Meet Matt Cipes: Senior Product Manager at Marin Bikes
At Marin Bikes, innovation and fun go hand in hand, and Matt Cipes (aka Cippy, Cip Dawg, Cip… you name it!) plays a major role in bringing those elements to life. As Senior Product Manager, Matt is responsible for developing Marin’s full suspension bikes, aggressive hardtails (HTs) like the Alcatraz and San Quentin, and electric mountain bikes (eMTBs). From initial concept and R&D to delivering complete bikes to shops and riders worldwide, Matt is at the core of Marin’s mission to build high-quality, performance-driven bikes—at a price that riders love and helping coin their main brand message: Made for Fun!
18 Years in the Bike Industry—and Counting
Matt’s passion for bikes started in college at CSU Chico, and he set his sights on being a “lifer” in the industry from day one. Now, with 18 years of experience, starting at Specialized Bikes, he’s dedicated to ensuring that Marin continues to create affordable, high-performance mountain bikes that are truly MADE FOR FUN.
What Makes Marin Bikes Special?
According to Matt, the best part of working at Marin is how the brand focuses on offering incredible ride quality at a lower price point than the industry norm. Marin bikes deliver as good—if not better—performance than higher-priced competitors, making them accessible to more riders. After all, what’s better than having fun on a bike without breaking the bank?
Best Part of the Job?
For Matt, it’s all about traveling the world, riding bikes, and connecting with like-minded people. Designing and testing bikes across different terrains is a dream come true—and having access to all the bikes he could ever want to ride? That’s just icing on the cake. Working with some of the best folks in the industry doesn't hurt either, John Oldale, Aaron Abrams, Matt V( a legend in the industry) and many more amazing folks who make the brand what it is today!
Favorite Bike He’s Ever Designed?
Right now, it’s the Marin Quake. As a former downhill (DH) racer, downhill bikes have a special place in Matt’s heart—not only because he met his wife at a DH race but also because DH is his true happy place. Seeing Matt Jones race the Marin Quake at Red Bull Hardline was an unforgettable moment, and he’s hoping for a strong showing at the 2025 Hardline events.
Favorite WTB Gear
Matt’s go-to WTB products? It’s a tie between the Judge 2.4 SG1 tires and the Devo Pick-Up saddle, both of which are on his e-MTB right now.
• WTB Judge 2.4 SG1 Tires: “The grip is amazing, and they’re basically bulletproof—no flats, no punctures, just confidence on any terrain.”
• WTB Devo Pick-Up Saddle: “Super comfortable, and as Weir said—it’s got a handle! What’s not to love?”
Life Off the Bike: Meet Shiloh
When Matt isn’t designing bikes or shredding trails, he’s hanging out with his dog, Shiloh—the best companion anyone could ask for. “She just wants to be with me all the time, and she’s so soft. Everyone needs a Shiloh in their life.” When Matt is not hanging out with his dog or riding his bike, you can usually find on his KTM 25O all kitted out in his FlyRacing gear!
Final Thoughts
With nearly two decades in the bike industry, Matt Cipes is dedicated to making sure Marin continues to build bikes that riders love—bikes that are fast, fun, and accessible to all. Whether he’s working on the latest full suspension design, optimizing eMTB performance, or dreaming up the next Hardline-ready DH machine, his passion for cycling runs deep.
Want to see Matt’s favorite WTB gear in action? Check out the WTB Judge tires and Devo Pick-Up saddle, built for the toughest rides and the biggest adventures.