Dakotah Norton’s year ends with a fractured hip socket

For Dakotah Norton, the 2024 downhill mountain biking season was nothing short of a rollercoaster. From battling self-doubt to nearly clinching a coveted world cup win, Norton’s year ended with a real bummer of an accident; he fractured his hip socket in mid-December while riding a dirt bike. He’ll be off his feet for the next three months. We hope he’ll be back in time for the world cup season. In the meantime, GoPro Bike dropped the latest “In Their Element,” episode which looks at the ups and downs of Norton’s 2024 racing season.

From doubt to determination

“There was a time I hated racing my bike,” Norton admits, reflecting on earlier struggles. The relentless pressure of professional sports—balancing expectations, managing relationships and maintaining mental and physical health—had taken its toll. At times, he questioned whether life in the trades, riding dirt bikes for fun, might have been simpler.

But Norton found a way to reignite his passion. “I get to do this. It’s unreal,” he says, acknowledging his deep connection to riding.

Evolving as an athlete

Despite his unorthodox style, Norton has adapted to the mountain biking scene. “It’s a different game,” he says, explaining how he’s learned to master the technical demands of downhill racing. His focus on staying light on the hands and leaning over the front contrasts with the “squeeze with your knees” mantra he grew up with.

The adjustments have paid off. Known for finding unconventional lines and maintaining speed through rugged terrain, Norton has proven he’s a threat on any track. “He can win on any day, any track,” say his peers, recognizing his growing consistency and tactical genius.

The fire within

Norton’s drive is fueled by more than personal ambition. “I picture my family watching at home—my grandpa, my mom,” he says. “That’s pretty important to me, to show up as the person they’d want me to be.”

Yet, Norton doesn’t shy away from admitting his hunger for a win. “I’ve always felt like the underdog, but now I’m starting to believe I belong at the front of the pack,” he says. With multiple top finishes and narrowly missed opportunities, Norton’s sights are firmly set on claiming his first world cup victory.

Adapting to the unpredictable

The unpredictable nature of downhill racing—especially the weather—has tested Norton’s patience and adaptability. Rain during key races has often thrown a wrench in his…