Inside Kore North: A conversation with Ryan Cowling
When it comes to mountain bike heritage, few people carry the torch quite like Ryan Cowling, owner of @korenorthbikes in Meridian, Idaho. With INTENSE Cycles running deep in his story and a personal collection of classic frames that could rival a museum, Ryan has dedicated himself to preserving and celebrating the sport’s rich history.
We caught up with Ryan for a Q&A to dig into his background, the inspiration, and what keeps his passion for bikes burning strong.
What’s your bike story?:
I was born and raised in Southern California and my first bike was my sister’s hand-me-down pink Huffy banana seat…I rattle canned it black immediately. After months of walking away with black stains from the spray paint on my corduroy OP shorts I begged my parents for a new bike. They bought me a Schwinn Scrambler BMX and I was hooked! I first got into mountain biking around 1994 while living in Japan. What started as a simple way to get around town quickly evolved into a full-blown passion when I began racing downhill in 1995.
What was the "aha" moment when you knew this was more than a hobby and how it inspired you to open your shop?
While living in Japan, I always dreamed of one day opening my own bike shop. After moving to Arizona in late ’99, I worked at several shops and soaked up everything I could about the industry. With the support of some friends who believed in me and pushed me forward, I was able to bring that dream to life by starting Kore Bikes in Tempe, AZ, in 2004.
What’s the story behind the name of your shop?
The shop’s name was inspired by the “core” essence of mountain biking. From the start, I’ve focused on serving the needs of hardcore riders and racers. Although we specialize in mountain biking, riders from all disciplines are always welcome in our shop and we are willing to help get them rolling.
What keeps your passion for mountain biking alive, year after year?
It’s all about the people and relationships. I love introducing others to mountain biking and, hopefully, inspiring them to get into racing. We have a large downhill race team, and it’s incredibly rewarding to watch them grow and progress as racers. We also love the excitement of helping customers find their perfect ride—whether it’s a beach cruiser, BMX, dirt jumper, or e-bike!
What are your thoughts on the INTENSE Frame First program and how it has helped your business?
The Intense Frame First program is a fantastic initiative—it’s already helped us move several custom builds while keeping costs manageable.
How has the Frame First program changed the dialogue with the consumer in your shop?
The Frame First program has been a game-changer for my customers. In the past, we had to buy complete bikes and swap out parts to match their preferences. Now, we can build the bike exactly the way they want from the start.
Which INTENSE frame is your favorite to work with when using the Frame First customization program and why?
I’ve had a passion for the M1 since I got my first one back in ’99. The new model is an incredible machine, and having owned nearly every DH frame Intense has released since then, I can confidently say this is the best frame Jeff has built yet.
What are some underrated pieces of gear or bike setup tips you think more riders should know about?
DVO produces outstanding suspension that I think is highly underrated, and they’re fantastic to work with. When it comes to bike setup, taking the time to properly dial in the suspension and testing it makes all the difference in finding what feels most comfortable. The team at DVO even took the time to certify our Shop Manager, James on the in’s and out’s of service and rebuilds.
Give us a quote that inspires you?
Strength is the product of struggle, you must do what others don't to achieve what others won't. -Henry Rollins
Kore North is known for it's talented team of Wrenchers. And there latest project... A custom INTENSE M1 built from the ground up through the Frame First program. Every detail’s been thought through, the frame’s finished in a crisp, custom paint job, the components hand-picked to nail that stormtrooper look, and flashes of gold set it all off. Get up close and it only gets better, this build is a proper showstopper.
Build Spec
Frame: M1, powder coat white
Graphics: Cantwell Design
Fork: DVO Onyx DH
Shock: DVO Jade X Prime
Post: Deity Retina I-Beam
Saddle: Deity Sidetrack I-Beam
Brakes: TRP DHR Evo Gold
Hubs: DT Swiss 350
Rims: DT Swiss FR 541
Handlebar: Deity Speedway Carbon
Grips: Deity Megattack
Stem: Deity Intake
Headset: Cane Creek
Crankset: TRP
Drivetrain: TRP Evo DH 7
Pedals: Deity Supervillain
