In this conversation, Austin White interviews Zach Israel, the mountain bike category manager for Specialized in North America. They discuss the recent innovations in e-bikes, particularly the Levo Gen 5, and the implications of speed regulations in North America. The conversation also delves into the culture at Specialized, the challenges of navigating the bike industry, and the evolving categories of bikes, including XC and Enduro. They explore how the lines between bike categories are blurring and the impact of market dynamics on product development. In this conversation, Zach Israel discusses the evolving landscape of e-mountain biking, including the rise of e-bikes, challenges in racing, battery technology, and the impact of industry changes. He emphasizes the importance of advocacy for e-bikes, the need for clarity in racing formats, and the potential for future innovations in bike technology. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by the industry, including employee changes and market dynamics, while highlighting the growing demand for e-bike travel solutions.