Matt Macduff’s Darkfest Build: Ready for the Biggest Jumps on Earth
The King of Darkfest 2025, Matt Macduff, is returning to the Hellsend Dirt Compound in South Africa - and he’s bringing a brand-new machine built to handle some of the biggest jumps in the world. Darkfest has become legendary for pushing the limits of freeride progression. Massive senders, huge trick combos, and riders going all-in on style and creativity make it one of the most anticipated events of the year. After taking the crown in 2025, Matt is coming back hungry, and his new build is designed specifically to take on the brutal scale and speed of the course.
Built for Big Sends
At the heart of Matt’s build is a dialed drivetrain and braking setup designed to deliver confidence when things get big, fast and wide open.
He’s running the powerful TRP EVO PRO brakes, paired with 203mm RS05E rotors for maximum stopping power and heat management. When you’re dropping into some of the world’s largest freeride jumps, having consistent braking you can trust makes all the difference.
For shifting duties, Matt is equipped with the TRP EVO 7 derailleur and shifter, giving him a simple, reliable setup that keeps things running smoothly even in the dust, speed, and chaos that Darkfest throws at riders.
The Full Build
This bike is a purpose-built freeride weapon designed to stay stable at speed while still allowing Matt to throw down massive tricks.
Build highlights:
- Brakes: TRP EVO PRO with 203mm RS05E rotors
- Drivetrain: TRP EVO 7 derailleur and shifter
- Cranks: 165mm Aluminum DH
- Wheelset: Industry Nine
- Suspension: X-Fusion
- Cockpit: Title MTB handlebars and stem
- Tires: Maxxis Ikon
Back to the Biggest Stage
Darkfest has always been about progression, and Matt has never been one to hold back. With the confidence of last year’s crown and a fresh build beneath him, we can’t wait to see what he throws down.
Good luck out there, Matt. Send it.
Ready For Sending
