivotal moment in sports sponsorship. It not only showcases an athlete's adaptability in navigating industry challenges but also highlights the potential for unexpected alliances to fuel both competitive excellence and community-driven initiatives. This model could serve as a blueprint for other athletes and sports, encouraging a broader perspective on mutually beneficial partnerships and sustainable career paths.