Singletracks Mountain Bike Podcast

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In this bonus mini-interview, we speak with world-famous trials rider Danny MacAskill about his latest video project, The Impossible Bike Obstacle Course Race. Danny shares his tips for riding skinnies and talks about his approach to challenging situations.

If you haven't seen the video yet, be sure to watch before listening so there are no spoilers!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SChm4DyivOU

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Geoff Kabush is a three-time Olympian and professional cross-country mountain bike and cyclocross racer with multiple Canadian National titles to his name. He's also a two-time winner of BC Bike Race and recently finished seventh this year against a stacked field that included Nino Schurter.

Tell us about your very first bike race. Why did you decide to sign up?
Did you think you'd still be racing mountain bikes at age 49?
In 2021, after multiple attempts, you set the FKT on the Repack DH course. What surprised you about the project? Would you ever consider giving it a try on a Klunker?
You've been experimenting with 32-inch wheels, and recently picked up a Naked Bicycles 32er gravel bike. What do you think about the emerging wheel size? How substantial are the performance benefits?
Do you have a favorite race format? Has that changed for you over the years?
What was it like racing the BC Bike Race this year? Do you plan to race the new format next year?
What's your secret to staying fast into your 40s and 50s? How much of a race like the Downieville Classic is mental vs. physical?
Racing and sponsorships look very different today than they did when you first started out. Do you think it's harder for athletes today who are expected to be influencers and competitors at the same time?
You've ridden your bike and raced all over the world. What's your favorite place to ride? As a Squamish local, do you have any trail recommendations for visitors?
What other challenges do you have planned for this year?

Keep up with Geoff's latest adventures on Instagram @geoffkabush.

This episode of the podcast is brought to you by Feedback Sports.

If you love your bike, you know that regular maintenance is the key to a smoother, faster, and safer ride. But a good wrenching session starts with the right setup. Enter the Feedback Sports Pro Mechanic and Sprint repair stands. Trusted by World Tour mechanics and home hobbyists alike, these lightweight, anodized aluminum stands are ultra-stable, highly portable, and fold down in seconds.

Whether you're chasing down a tricky drivetrain click in your garage or dialing in your shifting at the trailhead, Feedback Sports gives you shop-quality precision wherever you are. Pair their award-winning stands with their professional-grade tool kits—like the Reflex Fixed Torque Ratchet Kit—and you have everything you need to keep your rig running flawlessly. Stop wrestling with your bike upside down on the grass. Elevate your maintenance game and give your bike the care it deserves.

Head over to ⁠⁠feedbacksports.com⁠⁠ today to check out their full lineup of repair stands and precision tools.

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

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Aaron Roger is the founder and CEO of Rock Solid Trail Contracting which provides planning, consulting, design, and build services for projects mostly around the US. Rock Solid has built thousands of miles of trails in the US since 2014, in iconic destinations like Bentonville and Copper Harbor.

What was the first mountain bike trail you ever built?
Before starting Rock Solid, you were the president of the Copper Harbor Trails Club. What was the vision for the trails in Copper Harbor at that time?
What makes for a quality mountain bike trail?
How do trail builders create memorable trails? Do riders want to ride difficult trails, or just trails that appear to be difficult?
When it comes to tourism, are high-quality trails alone enough to bring visitors?
How has trail building changed since your time as a Trail Specialist at IMBA?
Why do you think so many riders prefer hand-built trails over machine-built ones? Is it possible to make a machine-built trail feel like a hand-built one?
What are some of the projects you are most proud of?
Who is your primary client for a trail build: riders or the land manager? How do you balance the desires of both groups?
Tell us about some of the custom trail-building tools Rock Solid has developed over the years.
What are some projects Rock Solid is working on now?

Visit rocksolidtrails.com to learn more about the trail-building company.

This episode of the podcast is brought to you by Feedback Sports.

If you love your bike, you know that regular maintenance is the key to a smoother, faster, and safer ride. But a good wrenching session starts with the right setup. Enter the Feedback Sports Pro Mechanic and Sprint repair stands. Trusted by World Tour mechanics and home hobbyists alike, these lightweight, anodized aluminum stands are ultra-stable, highly portable, and fold down in seconds.

Whether you're chasing down a tricky drivetrain click in your garage or dialing in your shifting at the trailhead, Feedback Sports gives you shop-quality precision wherever you are. Pair their award-winning stands with their professional-grade tool kits—like the Reflex Fixed Torque Ratchet Kit—and you have everything you need to keep your rig running flawlessly. Stop wrestling with your bike upside down on the grass. Elevate your maintenance game and give your bike the care it deserves.

Head over to ⁠feedbacksports.com⁠ today to check out their full lineup of repair stands and precision tools.

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

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Rick Vosper has been in the bike industry since the 1980s, serving in marketing and communications roles for some of the biggest brands in the business. His company, RVMS, provides creative services to consumer products and outdoor companies, and he's a regular contributor to Bicycle Retailer and Industry News.

What was your first job in the bike industry? How did you land that job?
Is cycling now, or has it ever been, a growth industry? What are the main participation drivers?
For bike brands, how realistic is it to grow overall participation vs. market share?
Why are mountain bikes so expensive? Is anyone getting rich by selling bikes?
What do you make of Chinese brands like Avinox and X-LAB entering the US market? Is vertical integration a threat to existing bike brands?
Is the local bike shop doomed? What is working for the more successful bike shops?
Between brands, retailers, and consumers, who wields the most power in the bike industry?
Is it that some US bike brands are seeing 50% or more of their sales going to e-bikes?
It seems like the US e-bike classification system was meant to avoid confusion, but now we're seeing problems around the country involving the sale and use of e-motos. What went wrong?
Now that a lot of the volatility in the supply chain has settled down, what opportunities do you see for bike and component brands going forward? What advice would you offer a young professional considering a job in the outdoor industry?

Keep up with the latest bike industry analysis from Rick at Bicycle Retailer.

This episode of the podcast is brought to you by Feedback Sports.

If you love your bike, you know that regular maintenance is the key to a smoother, faster, and safer ride. But a good wrenching session starts with the right setup. Enter the Feedback Sports Pro Mechanic and Sprint repair stands. Trusted by World Tour mechanics and home hobbyists alike, these lightweight, anodized aluminum stands are ultra-stable, highly portable, and fold down in seconds.

Whether you're chasing down a tricky drivetrain click in your garage or dialing in your shifting at the trailhead, Feedback Sports gives you shop-quality precision wherever you are. Pair their award-winning stands with their professional-grade tool kits—like the Reflex Fixed Torque Ratchet Kit—and you have everything you need to keep your rig running flawlessly. Stop wrestling with your bike upside down on the grass. Elevate your maintenance game and give your bike the care it deserves.

Head over to feedbacksports.com today to check out their full lineup of repair stands and precision tools.

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

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Cy Turner is the founder and owner of UK-based Cotic Cycles. The Cotic brand got its start in 2003 and is known for high-quality, handcrafted steel bikes, ranging from hardtails to full-suspension bikes to gravel bikes.

What were you looking for in a hardtail in 2001 that you couldn't find back then?
Where does the Cotic name come from?
Why build mountain bikes from steel? Why did you stop using titanium?
Why does it seem like so many British bikes made from steel? Are most of your buyers located in the UK, or do you see a decent amount of demand internationally?
Why move away from matched 29" wheels for the recently updated Cotic Jeht trail bike?
Do you see mountain bike geometry continuing to evolve, or is it pretty well optimized at this point?
Have you ridden a bike with 32-inch wheels? What's your perspective on the bigger wheel size?
The Cotic Rocket is one of the few high-end electric bikes with a steel frame. What made you want to design an e-bike?
What's next for Cotic?

Learn more about Cotic at cotic.co.uk.

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

This episode is sponsored by Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce.

If you’re looking for your next mountain bike destination that offers just about everything, put Sandpoint, Idaho at the top of your list! The Lower Basin trail system serves up world-class riding through towering timber and across massive granite rock slabs, with trails for every rider — from technical black diamond descents to fast, flowy cross-country loops.

For excellent park-style riding, head up to Schweitzer Mountain Resort with dedicated downhill trails and e-bike access to more than two dozen trails. Or pedal from town to the Pine Street Woods trail system where the trails range from flowy to technical.

When you’re ready to take a break from the trails, Lake Pend Oreille is right there for camping, boating, swimming, or even standup paddleboarding. And after a big day outdoors, head into the town of Sandpoint where you'll find a great selection of bars and restaurants to relax and refuel.

Get all the details to plan your perfect getaway at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠visitsandpoint.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. The trails and the good times are waiting for you when you Visit Idaho!

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Sam Garrett is a teenage mountain biker and inventor living in Rapid City, South Dakota. He was recently awarded a design patent for a tubeless tire plug tool that fits inside a standard mountain bike thru axle.

How did you get into mountain biking?
When did you start wrenching on your own bike?
Why did you decide to create your own tubeless tire plug tool? What did you think you could improve about existing tire plug tools?
Walk us through the process from idea to finished product. What were the biggest challenges along the way?
Why did you decide to call it Every Rider's Must (ERM)?
What have you learned about patents? Why go for a design patent instead of a utility patent?
What did you think when you saw the Robert Axle Project tire plug tool that also fits inside a front axle? What makes the ERM different?
Do you have any tips or tricks for making fast and effective puncture repairs on the trail?
As a young rider, what's your outlook on the sport of mountain biking? Which aspects of mountain biking get you and your friends stoked?
What's next for Garrett Dynamics? Are you looking at creating new products?

Learn more about the ERM at garrettdynamics.com.

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

This episode is sponsored by Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce.

If you’re looking for your next mountain bike destination that offers just about everything, put Sandpoint, Idaho at the top of your list! The Lower Basin trail system serves up world-class riding through towering timber and across massive granite rock slabs, with trails for every rider — from technical black diamond descents to fast, flowy cross-country loops.

For excellent park-style riding, head up to Schweitzer Mountain Resort with dedicated downhill trails and e-bike access to more than two dozen trails. Or pedal from town to the Pine Street Woods trail system where the trails range from flowy to technical.

When you’re ready to take a break from the trails, Lake Pend Oreille is right there for camping, boating, swimming, or even standup paddleboarding. And after a big day outdoors, head into the town of Sandpoint where you'll find a great selection of bars and restaurants to relax and refuel.

Get all the details to plan your perfect getaway at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠visitsandpoint.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. The trails and the good times are waiting for you when you Visit Idaho!

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Yuri Hauswald is a former 24 Hour Solo mountain bike racer who won the Unbound Gravel 200 in 2015 at age 45. In 2023, he was inducted into the Gravel Cycling Hall of Fame, and this year, he's hoping to raise $50K to support cycling in Emporia, Kansas through a unique fundraiser.

You didn't turn pro until you were 36 years old. How did you get into cycling?
What attracted you to gravel racing after all those years of mountain bike racing?
Tell us about your Unbound 200 win in 2015. How did that unfold?
How did the Bantam Classic gravel race in Petaluma, CA get started? How does the event compare to Unbound or, say a UCI gravel race?
Do you think gravel racing has changed over the years, particularly since 2022 when the UCI added gravel events?
Do you think there's an opportunity to young riders into gravel riding in the same way NICA has introduced them to mountain biking?
How have gravel bikes changed since you started riding? Is the line between gravel bikes and drop bar road bikes becoming blurred? What do you think about 32" gravel wheels?
Tell us about the Life Time Foundation’s “Chase the Race” initiative. How many riders do you hope to pass? What will the funds support?
Outside of racing, what does a fun ride look like for you?
What are some places you've visited that are worth going back and riding again?
Can you ever really retire from bike racing?
You've reinvented yourself several times over your career. What's next?

Fundraiser link: https://app.99pledges.com/fund/yurichasetherace/yuri-hauswald

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

This episode is sponsored by Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce.

If you’re looking for your next mountain bike destination that offers just about everything, put Sandpoint, Idaho at the top of your list! The Lower Basin trail system serves up world-class riding through towering timber and across massive granite rock slabs, with trails for every rider — from technical black diamond descents to fast, flowy cross-country loops.

For excellent park-style riding, head up to Schweitzer Mountain Resort with dedicated downhill trails and e-bike access to more than two dozen trails. Or pedal from town to the Pine Street Woods trail system where the trails range from flowy to technical.

When you’re ready to take a break from the trails, Lake Pend Oreille is right there for camping, boating, swimming, or even standup paddleboarding. And after a big day outdoors, head into the town of Sandpoint where you'll find a great selection of bars and restaurants to relax and refuel.

Get all the details to plan your perfect getaway at ⁠⁠⁠⁠visitsandpoint.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. The trails and the good times are waiting for you when you Visit Idaho!

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Jeff Cayley started Worldwide Cyclery in 2011 when he was just 21 years old, and today he's also the founder and CEO of two more brands, KETL Mountain Apparel and Trail One Components. Jeff is based in Nevada, where he also co-hosts a podcast known as the MTB Podcast.

In this episode, we ask:

What was happening in the bike industry when you started Worldwide Cyclery that made you think it was the right moment to launch an online retailer?
What made you focus specifically on the high-end, enthusiast market?
Is content creation and media an important part of selling bikes?
What Covid-era effects are retailers like Worldwide Cyclery still seeing today?
As someone who loves bikes, how do you square the convenience and price advantage of ordering online with wanting to support your local bike shop?
In 2019, you acquired KETL Mountain Apparel when it was still in its infancy. What was the vision behind growing that brand?
In 2021, you co-founded Trail One Components with a giving component attached to every sale. How does that model work?
What's the value proposition for Trail One products compared to other component brands?
Why is owning your own brands, like KETL and Trail One, important to you?
You're known for building really dialed, unique custom bikes. What are you riding at the moment?
You've mountain biked all over the US and even internationally. What are some of your favorite places to ride?

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

This episode is sponsored by Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce.

If you’re looking for your next mountain bike destination that offers just about everything, put Sandpoint, Idaho at the top of your list! The Lower Basin trail system serves up world-class riding through towering timber and across massive granite rock slabs, with trails for every rider — from technical black diamond descents to fast, flowy cross-country loops.

For excellent park-style riding, head up to Schweitzer Mountain Resort with dedicated downhill trails and e-bike access to more than two dozen trails. Or pedal from town to the Pine Street Woods trail system where the trails range from flowy to technical.

When you’re ready to take a break from the trails, Lake Pend Oreille is right there for camping, boating, swimming, or even standup paddleboarding. And after a big day outdoors, head into the town of Sandpoint where you'll find a great selection of bars and restaurants to relax and refuel.

Get all the details to plan your perfect getaway at ⁠⁠⁠visitsandpoint.com⁠⁠⁠. The trails and the good times are waiting for you when you Visit Idaho!

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Thomas Turner is a professional mountain bike racer who's been competing at the top level of gravel and mountain bike racing for nearly two decades. He's been sponsored by Jamis since 2010, was the 2012 Cyclocross Masters World Champion, and has notched multiple National Ultra Endurance Mountain Bike Race Series podium finishes along the way. He just got back from racing El Reto del Quetzal in Guatemala, and he's here to talk about stage racing, training, and what it's like to rides bikes around the world.

How did you first get into mountain biking and racing?
You've been with Jamis since 2010 — what's been the key to making that relationship last so long?
You've raced BC Bike Race, La Ruta, Pisgah Stage Race, even gravel events like Unbound and The Crusher — what is it about adventure races, and stage races in particular, that keeps drawing you back?
What does it take to be competitive in a stage race?
How do you choose which races to enter each year?
You just raced El Reto del Quetzal in Guatemala — what was that event like?
What does your training look like when you're preparing for a multi-day stage race?
How do you handle recovery during and after a stage race?
What's your bike setup for a race like El Reto del Quetzal?
Do you have a favorite place to ride in the world?
What's a fun and accessible stage race you'd recommend for someone trying their first one?

Follow along with Thomas Turner's adventures on Instagram @thomasturnermtb.

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

Follow Singletracks on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠@singletracks⁠⁠⁠ to keep up with the latest mountain bike news.

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Leo Kokkonen is the founder of Pole Bicycles, a boutique mountain bike brand based in Finland that's known for its innovative design and construction techniques. Founded in 2013, the brand was forced to file for bankruptcy in 2024, but now they're back with a brand new prototype and a desire to continue pushing the envelope.

Why start a bike company in 2013? What did you want to do that wasn't already being done
How did the mountain bike community react to your geometry ideas back then?
In 2017, you were planning to produce a carbon fiber bike. But then you decided not to. Why
How did you come up with your process for machining frames out of aluminum?
What are the advantages of designing and manufacturing bikes in Finland? What are the challenges?
What are the MTB trails like in your area of Finland?
Tell us about the challenges Pole faced that ultimately led to bankruptcy. What happened? What did you learn?
What can you tell us about the latest prototype you're working on?
How has your production method changed?
What's next for Pole?

Visit polebicycles.com online and follow @polebicycles on Instagram to see the bikes and to keep up with the brand.

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

Follow Singletracks on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠@singletracks⁠⁠⁠ to keep up with the latest mountain bike news.

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Gabriel Wibmer is a 23-year-old Austrian free ride and trials rider who's built a massive YouTube following with his creative urban riding videos, including the viral late for school series that's racked up nearly 25 million views, sponsored by Canyon bikes and hailing from East Tyrol, Austria, Gabriel has proven himself both as a Downhill Racer and as one of the most innovative content creators in mountain biking today.

How did motocross and trials riding shape your mountain biking style? Who are your biggest influences?
How has YouTube changed since your "Late for School" video in 2019? Do you think it is harder to go viral now?
Is it true you came up with the "Wibmer Impossible" concept after having a bike stolen in Prague?
Do you usually start with a location and build a story, or does the concept come first?
What was the most challenging trick in "Wibmer Impossible"?
How is your Canyon Torque DH bike set up? What modifications do you make?
How did you prepare for the tricks in "Gravel Mania"? Do you ride drop bar bikes regularly?
What was the hardest part about riding bike park features on a gravel bike?
Where is your favorite place to ride?
Do you have interest in racing downhill or trials again? What about urban downhill like Red Bull Valparaíso?
What projects are planned for 2026?

Follow Gabriel @wibmergabriel on Instagram and his YouTube channel. Cover photo: © Hannes Berger

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

Follow Singletracks on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠@singletracks⁠⁠⁠ to keep up with the latest mountain bike news.

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Josh Whitmore is the founder of the MTB Skills Factory (mtbskillsfactory.com) in Brevard, North Carolina. He's a Level 4 certified mountain bike coach and he’s spent more than 25 years helping riders, from total beginners to professional racers, improve their skills and confidence on the trail. We'll dig into what makes riders better: how to train your instincts, how to practice effectively, and what separates skill from fitness on the trail.

What makes the best mountain bikers great? Is it line choice, body position, mental focus, or something else?
How can riders recognize whether their biggest limitation is technical or mental?
What does “failing forward” mean when it comes to learning new skills?
What’s the biggest mistake riders make when they’re trying to practice skills?
If someone only has an hour to practice each week, what’s the most effective way to use that time?
What subtle habits separate a “pretty good” rider from someone who’s really dialed?
How do you balance fitness and skill in your own training, and what should riders prioritize?
From a coach’s perspective, what’s actually happening when a rider hits that “flow” state?
Is there a way to measure progress in skills that isn’t tied to race times or Strava segments?
From your perspective, what defines a professional mountain bike coach, and what should riders look for when choosing one?
Is there any kind of certification or background that really matters, or is it more about experience and results?
What’s one small thing riders could do today that would immediately make them better?

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

Follow Singletracks on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠@singletracks⁠⁠⁠ to keep up with the latest mountain bike news.

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Today we’re talking with Nick Ryan, the Trails Coordinator for the Copper Harbor Trail Club in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Copper Harbor has been on mountain bikers’ radars for years, both for its remote location and its incredible trail quali. With some exciting new projects underway and a lot of lessons learned over the years, we get up to speed on Copper Harbor with Nick.

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

Follow Singletracks on Instagram ⁠⁠@singletracks⁠⁠ to keep up with the latest mountain bike news.

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Jarrod Harris is the co-founder of Jarrod's Place bike park in Summerville, Georgia. We'll be diving into what it takes to open a bike park, the challenges and rewards of building trails, and we'll talk about Trail Armor, an innovative product that was actually developed right there at Jarrod's Place.

What's your background? How does someone end up starting a bike park?
How did you learn to build trails?
Were there any parks or trails that inspired you and your team when you were first starting out?
Is owning and operating a bike park a good business?
Trail Armor is a product that was developed at Jarrod's Place. What is it, and how does it work?
Beyond Jarrod's Place, where is Trail Armor being used?
Can you describe how the park is laid out? What are the most popular trails?
What's the mix of riders you see at the park? Are you getting many locals, or do people travel from further away?
Is there an off-season at the bike park?
How much of your time goes into trail maintenance versus building new stuff?
What would you do differently if you were to open another bike park today?
What's next for the bike park?

Learn more and buy a pass to Jarrod's Place at jarrodsplacebikepark.com.

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

Follow Singletracks on Instagram ⁠@singletracks⁠ to keep up with the latest mountain bike news.

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The Virginia Tech Helmet Lab has been providing independent safety ratings for sports helmets since 2011, and today we’ll hear from Dr. Barry Miller about how their testing works, why their rating system stands apart from standard certifications, and how the system has pushed manufacturers to improve designs over time.

In this episode we discuss the following questions.

Why did the Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings program get started?
How do your ratings differ from certification standards like CPSC?
How are bike helmets tested in your lab, and who performs the testing?
How well do lab results correlate with real-world crash data and field studies?
With so many models out there, how do you choose which helmets to test?
The 5-star rating scale was recently recalibrated, making 5 stars harder to earn—why?
Have the ratings influenced helmet companies to improve designs?
How unsafe is it to mount accessories (lights/cameras) on a helmet?
How do bike helmets compare tech-wise to helmets for other sports like football?
What are the main limitations of your testing and rating methodology?
Any upcoming testing updates, categories, or research directions riders should know about?

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

Follow Singletracks on Instagram @singletracks to keep up with the latest mountain bike news.

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Alex Larson is a registered dietitian who works with endurance athletes, including cyclists, helping them fuel smart both on and off the bike. In this podcast episode we’ll be tackling some serious nutrition questions—like how much protein do you actually need?—and some not-so-serious ones—like if hot dogs make for a good pre- or post-ride meal.

When should athletes choose hydration mix over plain water?
How do you know if you need more electrolytes?
What role does sugar play in fueling rides? Do non-pro cyclists benefit from sugar mid-ride too?
Among mountain bikers there does seem to be a sense that because we're so active, we don't need to be as concerned about avoiding junk food as less active individuals. Is that fair?
What are some effective and inexpensive alternatives to traditional energy/fueling products?
Is it “OK” to indulge in a giant burrito and a couple beers after a ride? Any nutritional guidance around post-ride meals?
Do you have a rule of thumb for how much protein athletes—especially cyclists—should actually need to consume each day?
How accurate are calorie estimates from smart watches and fitness apps?
Is weight loss really just “calories in vs. calories out,” or is there more to it?
What role does AI currently play in nutrition planning and advice? Should athletes be cautious or curious?

Learn more and connect with Alex at alexlarsonnutrition.com and on Instagram @alexlarsonnutrition.

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

This episode is sponsored by Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce.

If you’re looking for your next mountain bike destination that offers just about everything, put Sandpoint, Idaho at the top of your list! The Lower Basin trail system serves up world-class riding through towering timber and across massive granite rock slabs, with trails for every rider — from technical black diamond descents to fast, flowy cross-country loops.

For excellent park-style riding, head up to Schweitzer Mountain Resort with dedicated downhill trails and e-bike access to more than two dozen trails. Or pedal from town to the Pine Street Woods trail system where the trails range from flowy to technical.

When you’re ready to take a break from the trails, Lake Pend Oreille is right there for camping, boating, swimming, or even standup paddleboarding. And after a big day outdoors, head into the town of Sandpoint where you'll find a great selection of bars and restaurants to relax and refuel.

Get all the details to plan your perfect getaway at ⁠⁠⁠visitsandpoint.com⁠⁠⁠. The trails and the good times are waiting for you when you Visit Idaho!

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Miles from Mullet Cycles has carved out a unique niche in the bike industry by going against the grain. From his brash and unconventional approach to bikes to his knack for creating one-of-a-kind accessories, Miles has been challenging industry norms for years.

He's dedicated himself to perfecting the mixed-wheel format for mountain bikes, and he’s also the creative force behind Miles Wide Industries, which offers clever, rider-focused accessories. Today we’ll talk about his path into the cycling world, why he’s sticking with mixed-wheel setups, and what’s next for his two companies.

When did Mullet Cycles officially get its start? Were mixed-wheel bikes considered a novelty at the time?
A lot of riders use the words “mullet” and “mixed-wheel” interchangeably, but your company actually trademarked the term Mullet as it relates to bikes. Why did you go that route? How has the rise of the term 'mullet' affected your marketing efforts?
What makes Mullet Cycles’ bikes different from mixed-wheel bikes from other brands?
Unlike most bike brands, you don't publish complete geometry tables for your bikes. Why not?
How does your experience as a jewelry designer influence your approach to building bikes?
What’s the idea behind a Mullet gravel/adventure bike, and how is that project coming along
Why don't you offer any of your frames in carbon fiber?

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

This episode is sponsored by Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce.

If you’re looking for your next mountain bike destination that offers just about everything, put Sandpoint, Idaho at the top of your list! The Lower Basin trail system serves up world-class riding through towering timber and across massive granite rock slabs, with trails for every rider — from technical black diamond descents to fast, flowy cross-country loops.

For excellent park-style riding, head up to Schweitzer Mountain Resort with dedicated downhill trails and e-bike access to more than two dozen trails. Or pedal from town to the Pine Street Woods trail system where the trails range from flowy to technical.

When you’re ready to take a break from the trails, Lake Pend Oreille is right there for camping, boating, swimming, or even standup paddleboarding. And after a big day outdoors, head into the town of Sandpoint where you'll find a great selection of bars and restaurants to relax and refuel.

Get all the details to plan your perfect getaway at ⁠⁠visitsandpoint.com⁠⁠. The trails and the good times are waiting for you when you Visit Idaho!

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Behind the scenes, it takes a lot of planning and hard work to keep a massive trail network like Coldwater Mountain in great shape. That responsibility falls to Marcus Tillman, who works with the Northeast Alabama Bicycle Association and the city of Anniston as Recreation Trails Director for Coldwater Mountain. Today we’ll hear from Marcus about what it takes to maintain such a large system, what’s involved, and what’s in store for riders in the coming months.

In this episode we ask:

What does a recreation trails director aka "trail boss" do on a day-to-day basis?
How much maintenance is involved in keeping up a trail system the size of Coldwater Mountain?
Are you able to rely on volunteers to accomplish a significant amount of the work?
Can you give us a little history of Coldwater Mountain and how the trail system came to be?
What’s one thing you wish riders knew that would make your job easier?
For an experienced rider visiting Coldwater for the first time, what route do you recommend?
How are you preparing the trails for the big Lifetime race happening in October?
How do you ensure trails are safe and that emergency services have access to the trails?
Coldwater is open to e-bikes. Have you had any issues with speeding, user conflicts, or trail impact?

An automated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

This episode is sponsored by Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce.

If you’re looking for your next mountain bike destination that offers just about everything, put Sandpoint, Idaho at the top of your list! The Lower Basin trail system serves up world-class riding through towering timber and across massive granite rock slabs, with trails for every rider — from technical black diamond descents to fast, flowy cross-country loops.

For excellent park-style riding, head up to Schweitzer Mountain Resort with dedicated downhill trails and e-bike access to more than two dozen trails. Or pedal from town to the Pine Street Woods trail system where the trails range from flowy to technical.

When you’re ready to take a break from the trails, Lake Pend Oreille is right there for camping, boating, swimming, or even standup paddleboarding. And after a big day outdoors, head into the town of Sandpoint where you'll find a great selection of bars and restaurants to relax and refuel.

Get all the details to plan your perfect getaway at ⁠visitsandpoint.com⁠. The trails and the good times are waiting for you when you Visit Idaho!

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This week we're joined by Greg Heil, Managing Editor at Singletracks. Over the years, Greg has shared stories from trails all over North America—and for two of those years, he was doing it all while living full-time on the road in a van.

We’re going to talk about what that experience was like: the incredible places he rode, the highs and lows of vanlife, and what ultimately led him to settle down again. Whether you’ve been dreaming of hitting the road yourself or you’re just curious about what it takes to live that lifestyle, there’s a lot to learn here.

What inspired you to hit the road and live out of a van full-time in the first place?
Tell us about your van setup—what kind of vehicle were you working with, and how did you configure it for full-time living, working, and mountain biking?
Were there any must-have upgrades or clever hacks that made life easier?
How did you manage your work as a writer and editor while constantly on the move?
Were there any unexpected gems—places that surprised you or exceeded your expectations? What about well-known spots you ended up leaving early?
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced?
Are there any common mistakes people make when they're just starting out?
After a couple of years on the road, you decided to settle in one place again. What led to that decision?
What’s one thing you packed in the van that you never ended up using?
What’s one item you couldn’t live without on the road?

This episode is sponsored by Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce.

If you’re looking for your next mountain bike destination that offers just about everything, put Sandpoint, Idaho at the top of your list! The Lower Basin trail system serves up world-class riding through towering timber and across massive granite rock slabs, with trails for every rider — from technical black diamond descents to fast, flowy cross-country loops.

For excellent park-style riding, head up to Schweitzer Mountain Resort with dedicated downhill trails and e-bike access to more than two dozen trails. Or pedal from town to the Pine Street Woods trail system where the trails range from flowy to technical.

When you’re ready to take a break from the trails, Lake Pend Oreille is right there for camping, boating, swimming, or even standup paddleboarding. And after a big day outdoors, head into the town of Sandpoint where you'll find a great selection of bars and restaurants to relax and refuel.

Get all the details to plan your perfect getaway at visitsandpoint.com. The trails and the good times are waiting for you when you Visit Idaho!

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If you’ve ever watched a World Cup downhill or cross-country race at Mont Sainte Anne, you’ve seen Mountain Bike Hall of Famer Pat Drouin's work. And if you’ve ever wondered how a venue like that gets selected—or what it takes to actually host one of these massive events—we’re going to dig into that today.

We’ll also talk about the riding in and around Quebec City, which you might be surprised to learn is one of North America's most vibrant mountain bike destinations.

How would you describe the mountain biking scene in and around Quebec City?
Are there any lesser-known trails in the region that visitors might want to check out?
What does it actually take to host a UCI World Cup or World Championship event?
Beyond the race course itself, what factors does the UCI look for in a venue?
In your experience, what are the key ingredients for a successful race weekend?
Is there a particular year or moment that stands out as especially memorable in your career?
Looking back on your 30+ years in the sport, what are you most proud of?
Are there any innovations in the sport—like e-MTB racing—that you think are especially important for the future?
What’s one lesson you’ve learned from organizing bike races that might surprise people?
What advice would you give to someone who wants to organize their own local mountain bike event?

If you're heading to Quebec, check out the Auberge & Campagne tavern and inn, which is owned and operated by Pat and his family.

Photo: Drouin pictured with his GESTEV business partner, Chantal Lachance.

An automatically generated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

This episode is sponsored by Trailbot. Trailbot is the smarter way for trail managers to communicate updates without relying on social media. Don’t let The Algorithm bury your posts—easily share conditions and closures to your web site, social media and the app all at once. Best of all, it’s free.

Trailbot is used by over 260 trail systems in 17 states and growing fast. Over 50,000 riders have installed the free iOS and Android apps to get official updates with optional push notifications, without having to see what their weird relative posted on social media.

Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠trailbot.com⁠⁠⁠.

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If you follow the bike industry, you probably saw the news earlier this year that Revel was shutting down. It caught a lot of people off guard, including customers, fans, and even some insiders. But just a few months later, found Adam Miller announced he was buying the brand back and relaunching Revel with a new vision. So today, we’re going to talk about that journey—why Revel is going direct-to-consumer, what Adam learned during his time away from the company, and why he believes now is the right time to double down on building bikes again.

Why bring Revel back now, especially given the challenges facing the bike industry?
What were you doing between stepping away from Revel and deciding to buy the brand back?
Why move to a direct-to-consumer model with the relaunch?
What’s wrong with the traditional dealer/distributor model for selling bikes?
What financing options are available for building and growing a bike company today?
How do you see smaller brands like Revel competing with the big players in the industry?
What makes Revel different from other bike brands, especially in such a competitive market
What’s one thing you’re doing differently this time around based on your past experience?

An automatically generated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today. More info about Revel at revelbikes.com.

This episode is sponsored by Trailbot. Trailbot is the smarter way for trail managers to communicate updates without relying on social media. Don’t let The Algorithm bury your posts—easily share conditions and closures to your web site, social media and the app all at once. Best of all, it’s free.

Trailbot is used by over 260 trail systems in 17 states and growing fast. Over 50,000 riders have installed the free iOS and Android apps to get official updates with optional push notifications, without having to see what their weird relative posted on social media.

Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠trailbot.com⁠⁠⁠⁠.

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If you want to get better at jumping, or you’re trying to progress your riding without a mountain in sight, this episode is for you. Tadas Puodžiūnas is the founder of MTB Hopper, a Lithuanian company that designs and sells portable bike ramps.

What was it like learning to mountain bike in Lithuania?
How did the idea for MTB Hopper come about?
Do you think growing up in a flat place gave you any advantages as a rider?
Why is it generally easier to follow someone into a jump than to try it solo?
How do you figure out how much speed you need to clear a jump?
Is there a good way to ‘test’ a jump without hitting it full-send the first time?
How much suspension travel do you really need for small to medium-sized jumps?
How do MTB Hopper ramps help with that progression? And how do they compare to DIY setups?
Are there any MTB trails in Lithuania you can recommend for someone visiting the country?

An automatically generated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today. More info about MTB Hopper at mtbhopper.com.

This episode is sponsored by Trailbot. Trailbot is the smarter way for trail managers to communicate updates without relying on social media. Don’t let The Algorithm bury your posts—easily share conditions and closures to your web site, social media and the app all at once. Best of all, it’s free.

Trailbot is used by over 260 trail systems in 17 states and growing fast. Over 50,000 riders have installed the free iOS and Android apps to get official updates with optional push notifications, without having to see what their weird relative posted on social media.

Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠trailbot.com⁠⁠⁠.

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Joe is the Calirado Kid, a Sacramento-based mountain bike content creator known for posting hilarious bike-related videos on Instagram, TikTok and Youtube. This summer he's teaming up with a nonprofit organization called Adventure Scientists to encourage riders to help document biodiversity in California.

How did you first get into mountain biking?
Do you think mountain bikers take riding too seriously?
Why do you think mountain bikers like to make so many excuses about riding? What are some of the most effective ones you use yourself?
What do you do when you catch yourself making an excuse during a group ride?
Tell us about Adventure Scientists and the California Biodiversity project.
How exactly do mountain bikers collect biodiversity samples? What does that process look like on the trail?
What types of samples are being collected, and how will they actually be used to support conservation?
What’s the weirdest or most interesting thing you've encountered on a mountain bike trail?
How do you balance entertainment with making a positive impact?
What’s your favorite trail system to ride in California?
What else are you working on right now — anything exciting coming down the pipeline for your social media channels?

Get involved at adventurescientists.org and follow @caliradokid on Instagram.

An automatically generated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

This episode is sponsored by Trailbot. Trailbot is the smarter way for trail managers to communicate updates without relying on social media. Don’t let The Algorithm bury your posts—easily share conditions and closures to your web site, social media and the app all at once. Best of all, it’s free.

Trailbot is used by over 260 trail systems in 17 states and growing fast. Over 50,000 riders have installed the free iOS and Android apps to get official updates with optional push notifications, without having to see what their weird relative posted on social media.

Learn more at ⁠⁠trailbot.com⁠⁠.

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Joey Klein has been involved in mountain bike trail design for more than 30 years, and has worked for the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) longer than anyone else. This year he's being inducted into the mountain bike hall of fame in recognition of his contributions to the sport.

How did you first get involved in trail design?
What it like to be a part of the Subaru-IMBA Trail Care Crew program for three years in the late 90s/early 2000s? Do you think a program like that would be effective today?
What was the idea behind launching IMBA Trail Solutions?
How has trail design and planning evolved over the past two decades?
Is this the golden age of trail building?
How will the trails of the future be different from the trails we ride today?
Do modern bike designs drive trail designs, or is it the other way around?
Why do you think a lot of long-time riders don't like flow trails?
Among the many projects you've been involved with over the years, which ones are your favorites?
What is the biggest misconception riders have about trail design?
What's next for you, and for IMBA Trail Solutions?

Get more information about IMBA and IMBA Trail Solutions at imba.com.

An automatically generated transcript will be available at Singletracks.com later today.

This episode is sponsored by Trailbot. Trailbot is the smarter way for trail managers to communicate updates without relying on social media. Don’t let The Algorithm bury your posts—easily share conditions and closures to your web site, social media and the app all at once. Best of all, it’s free.

Trailbot is used by over 260 trail systems in 17 states and growing fast. Over 50,000 riders have installed the free iOS and Android apps to get official updates with optional push notifications, without having to see what their weird relative posted on social media.

Learn more at ⁠trailbot.com⁠.

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Jack Pittens is the co-founder 9point8, an Ontario-based bicycle component brand known for its dropper posts and other innovative products.

How did 9point8 get its start? What is your background?
For dropper posts, is there an advantage to using a sealed cartridge vs. one that's tunable, or another design?
How do you make a dropper post lightweight? Do today's buyers even care about the weight of a dropper post?
Why do you assemble 9point8 dropper posts in house vs. outsourcing production to Asia?
How often should riders service their dropper posts? What does service involve?
Do you think adding electronics to dropper posts is a good idea? What are the pros and cons?
Why do two similar dropper post diameters — 30.9mm and 31.6mm exist? And why are 27.2mm diameter dropper posts so hard to find?
Why are seatpost head designs so complicated?
How did the 9point8 INVRS pedal design come about?
What else is 9point8 working on?

Get more info at 9point8.ca. An automated transcript is provided at Singletracks.com.

This episode is sponsored by Trailbot. Trailbot is the smarter way for trail managers to communicate updates without relying on social media. Don’t let The Algorithm bury your posts—easily share conditions and closures to your web site, social media and the app all at once. Best of all, it’s free.

Trailbot is used by over 260 trail systems in 17 states and growing fast. Over 50,000 riders have installed the free iOS and Android apps to get official updates with optional push notifications, without having to see what their weird relative posted on social media.

Learn more at trailbot.com.

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Lee McCormack is a mountain bike skills instructor and coach, and he's the author of nearly a dozen books, including the NICA Skills Training Manual. He's written extensively on bike fitting and fitness training, and just last year he launched his own bike brand, Mistress Cycles.

How have mountain biking techniques changed over the years?
What's the difference between a good mountain bike racer, and a good mountain bike coach?
Is pedal cadence important for mountain biking? How do you know if your cadence is too fast or too slow? How can you improve your cadence?
Why are you such a fan of pump tracks. Why?
How do Moto Cranx work on a pump track?
Do you think mountain bikers tend to be overconfident, or underconfident in their skills?
Do you think it's possible to be faster in your 40s or 50s than in your 20s by maintaining fitness and progressing your skills?
How did Mistress Cycles come about? What is it about "modern" mountain bike geometry that you find frustrating?
You've come out with some innovative products over the years, like the RipRow trainer and Moto Cranx. In addition to the bikes from Mistress Cycles, do you have any other projects in the works?

You can keep up with the latest from Lee McCormack on Instagram @leelikesbikes, where you'll find links to all of the projects we talked about today.

An automated transcript of our edited conversation is provided at singletracks.com. Click here for an unedited video of our conversation, where Lee illustrates many of the concepts discussed. Note: may contain brief language some readers find offensive.

This podcast episode is sponsored by Backslope Tools.

Backslope Tools designs and produces innovative lockable, stackable, and field-repairable tools for trail building, landscaping, and gardening. With 20 years of trailbuilding experience, Backslope is putting the right tools for the job into builders' hands, from individuals to full-on trail crews. Order online at backslopetools.com and save 15% on your order with code SingletracksPod.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast we're going to be discussing some of the latest news and trends from the world of mountain bike trail development.

We discuss:

A recent meta-analysis of mountain bike tourism by IMBA and the Trust for Public Land
The use of private land for trail development
Threats to existing trail systems
What's happening in Arkansas
What to expect in 2025 and beyond

Visit Singletracks.com for a complete transcript,

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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David Folch is the founder and CEO of Dirty Sixer, a boutique bike builder focused on fitting tall riders with big wheel bikes. The Dirty Sixer line currently features gravel, all-road, and electric bikes, and will soon include a mountain bike with 32" wheels.

How did your brand Dirty Sixer get started?
How tall do you have to be for a 32er to make sense?
What are some of the MTB geometry challenges involved in designing around 32" wheels? Does anything get easier in terms of fitting tall riders thanks to the bigger wheels?
Has tire availability limited the development of 32" wheel bikes up until this point?
Are any current MTB forks designed to fit 32" wheels?
You hinted that you're working on a full-suspension mountain bike with 32" wheels. What are the challenges involved in designing a bike like that?
Will a 36er mountain bike ever be viable in terms of tire and fork availability?
There are several comments on your Instagram posts from people who are against the idea of a mountain bike with 32" wheels, seemingly because this would represent another standard. Do you think 32" wheels will ever gain significant traction like 29er wheels did in the early 2000s?
What's next for you in terms of big wheel mountain bike development?

Visit dirtysixer.com to get more info about the bikes and tech discussed in this episode.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Thomas Schoen is the CEO of First Journey Trails, a trail building company based in British Columbia. He's also the Director for the Williams Lake Cycling Club, the Aboriginal Youth Mountain Bike Program and is the President of the Cariboo Mountain Bike Consortium.

How long have you been building mountain bike trails professionally? How did you get started?
Which aspects of a trail build do you enjoy the most?
Is everything on track to get the First Blood trail officially opened this season? What's left to be done?
Are you seeing increasing demand for more technical trails? Do you think trails are too easy because our bikes are so good, or because bikers are getting better?
Considering all the trails you and your team have built over the years, which one is your favorite trail to ride?
What's the expected lifespan for a wooden bridge on a trail in BC?
What do you think makes for a successful mountain bike destination?
Tell us about your work with aboriginal youth First Nations trail builders.
What's the next big thing for you and for trail development in BC?

You can learn more and connect with Thomas and First Journey Trails at firstjourneytrails.com.

An automated transcript of this episode is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Cory Wallace is the reigning, six-time World Solo 24 Hour Mountain Bike Champion and the Head Organizer for the Rockies 24 race in Canmore, Alberta. His mountain bike adventures have taken him all over the world, inspiring riders and raising funds for various humanitarian causes along the way.

How did you get interested in endurance mountain bike racing, and 24 solo racing?
What happened to 24-hour racing? Is it making a comeback in terms of interest and participation?
The race you organize, Rockies 24, started in 2022. Why did you decide to start up a new 24 Hour race at Canmore?
How do prepare for a 24-hour solo race? Is it different than preparing for a stage race or an XC marathon race? Do you have a team at the race supporting you in terms of nutrition and bike repair? What is your strategy for such a long race? Is the strategy different for teams?
Are you excited about pursuing a record-breaking seventh title this year? Where and when is the championship race being held? Which bike are you planning to ride?
I saw that you were recently training in Nepal. What's the riding like there?
As someone who has mountain biked all around the world, what is your favorite place to ride?
What are some of the humanitarian projects you've supported through your rides and advocacy, and why did you choose them?
Which projects and rides are you stoked for in 2025?

You can follow Cory @wallacesworld on Instagram.

An automated transcript of this episode is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Chris Canfield's company, Suspension Formulas, develops and licenses mountain bike suspension designs used by brands including Revel and Canfield Bikes. Now he's launching his own bike brand, Vampire Bikes while also continuing to race DH at the Masters level.

In 2019 you won the UCI Masters World Championship at Mont St. Anne when you were in your 40s. What's allowed you to be so fast for so long?
How much of DH racing is about equipment vs. rider?
Did you get involved in building bikes out of necessity, or was it something you really enjoyed from the beginning?
Tell us about the Canfield Balance Formula suspension design. Is it primarily focused on pedal efficiency? What does "controlled braking" mean?
Is designing suspension for a DH bike easier in some ways since you aren't as concerned about pedal efficiency?
CF3 is a newer, patent pending suspension design. How is that different from CBF?
With the expiration of the original DW Link patent, does this open opportunities for new designs and/or improvements?
Is it difficult working with bike brands as a suspension designer? Does your design end up getting compromised in some ways?
What does the Vampire Bikes customer look like?
What do you make of recent news about athletes launching their own bike brands? What do you think is driving this?

You can follow along with the launch of Vampire Bikes on Instagram @vampire_bikes and learn more about some of the suspension designs we discussed at suspension-formulas.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Miranda Miller is a downhill mountain bike World Champion and three time Canadian National downhill champion from Squamish, British Columbia. Her video series, Here, There, Everywhere regularly features inspiring riders and mountain bike destinations around the world as Miranda takes on new cycling challenges ranging from gravel biking to gravity racing.

How did you get introduced to downhill mountain bike racing at such an early age? What was the biggest difference between racing DH and enduro for you? What are some favorite trails or mountain bike destinations you've ridden over the years? Do you do a lot of specific training or prep before big endurance rides like the 22-hour, 360km gravel ride and a 5-day bikepacking trip on the AZT you completed? How involved are you in the creative side of the Here, There, Everywhere video series? Do you consider yourself a perfectionist? Does the search for perfection ever cause problems for you? What do you make of the state of professional enduro racing today? What's next for you, and for your video series?You can follow Miranda on Instagram @mirandamillermtb and catch up on Here, There, Everywhere on the @DVRGNTminds and SRAM YouTube channels.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Lance Canfield is a mechanical engineer and former professional mountain bike racer who drew his first mountain bike design in 1996. Today his bike brand, Canfield Bikes, sells mountain bikes and components designed and tested in Poncha Springs, Colorado.

What were downhill bikes like when you began racing in 1994? What did you want to improve about your bike?
Your first bike design in 1999, the Big Fat Fatty Fat, had 12 inches of travel front and rear. How did that work?
You competed on some of your own bikes in Red Bull Rampage, including at the first competition ever in 2001. What was it like? How did it compare to today's spectacle?
Why do you think there aren't many (any?) dedicated freeride bikes on the market today?
What makes the Canfield Balance Formula (CBF) suspension design different from others on the market?
Is CBF better suited for certain applications or travel ranges?
Why are you such a proponent of shorter cranks for mountain biking?
How has Canfield been affected by industry supply fluctuations over the past few years?
What's next for Canfield? Which mountain bike developments or trends have you excited about the future?

Visit canfieldbikes.com to see the bikes and components discussed in this episode.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Riley Amos won overall Under 23 World Cup titles in both short track and cross-country this year and finished seventh in the Paris Olympics, the highest an American has ever placed in the event. He is a member of the Trek Factory Racing Team and lives and trains in Durango, Colorado.

Going into the 2024 season did you expect to win the overall U23 titles in short track and cross-country?
Do you plan to change your race training or strategy when you move up to Elite next year?
How much do you focus on nutrition as a part of your training and racing?
For the last World Cup XC race of the season you rode the Trek Top Fuel which is a FS bike with 120mm of travel front and rear. What made you choose the bike for that course? Were you running a dropper post?
I read that you joined the Durango DEVO mountain bike program in second grade. Did you participate in any other sports?
Do you think it's helpful for athletes to specialize in MTB from an early age?
As a USA Cycling National Team member, have you done much training in Bentonville? How does the riding there compare to Durango?
Why did you decide to ride the Palisade Plunge as a loop? How did it go?
In addition to the World Cup circuit, are there other races you're targeting for 2025? Do you have any fun rides planned?

Follow Riley @rj_amos on Instagram.

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Lennard Zinn is a bike designer and frame builder based in Louisville, Colorado. His shop, Zinn Cycles, offers "a full line of semi-custom and off the shelf bikes for riders from very small to very tall and everyone in-between." He’s also the author of Zinn and the Art of Mountain Bike Maintenance, one of the world’s best-selling guides to mountain bike repair.

In this first-half of our podcast discussion, Zinn talks about drivetrain maintenance, focusing on chains and lubrication. Later in the show we talk about the benefits of big 32-, 36-inch, and 750d bike wheels and designing bikes for riders both tall and small.

Understanding bike chain wear and elongation0:00

Chain wear is caused by dirt and oil-based lubricant sticking to the chain, creating a grinding paste that wears down the rollers, bushings, and pins.
Zinn describes how the chain's inner links are made.
The chain's flexibility increases as the bushings and plates wear, affecting shifting performance.
A chain's lateral stiffness is crucial for proper shifting, and a worn chain can cause skipping during shifting.

Chain elongation and its effects6:46

Zinn discusses how a chain's elongation affects its performance, particularly when the distance between rollers exceeds the half-inch standard.
He explains that a worn chain can misshape the cassette's teeth, leading to skipping and poor shifting.
Chain checkers can be used to ensure the chain's length is within spec to prevent cassette wear.

Lubrication and its impact on chain wear22:35

Zinn explains that a dry chain will wear faster due to friction, while lubrication helps reduce wear but can attract dirt.
He discusses the differences between factory lube and other lubricants, noting that factory lube is designed for machinery, not for low friction on the bike.
Zinn recommends using a cleaner to remove factory lube before applying chain lube.
He introduces the concept of chain waxing, which involves immersing the chain in molten wax to create a low-friction, clean-running chain.
Zinn shares the benefits of chain waxing, including reduced noise, lower friction, and longer chain life.

Chain waxing process and benefits35:43

Zinn describes the process of chain waxing, including the need for a clean jar of mineral spirits and denatured alcohol for cleaning the chain.
He mentions the cost-effectiveness of chain waxing compared to replacing chains frequently.

Wheel sizes and their applications1:03:20

Zinn discusses the advantages of larger wheels for tall riders like 32-, 36-inch, and 750d wheels, noting that 32-inch wheels can make a bike look proportionally sized.
He explains the challenges of using larger wheels, such as increased weight and the lack of suspension forks.
Zinn mentions the development of new carbon rims and tires for larger wheels, which could improve their performance and weight.
Barber asks about the feasibility of using suspension forks with larger wheels, and Zinn confirms that rigid forks are the only option.

Challenges in designing bikes for small riders1:16:58

Barber asks about the challenges of scaling bikes for smaller riders, and Zinn explains the limitations due to the need for certain components.
Zinn highlights the importance of proportional design, where larger wheels can make a bike look more proportionate for tall riders.
He discusses the ergonomic issues for small riders, such as wider Q-factors and shorter steerer tubes on forks.
Zinn mentions the UCI's weight limit in road racing as an example of how smaller riders are often disadvantaged.

Modern trends in bike design and their impact1:18:46

Zinn highlights the shortening of steerer tubes on forks which can be a problem for taller riders.
He discusses the trend of wider rear ends in modern bikes, which can be detrimental to smaller riders due to increased Q-factor.

Find out more about the chain waxing service and bikes discussed in this episode at zinncycles.com.

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Craig Calfee is an innovative bike builder and the founder of Calfee Design. Calfee was an early adopter of carbon fiber for bike frames in 1987, and brand's Tetra road bike is said to have been in production longer than any other carbon bike. You might also recognize his work with Bamboo bike frames, which he began in 1995.

How did you get your start building bikes?
What did people think about the carbon bike frame you debuted at Interbike in 1989? Were there concerns that carbon frames were untested?
Are you still doing carbon frame production in the US?
How does carbon frame repair work?
Your mountain bike, the Cephal, utilizes a system called Quick Tune Steering. What's the idea behind this feature?
The Cephal is a hardtail with "leaf spring chain stays." What are the benefits to having flexible chain stays?
Were you surprised about your bamboo bike frame prototype?
From a practical standpoint, is bamboo a good material for building bike frames?
Why do you offer so many different tandem bikes? What are the challenges associated with building a tandem, particularly a mountain tandem?
How does your electric pedal assist retrofit service work?
What kind of work have you done on adaptive bikes?
What's next on the horizon for Calfee Design?

Connect with Calfee Design and learn more at calfeedesign.com.

Visit singletracks.com for a complete transcript of this episode.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Wes Holland is the owner of Bullmoose Softgoods where he designs and produces one-of-a-kind bags for cycling and adventuring. Bullmoose is based in Summerville, Massachusetts and currently offers handlebar and frame bags plus hip packs and accessories.

What came first for you: bikes or bags?
What kind of riding do you like to do? What is the riding scene like in Boston?
There are a lot of hip packs and handlebar bags out there, so why make your own?
What types of materials are you working with?
What's your shop setup like?
Your hip packs aren't cheap, with prices starting at $130. What makes bags like this so expensive?
What's the trickiest part about making a bag for biking? How long does it take to make a frame bag, for example?
Have you had any failures when testing new designs?
With accessory mounts becoming more common across all types of bikes, does this make fitting or attaching bags easier for you as a bag maker?
What's in your hip pack?
Do you have new products or projects on the horizon?

Check out Wes's work at bullmoosesoftgoods.com.

An auto-edited summary of our conversation is available at Singletracks.com.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Greg Mazu is the self-described "Chief Dreamer" behind Backslope Tools, a company that designs and sells tools for trail building and forest maintenance. He's also the founder of Singletrack Trails, a trail building company that recently finished its last project after 20 years in the business.

When did you build your first trail?
How did you get into professional trail building?
What motivated you to start Tools for Trails, and later Backslope tools?
Where are Backslope tools manufactured?
If you could only have one tool to use for building a trail, what would it be?
Some riders say they prefer natural trails to machine-built ones. Do you have a preference for riding machine- or hand-built trails? Can a machine-built trail be built to feel like a natural or hand-built trail, or vice versa?
Singletrack trails was involved in some iconic projects over the years in places like 18 Road and Lunch Loops in Fruita, Black Mountain in North Carolina, Palisade Plunge in Colorado, and Handcut Hollow in Bentonville. Which trail building projects are you most proud of?
What are some favorite trails you weren't involved in building?
What are some of the challenges the trail building industry is facing in meeting increased demand for trails?
Have we reached a peak in terms of trail quality, or is there room for further growth and improvement? What are some of the latest, or upcoming innovations riders can look forward to?

See the tools we talked about at backslopetools.com and follow @gregmazu on Instagram.

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Hannah Otto recently became the fastest known woman to ride the 137-mile-long Kokopelli's trail from Moab, Utah to Loma, Colorado, besting the previous fastest known time by over an hour. In addition to racing gravel and mountain bikes, she's also a certified athletic trainer.

How do you feel now that you can finally talk about your accomplishment? Were you worried someone else would make an FKT attempt between then and now?
In October you made your first attempt, but it didn't work out. What happened.
What did you do differently the second time around?
What was your bike setup? What did you eat?
How do you pace yourself for a ride like this?
Do you think this FKT rules that should be updated or clarified to allow film crews as long as they don't offer any assistance?
How much of a role does luck play in mountain bike racing, versus skill and fitness?
Do individual time trials also make you a faster racer in more traditional events, or is this a specialized skill set?
What's next? Do you have any more FKT attempts on the horizon?

View the Kokopelli Strong film on Youtube and follow @hannah_finchamp on Instagram. Photo credit: @mahkus.g.

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Chuck Teixeira is a Senior Advanced Concept Engineer at Specialized where he's been involved in countless projects from mountain to road, and from bikes to components. Prior to joining Specialized in 2011, Chuck spent 28 years at Easton-Bell where he was the director of R&D.

How did you end up in the bike industry?
How does the Smartweld tech used on the new Specialized Chisel mountain bike frame work, and what makes it different from traditional aluminum frame welding? Why haven't we seen this on more Specialized mountain bikes?
Are mountain bikers still overlooking aluminum in favor of carbon frames?
How did you and the Roval team come upon the anti pinch flat bead-wall design?
When it comes to mountain bike rims, is there a clear winner when it comes to material choice, carbon vs. aluminum?
What are some of your favorite mountain bike products or designs that you've been involved with over the years?
How have you recovered from the Santa Cruz wildfire that claimed your house in 2020?
As someone who has lived and breathed bicycles since the 1980s, is there anything that surprises you today? What are you working on right now that has you stoked?

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Colin Ryan is a Senior Development Engineer at Norco and was involved in the design of the latest Norco Optic trail bike which features a high-pivot design. Prior to joining Norco he worked at General Kinetics testing and developing shock absorbers for military and construction equipment.

At a basic level, what problem does a high pivot design solve? Is there a certain type of riding that benefits from having a high pivot?
What are the drawbacks to the design?
Does a high pivot design improve longevity for certain components?
With less chain wrap on the crank, are dropped chains an issue with a high pivot setup?
How does the placement of the idler pulley affect performance? What about the number of teeth on the idler cog?
Did moving from a traditional setup to high-pivot change the ride feel of the Norco Optic significantly?
The decision to use a high pivot on a short, 125mm travel bike is a controversial one. Why do you think that is?
The latest Optic is said to be lighter than the previous version. How much weight does the idler hardware add, and how did you manage to make the bike lighter overall?
How is the intended use of the Optic different from the Fluid which has a very similar amount of travel (140/130mm)?
What's next for high pivot mountain bike designs?

Cover photo: Matt Miller.

See the Norco Optic and other high pivot bikes from the brand at norco.com.

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Sara Hunter is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina and a PMBIA Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor. Her practice includes individual and couples counseling services plus mountain bike therapy and counseling for athletes and outdoor instructors. She's also a Specialized USA Ambassador.

What led you to get into counseling?
Does everyone benefit from spending time outdoors, or do you think some of us are just wired that way?
What is Adventure Therapy? What is the idea behind it?
Is there such a thing as spending too much time outdoors?
As someone who works to address conflicts between individuals, do you have any ideas about how people can share the trail?
Sometimes I get frustrated on group rides when the rider in front of me gets in my way. Is there a way to re-frame this?
Unsolicited advice — about how to ride, or fix a bike — generally comes from a good place of wanting to help, but is there a better approach?
What are some ways I can be more supportive of someone who is having a tough or bad ride?
How can counseling help riders recover after an injury?
Do you have any tips for calming nerves on race day, or even before a challenging ride?
Do you have tips for reducing the risk of loneliness for athletes or travelers living the van life?
What's the biggest benefit you get from mountain biking personally?

Connect with Sara and her practice at sarahuntercounseling.com and find about upcoming workshops at her Instagram account, @mindfulmountainbike.

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Alex Larson is a registered dietitian and multi-sport athlete who helps endurance athletes optimize nutrition and performance. She's written multiple nutrition guides and offers customized nutrition coaching services to athletes around the world.

Do athleticism and nutrition go hand in hand? Are athletes generally healthy eaters by nature?
What is a "flexible eating style"? Are restrictive diets sometimes harmful?
How does pre-race fueling work?
Is nutrition drastically different for training vs. racing?
Is it more challenging for athletes to maintain a healthy gut than non-athletes?
What types of things can cause gut issues for athletes during a workout?
Are there signs that nutrition is holding us back from fitness gains?
What have you learned about nutrition from your own training?
With summer approaching, should athletes adjust their diet based on the season?
Does an individual's nutrition plan look different for different sports?
Do you recommend an app for tracking daily nutrition or a food journal?
If I eat the wrong thing after a race, is that going to have a big effect on my future performance?
What's one simple step mountain bikers can take to improve their nutrition?

For additional nutrition resources and to connect with Alex, visit alexlarsonnutrition.com.

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Amanda Carey is the President of NICA, the National Interscholastic Cycling Association, a non-profit that develops mountain biking programs for student athletes across the United States. Prior to joining NICA, Amanda served as the executive director of Mountain Bike the Tetons and as a mountain bike coach.

What drew you to mountain biking initially? What's kept you so engaged over the years?
What do you think has kept mountain biking from growing more than it has over the past couple of decades?
How is NICA impacting mountain bike participation?
How can NICA teams attract new student athletes who don't have a family cycling background? Why choose mountain biking over another sport?
How would you characterize the level of competition at NICA races?
What is NICA doing to encourage trail building and maintenance?
Is there a demand for a more gravity-oriented youth riding program?
What advice do you have for parents of NICA athletes?
What are the biggest opportunities for NICA over the next five years? How can Singletracks listeners help support your mission?

Learn more and find out how you can get involved at nationalmtb.org.

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Sara Bresnick is a former professional mountain biker, cycling coach and founder of Pedal Power Training Solutions which offers customized training plans plus advice on nutrition, race strategy, and technique.

What are some fitness goals your clients have beyond racing? For example, does it make sense for a rider to work with a coach before a big weeklong mountain bike trip?
Do older athletes need more time to recover between intense workouts?
What happens if you miss a day, or two, in a training schedule? How quickly do fitness gains disappear?
How does an "off season" work for bike athletes? Should you still be biking some, or is it possible to do other activities instead?
Let's say I wanted to ride the Tour Divide in 2025, and my goal was to finish the ride in 45 days. Given a good level of base fitness, what's a realistic timeframe for training? In general, what would a training plan involve?
What's the biggest challenge most people face when it comes to improving their fitness?
As a trainer, what can you learn from a client's workout data?
How much of your job as a trainer is emotional support versus purely technical?
What's one easy step everyone can take to start improving their fitness today?

Learn more and connect with Sara at pedalpowercoaching.com.

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Claudio Caluori is a seven-time Swiss National Champion and founder of Velosolutions, "a global network of professionals with profound knowledge in cycling, action sports, tourism and urban development." He's also a popular YouTube personality, delivering entertaining course previews and ride-alongs with top athletes.

In addition to building pump tracks around the world, Velosolutions recently helped with construction of the XC race course for the 2024 Paris Olympics and is working on an ultra accurate timing app for pump track competition.

How did you get into downhill mountain bike racing?
How are you able to talk while riding fast in your Red Bull course preview and Bla Bla Run videos? Does talking mess you up sometimes?
How is designing and building a race trail different from building a trail for the public?
What's so great about pump tracks? Why do adult riders tend to avoid them?
Tell us about Pump Tracks for Peace.
Some riders seem to be against asphalt tracks. What's your take?
Is trail building and funding easier in some parts of the world than in others?
Which Velosolutions projects are you most proud of?
Tell us about Velosolutions Farm. What's the vision?
What are some projects Velosolutions is working on right now?

Get more information about Velosolutions at velosolutions.com.

Photo credit: Sternemann

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, Matt and Jeff discuss the current trends around mountain bike weights. Are bikes too heavy, or are they where they should be given how durable and capable they are today?

This discussion covers:

Examples of specific bikes and their weights
Why bike weights might be increasing
The benefits to lightweight -- and heavy -- mountain bikes
Areas where mountain bikes might be able to cut weight

This is Matt's last episode with the Singletracks podcast so to start the show we talk about some of his most memorable stories from the past 6 years. We'll miss you Matt!

Where else can you choose from over 300 miles of epic singletrack against a backdrop of soaring mountains and cascading waterfalls? Where else can you explore 100,000 acres of public lands laced with hundreds of miles of backcountry gravel roads? Your best mountain biking adventure ever begins in Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Recreational Forest. Four primo bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need a rental, service, or some cool swag. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes, and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of America’s coolest small towns. It all adds up to one of the premier mountain biking destinations in the U.S. Find out more at⁠⁠⁠ ExploreBrevard.com⁠⁠⁠.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Will Hart is Product Marketing Manager at Cane Creek, a western North Carolina based maker of suspension and bike components.

Besides looking cool, what are some advantages of a coil shock?
Are certain styles of riding better suited to a coil shock than others?
What makes some FS mountain bikes coil compatible, and others not?
How does compression damping work on a coil shock? Is there any air involved?
Tell us about the Cane Creek Tigon. What's the idea behind combining a coil with an air spring?
How are progressive and linear coil springs different?
How do you set sag on a coil shock?
What about other settings? Are coil shocks as tunable as air shocks?
What does tightening the pre-load on a coil shock do?
How does bottom-out work on a coil shock?
Is it difficult for lighter riders to find an appropriate spring?
How does the weight of a coil shock compare to an air shock?
Will a coil feel different over time as the metal fatigues?
Are coil shocks lower maintenance than air shocks?
What is your advice for mountain bikers who are coil curious?

Find out about the Cane Creek Coil Curious program at canecreek.com.

Where else can you choose from over 300 miles of epic singletrack against a backdrop of soaring mountains and cascading waterfalls? Where else can you explore 100,000 acres of public lands laced with hundreds of miles of backcountry gravel roads? Your best mountain biking adventure ever begins in Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Recreational Forest. Four primo bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need a rental, service, or some cool swag. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes, and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of America’s coolest small towns. It all adds up to one of the premier mountain biking destinations in the U.S. Find out more at⁠⁠ ExploreBrevard.com⁠⁠.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Sean Leader is the founder of Windrock Bike Park and Southern Gravity, a Tennessee-based company that builds ramps and shuttle vehicles for bike parks. Not only that, Southern Gravity recently released a prototype steel DH mountain bike that's being tested by top elite and junior DH riders.

You've worn many hats in the mountain bike world. When was the moment you realized you could make a living in the sport?
How did Windrock Bike Park get started?
What were some of the challenges you faced as a bike park operator?
Why build your own DH bike?
What are the advantages of a steel DH bike frame compared to other materials?
Did the expiration of the DW-Link patent figure into your design plans?
Tell us about the Southern Gravity Racing team. Who are the athletes on the team, and which races are you targeting?
How would you describe the southern DH mountain bike scene today? How has it evolved?
What do you say to folks who think the southeast doesn't have quality trails or challenging terrain?

See the bike and connect with Sean at SouthernGravity.com.

Where else can you choose from over 300 miles of epic singletrack against a backdrop of soaring mountains and cascading waterfalls? Where else can you explore 100,000 acres of public lands laced with hundreds of miles of backcountry gravel roads? Your best mountain biking adventure ever begins in Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Recreational Forest. Four primo bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need a rental, service, or some cool swag. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes, and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of America’s coolest small towns. It all adds up to one of the premier mountain biking destinations in the U.S. Find out more at⁠ExploreBrevard.com⁠.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Joel Smith is the Brand Leader for Reserve, a Santa Cruz, CA brand that designs and markets wheels for everything from downhill to road biking. Steel Wisdom-Wilhelmsson is engineering lab technician responsible for lab-conditions wheel testing.

In this episode we ask:

How are MTB wheels assembled? For high-end wheels, is most of it done by hand?
How does rim construction contribute to ride feel? Is a shallower rim better than a deep rim for ride feel?
What are the advantages of a high engagement freehub? Is there a number that most riders will find meets their needs or is more always better?
Are wheel sizes and standards continuing to evolve? What about rim widths?
Are today's carbon rims stronger and more durable than aluminum? How do the weights compare?
What other advantages does carbon have over aluminum rims?
How much stronger does a DH wheel need to be compared to a lightweight XC wheel? Front vs. rear?
What is the most common mode of failure when it comes to mountain bike wheels?
What are your thoughts on tire inserts?
How have rim profiles changed over the years?
What role does spoke lacing and the number of spokes play in a wheel's strength and ride feel?
Is a Super Boost wheel a better wheel?
What's the deal with mountain bike wheel warranties? Generally speaking, do riders make many claims?
What's your advice to mountain bikers when choosing a wheel upgrade?

Check out reservewheels.com to learn more about the brand.

This episode of the Singletracks podcast is sponsored by Explore Brevard.

Where else can you choose from over 300 miles of epic singletrack against a backdrop of soaring mountains and cascading waterfalls? Where else can you explore 100,000 acres of public lands laced with hundreds of miles of backcountry gravel roads? Your best mountain biking adventure ever begins in Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Recreational Forest. Four primo bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need a rental, service, or some cool swag. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes, and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of America’s coolest small towns. It all adds up to one of the premier mountain biking destinations in the U.S. Find out more at
ExploreBrevard.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Carol Baldwin is the founder of Flownetic MTB Skills and is a PMBIA Level 3 certified mountain bike skills instructor. She's also a Singletracks contributor and product tester.

In this podcast we ask Carol:

Have you alway mountain biked with flat pedals?
Was it difficult to switch from clipless to flat pedals? Why?
What are the advantages of flat pedals compared to clipless?
What are the disadvantages of flats compared to clipless pedals?
Are bigger and/or wider pedal platforms better?
What's the right number of pins per side?
What is your favorite shoe, or type of shoe for mountain biking?
What is your favorite flat pedal?
Are aluminum pedals better than composite?
Are there certain types of rides that are better or worse for flat pedals?
For people who have only used flats, is it worth giving clipless a try?
Is riding on flats more fun?

Learn more and connect with Carol at flowneticmtb.com.

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Tom Prochazka is a co-founder and director at Gravity Logic, a bike park design and development company based in Whistler, British Columbia. He served as the manager of the Whistler Bike Park from 2001 to 2007 and designed the iconic Top of the World Trail which opened in 2011. Since then he's worked on bike parks all over the world from the western US to Europe and South America.

In this podcast interview we ask Tom:

How did you get involved in mountain bike trail building?
What do you think makes Whistler such a special place?
What drove the huge increase in Whistler visits between 2001 and 2007?
How did Gravity Logic get its start?
Tell us how the Top of the World Trail came together. How is it different from the other trails in the bike park?
What's your definition for the term "bike park"?
Are for-profit park operators able to get a decent return on investment on a bike-only, ground-up build?
How much work is involved in keeping bike trails running during the season?
Does a trail ever work exactly as planned on paper? Do builders and designers need to make adjustments once they see how people are riding the trail?
Are there many tradeoffs between safety and fun when it comes to mountain bike trail design?
It seems like most bike park visitors prefer flowy, jumpy trails to raw, technical lines. Why do you think so many mountain bikers like to complain about flow trails?
What are some of the latest trends you're seeing in bike park design today?
Do you have a favorite park or trail that you like to ride?

More information: Whistlergravitylogic.com

Cover photo provided by Tom Prochazka.

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Rhett Jones is a high school mountain biker living in the Austin, Texas area. He's the founder of Station Bike Park, a new private park he developed on 150 acres of former ranchland northwest of Austin.

Singletracks first shared Jones' story in a November feature article on our website; this interview adds more detail and dives into the economic and operational aspects of running a for-profit, private mountain bike park.

How long have you been riding mountain bikes?
Tell us about the free bike, public bike park you built in 2022. How did that get started?
Are there many places to mountain bike in and around Austin, TX? What is the mountain bike scene like in the area? In the state?
How much money did you raise, and how did you raise it? Were you able to stay on budget?
Are bike parks good businesses? Were you able to use any successful bike parks as an example?
How do most bike parks actually make money: tickets, rentals, repairs, or sales?
Was getting insurance a challenge?
Is there a benefit to being close to a more established bike park like Spider Mountain Bike Park?
What are the economics of a fixed lift system? Is the cost feasible for the average bike park?
What's your favorite part of owning a bike park?
What are your plans for the bike park and for yourself in the future?

Find out more at stationmountain.com.

Photo provided by Rhett Jones.

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Jeff and Matt look back at some of the best bikes and mountain bike gear tested in 2023, and talk about some of the most interesting new releases this year. Along the way we'll also hit on some of the trends we're following and highlight some of the reviews you might have missed. Listen to our conversation as a podcast, or read a tightly edited transcript and find photos at singletracks.com.

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John Calendrille has spent decades designing and patenting everything from derailleurs and shifters to dropper posts and brake levers. He's consulted for industry brands including TRP and Box, and now he’s got his own company, Vivo, that sells a customizable 12-speed shifter, the Vivo F3.

How did you first get into designing bike components?
What are some of the limitations of existing mechanic mountain biker shifters? What makes the Vivo F3 an improvement?
Have you found that many riders struggle with the ergonomics of off-the-shelf mechanical shifters?
One of the patents you hold is for a combination brake/shifter lever, a design that's pretty much standard for gravel and road bikes today. Where did this idea come from?
Are bike cockpits becoming cluttered again with all the controls riders need for dropper posts, motors, etc.?
With electronic drivetrains becoming more common, a lot of riders are wondering if mechanical systems will eventually go away. What's your take?
Is there still room to improve mechanical derailleurs?
Do you think moving away from front derailleurs has been a positive development?
Is 12 (or 13) speeds enough? Are there technical issues that prevent us from going beyond 13 gears, or is it more of a practical consideration?
What makes (or made) derailleur hangers necessary?
Bikes have been around for more than 100 years and the basic form hasn't changed a lot. Aside from e-bikes, is the pace of innovation in the bike world slowing or accelerating?
How important are patents in the bike industry?
You're manufacturing and assembling your Vivo F3 shifters in the USA. How's that going? Do you foresee challenges with scaling domestic production?
What's next for Vivo?

Learn more and connect with John at vivocycling.com.

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Kurt Refsnider is a cycling coach and the founder of Bikepacking Roots, an organization that advocates for bikepacking and the environment. He's the only person to have won all three events in the Triple Crown of Bikepacking, and he recently became one of only a few people to have biked the entire Continental Divide Trail (CDT), a 3,300-mile route stretching from Canada to Mexico.

Are you glad to be off the trail after three months of riding?
How is the Continental Divide Route different than the 2700-mile Great Divide Route that runs from Banff, Alberta to Antelope Wells, New Mexico?
How is the CDT currently managed and administered? Are there groups working to connect the dots?
What does it mean to be a responsible bikepacker?
How did you approach sections of the route that go through Wilderness areas where bikes aren't allowed?
Are there communities along the route that benefit from the CDT running through town? Is there much overlap with towns along the Great Divide Route?
Which sections would you want to revisit to ride without all the gear on your bike?
How will the Biking on Long Distance Trails (BOLT) Act help trails like the CDT? What is the latest status of the legislation?
Were you surprised that it took three months to complete the trail? Why isn't the CDT more popular with mountain bikers?
What does a trail assessment look like? What are you hoping to do with the info you collected on your CDT ride?
How was your bike setup different for this ride compared to what you might use on the Great Divide route? Was going full suspension the right call for such a long ride?
What's your next adventure?

Connect with Kurt and learn more at ultramtb.net and bikepackingroots.org.

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Matt Harvey is the co-founder of Enduro Bearings, a company dedicated to producing premium, high quality bearings for the bicycle industry. He's been working in bike shops starting as a teenager and later for industry brands like Gary Fisher and Bianchi.

What was your 'aha' moment for forming Enduro Bearings?
What makes bicycle bearings different from bearings used for other purposes?
What are the challenges involved in designing high performance bicycle bearings?
Which parts of a mountain bike will benefit the most from high quality bearings?
How do you know when your bearings are worn out, or need maintenance?
Are bearings generally serviceable, or are home mechanics better off replacing them?
What kind of grease should you use for bearings?
What's the advantage of ceramic bearing balls?
Where are most bearings products produced?
Why do you think Pressfit bottom brackets have such a bad reputation?
Aside from bottom brackets, it seems like the bearings in pedals tend to give riders problems over time. Why is that?
What's next for Enduro Bearings? Is there still potential for innovation and improvement in bicycle bearings?

Learn more at cycling.endurobearings.com.

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The patent for the acclaimed DW-Link suspension design recently expired, and we wanted to know: What does its expiration mean for the mountain bike industry?

Matt and Jeff interviewed several industry experts, including those involved in licensing the DW-Link patent, to make sense of it all. Originally published online as an article, this audio version includes snippets from select conversations that were featured as quotes in the written version.

Words by Jeff Barber and Matt Miller. Photo by Matt Miller.

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Ben Plenge is a professional mountain bike coach and founder of The Strength Factory. He's trained pro riders and also hundreds of amateurs over the years both in person and online.

Why did you choose to focus on strength and fitness training for mountain bikers specifically?
According to your website your most popular workout program is Bodyweight Strength. Is there a limit to the effectiveness of these simple exercises?
What are some ways to improve riding fitness that don't take time away from "just for fun" rides?
What's different about how pro athletes train versus amateurs? Are some riders born faster than others?
What's different about MTB strength training in your 40s versus your 20s?
Why do riders tend to experience more pain as we age?
Does becoming a better climber make you a faster descender? (enduro, personal experience)
Is there a certain body type that works best for certain types of riding?
What's the #1 misconception mountain bikers have about strength and fitness training?

Connect with Ben and learn more at thestrengthfactory.uk.

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Dylan Johnson tells us why he believes his drop bar hardtail is the perfect bike for the Leadville 100 in this audio story. Written and narrated by Matt Miller. This story first appeared on Singletracks.com on August 29, 2023.

Photo credit: Dylan Johnson

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

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Angi Weston is the founder of Radical Roots MTB, a group that provides "fun, safe, mountain bike skills progression" through various lessons, programs, events, and group rides. In addition to working with riders, Angi also trains MTB skills coaches and is based in Bellingham, WA.

What led you to launch Radical Roots in 2018?
What can riders learn from riding flats that they can't learn riding clipless pedals?
Do you think it's better to learn skills on a hardtail than a FS bike?
Are the junior riders you work with looking to develop different skills from the adults that attend your other camps?
How much does having a good mountain bike contribute to rider confidence, and perhaps even skill? How do you know if you need to upgrade your skills vs. your bike?
What are the skills your students are most interested in learning? Is there a fundamental skill or skills everyone should learn first?
What are the skills you're working on personally? Are there things you wish you could do better?
What makes someone a successful MTB skills coach?

Visit radicalrootsmtb.com to connect with Angi and find out about upcoming clinics.

Photo: Katie Sox.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Nichole Dandrea-Russert is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and the author of The Vegan Athlete's Nutrition Handbook. Her website Purely Planted offers tips for adding more plants to our diets, and she's based right here in Atlanta.

How did you get interested in nutrition? Have you always been an athlete?
For the vegan athletes you work with, is improving performance a primary reason for adopting a plant-based diet, or are other considerations that tend to come first?
How does a plant-based diet help athletes with recovery and reducing inflammation?
How does eating less saturated fats and cholesterol improve athletic performance? Is it helpful for endurance sports like cycling?
How do you know if you are not getting enough fat?
What are some good plant-based sources of protein?
What are some other advantages of a plant-based diet for cyclists?
Do you have any tips for keeping to a healthy diet while traveling?
How big of a factor is diet in athletic performance?
Can mountain bikers get some of the advantages of a plant-based diet without giving up meat and dairy completely?

The Vegan Athlete's Nutrition Handbook is out today and you can purchase it online or keep up with the latest at purelyplanted.com.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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In this episode, Matt and Jeff talk about the latest mountain bike drivetrain developments from electronic shifting to Eagle Transmission.

What are the advantages of electronic shifting? What are the disadvantages?
How does the new SRAM Eagle Transmission wireless electronic drivetrain compare to AXS?
What's the deal with dropouts? Is UDH going to be the standard?
How have consumers and readers responded to the Eagle Transmission news?
How do you think Shimano will respond?

We'll also recap some of the latest mountain bike trail and gear news at the top of the show. Let us know what you think!

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Yvonne Kraus is the executive director of Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, a mountain bike organization dedicated to creating, maintaining, and protecting sustainable mountain biking opportunities in Washington. Evergreen, if you don't know, is one of the largest, if not the largest, statewide mountain bike association in the US with 8 regional chapters and thousands of members.

How did Evergreen get its start?
How does Evergreen divide responsibilities between its chapters and the top-level organization?
How have the challenges facing mountain bikers in Washington changed since the group was first formed?
What are some of the most popular trail systems in the state?
What does e-bike trail access look like in the state of Washington currently?
Do you have any new MTB trails in the planning stage, or currently under construction?
Is there much of a push for mountain bike tourism in Washington?
What are the primary funding sources for Evergreen?
What’s the biggest constraint that Evergreen faces in carrying out and growing the mission?
What’s next for Evergreen?

Connect with the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and find was to support the group at evergreenmtb.org.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Nate Zukas is a bike frame builder living in Augusta, GA. He's been building bikes since 2011 and works in steel, titanium, and aluminum.

How'd you get started as a frame builder?
Is it unusual for a frame builder to work in both steel and aluminum?
What's different about working with the two materials?
As a frame builder, how much are you able to affect a bike's ride feel and performance? How do you do it?
What do you look for in a project or a client?
How much of a frame build is your vision versus the client's? In terms of what you bring to the build, how much of it is artistry versus practicality and experience?
What trends are you seeing in terms of the types of frames buyers want?
Which projects are you most proud of?
Have you ever had a project that was a disaster, or one that surprised you in another way?
Is Augusta a good place to be a frame builder? What's the riding community like there?
What's your vision for the future of Zukas Cycles? Is expansion a goal for you?

Website: zukascycles.com. Instagram: @natezukas.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Lachlan Morton is a professional cyclist and mountain biker from Australia, currently riding for UCI WorldTeam EF Education–EasyPost. He's notched podium finishes at the Leadville 100, rode the Fastest Known Time for Kokopelli's Trail in 2020, and set the Everesting cycling world record in 2020. He also completed the Alt Tour in 2021, cycling the entire Tour de France route unsupported, beating the peloton by five days.

In this interview we ask:

Congrats on your podium finish at Unbound earlier this month. Were you thinking there might be such a close finish from the beginning of the race?
How did you get into cycling competition initially? Has your motivation for racing changed?
What did you learn while riding and filming Thereabouts in 2014?
We've heard that you're hoping to make a run at the record for circumnavigating the world by bike. Is an attempt still on your radar?
Have you mapped out a potential route? How long do you think it would take?
Is it risky to publicize an FKT attempt before you make it?
It seems like a lot of your adventures are tied to fundraising for various non-profits. Which causes are near and dear to your heart?
Are you someone who learns by reading books and listening to others, or are you more of an experiential learner? How is EF a good sponsorship fit for you?
In Thereabouts you mention riding a frankenbike as a kid that didn't have brakes. What did that teach you about riding? About life?
Is there a pressure on professional athletes to have a strong social media presence today? How does that compare to 5-10 years ago?
How can the sport support pro athletes better, and how can athletes better support the sport?
In the video of your Kokopelli FKT run you look super calm and collected. Is that an accurate reflection of how you were feeling? Do you think you could have done it faster?
What do you want your legacy to be?

Keep up with Lachlan @lachlanmorton and EF Education-EasyPost @efprocycling

Photo credit: EF Education-EasyPost.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Travis Tomczak is the Global Marketing Director at Forge + Bond. The company manufactures bike wheels and accessories using a lightweight material known as FusionFiber.

How does carbon fiber rim manufacturing generally work?
What are some of the challenges associated with carbon fiber manufacturing?
Are there limitations in terms of how the material can be used, or how it performs?
How is FusionFiber different from carbon fiber in terms of the materials used and the manufacturing process?
How are sheets of FusionFiber manufactured?
How is a sheet of FusionFiber shaped into a product at Forge+Bond, for example a rim?
Are there any performance advantages of FusionFiber over traditional carbon fiber?
Is it more expensive to manufacture rims from FusionFiber than carbon fiber?
Is FusionFiber infinitely recyclable, or does the material degrade each time it's recycled? Can the scraps or recycled rims, for example, be used to create new rims?
Where can consumers recycle their FusionFiber rims?
With so many different polymer choices and layups available, could a particular blend of FusionFiber make sense for handlebars or even bike frames?
What is Forge+Bond's connection to CSS Composites, the company that produces FusionFiber rims for brands like Evil and Revel?
With such a new material and technology, what sort of product testing has Forge+Bond done? How do you handle product warranty claims?
What's next for Forge+Bond?

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Chris Mandell is the North American Public Relations Manager for SRAM where he's worked for the past 8 years. He currently lives and rides in Bellingham, Washington.

Is mountain biking suspension harder to design than say suspension for cars or motorcycles? What's different?
How much of RockShox testing is real world vs. lab based?
Is shock heat management important for the average rider?
What is the advantage of larger diameter fork stanchions?
What's the idea behind the electronic suspension controls in SRAM Flight Attendant?
Why aren't there more inverted fork designs?
What are some common misunderstandings about mountain bike suspension?
Are suspension designers as focused on reducing weight as they have been in the past? By loosening weight requirements, what improvements can be made?
What's your method for setting up a new fork?
Which suspension innovations are you most stoked about?

A full, edited transcript is available at singletracks.com.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Ernie Rodriguez is the president of MORE, the Mid Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts. MORE has been around since 1992 and the group maintains and advocates for trails in Maryland, Virginia, and the Washington, DC area.

Why and how did MORE get its start? Did it start as more of a social club, or were there advocacy concerns in the early 1990s?
How is MORE organized?
How did you become the president of MORE?
How is MORE funded?
What is the relationship between MORE and IMBA?
What are some of the more popular trails your group supports?
Which trail projects are you the most proud to have helped support?
Is there any opposition to mountain bike trail access in the region?
What does the current discussion around e-bike trail access look like for MORE?
What’s the biggest constraint MORE faces in carrying out and growing the mission?
What’s next for MORE in 2023 and beyond?

Connect with MORE at more-mtb.org.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Sam Anderson is the Brand Manager for Cane Creek Cycling Components based in Fletcher, NC just outside Pisgah National Forest. Cane Creek designs and markets their own line of shocks and suspension forks and assembles many items by hand at their factory in Western North Carolina.

What is suspension compression?
What is rebound?
What do you see people typically getting wrong when it comes to suspension setup?
What is meant by a linear or progressive suspension curve as it relates to full suspension mountain bikes?
What are the differences between a coil and air shock?
Is it possible to perfectly tune suspension to ignore pedal inputs while remaining responsive to the trail?
What is stiction, and how important is minimizing it?
How do you know when your fork/shock needs a rebuild or service?
What are some of the latest innovations in suspension design? Will tomorrow's shocks and forks look like the ones we have today?

Check out suspension products from canecreek.com.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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The Downcountry category has been around for a few years now, and by this point most mountain bike brands have a bike in their lineup that fits the description. Not only that, there are downcountry tires and shoes available now. But what does downcountry even mean?

In this episode, Matt and Jeff take a stab at defining downcountry, taking into account geometry, suspension travel, weight, and components. Other questions addressed include:

How do downcountry bikes differ from cross-country and trail bikes?
What were some of the earliest downcountry bikes?
Which popular mountain bikes today can be considered downcountry?
Are certain trail types or race disciplines well suited to downcountry bikes?
What are your impressions of the downcountry bikes you have tested over the past few years?
Where does the downcountry category go from here into the future?

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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ddie O'Dea is an ultra endurance athlete and member of the board at the Georgia Cycling Association. Last summer he became the first person to complete the 5,900-mile Eastern Divide bikepacking route over the course of 78 days and 10 hours.

Why did you decide to attempt ride the full Eastern Divide Route?
Tell us about the start of the ride. It seems like you ran into some snags even before you go rolling.
Which sections were your favorites? Did you get to hang out in any interesting towns along the way?
Are there any changes you would make to the Eastern Divide Route?
As a member of the Georgia Cycling Association board, what do the high school athletes think about your achievement?
How did your bike and equipment hold up?
Was there any point where you wanted to give up? How did you keep going?
How long before you think someone else completes the route in one go? Will there ever be enough demand for a Grand Depart?
How did it feel to finish the ride? Would you do it again?
How does the Eastern Divide compare to the Great Divide?
What was the final mileage that you covered?
Does completing a big ride change you as a person?

Connect with Eddie at cycletechniques.com and @eddieodea.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Nick Bennette is the Executive Director of the Vermont Mountain Bike Association, a position he's held for a little over two years. The group recently put together a 5-year Strategic Plan to "ensure the sustainability of mountain biking in Vermont and thoughtfully promote exceptional riding experiences for all through advocacy, education, and community-driven stewardship."

How did your experience as a consultant help you craft the VMBA 5-year Strategic Plan?
Vermont was an early adopter of a state advocacy model apart from IMBA. How has the VMBA Chapter model evolved since it was first launched?
How does Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion fit with trail advocacy? Aside from being the right thing to do, how does it benefit the MTB community?
Is e-bike access a hot topic in Vermont? Do you think it's been framed properly in the past?
How did VMBA get to 10,000 dues paying members?
Is advocating for trails easier today than it has been in the past?
Are there additional considerations involved when public trails are located on private property?
Is relying on volunteers to help build and maintain trails viable in a state like Vermont where so many trail users live out of state?
What's so great about mountain biking on the east coast of the US? Why is there a perception that the trails are better out west?

Learn more about the Vermont Mountain Bike Association at vmba.org and view their strategic plan here. Photo credit: Mark Clement.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singletracks/support

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Ryan Gaul is the Trek Factory Racing DH team manager and technical director. He’s been at Trek for about 10 years and is based in Madison, WI.

How close to stock do DH and enduro riders run their bikes?
Which aspects of a bike are modified to suit track conditions, and what stays the same for every race?
Do World Cup racers take many risks when it comes to equipment, or are they pretty conservative?
Is it common to run test parts, or prototypes in races?
Is it difficult to convince athletes to try new components on their bikes?
What type of race information is useful for product designers at the brand? How do you collect and communicate that information?
How many spare parts/bikes do you bring to a World Cup race for each athlete?
Are most athletes pretty involved in working on their own bikes?
What’s the most stressful part of a World Cup weekend for you?

Keep up with the Trek Factory Racing team at racing.trekbikes.com.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit ⁠tpc.bike/singletracks⁠ and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Matt Shriver is the General Manager and technical director for the Trek Factory Racing cross country team and is based in Durango Colorado. He’s a former pro rider himself and previously served as the technical director for the Trek WorldTour road team for seven years.

How did you make the transition from professional racing to managing race teams?
What are the responsibilities of a pro team liaison?
Does Trek Factory Racing provide coaching resources to athletes, or do athletes tend to bring their own training team?
Some pro teams are organized as collectives, while others like Trek Factory Racing seem to lean on more of a team model. Are there different philosophies among the different racing groups in MTB?
Is mountain biking a team sport? Is there a lot of strategy in MTB racing?
How does recovery work between races? Is there much downtime for the staff and athletes in between events?
How are team athletes selected?
What is the most stressful part of being a team liaison?
How intrusive are anti-doping protocols for athletes and staff?
How does a brand like Trek measure the success of their race team?
Do you think the current international MTB competition model is sustainable?
For core mountain bikers who love riding but don’t necessarily follow pro racing, why should they start paying attention to races? What can we learn from watching World Cup competitions?

Keep up with the Trek Factory Racing team at racing.trekbikes.com. Photo credit: Trek Factory Racing.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit tpc.bike/singletracks and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Dr. Kristin E. Keim is a sports psychologist and a member of the US Olympic Committee Sport Psychology and Mental Training Registry. She has helped countless individual athletes and teams achieve their goals using a holistic, strength-based approach to sports psychology. (Click here or see the link below for Dr. Keim's complete bio).

In this interview, we ask Dr. Keim:

What are some of the areas where athletes like mountain bikers face mental challenges?
Is it common for athletes to incorporate mental skills training into their preparations?
Do you have any tips for helping folks get through a tough workout, or even just a really tough part of a ride?
Is positive visualization an important part of developing a winning mindset?
What are some things that make it tough to stay motivated?
Are there any shortcuts to developing confidence? How do we get it back after a crash?
Is happiness connected to athletic performance?
Do you get nervous before a race or competition? How do you calm your nerves?

Connect with Dr. Keim and find out about the services she offers through Keim Performance Consulting at keimperformanceconsulting.com. Photo credit: by Jared Harber.

The Singletracks podcast is brought to you by TPC -- The Pro’s Closet. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade, and TPC has an industry-leading selection of new and Certified Pre-Owned bikes, plus frames, wheels and accessories. Each Certified, Pre-Owned bike is inspected, tested and serviced, and every bike includes thirty day returns. Visit tpc.bike/singletracks and enter code Singletracks40 to save forty dollars on every order over two hundred.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Karlos Bernart is the Founder, Off Road Architect, & Event Mastermind at Singletrack Samurai. His group organizes and plans a number of rides and bike routes in Florida including the Huracan 300, CFITT, and the Florida Divide.

How did you get into mountain biking and route planning?
Is your goal to include as much singletrack as possible when you design bikepacking routes like the Huracan 300? How has the route evolved over the years, and why?
Is it difficult coordinating access with land managers along the route for a long, 100+ mile rides?
How do you know when you’ve added the right number of challenges to a route? Do you try to balance difficulty with enjoyability?
What is the right size for an race like the Huracan?
How much time do you spend scouting new routes, and verifying that existing ones still work?
Of all the Florida off-road routes you’ve assembled, which one is your favorite? Which one do you recommend for folks who want the full Florida off-road experience?
Which bikepacking gear developments do you think have made bikepacking more accessible and enjoyable over the past 5-10 years?
How do you motivate someone who is having a bad ride?
Do you have any mental tricks or strategies for getting yourself through the toughest parts of a big ride?

Find out more about biking in Florida at singletracksamurai.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Lennard Zinn is a bike designer and frame builder with a shop in Louisville, Colorado. He was a member of the U.S. Olympic cycling team and worked with Tom Ritchey on some of the earliest mountain bikes. He’s also the author of Zinn and the Art of Mountain Bike Maintenance, one of the world’s best selling guides to mountain bike repair.

In this episode we ask:

How did you get into designing and building bikes?
Zinn and the Art of MTB Maintenance was first published in 1996, and it’s now in its 6th edition. What’s changed over the years?
Are today’s bikes easier to work on than bikes were 10, or 20 years ago? Why?
What are the challenges involved in fitting taller riders?
What have you learned about crank lengths over the years?
Do tall cyclists have any particular advantages when it comes to power or bike handling?
What are the considerations in terms of frame design for bigger and heavier riders? Is any of this applicable to more aggressive mountain bike designs, and vice versa?
What are the main factors that influence a bike tire’s rolling resistance?
What led you to write about heart conditions in athletes in your latest book, heart conditions in athletes? What did you learn through researching the book? Did your own heart condition influence your decision to build your first e-bike?
Is there room for further bike fit improvements in the future? Which tech trends are you excited about?

Find out more at zinncycles.com or order Haywire Heart from Amazon.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

The Haywire Heart: How too much exercise can kill you, and what you can do to protect your heart

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Mike Repyak is the Director of Planning and Design at Trail Solutions, the trail development arm of the International Mountain Biking Association. He’s been involved in recreation planning and trail network design for many years and is currently based in Madison, Wisconsin.

In this episode we ask:

How is Trail Solutions related to IMBA, and what does it do?
What are some ways designers can influence trail riders' experience?
Would you say we generally have the right mix of green, blue, and black trails in most places in the US?
How does the cost to build a new trail today compare to 10 years ago?
Are there enough experienced, quality MTB trail builders in the US?
How do maintenance considerations play into trail planning?
Is chipseal something that is helpful in building low-maintenance trails?
What are some current mountain bike trail projects you’re stoked about?
From your perspective, is there a connection between the growth of MTB participation with the growth in trail building? Does a growing sport make it easier to get projects approved and funded?

Find out more about Trail Solutions at imba.com, and for information about current, open positions at IMBA, visit ride.imba.com/explore-imba/meet-imba/careers.

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Jason Williams is the Senior Sports Scientist in the Human Performance division at Specialized and a bike fitter at Retul, a Specialized brand that’s focused on delivering technically advanced bike fitting and product matching technology. Retul works with top level athletes and uses collected data to help inform product design, notably the Specialized Body Geometry line.

In this episode we ask:

Is bike fitting today different than it was 10 or 20 years ago? Have bike fits always been so data-driven?
Has bike fit data traditionally been fed back into bike design?
How are current trends in mountain bike frame geometry like steeper seat tube angles and longer reach affecting bike fit?
Is there tension between a good bike fit, and the idea of a “normal-looking” bike setup?
How do ride dynamics play into bike fitting? Are you able to optimize a rider’s weight distribution on the mountain bike?
Is there an easy way to tell if you are running the proper bar width for your body?
What are the considerations for sizing up or down?
Are there riders who could benefit from shorter or longer crank lengths?
Are ergonomics a part of bike fitting, for example brake lever and shifter setup? Do customizable electronic controls help?
What are some of the interesting things Retul has learned fitting professional and amateur riders alike?

Check out retul.com get more info or book a fit.

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In this episode Matt and Jeff discuss the results from a recent survey that asked, "What is the least useful mountain bike innovation?".

For those who missed our survey, the top five answers among nearly 10,000 votes were:

Electronic suspension control (22%)
Electronic shifting (17%)
Flip chips (14%)
Internal cable routing (12%)
Hip packs (7%)

Commenters pointed a few choices we didn't include in the survey, so we talked about those as well.

Steering stabilizers and limiters
Tire inserts
20mm thru axles

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Aaron Chamberlain is the Bicycle Sales and Marketing Manager at Maxxis, one of the largest bicycle tire manufacturers in the world known for producing high quality products.

In this episode we ask:

Where are we at with bike tire widths? Clearly fat and plus tire adoption have peaked so are things looking pretty stable these days in terms of widths?
What are the considerations when choosing the right tire width, especially when there are so many choices? Will a tenth of an inch in width make a noticeable difference to anyone?
Do you think bike brands do a good job speccing tires on bikes? Do price and weight get prioritized over performance in some cases?
Which MTB tire features are a good fit for gravel?
Is it more difficult to design a gravel tire that’s both lightweight and fast and also durable?
Do any of the innovations in gravel tires have the potential to filter to MTB?
With access to pretty much any and every MTB tire you could want, how often do you change your tires: Seasonally? Every ride? Never?
One of the key specs when looking at tire casings is a number called TPI, threads per inch. What does that number tell us?
How does TPI work when there are multiple plies or casing layers involved?
What’s the best way to dispose of worn out bike tires?
What are some of the trends you’re seeing with pro gravity riders? Are there changes in the key things they’re looking for?

See more at maxxis.com and on Instagram @maxxisbike.

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Calvin Jones is the Director of Education at Park Tool company, a position he’s held for more than 15 years. He’s the author of the Big Blue Book Bicycle Repair and his repair videos on YouTube have been viewed by millions.

We ask Calvin:

How did you learn how to work on bikes?
What type of riding do you like to do?
Do mountain bikes require more or less repair and maintenance than other types of bikes?
Are today’s bikes easier to work on than the bikes 10 or 20 years ago?
Do bike manufacturers do a good job considering maintenance and repair when they design new products?
Are Torx bolts taking over hex bolts?
Which repairs are your least favorite?
Will future bike mechanics need electrical skills, or is diagnosing and repairing electronic components something manufacturers will want to control?
What’s the effect of YouTube videos like yours that help folks make repairs themselves at home?

Check out the Park Tool YouTube channel and parktool.com.

Programming note: For 2023 the Singletracks podcast will be published on Tuesdays each week instead of Monday.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation will be available at singletracks.com.

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After a year of testing and covering the latest mountain bike releases, Matt and Jeff discuss their favorites and talk about trends for 2022 and beyond.

Our favorite mountain bikes tested
Bikes released and updated in 2022
2022 mountain bike trends
Predictions for 2023 mountain bikes

A full transcript is available for free at Singletracks.com.

Cover photo Hannah Morvay.

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Tom Place is the co-owner and head of Product Development for Outbound Lighting (outboundlighting.com). He’s a former Cree LED manager and holds multiple LED chip design patents.

In this episode, we ask Tom to fill us in on how bike lights work, and how we can get the most out of our setup for night riding.

What is the ideal beam shape for trail riding? Are certain beam patterns better than others depending on where you ride (eg. wide open desert vs. thick forest)?
How does light placement affect the beam shape?
What’s the theory behind helmet vs. bar mounted lights? If you only have one light, is it better to be on the bars or the helmet?
Can brightness make up for an inefficient or poor beam shape?
Why shouldn’t buyers focus on lumen numbers? Which features can buyers look at to compare bike lights?
How do you determine the optimal battery size for a bike light?
Why do LED lights produce so much waste heat? Is there better tech on the horizon?
What could cause a poorly designed or manufactured light to pose a safety risk?
Do you have any tips for night riding?

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Hannah Otto is a World Cup mountain bike racer, FKT record holder, and Leadville 100 winner who has been racing since the age of 9 years old. Last month she set the fastest known time for riding the Whole Enchilada from bottom to top, and top to bottom in a time of 5:50:38.

You can watch a short film about her FKT attempt here (https://youtu.be/oErEWLGdPlI) and follow Hannah on Instagram @hannah_finchamp

In this episode we ask:

How did you first get into mountain bike racing?
How do FKT attempts compare to races like the Leadville 100 or even a World Cup XC race? Is one more stressful than the other?
Tell us about your Whole Enchilada FKT attempt. Why that route?
Was this your first time riding this exact route? Had you ridden the Whole Enchilada descent before?
According to Strava all the fastest times on the Whole Enchilada were posted by men. How did it feel to best all of them by nearly an hour?
Which was more challenging: the climb or the descent?
Was the weather a factor when you made your attempt?
Did you do any training specific to this trail, and this FKT attempt?
I assume all of your gear held up well. Any surprises out there?
What have you learned by working with bike coaches over the years?
Do you use caffeine before or during races? Why or why not?
What does your rest and recovery routine look like?
Which races or FKTs are you targeting for 2023?

This episode of the Singletracks podcast is sponsored by Explore Brevard.

Professional mountain biker Adam Craig says it’s one of the top three places in the universe he’s ever ridden. Where is this magical mountain biking nirvana? It’s none other than Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont Recreational Forest. The area boasts over 300 miles of peerless singletrack, not to mention hundreds of miles of gravel roads, creating a near endless array of routes, terrains, and challenges to explore. Four vibrant bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need gear, service, or a top notch rental. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of the best small towns in America in 2021. It all adds up to a premier mountain biking destination you’ll want to experience for yourself. Find out more at ExploreBrevard.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Jonathan Hagerman and his wife Alexandra co-founded The Dirt Therapy Project, a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to helping military veterans heal through riding. Jonathan served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2009-2013 and deployed to Afghanistan as a part of Operation Enduring Freedom.

With Veterans Day just around the corner, Matt and Jeff, also both veterans, speak with Jonathan about his experience serving and learn how The Dirt Therapy Project is connecting veterans with mountain biking.

Learn more about The Dirt Therapy Project and find out how you can get involved at tdtp.org.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Tony Boone has been building mountain bike trails for more than 30 years, and literally helped write the book on the subject, contributing to IMBA’s Guides to Building Sweet Singletrack and Providing Great Riding. He established the first bike patrol in Colorado in 1989 and has been an active member of the Professional Trail Builders Association since 1995.

In this episode we ask:

What was it like working as a Boulder open space employee?
How do the early trails compare to the ones you’re involved in creating today?
How do you learn and establish best practices for trail building?
What are some of the most common mistakes new trail builders make?
How did you get involved working with IMBA, and building trails overseas?
What was it like seeing the development of mountain biking in places like China?
What are some of the trail projects you’re most proud of?
What led you to create a community college trail building course? How do trail builders benefit from a more formal education?
What is life like as a full time trail builder?
How do concepts like sustainability and stewardship fit into recreational trail building?
What does the Jim Angel quote, “People don’t need trails, the land does,” mean to you?

Connect with Tony and learn more at tonyboonetrails.com.

This episode of the Singletracks podcast is sponsored by Explore Brevard.

Professional mountain biker Adam Craig says it’s one of the top three places in the universe he’s ever ridden. Where is this magical mountain biking nirvana? It’s none other than Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont Recreational Forest. The area boasts over 300 miles of peerless singletrack, not to mention hundreds of miles of gravel roads, creating a near endless array of routes, terrains, and challenges to explore. Four vibrant bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need gear, service, or a top notch rental. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of the best small towns in America in 2021. It all adds up to a premier mountain biking destination you’ll want to experience for yourself. Find out more at ExploreBrevard.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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In 2006 Goat and two friends set out to ride mountain bikes from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, the southernmost tip of South America, and after three and a half years of travel, the trio completed the mother of all bikepacking trips. Riding the Spine is just one of many adventures Goat has experienced over the years, including living in a tree house and building and working on countless bikes.

In this episode we ask:

How did you upbringing influence your adventure-based lifestyle?
How did you get into cycling, and particularly long-distance riding?
What was it like living in a treehouse for 4 years during college?
How did the idea of Riding the Spine come about? Who was in the group?
What was your bike setup at the start, and how did it evolve during the ride?
Why did you and the crew get arrested in Arizona?
Which sections were your favorites to ride?
Have you been on any bike adventures since the trip? Do you have any planned for the future?

Get more stories from Riding the Spine at ridingthespine.com and keep up Goat's latest adventures at wandergoat.com. Cover photo by Melinda Thompson.

This episode of the Singletracks podcast is sponsored by Explore Brevard.

Professional mountain biker Adam Craig says it’s one of the top three places in the universe he’s ever ridden. Where is this magical mountain biking nirvana? It’s none other than Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont Recreational Forest. The area boasts over 300 miles of peerless singletrack, not to mention hundreds of miles of gravel roads, creating a near endless array of routes, terrains, and challenges to explore. Four vibrant bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need gear, service, or a top notch rental. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of the best small towns in America in 2021. It all adds up to a premier mountain biking destination you’ll want to experience for yourself. Find out more at ExploreBrevard.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Joe McEwan is a career aerospace engineer and carbon composites expert who founded Starling Cycles in 2014. The brand’s bikes are developed, engineered and handmade for the demands of UK trails, and the bikes have been well received among both the media and athletes.

In this episode we ask:

What first piqued your interest in building steel bikes? Have you tried building bikes with other materials?
Is it true that that steel absorbs road and trail vibration better than other materials, and if so, can the average rider feel a difference? Do fat tires and suspension have more of an affect on ride feel than frame material?
How do you go about making a steel tube stiffer in one direction than the other?
Are there any design considerations that are unique to steel full-suspension frames?
Why are most steel frames single-pivot?
Why do some bikes like the Murmur Trail need a brace between the top tube and seat tube?
Some Starling products are made in the UK, while others are welded in Taiwan. How do you decide which bikes to build in house, and which ones to outsource?
Are there advantages to a gearbox over an external drivetrain that go beyond broken derailleurs?
What are your thoughts on the rising popularity of mixed-wheel bikes?
What’s next for Starling Cycles? Are there any steel ebikes in the future?

Check out the full suspension steel mountain bikes at starlingcycles.com.

This episode of the Singletracks podcast is sponsored by Explore Brevard.

Professional mountain biker Adam Craig says it’s one of the top three places in the universe he’s ever ridden. Where is this magical mountain biking nirvana? It’s none other than Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont Recreational Forest. The area boasts over 300 miles of peerless singletrack, not to mention hundreds of miles of gravel roads, creating a near endless array of routes, terrains, and challenges to explore. Four vibrant bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need gear, service, or a top notch rental. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of the best small towns in America in 2021. It all adds up to a premier mountain biking destination you’ll want to experience for yourself. Find out more at ExploreBrevard.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Scott Morris is a self-described “lifelong mountain biker, trail mapper and programmer.” He’s the creator of Track Leaders, a live tracking website for bikepacking races, and TopoFusion mapping software.

In this episode we ask:

How did first make the connection between mountain biking and computer programming?
Why did you and your brother decide to create TopoFusion?
Have there been growing pains as bikepacking races like the Arizona Trail Race become more popular?
Will some of the unofficial races need to become more official and organized as they get larger?
Are you able to keep the list of ultra endurance records for races like the Tour Divide and Huracan 300 up to date? Do you think there’s a value in keeping official records for races like this, and for FKTs? What are the challenges involved in maintaining an official list like this?
What led you to create Track Leaders, and how does it work?
Are SPOT devices still the best way to track outdoor races? Do you see other devices like smartphones becoming viable for this anytime soon?
As a programmer, how do you account for GPS data accuracy when tracking races? Is it easy for someone to cheat?
Why is elevation data so notoriously difficult to track accurately with a GPS?
When did you fully commit to the digital nomad lifestyle? How’d you finally make the jump? Do you have any tips for going full nomad?
When you go for a ride in a new place, do you rely on GPS entirely or do you also pack a paper map?
What are you planning for your next adventure?

Find out more at trackleaders.com and topofusion.com.

This episode of the Singletracks podcast is sponsored by Explore Brevard.

Professional mountain biker Adam Craig says it’s one of the top three places in the universe he’s ever ridden. Where is this magical mountain biking nirvana? It’s none other than Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont Recreational Forest. The area boasts over 300 miles of peerless singletrack, not to mention hundreds of miles of gravel roads, creating a near endless array of routes, terrains, and challenges to explore. Four vibrant bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need gear, service, or a top notch rental. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of the best small towns in America in 2021. It all adds up to a premier mountain biking destination you’ll want to experience for yourself. Find out more at ExploreBrevard.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Scott Morris is a self-described “lifelong mountain biker, trail mapper and programmer.” He’s the creator of Track Leaders, a live tracking website for bikepacking races, and TopoFusion mapping software.

In this episode we ask:

How did first make the connection between mountain biking and computer programming?
Why did you and your brother decide to create TopoFusion?
Have there been growing pains as bikepacking races like the Arizona Trail Race become more popular?
Will some of the unofficial races need to become more official and organized as they get larger?
Are you able to keep the list of ultra endurance records for races like the Tour Divide and Huracan 300 up to date? Do you think there’s a value in keeping official records for races like this, and for FKTs? What are the challenges involved in maintaining an official list like this?
What led you to create Track Leaders, and how does it work?
Are SPOT devices still the best way to track outdoor races? Do you see other devices like smartphones becoming viable for this anytime soon?
As a programmer, how do you account for GPS data accuracy when tracking races? Is it easy for someone to cheat?
Why is elevation data so notoriously difficult to track accurately with a GPS?
When did you fully commit to the digital nomad lifestyle? How’d you finally make the jump? Do you have any tips for going full nomad?
When you go for a ride in a new place, do you rely on GPS entirely or do you also pack a paper map?
What are you planning for your next adventure?

Find out more at trackleaders.com and topofusion.com.

This episode of the Singletracks podcast is sponsored by Explore Brevard.

Professional mountain biker Adam Craig says it’s one of the top three places in the universe he’s ever ridden. Where is this magical mountain biking nirvana? It’s none other than Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont Recreational Forest. The area boasts over 300 miles of peerless singletrack, not to mention hundreds of miles of gravel roads, creating a near endless array of routes, terrains, and challenges to explore. Four vibrant bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need gear, service, or a top notch rental. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of the best small towns in America in 2021. It all adds up to a premier mountain biking destination you’ll want to experience for yourself. Find out more at ExploreBrevard.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Dr. Kate Leeming is an explorer and adventurer who has biked tens of thousands of miles around the world, including 15,000 miles around the Australian continent in 2004 and 2005 and 22,000km across Africa from Sengal to Somalia. In 2019 she became the first person to cycle 1600km through the sands of the Namibian coast and is working toward the first-ever Antarctic bicycle crossing via the South Pole for her educational outreach organization, Breaking the Cycle.

In May of this year Leeming completed her latest expedition, The Andes, the Altiplano & the Atacama. The 4,400km adventure began just as Covid-19 hit, forcing her to end her trip after 1,100km of riding. She returned earlier this year to successfully complete the trip.

In this episode, we ask:

What is your first memory of going on an adventure?
Were you a good student in school? Did you enjoy learning?
Have you always considered yourself an explorer?
How does Breaking the Cycle: Education connect with your expeditions? What is the goal?
What got you interested in the traversing the Skeleton Coast in Namibia by bike?
Tell us about the all-wheel-drive fat bike you used. Was this a custom set up, or something you were able to find off the shelf? How did the bike perform?
Were there any surprises along the way?
How do you prepare for such massive expeditions, especially ones that no one else has completed before? How much of the preparation involves physical training versus research and logistics? How do you prepare yourself mentally?
What are the challenges that women continue to face in the world of adventuring and exploring today?
Are there ways we can be “explorers” in our day-to-day lives? What is the value of staying curious?

Learn more and connect with Kate at KateLeeming.com and BreakingTheCycle.Education.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Dr. Kate Leeming is an explorer and adventurer who has biked tens of thousands of miles around the world, including 15,000 miles around the Australian continent in 2004 and 2005 and 22,000km across Africa from Sengal to Somalia. In 2019 she became the first person to cycle 1600km through the sands of the Namibian coast and is working toward the first-ever Antarctic bicycle crossing via the South Pole for her educational outreach organization, Breaking the Cycle.

In May of this year Leeming completed her latest expedition, The Andes, the Altiplano & the Atacama. The 4,400km adventure began just as Covid-19 hit, forcing her to end her trip after 1,100km of riding. She returned earlier this year to successfully complete the trip.

In this episode, we ask:

What is your first memory of going on an adventure?
Were you a good student in school? Did you enjoy learning?
Have you always considered yourself an explorer?
How does Breaking the Cycle: Education connect with your expeditions? What is the goal?
What got you interested in the traversing the Skeleton Coast in Namibia by bike?
Tell us about the all-wheel-drive fat bike you used. Was this a custom set up, or something you were able to find off the shelf? How did the bike perform?
Were there any surprises along the way?
How do you prepare for such massive expeditions, especially ones that no one else has completed before? How much of the preparation involves physical training versus research and logistics? How do you prepare yourself mentally?
What are the challenges that women continue to face in the world of adventuring and exploring today?
Are there ways we can be “explorers” in our day-to-day lives? What is the value of staying curious?

Learn more and connect with Kate at KateLeeming.com and BreakingTheCycle.Education.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Ned Overend is a mountain bike Hall of Famer and highly accomplished racer, winning the first ever UCI mountain bike World championship in 1990, the XTERRA world champion in 1998 and 1999, and the UCI Masters World Cyclocross Champion in 2012. Today he’s the Specialized XC mountain bike Team Captain and lives in Durango, Colorado.

In this episode we ask:

How did you end up settling in tiny, out-of-the-way Durango?
When did you first hear the term “mountain biking”? What was your initial impression of the sport?
How do you train for bicycle hill climb races? What are the keys to building endurance in general? Do genetics help?
Does fat bike racing require a specialized skill set, or is it pretty similar to XC racing?
Tell us a bit about the local cycling community in Durango. How has it grown and changed over the years?
- What was it like last year seeing hometown rider Christopher Blevins become the first American to win a WC mountain bike race since 1994? What are some of your fondest mountain bike racing memories?
Tell us about the Test Track in Durango, an area that’s now known as Overend Mountain Park. Did you help build the original trails there?
- What were some of the innovations tested on the trails?
You appeared in one of the first mountain bike videos ever, in 1988. Do you think it’s even possible for a video to fully express what it’s like to ride?
What’s been the biggest innovation in mountain bike equipment over the years?
Do you have a favorite trail in Durango?

Find out more about Durango's Spoketober festival at durango.org/spoketober.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Ned Overend is a mountain bike Hall of Famer and highly accomplished racer, winning the first ever UCI mountain bike World championship in 1990, the XTERRA world champion in 1998 and 1999, and the UCI Masters World Cyclocross Champion in 2012. Today he’s the Specialized XC mountain bike Team Captain and lives in Durango, Colorado.

In this episode we ask:

How did you end up settling in tiny, out-of-the-way Durango?
When did you first hear the term “mountain biking”? What was your initial impression of the sport?
How do you train for bicycle hill climb races? What are the keys to building endurance in general? Do genetics help?
Does fat bike racing require a specialized skill set, or is it pretty similar to XC racing?
Tell us a bit about the local cycling community in Durango. How has it grown and changed over the years?
- What was it like last year seeing hometown rider Christopher Blevins become the first American to win a WC mountain bike race since 1994? What are some of your fondest mountain bike racing memories?
Tell us about the Test Track in Durango, an area that’s now known as Overend Mountain Park. Did you help build the original trails there?
- What were some of the innovations tested on the trails?
You appeared in one of the first mountain bike videos ever, in 1988. Do you think it’s even possible for a video to fully express what it’s like to ride?
What’s been the biggest innovation in mountain bike equipment over the years?
Do you have a favorite trail in Durango?

Find out more about Durango's Spoketober festival at durango.org/spoketober.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Dr. Matt Miller is the inventor and founder of Brake Ace, a sensor that collects data about your braking and an app that makes braking recommendations to help you ride smarter. He’s also a former elite-level mountain bike racer and has coached riders at all levels of the sport.

In this episode we ask:

How did you make your way up to the elite level of mountain bike competition?
Why did you decide to look at braking performance as a part of your PhD program?
What does the Brake Ace sensor look like, and how does it work?
How difficult is the hardware side in terms of development?
What’s different about your approach to studying braking performance? How did you figure out which metrics to focus on?
Let’s talk about some common braking questions.Does the front brake generally offer more stopping power than the rear?

Is locking up a wheel and skidding bad in terms of speed and/or performance, or is it desirable in certain situations?

Should mountain bikers brake before a turn? How soon? Should we brake at all once we’re in the turn? * What are some common braking skills riders need to work, or bad habits they need to break?How do the pros compare to weekend warriors in terms of braking skills?

Do some of us brake too often? Could working on things like cornering and overall confidence allow us to simply brake less? * Mountain bikers seem to be split between preferring brakes that modulate power, and those that have a quick bite. Is one better than the other in terms of performance? * If bigger rotors offer better stopping power, why not max them out? Is it just because of weight, or is there another consideration? * Tell us a bit about the MTB scene in Rotorua. How has it grown and changed over the past few years?

Learn more at brakeace.com and sign up for their email list to be notified about availability. Cover photo by Tyler Perrin.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

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Dr. Matt Miller is the inventor and founder of Brake Ace, a sensor that collects data about your braking and an app that makes braking recommendations to help you ride smarter. He’s also a former elite-level mountain bike racer and has coached riders at all levels of the sport.

In this episode we ask:

How did you make your way up to the elite level of mountain bike competition?
Why did you decide to look at braking performance as a part of your PhD program?
What does the Brake Ace sensor look like, and how does it work?
How difficult is the hardware side in terms of development?
What’s different about your approach to studying braking performance? How did you figure out which metrics to focus on?
Let’s talk about some common braking questions.Does the front brake generally offer more stopping power than the rear?

Is locking up a wheel and skidding bad in terms of speed and/or performance, or is it desirable in certain situations?

Should mountain bikers brake before a turn? How soon? Should we brake at all once we’re in the turn? * What are some common braking skills riders need to work, or bad habits they need to break?How do the pros compare to weekend warriors in terms of braking skills?

Do some of us brake too often? Could working on things like cornering and overall confidence allow us to simply brake less? * Mountain bikers seem to be split between preferring brakes that modulate power, and those that have a quick bite. Is one better than the other in terms of performance? * If bigger rotors offer better stopping power, why not max them out? Is it just because of weight, or is there another consideration? * Tell us a bit about the MTB scene in Rotorua. How has it grown and changed over the past few years?

Learn more at brakeace.com and sign up for their email list to be notified about availability. Cover photo by Tyler Perrin.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available at singletracks.com.

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This week we’re re-sharing one of our favorite podcast episodes, and we’ll be back next week with an all-new show.

Sean Madsen is WTB’s Saddle Category Manager and is an expert in cycling biomechanics with more than 24 years of experience. Over his career he’s studied and taught bike fitting to thousands worldwide, and he’s helped create many innovative saddle concepts while working with top athletes.

In this episode, we ask Sean common questions about bike saddles including:

How are bike saddles constructed?
What are some of the different materials that are used for padding? Are there advantages to using materials like gel?
What is the purpose of titanium or carbon saddle rails?
How does bike saddle sizing work?
Are more expensive saddles more comfortable?
What’s the idea behind saddle cutouts?
Why do you think the Volt is one of WTB’s best selling saddles?
Do men and women need different bike saddles?
Are saddles generally designed under the assumption that riders will be wearing a chamois?
Are mountain bike saddles different from road bike saddles?
How have saddle designs changed over the past few seasons? What’s driving the changes?
What are some signs that it’s time for a new or a different saddle?

Find out more about saddles and WTB designs at wtb.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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This week we’re re-sharing one of our favorite podcast episodes, and we’ll be back next week with an all-new show.

Sean Madsen is WTB’s Saddle Category Manager and is an expert in cycling biomechanics with more than 24 years of experience. Over his career he’s studied and taught bike fitting to thousands worldwide, and he’s helped create many innovative saddle concepts while working with top athletes.

In this episode, we ask Sean common questions about bike saddles including:

How are bike saddles constructed?
What are some of the different materials that are used for padding? Are there advantages to using materials like gel?
What is the purpose of titanium or carbon saddle rails?
How does bike saddle sizing work?
Are more expensive saddles more comfortable?
What’s the idea behind saddle cutouts?
Why do you think the Volt is one of WTB’s best selling saddles?
Do men and women need different bike saddles?
Are saddles generally designed under the assumption that riders will be wearing a chamois?
Are mountain bike saddles different from road bike saddles?
How have saddle designs changed over the past few seasons? What’s driving the changes?
What are some signs that it’s time for a new or a different saddle?

Find out more about saddles and WTB designs at wtb.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Emmy Andrews is the Executive Director of the Central Oregon Trail Alliance, also known as COTA. The group's mission is to "develop, protect, and enhance the Central Oregon mountain bike experience through trail stewardship, advocacy, collaboration, and education."

Tell us a bit about COTA. What’s the organization’s mission and how large is your membership?
When and why did COTA get its start?
How long have you been with COTA, and how did you get involved?
How is COTA organized?
How many miles of singletrack does your group support?
What are some of the most popular trails COTA helps support?
Is there currently a good mix of trails in Bend for riders of all skill levels?
Who are the land management agencies COTA works with?
Do you see a lot of riders coming from out of town to ride in Bend, and some of the other areas COTA supports? What’s the best time of year to ride in Central Oregon?
Tell us about the mountain bike community in Bend. Are there standing group rides, or businesses that are particularly MTB-friendly?
Are there some under the radar trails that visitors might want to consider riding?
Is there growing demand for e-bike trail access in Central Oregon?
Do you have any new MTB trails in the planning stage, or currently under construction?
How is COTA funded?
What’s the biggest constraint or challenge that COTA faces in carrying out and growing the mission?
What’s next for COTA?

Learn more and support the Central Oregon Trail Alliance at cotamtb.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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This week we’re re-sharing one of our favorite podcast episodes, and we’ll be back next week with an all-new show.

Last year Christopher Blevins became the first American man to win a World Cup race since 1994, taking first in the final XCO race of the season at Snowshoe, West Virginia. He’s also the 2021 short track world champion, and has notched numerous podium finishes at national and international mountain, cyclocross, and road races. This past weekend Blevins crashed during the short track race (XCC) at Les Gets but still managed a top-20 finish. In the cross country race on Sunday he was not feeling well due to injuries suffered in the XCC race and pulled out of the competition.

In this interview we ask:

How did the Durango DEVO community-based cycling program shape who you are as a rider?
What is it about Durango that produces so many talented riders? Is it the elevation, or the terrain, or something else?
How does being a playful rider translate on the race course?
How did you get interested in spoken word poetry?
What did you learn through the process of preparing for and then racing your FKT attempt along the Los Padres route?
Which do you find more challenging: FKTs or World Cup racing? How are they different or the same?
As a professional athlete, what do you see as your role in important issues like climate change?
How can we balance the positives that tourism can bring to an area with the impact that it has in terms of the carbon footprint of travel and the strain on local resources?
Why did you decide to join the Trinity Racing team?
Were you thinking about becoming the first US male to win a World Cup race in 27 years at the start of the Snowshoe XC event last year?
Who are some entrepreneurs you admire? Do you see yourself becoming an entrepreneur in the traditional business sense, or is entrepreneurship applicable to making a career as an athlete?
What’s next for you?

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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In this episode Chris, Jeff, and Matt talk about the 12 best mountain bike destinations in the United States that was recently shared on Singletracks. We'll go over the criteria we consider when choosing our favorite mountain bike destinations and go through the list and share more about the best spots to visit.

Moab, Utah
Sedona, Arizona
Bentonville, Arkansas
Grand Valley, Colorado (Fruita / Grand Junction / Palisade)
Crested Butte, Colorado and the Gunnison Valley
Park City, Utah
Pisgah, North Carolina (Brevard / Asheville / Old Fort)
Lake Tahoe
Copper Harbor, Michigan
Kingdom Trails, Vermont
Durango, Colorado
Bellingham, Washington

Cover photo: Matt Miller

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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This week we’re re-sharing one of our favorite podcast episodes, and we’ll be back next week with an all-new show.

Pat White is a longtime product manager for Kona Bicycles and Doug Lafavor aka Dr. Dew has been designing bikes at Kona for decades.

In this episode we ask:

Which factors make a hardtail ‘hardcore’ or more aggressive compared to say an XC or entry-level hardtail?
What are aggressive hardtails good for in terms of riding style or trails? What are the limits?
How important is frame material when it comes to designing a hardtail? Is there one material that’s generally superior to the others?
Are there higher costs involved in building hardtails from steel than aluminum?
Where does the compliance in a hardtail frame come from?
Do you look at component selection differently for a hardtail vs. a full suspension bike? If so, what are the key areas where the builds differ?
Is there any lingering debate about wheel size when it comes to hardtails?
Are sliding dropouts an important selling point?
What do you think about Internal cable routing on hardtails?
There seems to be a focus on making seat angles steeper lately. How do you approach seat tube angles for hardtails compared to FS bikes?
Are there things you’re able to do with hardtail geometry that just aren’t feasible with a FS design?
How is the balance between chainstays and reach considered on a hardtail?
For a lot of riders cost can be a factor in deciding to go with a hardtail. What does the typical hardtail rider look like?
Do you own a hardtail mountain bike? How often do you ride it?
What are some tips for riders to get the most out of a hardtail mountain bike? Do we need to modify our riding style, or reconsider preferences for things like tire and fork pressure?

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Seth Gebel is a mountain biker and trail builder living in Missouri. His popular YouTube channel, Backyard Trail Builds, shows how he builds beautiful trail features like ramps, skinnies, and bridges using natural materials.

In this episode we ask:

Tell us how you got into mountain biking, and trail building.
You’ve been building at Howler Bike Park this year. What were you working on there? How much of your time do you spend building on your own land versus paid projects for others?
Where did you learn your carpentry skills?
Is there a science to building features that are fun to ride, or is it guess-and-check?
Have you had to progress your bike skills to keep up with your builds?
You use a lot of natural wood as opposed to cut lumber, which seems to be pretty time consuming. Why make the effort?
Is longevity a concern when building features out of wood? Are there things you can do to ensure features remain safe and durable for many seasons?
Do you enjoy riding skinnies? What makes a good mountain bike skinny?
Were you looking to start a YouTube channel initially?
Your most popular YT video (so far) is about building a set of indoor rollers out of logs. What was the reaction to that video?Are you still using the rollers?
Which builds are you most proud of?
What’s next for your builds and your channel?

Check out the Backyard Trail Builds YouTube channel, and visit the Backyard Trail Builds website for more.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Mike Giese is an industrial designer based in Salt Lake City who has designed products for bike brands like Revel, Trust, and most recently, Evil Bikes. Evil just announced their first electric mountain bike, and we’re curious to learn about some of the design challenges that were involved.

In this episode we ask:

How do industrial designers and engineers work together? Does one usually take the lead on starting a new bike project, or are you working in parallel from the beginning?
Is it beneficial, or even possible, to simply take an existing mountain bike design and electrify it? Or is it better to start from scratch? Why?
Evil is using a Shimano e-drive system in the new Epocalypse. Is choosing the drive system one of the first steps? Why choose Shimano for this bike?
What are the challenges involved in designing a frame to accommodate a motor and battery?
Are there any unique challenges with wiring, or is it pretty similar to internal cable and hose routing?
How do build kit considerations differ for an e-bike vs. a traditional mountain bike?
We’re seeing e-bike innovations, particularly in components like tires and brakes, trickling down to traditional bikes. Are there similar opportunities when it comes to frames?
Was the goal to give the e-bike a similar ride feel to other bikes in the Evil lineup, or did you see this as an opportunity to deliver something unique?
How do you make decisions about touch points and usability for things like power switches and charging ports?
Do you think e-bikes are closer in spirit to motorcycles or bicycles?
Who do you see as the target customer for electric mountain bikes like this one? Is it geared toward more experienced riders, or do you think it will appeal more to folks who are new to the sport?

Check out some of Mike’s work at mikegiese.com, and see the new Evil bike at evil-bikes.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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This week we’re re-sharing one of our favorite podcast episodes, and we’ll be back next week with an all-new show.

Dee Tidwell is a professional coach and the founder of Train to Ride which provides cycling-specific training programs and plans for mountain biking, road, gravel, and moto riding. He’s also a two time Big Mountain Enduro Master’s Champ and has worked with countless professional athletes including members of the Yeti/Fox Factory professional EWS race team.

We ask Dee:

What is the Performance Pyramid, and how does it work? Walk us through each level.
Is it OK to skip some of the lower levels and jump right to the top?
How electric mountain bike riding and racing this differ from more traditional mountain bike training?
Do you find that people really hate cardio so much that they avoid training altogether? Is equipment cost an excuse people use for not working on getting stronger?
Is soft tissue therapy something folks can work on at home with foam rollers and massage guns, or is this one area where working with a physical or massage therapist in person is beneficial?
Have you seen a shift in the mix of your clients over the years between racers and folks who just want to ride for fun?
What are the risks associated with over training? How do you know if you’re over training?
Why is full body strength so important for mountain biking?
How are golf and cycling related in terms of fitness and mobility? Is it true that mountain biking is the new golf?
How can riders deal with pain and fatigue on long rides?
How does a lack of strength or fitness contribute to our risk for injury?
What can we do to have more fun on the mountain bike next season?

Find more information about Dee and learn about training programs at TrainToRide.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Gary Moore is the executive director of the Colorado Mountain Bike Association, COMBA. The group is dedicated to the interests of the Front Range mountain biking community in and around Denver.

In this episode we ask:

What is the Colorado Mountain Bike Association's mission and how large is your membership? How many miles of singletrack does COMBA help support?
When and why did COMBA get its start?
How long have you been with COMBA, and how did you get involved?
Did the recent boom in mountain bike participation translate into COMBA membership growth?
What is the biggest misconception the community tends to have about their local advocacy groups?
What are some of the most popular trails your group helps support? Are some Front Range trails particularly popular with MTB tourists?
Are there many opportunities for new trail builds on the Front Range? Can trail growth keep up with demand from new residents, and new riders?
How do you decide which trails projects to pursue?
Is unauthorized trail building a problem in the Denver metro area?
What does the current discussion around e-bike trail access look like for COMBA, especially when it comes to city and county trails along the Front Range?
What’s the biggest constraint or major challenge COMBA faces in carrying out and achieving the mission?
What’s next for COMBA?

To get involved or learn more, visit COMBA.org.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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This week we’re re-sharing one of our favorite podcast episodes, and we’ll be back next week with an all-new show.

Dr. Adam Phaneuf is a Doctor of Chiropractic with a degree in Exercise Science based in Bellingham, WA. He’s also a bike fitter and has studied bicycle biomechanics.

In this interview we ask Adam:

Is it true that cycling is lower impact than other activities like jogging?
Do you think mountain biking is higher impact than road cycling?
What are some of the most common ride-related issues folks tend to have?
Are certain muscles, or body parts, more prone to injury or pain for mountain bikers?
Do oval chain rings work for reducing pain? Are there any biomechanical advantages to them that riders can benefit from?
How can riders know if it’s their form that needs to be changed, or if it’s something about the bike fit that’s wrong?
What is arm pump, and what causes it?
Can vibration on the bike lead to any health or pain issues? Can things like suspension stems or seat posts be helpful for some people?
How does bike fit change, if at all, based on the type or length of ride we’re doing?
What is the ideal saddle tilt for mountain biking? How do you dial that in correctly?
Are there pros and cons to trying a more rearward cleat placement for mountain biking?
What do you think about the idea of video/online bike fitting?

To learn more or connect with Adam and his team visit apexchirobellingham.com or on Instagram @apexbellingham.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Craig Durkin is the founder of Wandrer.earth, an exploration game that encourages people to explore new places by bike and by foot. He and his wife Pearl are also good friends, and we’ve been riding together regularly for a few years now.

In this episode we ask Craig:

Are you still biking abandoned railroad tracks with this contraption?
Why did you first get into mountain biking?
What is Wandrer and how does it work?
What are some of the interesting things you’ve see on your rides?
Are there plans to create specific challenges for mountain biking, and MTB trails?
Who would you say is the best MTB trials rider of all time?

Learn more and sign up for a free account at Wandrer.earth.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Aaron and Emily Kerson founded PNW Components in 2015. The customer-focused brand is known for offering quality components like dropper posts, handlebars, and now clothing at affordable prices.

In this interview we ask:

What kind of bike industry experience did you have before starting PNW?
Did you observe any problems you wanted to solve, or were there efficiencies that were being overlooked?
What was the first product PNW launched? Why did you choose that product or product line to start?
Who does your product design and development?
Is working with local bike shops and brick and mortar retailers becoming more important as the brand grows?
What is your customer service philosophy? Is the customer always right?
Why did you decide to offer a lifetime warranty for PNW products?
What’s one thing buyers can do to keep their dropper post working smoothly?
Are there unique advantages and/or challenges to working with your spouse?
Is there any pressure to increase prices on the products you sell? How are you keeping prices low?
PNW, along with a number of brands, recently launched a line of cycling apparel. Why clothing?

Learn more about the company at pnwcomponents.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Otis Guy started racing mountain bikes at Repack in the late 1970s and competed at the first mountain bike World Championships in 1990. He’s also been a frame builder since the 1980s and currently works as a youth cycling coach in Northern California.

In this interview we ask Otis:

How did you get introduced to mountain bikes and mountain biking?
What appealed to you about riding off road?
How do the early trails on Mt. Tam compare to the purpose-built mountain bike trails being created today?
Are you still building bike frames today? What do you think about the current trend toward slacker MTB head tube angles?
What were the mountain bike race courses like in the 1990s? Did your pro team, racing full suspension bikes, have a big advantage over other teams at the time?
Did you and Joe Breeze ever complete the tandem bike ride from San Francisco to New York?
How did you learn mountain bike skills? Did you have a coach?What is the focus of your youth MTB camps? What do you hope kids will get out of mountain biking?
What’s one thing you want today’s mountain bikers to know about the history of our sport?

To learn more about his frame building business and coaching visit otisguycycles.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Aaron Abrams is Director of Product for Marin Bicycles and is currently based in Taiwan. The Marin bike brand has been around since 1986 and the company’s slogan says their bikes are “Made For Fun.”

In this episode we talk about how mountain bikes are specced, and how product managers make decisions about which parts to include.

When planning out the builds for a bike like the Marin Rift Zone 29 (three options, priced between $2,000 and $3,000), do you start with a set of say 3 price targets and choose the best parts that make those prices work?
How important is overall bike weight when it comes to build specs?
What is the purpose of speccing house-brand components like bars, saddles, and stems on bike builds? Is there a lot of cost savings by going this route?
Why did Marin recently start selling branded aftermarket grips, bars, and stems?
We rarely see full suspension builds that mix and match forks and shocks from different brands. Why is that?
How do you know if consumers are going to like a part, say a particular tire model, or if it’s going to perform as well as another competing part choice?
Why do so many entry-level, budget bikes include front derailleurs? Is it because no one is making a cheap 1-by drivetrain, or because buyers at this price point think they want a lot of gears?
What is the first component you would personally upgrade when buying an entry-level mountain bike?
Why can't customers choose from a menu of parts when ordering a mountain bike? Why are we still, for the most part, limited to just a few set choices when it comes to builds?
Have pandemic-related supply chain issues altered the way brands are thinking about bike builds going forward?
Do the athletes you work with weigh in on component choices and build specs for the models they ride? Do outside sponsorships make this tricky?
Where do customers tend to get the best value when it comes to buying a complete bike: at the low end, or the high end?

To get a better sense of some of the parts and builds discussed check out marinbikes.com.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Matt De Young is the executive director of the Santa Cruz Mountains Trail Stewardship, a non-profit that “builds and maintains great trails for everyone, and connects communities to nature through responsible outdoor recreation.”

In this episode we ask:

How is the SCMTS organized?
How many miles of bike trails does SCMTS support?
When and why did the SCMTS get its start?
Why the name change from Mountain Bikers of Santa Cruz to Santa Cruz Mountains Trail Stewardship?
Are trail user conflicts a big issue in the Santa Cruz area?
The SCMTS is one of the most vocal groups that’s promoting scientific studies showing the environmental impacts of mountain biking. How did the Mountain Biking Impact Review report come together?
Tell us a bit about your professional trail building team. What types of projects do they work on, and how does that support the overall mission?
What are some of the most popular trails your group helps support? Are any of the trails particularly popular with MTB tourists, or are most riders local residents?
With big bike brands like Santa Cruz and Ibis located in the area, is your group able to benefit from corporate sponsorships? What’s the relationship like with UCSC?
Are there many opportunities for new trail builds in Santa Cruz county?
What does the current discussion around e-bike trail access look like for SCMTS?
What’s the biggest constraint SCMTS faces in carrying out and growing the mission?
What’s next for SCMTS in 2022 and beyond?

Connect with SCMTS at santacruztrails.org.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Dale Boyd and Drew Hall are mountain bikers and trail builders living in Mobile, Alabama. They’re part of a group called Ride the Rebellion that posts videos and podcasts about their efforts to build and ride trails in a part of the US that isn’t traditionally known for mountain biking.

In this episode we ask:

What was the local mountain bike scene like when you first got into the sport?
How did you come up with the name Ride the Rebellion for your group?
- How many folks are a part of the group? Is there an official membership process?
What are some ways you’ve found to make flat terrain more fun to ride?
How did you learn to build trails and trail features?
How do you come up with names for trails and trail features?
- What is the status of the land where you build trails? How did you get permission to build and ride there?
- What is your agreement like with the landowner in terms of what you can, and can’t, do?
- Can anyone ride the trail whenever they like, or is it a members-only situation?
What is the role of video and podcasting in building your real-life MTB community?
Do you travel outside Alabama to mountain bike? What are some of your favorite places to ride outside your local area?
What have you learned along the way that might be helpful to others in a similar situation?

Find Ride the Rebellion video channel on YouTube and their podcast on Spotify.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Wende Cragg has been a part of mountain biking since the beginning of the sport in California in the 1970s, racing and photographing the early Repack races down Mt. Tam. She was inducted into the mountain bike hall of fame in 1989 and curates the Rolling Dinosaur Archive which chronicles the birth of mountain biking.

Tell us a bit about your introduction to mountain biking. Was it love at first ride?
Which aspects of riding a bicycle off road were most appealing to you? How would you describe the feeling of those first rides?
What was your motivation for taking photographs in the early days of mountain biking?
What was it like connecting with riders in Crested Butte who were sorta discovering mountain biking in parallel with you and your friends in the Bay Area?How was their idea of mountain biking different from the one being developed in California?
Were you surprised to see mountain bikers banned from riding on Mt. Tam in the early 80s? How did you react?
Did you get frustrated with the early bikes?Do you think today’s mountain bikes make the sport more appealing or accessible?

How do electric mountain bikes fit in? * What do you hope people get out of seeing and experiencing the Rolling Dinosaur Archive? * With so many styles of riding within mountain biking today, which intepretation do you think gets closest to that original ethos?

Photo: Rolling Dinosaur Archive

Search the Singletracks podcast archive for interviews with more mountain bike pioneers including Joe Breeze, Gary Fisher, Charlie Kelly, and Tom Ritchey.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Ben Turits runs a coaching business and sports therapy practice called The Endurance Collective. He’s a former professional mountain bike racer and current USA Cycling coach working with both pro and amateur athletes alike.

In this episode we ask:

How did your first enduro race go? What type of training did you do to prepare?
What does VO2 max measure?How is it measured? Is using heart rate data to estimate VO2 max fairly accurate?
Are there specific types of training that are effective in raising VO2 max?
How important is VO2 max for predicting performance?
What is lactate threshold?What does it measure?
How is it measured?
Is lactate threshold directly related to power?
Are there other similar fitness metrics that riders can or should pay attention to?
Is there a difference between mountain bikers and road bikers when it comes to the importance of certain metrics?
Is it possible to get the same quality workout on the trail vs. on the trainer?Is gravel riding a good substitute for road riding in terms of the training benefits?
How do you know if you’re under- or over-fueled on longer rides?

Learn more or connect with Ben and the Endurance Collective on their website (theendurancecollective.com) and YouTube channel.

✏️ A written transcript of this conversation is available to Singletracks Pro supporters: singletracks.com/support

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Anthony Duncan is the Director of Local Programs at IMBA and is based out of Johnson City, Tennessee. The IMBA Local program is designed to support grassroots mountain bike organizations through services, education and mentorship programs.

In this episode we ask Anthony:

How long have you been at IMBA? What were you doing before joining?
The IMBA local program was launched at the end of 2017 which represented a huge change for the organization. What was happening back then that led to the formation of Local?
There are two IMBA Local support service options: Chapter services and Affiliate services. What does Affiliate services include?
What kinds of services does Chapter support add?
Does IMBA directly help groups advocate at the local level, or do you provide education and resources so groups can advocate for themselves instead?
What are some of the biggest challenges local trail groups are facing?
Have you seen an uptick in new local groups forming since the pandemic began?
It seems like lately some of the groups that decided to drop their IMBA association are coming back as Local affiliates. What do you think is driving that?
Do you think state-level groups like those forming in Vermont and California are a natural evolution in MTB advocacy?How do IMBA Regions fit this model?
Is this a good time to be a mountain bike advocate? Are economic arguments increasingly effective in trail project approvals?
What’s next for IMBA Local?

Learn more about IMBA Local at IMBA.com.

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Terry Palmeri is the Executive Director of the Southern Off Road Bicycle Association (SORBA). The organization has been around since 1989 and today SORBA is made up of 48 chapters spread across seven states.

In this conversation we ask:

Why and how did SORBA get its start? What sorts of issues were southern mountain bikers struggling with in the late 1980s?
How is SORBA organized?
How many miles of singletrack trails do SORBA chapters support?
How many individuals belong to a SORBA club? How do you think that number compares to the number of active mountain bikers living in the southeast?
How is SORBA funded?
What is the relationship between SORBA and IMBA?
What are some of the bigger trail projects that are currently in the works?
Are there any unique challenges to trail building in the southeast?
Is there much opposition to mountain bike trail access in the region?
What does the current discussion around e-bike trail access look like for SORBA?
What’s the biggest constraint SORBA faces in carrying out and growing the mission?
What’s next for SORBA in 2022 and beyond?

For more information about SORBA or to make a donation, visit SORBA.org.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Pat White is a longtime product manager for Kona Bicycles and Doug Lafavor aka Dr. Dew has been designing bikes at Kona for decades.

In this episode we ask:

Which factors make a hardtail 'hardcore' or more aggressive compared to say an XC or entry-level hardtail?
What are aggressive hardtails good for in terms of riding style or trails? What are the limits?
How important is frame material when it comes to designing a hardtail? Is there one material that’s generally superior to the others?
- Are there higher costs involved in building hardtails from steel than aluminum?
Where does the compliance in a hardtail frame come from?
Do you look at component selection differently for a hardtail vs. a full suspension bike? If so, what are the key areas where the builds differ?
- Is there any lingering debate about wheel size when it comes to hardtails?
- Are sliding dropouts an important selling point?
- What do you think about Internal cable routing on hardtails?
There seems to be a focus on making seat angles steeper lately. How do you approach seat tube angles for hardtails compared to FS bikes?
Are there things you’re able to do with hardtail geometry that just aren’t feasible with a FS design?
How is the balance between chainstays and reach considered on a hardtail?
For a lot of riders cost can be a factor in deciding to go with a hardtail. What does the typical hardtail rider look like?
- Do you own a hardtail mountain bike? How often do you ride it?
- What are some tips for riders to get the most out of a hardtail mountain bike? Do we need to modify our riding style, or reconsider preferences for things like tire and fork pressure?

Photo credit: Kona

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Susie Murphy is the executive director of the San Diego Mountain Bike Association and is also a board member with the California Mountain Biking Coalition.

What is the San Diego Mountain Bike Association's mission, and how are you organized?
When and why did the SDMBA get its start?
How long have you been with the SDMBA, and how did you get involved?
Did the recent boom in mountain bike participation translate into SDMBA membership growth?
What are some of the most popular trails your group helps support?
Are there many opportunities for new trail builds in and around San Diego?
Several years ago the chapter was pretty vocal about the bikes in wilderness issue. Why is or was that so important in your area, and where are we now?
Do you think protesting can be an effective tool for mountain bike advocates?
What does the current discussion around e-bike trail access look like for SDMBA?
What’s the biggest constraint SDMBA faces in carrying out and growing the mission? I
How does SDMBA work with the newly formed CA Mountain Biking Coalition? Do you think legislative lobbying is an effective way to increase MTB access?
What’s next for SDMBA?

Learn more about the San Diego Mountain Bike Association at sdmba.com and the California Mountain Bike Coalition at camtb.org.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Manon Carpenter is a downhill mountain bike world champion and advocate for the environment living in Caerphilly, Wales . She recently premiered a documentary film titled Trails on Trial that explores how trails connect the land with communities and various stakeholders.

In this interview we ask:

When did you first get interested in the idea of environmental protection?
Was the connection between biking and the environment always pretty clear to you, even as a professional racer?
What are your local trails like? Who builds and maintains them?
Why do you think mountain bikers have a bad reputation among some environmental groups? What can we do to change that?
If "trails come and go," what does that mean for us as mountain bikers?
Where are some of your favorite places to ride around the world?
Should we be concerned about the potential impact over-tourism might have on places? How can this be mitigated or offset?
Do you see a connection between climate change and trail conditions?

Check out some of Manon's videos, including Trails on Trial, on this Youtube playlist. You can follow her on Instagram @manoncarpenter.

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Travis Counsell is the executive director of the new England Mountain Bike Association, also known as NEMBA. He’s currently based out of Vermont.

Tell us a bit about NEMBA. What’s the organization’s mission and how large is your membership?
- How is NEMBA organized?
- How many miles of singletrack do NEMBA clubs support?
When and why did NEMBA get its start?
What were you doing before joining NEMBA?
NEMBAfest is back for 2022. What will the festival look like this year?
Did the recent boom in mountain bike participation translate into NEMBA membership growth?
Given population density, are there many opportunities for new trail builds in the northeast?
What are some ways you’ve been successful in countering folks who are against MTB trail access?
How popular is fat biking in New England? Is fat bike grooming something that chapters devote a lot of resources to in the winter?
What does the current discussion around e-bike trail access look like for NEMBA?
What’s the biggest constraint NEMBA faces in carrying out and growing the mission?
What’s next for NEMBA in 2022 and beyond?

Connect with NEMBA and learn more at nemba.org.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, Matt interviews Jeff about bikepacking the Huracan 300 in Central Florida. This was Jeff's first big bikepacking trip and there was much to be learned over three days of seemingly non-stop riding.

Matt asks:

Why did you decide to ride the Huracan?
How did the trip unfold?
What were the biggest surprises?
What did you learn that will be helpful for next time, if there is a next time?

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Matt Lyon is the President and CEO of Hydrapak. He’s worked in the outdoor industry for decades and serves as the Board Chair of the California Outdoor Recreation Partnership.

In this episode we ask Matt:

How did Hydrapak get started?
How many leaky reservoir prototypes did you go through? What’s the hardest part of the pack to reliably seal?
Do you have any tips for cleaning and caring for hydration reservoirs?
When you go out for a ride, do you prefer bottles or a hydration pack?
What are the challenges when it comes to making environmentally friendly products? How big of an impact does using recycled materials make versus creating long-lasting products that need to be replaced less often?
Aside from supply chain issues, has the pandemic caused you to rethink your businesses in any significant ways?
What are the advantages of building products in the US using US-sourced materials? Do you think this plays a big role in consumer purchasing decisions?
What are some of the things the California Outdoor Recreation Partnership is currently advocating for at the state level?
As a registered investment advisor, is the bike industry a good place for individuals to invest their savings and for retirement?
As someone who has studied mechanical engineering, what frustrates you about the biking experience today?

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Rachel Fussell is the electric mountain bike Policy and Program Manager at People for Bikes. The group’s stated mission is to change the world through bikes by focusing on empowering cities, creating connections, and supporting the bike industry.

In this episode we ask:

What are the current regulations at the federal, state, and local level regarding eMTB trail access?
What types of conflicts exist where electric mountain bikes and regular mountain bikes share the trail?
- Does basic trail etiquette cover eMTBs, or do we need to update and/or add new rules of the trail?
Where and how are e-bikes gaining additional trail access?
What do land managers generally think about e-bikes on trails? What are their concerns?
How big of a role do studies and unbiased reports play into eMTB advocacy? Do opinions play into the discussion as well?
Is there a risk that advocating for e-bike access could hurt traditional mountain bike trail access?
What do you think about registration programs for e-bikes that are needs-based?
Aside from PFB, who else is advocating for eMTBs? Do we need separate eMTB advocacy groups, or is this something that can fit into existing groups like IMBA and local clubs?
Why should other mountain bikers care about e-bike access?

Learn more about People for Bikes and eMTB policy at: peopleforbikes.org/topics/electric-bikes

This episode of the Singletracks podcast is sponsored by Explore Brevard.

Professional mountain biker Adam Craig says it’s one of the top three places in the universe he’s ever ridden. Where is this magical mountain biking nirvana? It’s none other than Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont Recreational Forest. The area boasts over 300 miles of peerless singletrack, not to mention hundreds of miles of gravel roads, creating a near endless array of routes, terrains, and challenges to explore. Four vibrant bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need gear, service, or a top notch rental. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of the best small towns in America in 2021. It all adds up to a premier mountain biking destination you’ll want to experience for yourself. Find out more at ExploreBrevard.com.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast Gerow, Jeff, and Matt discuss current and future mountain bike trends, starting with a recap of what's been trending over the past couple of seasons.

Mixed wheel mountain bikes
More great trails in more places
High pivot mountain bikes
Electronic bits and baubles, from drivetrains to droppers

Next, we move on to the trends we see shaping up for 2022.

Longer travel dropper posts and fatter seat tubes
Large scale trail projects with unique funding sources
New mountain bike destinations and trails opening as a response to overcrowded ones
Bikes and parts supply improvements
High pivots on shorter-travel bikes
MTB geometry stabilization

Finally, we discuss some of the trends we'd like to see happen sooner rather than later.

More customizable bike builds
DH or enduro as an Olympic sport
Athletes receiving a more livable wage

This episode of the Singletracks podcast is sponsored by Explore Brevard.

Professional mountain biker Adam Craig says it’s one of the top three places in the universe he’s ever ridden. Where is this magical mountain biking nirvana? It’s none other than Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont Recreational Forest. The area boasts over 300 miles of peerless singletrack, not to mention hundreds of miles of gravel roads, creating a near endless array of routes, terrains, and challenges to explore. Four vibrant bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need gear, service, or a top notch rental. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of the best small towns in America in 2021. It all adds up to a premier mountain biking destination you’ll want to experience for yourself. Find out more at ExploreBrevard.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Singletracks editors Gerow, Jeff, and Matt look forward to more mountain biking adventures in 2022!

In this episode we talk about the MTB stories that are on our 2022 editorial calendar in the areas of trails, gear, progression, and community. We also share our personal goals for skills, fitness, racing, travel, event coverage, repair skills, and trail building.

This episode of the Singletracks podcast is sponsored by Explore Brevard.

Professional mountain biker Adam Craig says it’s one of the top three places in the universe he’s ever ridden. Where is this magical mountain biking nirvana? It’s none other than Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont Recreational Forest. The area boasts over 300 miles of peerless singletrack, not to mention hundreds of miles of gravel roads, creating a near endless array of routes, terrains, and challenges to explore. Four vibrant bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need gear, service, or a top notch rental. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of the best small towns in America in 2021. It all adds up to a premier mountain biking destination you’ll want to experience for yourself. Find out more at ExploreBrevard.com.

Are you a Singletracks supporter? Create an account at Singletracks.com to get our newsletter and to show your support financially.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Rab Wardell is a mountain bike athlete and coach living in Glasgow, Scotland. He recently launched a new video series with Wahoo Fitness called Old Enough to Know Better.

In this episode, we ask Rab:

How did a big early race loss affect your outlook on your career as an athlete? What was it like to essentially retire in your early 20s? What did you decide to do instead?
What are some of the biggest mistakes that stand out as being the ones where you learned the most?
As an athlete, are there ways to learn beyond just personal experience?
What risks are involved in becoming a professional athlete?
What types of normal, everyday things have you decided to cut out of your life to focus on racing? How much of it feels like a sacrifice? Were there any times when friends or family members suggested you grow up and get a “real job”?
What competitive advantages do you have at your age?
Why is play important? Are there ways you’ve found to incorporate play into your training?
What do you hope to be doing on the bike at age 50, or even 70? At 36, are there things you still have left to learn and experience?

Watch the Old Enough to Know Better series on YouTube and connect with Rab on Instagram @rabwardell

This episode of the Singletracks podcast is sponsored by Explore Brevard.

Professional mountain biker Adam Craig says it’s one of the top three places in the universe he’s ever ridden. Where is this magical mountain biking nirvana? It’s none other than Brevard, North Carolina, home to Pisgah National Forest and DuPont Recreational Forest. The area boasts over 300 miles of peerless singletrack, not to mention hundreds of miles of gravel roads, creating a near endless array of routes, terrains, and challenges to explore. Four vibrant bike shops will get you sorted, whether you need gear, service, or a top notch rental. Top it off with an array of craft breweries, cafes and gathering spots that have earned Brevard the title as one of the best small towns in America in 2021. It all adds up to a premier mountain biking destination you’ll want to experience for yourself. Find out more at ExploreBrevard.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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This year we interviewed dozens of professional mountain bike athletes, skills and fitness coaches, and industry leaders including product designers and CEOs. Here are a few of our favorite moments from more than 50 hours of programming in 2021.

If you enjoy what we do on the Singletracks podcast, please consider becoming a Pro Supporter (https://www.singletracks.com/support/).

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This week we revisit some of our favorite conversations on the Singletracks podcast in 2021. On the topic of mountain bike trails we speak with trail builders, advocates, environmentalists, and local riders to learn more about the places we ride.

If you enjoy what we do on the Singletracks podcast, please consider becoming a Pro Supporter (https://www.singletracks.com/support/).

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Dee Tidwell is a professional coach and the founder of Train to Ride which provides cycling-specific training programs and plans for mountain biking, road, gravel, and moto riding. He’s also a two time Big Mountain Enduro Master’s Champ and has worked with countless professional athletes including members of the Yeti/Fox Factory professional EWS race team.

What is the Performance Pyramid, and how does it work? Walk us through each level.
Is it OK to skip some of the lower levels and jump right to the top?
How electric mountain bike riding and racing this differ from more traditional mountain bike training?
Do you find that people really hate cardio so much that they avoid training altogether? Is equipment cost an excuse people use for not working on getting stronger?
Is soft tissue therapy something folks can work on at home with foam rollers and massage guns, or is this one area where working with a physical or massage therapist in person is beneficial?
Have you seen a shift in the mix of your clients over the years between racers and folks who just want to ride for fun?
What are the risks associated with over training? How do you know if you’re over training?
Why is full body strength so important for mountain biking?
How are golf and cycling related in terms of fitness and mobility? Is it true that mountain biking is the new golf?
How can riders deal with pain and fatigue on long rides?
How does a lack of strength or fitness contribute to our risk for injury?
What can we do to have more fun on the mountain bike next season?

Find more information about Dee and learn about training programs at TrainToRide.com.

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Dr. Adam Phaneuf is a Doctor of Chiropractic with a degree in Exercise Science based in Bellingham, WA. He's also a bike fitter and has studied bicycle biomechanics.

In this episode we ask Adam:

Is it true that cycling is lower impact than other activities like jogging?
Do you think mountain biking is higher impact than road cycling?
What are some of the most common ride-related issues folks tend to have?
Are certain muscles, or body parts, more prone to injury or pain for mountain bikers?
Do oval chain rings work for reducing pain? Are there any biomechanical advantages to them that riders can benefit from?
How can riders know if it’s their form that needs to be changed, or if it’s something about the bike fit that’s wrong?
What is arm pump, and what causes it?
Can vibration on the bike lead to any health or pain issues? Can things like suspension stems or seat posts be helpful for some people?
How does bike fit change, if at all, based on the type or length of ride we’re doing?
What is the ideal saddle tilt for mountain biking? How do you dial that in correctly?
Are there pros and cons to trying a more rearward cleat placement for mountain biking?
What do you think about the idea of video/online bike fitting?

To learn more or connect with Adam and his team visit apexchirobellingham.com or on Instagram @apexbellingham.

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Singletracks tested dozens of mountain bikes in 2021 and three of our editors share their favorites in this special episode. From kids mountain bikes to enduro, and from electric to hardtail, we share the ones we liked best.

In addition to sharing our favorites, we'll also talk about our runners up and some of the more unique and unusual bikes we reviewed in 2021.

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This year Christopher Blevins became the first American man to win a World Cup race since 1994, taking first in the final XCO race of the season at Snowshoe, West Virginia. He’s also the reigning short track world champion, and has notched numerous podium finishes at national and international mountain, cyclocross, and road races. This month he’s got a short documentary film titled “The Long Traverse” that will be premiering online.

How did the Durango DEVO community-based cycling program shape who you are as a rider?
What is it about Durango that produces so many talented riders? Is it the elevation, or the terrain, or something else?
How does being a playful rider translate on the race course?
How did you get interested in spoken word poetry?
What did you learn through the process of preparing for and then racing your FKT attempt along the Los Padres route?
Which do you find more challenging: FKTs or World Cup racing? How are they different or the same?
As a professional athlete, what do you see as your role in important issues like climate change?
How can we balance the positives that tourism can bring to an area with the impact that it has in terms of the carbon footprint of travel and the strain on local resources?
Why did you decide to join the Trinity Racing team?
Were you thinking about becoming the first US male to win a World Cup race in 27 years at the start of the Snowshoe XC event this year?
Who are some entrepreneurs you admire? Do you see yourself becoming an entrepreneur in the traditional business sense, or is entrepreneurship applicable to making a career as an athlete?
What’s next for you?

Watch "The Long Traverse" and learn more at stilspoke.com

This episode is sponsored by Gloworm Lites.

Gloworm is a mountain bike light brand founded almost a decade ago by two mountain bikers in New Zealand, and today the company offers some of the highest quality bike lights on the market – Including Bluetooth control and complete customisation through their app. Gloworm’s complete line of lights start at 1200 lumens and range up to a blinding 3600 lumens, all at reasonable prices.

Save 15% off all light systems on the Gloworm website with the coupon code SINGLETRACKS2021. Shop for lights at glowormlites.co.nz

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Todd Branham had lived, worked, and played in the Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina for 22 years. He’s a professional trail builder and also directs the Pisgah Stage race, a 5-day, fully-supported mountain bike race that showcases 140 miles of the best singletrack in the forest.

How did you end up in western North Carolina?
What makes Pisgah National Forest and the surrounding area stand out among mountain bike destinations?
For someone visiting for the first time, what are 2 or 3 must ride trails or trail systems?
- Are there any family-friendly rides?
- Which trails are the most challenging?
Who builds and maintains the trails in your area?
Are there tour operators or clubs visitors can connect with if they want to ride with locals?
Where can visitors rent decent mountain bikes for the day or even for the week?
Where do people hang out after the ride? Are there any bars or breweries that tend to attract mountain bikers?
Do many visitors choose to camp when visiting Pisgah? For those who prefer a dry bed at night, where else can folks stay?
What is the best time of year to visit?
MTB races and festivals seem to be a big draw for visitors. Tell us about some of the races you help organize during the year.
- Are there plans to expand or improve trails in the area?
Is there anything else mountain bikers need to know before visiting Pisgah National Forest?

Get more info about events at BlueRidgeAdventures.net and also visit the National Forest service website to learn more about the Pisgah National Forest.

This episode is sponsored by Gloworm Lites.

Gloworm is a mountain bike light brand founded almost a decade ago by two mountain bikers in New Zealand, and today the company offers some of the highest quality bike lights on the market – Including Bluetooth control and complete customisation through their app. Gloworm’s complete line of lights start at 1200 lumens and range up to a blinding 3600 lumens, all at reasonable prices.

Save 15% off all light systems on the Gloworm website with the coupon code SINGLETRACKS2021. Shop for lights at glowormlites.co.nz

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Tyson Swasey is a mountain biker and trail builder who has lived in Moab, Utah for his whole life. He’s currently the Operations Coordinator for Grand County, Utah Active Transportation and Trails.

In this episode we ask Tyson:

Has Moab always been a tourist destination? Why was the town founded?
It seems like Moab was a mountain bike destination before there were mountain bike destinations. What makes the area so great for mountain biking?
How did the first trails get built? Which trails are the oldest?
Are there any family-friendly rides or trails?
Which trails are the most challenging?
What are some lesser-known trails where riders can get away from the crowds?
Who builds and maintains the trails in Moab?
What type of bike do most people ride in Moab? Do a lot of people rent bikes when they visit?
What are some of the more popular guided or shuttled tour routes in the area? Are there any regular group rides for locals that are visitor-friendly?
Where do people hang out after the ride?
What is the best time of year to visit? Are there any festivals or races visitors can plan to attend?
Is there much camping available in the immediate area? Does lodging tend to fill up around certain events, or at certain times of the year?
Are there plans to expand or improve trails in the area?
Is there anything else mountain bikers need to know before visiting Moab for the first time, or maybe for the first time in a while?

Get more information at discovermoab.com and moabtrailmix.com.

This episode is sponsored by Gloworm Lites.

Gloworm is a mountain bike light brand founded almost a decade ago by two mountain bikers in New Zealand, and today the company offers some of the highest quality bike lights on the market – Including Bluetooth control and complete customisation through their app. Gloworm’s complete line of lights start at 1200 lumens and range up to a blinding 3600 lumens, all at reasonable prices.

Save 15% off all light systems on the Gloworm website with the coupon code SINGLETRACKS2021. Shop for lights at glowormlites.co.nz

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Ryan Standish is a professional mountain bike racer from Australia who is currently living in the US. In addition to competing in top level mountain bike and gravel races, he’s also working to raise awareness for Multiple Sclerosis.

In this episode, we ask:

How long have you been riding mountain bikes? How old were you when you realized you were fast?
How did you end up in the US after growing up in Alice Springs, Australia?
How did you qualify for the World Cup XC and short track races in West Virginia this year?
Why did you decide to wear jorts in the races?
What is it like to race in the World Cup? How is it different from the other races you’ve competed in?
What type of race or ride do you like the most? Do you prefer sprint formats like short track, or longer races like gravel grinders and stage races?
How are you able to recover with so many back-to-back races?
How did you get involved in raising awareness for MS?
What’s your favorite place to ride? Do you have a favorite trail?
Are you a good cook? Do you tend to eat healthy during the race season?
What’s next on your 2021 race calendar? What are your goals outside of racing?

Follow Ryan on Instagram @ryanstandwich and keep up with him online at RyanStandish.com.

This episode is sponsored by Gloworm Lites.

Gloworm is a mountain bike light brand founded almost a decade ago by two mountain bikers in New Zealand, and today the company offers some of the highest quality bike lights on the market – Including Bluetooth control and complete customisation through their app. Gloworm’s complete line of lights start at 1200 lumens and range up to a blinding 3600 lumens, all at reasonable prices.

Save 15% off all light systems on the Gloworm website with the coupon code SINGLETRACKS2021. Shop for lights at glowormlites.co.nz

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Casey Coughlin teaches bicycle repair at Minneapolis College in Minnesota, one of only two colleges to offer a certificate program in the subject. While applying to graduate school she worked as a bike repair tech and later as a manager at Erik's Bikes in Rochester.

We ask Casey:

What are some of the ways professional bike mechanics learn the trade? What’s the most common path to getting a job in a bike shop?
Why do you think the demand for bike mechanics is projected to increase over the next few years? Is this related to the Covid bike boom?
When learning to become a bike mechanic, what is the first repair you start with? Why?
Is problem solving something you can teach bike mechanics?
What does your prospective student look like?
Is there any sort of continuing education for bike mechanics?
Do today’s bike mechanics need additional skill sets to deal with more complicated systems like e-bikes?
Beyond being able to work on bikes, what sorts of skills do shop employees and future managers need to develop?
Are there certain repairs that are more fun, or satisfying than others? Are there jobs no one wants to do in the shop?
What makes working in a bike shop, or in the bike industry, a good career?

Learn more about the Bicycle Assembly and Repair Technician Certificate at the Minneapolis College website.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Neko Mulally is a professional downhill mountain bike racer and three time US National Champion. He’s also the co-founder of Windrock Bike Park in Tennessee and is currently part of the Intense DH Factory Racing team.

In this conversation, we ask Neko:

How did you find your passion for mountain biking at such an early age?
What’s it like racing the World Cup on familiar trails at Snowshoe, West Virginia?
What have you learned through the experience of building and operating Windrock Bike park?
When you’re not riding park, where do you like to ride? Do you have a favorite trail?
Why do you think people are so interested in how much money professional mountain bikers earn? Did money play into your decision to pursue a career in racing?
Do today’s young mountain bike athletes have advantages or opportunities you didn’t have growing up?
Do you have to live at the base of a mountain resort to become a pro downhiller?
How do you feel about crashing? Is it true that if you’re not crashing, you’re not learning?
Do you have any tips for avoiding serious injury when you do fall?
What does your preparation for the World Cup season look like?
How do strength and endurance training play into getting ready for competition?
What’s are the best and worst parts about traveling the world to race mountain bikes?

Visit NekoMulally.com to purchase this year’s Bike Giveaway Fundraiser Poster and follow Neko on Instagram @nekomulally.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Photo courtesy Neko Mulally.

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Fabio Wibmer is an Austrian trials rider and mountain biker with almost 7 million YouTube subscribers and his videos have been viewed more than 1.2 billion times. He’s known for starring in videos like Wibmer’s Law, Fabiolous Escape 1 and 2, and most recently, Home Office. In addition to trials riding, Fabio is also a winning downhill and freeride mountain biker.

How are you feeling following your dirt bike crash in November?
- Do you have any tips or tricks for recovering from injury? How do you fill your time off the bike?
- Are dirt bikes just a hobby for you, or is it something you use to get better on the mountain bike?
Like a lot of people, I imagine you started riding bikes as a kid. When did you realize that you were more talented, or maybe just more passionate, than the other kids?
Who were the riders who inspired you as you were growing up?
Are there any tricks you really wanted to include in a video like Home Office, but weren’t able to complete? How do you know when it’s time to give up on a trick and move on?
Do you consider yourself a perfectionist?
Where do you get your confidence?
Which video project are you the most proud of?
What are some of the skills that cross over between trials and freeride mountain biking?
What’s the secret to pulling off a really good tail whip?
What are some of the best mountain bike trails you have ridden around the world?
What do you have to say to younger riders who look up to you?
If you weren’t a trials rider and Red Bull athlete, what would you be doing instead?

Photo: Hannes Berger / Red Bull Content Pool

This episode first aired on January 11, 2021.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Today we’re wrapping up our mid-travel, trail bike mashup with our bike testers, Chris, Gerow, and Matt. We’ll meet the testers, discuss how the bikes were selected, and find out how the test rides were conducted. Then the team will share which bikes were their favorites, and talk about some of the surprises along the way.

As a part of this roundtable discussion, Chris, Gerow, and Matt also talk about which bikes offer the best value, and offer advice for mountain bikers looking to purchase a new trail bike. Finally, we hear which bikes the team wants to text next!

Read the written reviews at singletracks.com/MTM and watch video reviews at youtube.com/singletracksmtb.

--This episode is sponsored by Jamis Bikes. Jamis has been designing and building quality bikes since 1979, and they were among the first to produce mountain bikes beginning in 1982. Check out the entire lineup of Jamis high performance mountain bikes at www.jamisbikes.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Arrie Rossouw is the co-founder and CEO of LuvTRAILS, an online and mobile platform helping groups raise funds for trail building and maintenance.

Jeremiah Bishop is a professional cyclist with countless major wins in short track, marathon, and ultra endurance racing. He’s also a leading advocate for cycling.

We ask Arrie and Jeremiah:

How did Luv Trails come about? How is it connected to Trail Care?
Jeremiah, what is your involvement with Trail Care and Luv Trails?
What does the Luv Trails app do?
How do mountain bike clubs get included on the Trail Care website and in the Luv Trails app?
Where do the donations go? How much of the money goes to the club vs. paying credit card fees and overhead?
Why are monetary donations so important to trail groups?
How do riders connect their Stava account to Trail.care?
What is the average donation per mile ridden?
Do people tend to ride the same local trails over and over, or are you seeing people travel outside their area and supporting other clubs?
Are clubs seeing meaningful revenue yet? How does this compare to the old-fashioned trailhead donation box?
How do you convince riders to sign up or to make a one time donation? Once people sign up, do they tend to stick around and keep donating?
What does the future hold for Luv Trails and Trail Care?

Find the Luv Trails app in the Apple and Android app stores, or visit trail.care.

--This episode is sponsored by Jamis Bikes. Jamis has been designing and building quality bikes since 1979, and they were among the first to produce mountain bikes beginning in 1982. Check out the entire lineup of Jamis high performance mountain bikes at www.jamisbikes.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Chip Hawkins is the founder and chairman of the board at Wahoo Fitness (wahoofitness.com). The company’s stated mission is to “create innovative solutions to make hard fought goals attainable and lives better,” through products like smart trainers, bike computers, watches, and heart rate monitors.

We ask Chip:

Why did you start Wahoo Fitness? What were the limitations of existing fitness sensors at the time?
Before smartphones and GPS units, were you big on tracking your own fitness data?
What are the advantages of using a dedicated fitness head unit over the smartphone everyone is already carrying in their pockets? Why do we need another device?
How important are accuracy and precision when it comes to fitness data tracking?
Do you think the existing fitness software that’s available to athletes does a good job analyzing workout data? Are today’s algorithms helping riders make significant gains?
Is tracking power output better suited to road training, or is it useful to look at it for trail rides too?
Can sensors help with nutrition tracking?
What can mountain bikers gain from riding a smart trainer? Does tech make the experience any less terrible?
How do products like smart bikes and smart trainers play into the evolution of sport and competition?
What’s next in the fitness tracking arms race? If everyone has access to the same tools, how can individual athletes use tech to gain an edge over competitors?

--This episode is sponsored by Jamis Bikes. Jamis has been designing and building quality bikes since 1979, and they were among the first to produce mountain bikes beginning in 1982. Check out the entire lineup of Jamis high performance mountain bikes at www.jamisbikes.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Jeremiah Stone is a mountain bike skill instructor who has taught hundreds of riders across the western USA with Ninja Mountain Bike Performance and the Sedona Mountain Bike Academy. He’s also a freelance trail builder and machine operator in addition to being a skilled rider.

In this interview, we ask:

How did you develop your own mountain bike skills? Did you have a coach?
Do you think today’s mountain bikes make it easier to be a good biker, compared to the equipment that was available in the old days?
Timing seems to be a big factor when it comes to landing jumps or clearing doubles. How can riders develop a good sense of timing and speed?
Why is it easier to ride a technical feature once you’ve seen someone else ride it first?
What are some common bad habits when it comes to technical trail descending?
Beyond improving physical fitness, are there skills that can make climbing on the bike more tolerable?
Do you have any tips for helping riders overcome their fear of trying something new? How does that advice change for someone recovering from a traumatic crash?

This episode first aired on February 22, 2021.

Connect with Jeremiah on Instagram @vitabrevis and learn more at ridelikeaninja.com.

--This episode is sponsored by Jamis Bikes. Jamis has been designing and building quality bikes since 1979, and they were among the first to produce mountain bikes beginning in 1982. Check out the entire lineup of Jamis high performance mountain bikes at www.jamisbikes.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Joe McEwan is a career aerospace engineer and carbon composites expert who founded Starling Cycles in 2014. The brand’s bikes are developed, engineered and handmade for the demands of UK trails, and the bikes have been well received among both the media and athletes.

Find out why Joe thinks carbon fiber is almost the McDonalds of bikes, and also:

What first piqued your interest in building steel bikes? Have you tried building bikes with other materials?
Can the average rider feel a difference between a steel frame and say carbon fiber or aluminum? Do fat tires and suspension limit the effect when it comes to mountain bikes?
How does tube shape and bracing affect ride feel?
Why do you use Reynolds over tube stock from other suppliers?
How is the tubing sized in terms of lengths?
What is the cost of raw tubing?
How do you go about making a steel tube stiffer in one direction than the other?
Are there any design considerations that are unique to steel full-suspension frames?
Why are most steel FS frames single-pivot?
What are some design considerations around the headtube junction? How do you make that area stiff enough to hold a slack fork while keeping the bike’s weight low?
Why do larger bike sizes need a brace between the top tube and seat tube?
What can you do to dial in BB stiffness when building with steel?
Has the recent shipping dilemma affected your frame business? How about components?
What are you hearing from owners and fans of the gearbox driven Starling Spur?
Are there advantages to a gearbox over an external drivetrain that go beyond broken derailleurs?
What are your thoughts on the rising popularity of mixed-wheel bikes?
What’s next for Starling Cycles? Are there any steel e-bikes in the future?

View photos and learn more about the bikes mentioned in this episode at StarlingCycles.com.

--This episode is sponsored by Jamis Bikes. Jamis has been designing and building quality bikes since 1979, and they were among the first to produce mountain bikes beginning in 1982. Check out the entire lineup of Jamis high performance mountain bikes at www.jamisbikes.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Gene Hamilton is a mountain bike skills coach and the founder of Better Ride. He's taught clinics around the world to thousands of riders looking to ride faster and more confidently.

In this episode, we ask Gene:

How did you get into mountain biking racing?
Once you realized that you had hit a wall in terms of your own skills development, how did you go about researching proper mountain bike skills?
Were there any surprises based on your early research, or any “aha” moments that stuck out?
How can riders take advantage of momentum to go faster on the trail without putting in extra effort?
Is it possible for mountain biking to be bad for our health?
What’s a mountain bike skill that separates pros from those who would consider themselves advanced or even expert riders?
Are some bike tires better at cornering than others? Which ones?
How has mountain bike skills training changed over the past two decades, in terms of the techniques and the skills you’re teaching?
As someone who has won Masters-level DH competitions, what tips do you have for staying fast and fit at your age?
Do you think today’s bikes make it easier for riders to go faster, or to have more fun? How much of performance comes down to the bike, and how much to the rider?

This first aired as a two-part episode on March 29, 2021.

Connect with Gene and his team at Betterride.net.

--This episode is sponsored by Jamis Bikes. Jamis has been designing and building quality bikes since 1979, and they were among the first to produce mountain bikes beginning in 1982. Check out the entire lineup of Jamis high performance mountain bikes at www.jamisbikes.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Sean Madsen is WTB’s Saddle Category Manager and is an expert in cycling biomechanics with more than 24 years of experience. Over his career he's studied and taught bike fitting to thousands worldwide, and he's helped create many innovative saddle concepts while working with top athletes.

In this episode, we ask Sean common questions about bike saddles including:

How are bike saddles constructed?
What are some of the different materials that are used for padding? Are there advantages to using materials like gel?
What is the purpose of titanium or carbon saddle rails?
How does bike saddle sizing work?
Are more expensive saddles more comfortable?
What’s the idea behind saddle cutouts?
Why do you think the Volt is one of WTB's best selling saddles?
Do men and women need different bike saddles?
Are saddles generally designed under the assumption that riders will be wearing a chamois?
Are mountain bike saddles different from road bike saddles?
How have saddle designs changed over the past few seasons? What’s driving the changes?
What are some signs that it’s time for a new or a different saddle?

Find out more about saddles and WTB designs at wtb.com.

--To celebrate their 40th anniversary, Rocky Mountain is giving Singletracks listeners a chance to win one of five limited edition prize packs. Visit singletracks.com/rockymountain40 by August 31, 2021 and enter your name and a valid email address to be considered. One entry per person, no purchase necessary, void where prohibited.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Rocky Mountain Bicycles officially got its start in 1981, and this year the innovative brand is celebrating its 40th anniversary. In that time Rocky Mountain has produced countless innovations and firsts, and their sponsored athletes have won races on all of the world’s biggest stages. Today Dre Hestler and Stephen Matthews are joining me to talk about the brand’s history, and to look to the future.

In this episode we learn:

How Rocky Mountain got its start
Why the brand's first production model in 1982, the Sherpa, was so special
What it's like working at Rocky Mountain, and how the company's operations in BC and Quebec influence product design
Which Rocky Mountain athletes and races stand out over the years
How the brand partnered with freeriders Richie Schley, Wade Simmons and Brett Tippie at the dawn of the sport
Where 27.5" mountain bikes came from, and where they currently fit in
Which bikes Dre and Stephen are most proud of
How DynaMe is different from other e-bike drive systems on the market
What the future looks like for Rocky Mountain

To celebrate the anniversary, Rocky Mountain is giving Singletracks listeners a chance to win one of five limited edition prize packs. Visit singletracks.com/rockymountain40 by August 31, 2021 and enter your name and a valid email address to be considered. One entry per person, no purchase necessary, void where prohibited.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Chris Smith is the USA Marketing Manager for Lazer Sport (lazersport.com) where he’s worked for more than 7 years.

In this episode, we ask:

What’s the purpose of the helmet shell? What is it typically made of?
What is EPS? What makes it such a good material for helmet construction?
Where are most helmets produced?
How do retention systems work? What is the purpose of a chin strap?
Do you have any tips for testing helmet fit? How does sizing work?
What are the main safety standards that cover bicycle helmets?
What kinds of tests are done on mountain bike helmets?
Are there any common misperceptions when it comes to bike helmets?
What is the advantage of extended rear coverage on a half shell helmet?
How do rotational impact protection systems like MIPS work, and why is this type of protection important?
Why do all mountain bike helmets have visors, unlike road helmets?
Are you seeing more mountain bikers choosing full face helmets for trail and enduro rides?
What are your thoughts on mounting a camera or light to a bike helmet?
What does the future of bicycle helmet tech look like?
If there is one thing everyone should know about wearing a bike helmet, what is it?

--This episode is sponsored by Jamis Bikes. Jamis has been designing and building quality bikes since 1979, and they were among the first to produce mountain bikes beginning in 1982. Check out the entire lineup of Jamis high performance mountain bikes at www.jamisbikes.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Jon Yazzie and Nadine Johnson own Dzil Ta’ah Adventures, an adventure travel company based in Arizona. A full-blooded Diné, Jon and his team run bike trips on Navajo land, and use the proceeds to help fund a local youth cycling program.

What makes land in the Navajo Nation so special and unique? What is the riding like there?
Why did it take so long to receive permits for conducting bike tours on Navajo land?
How were you able to adapt your tour business in the time of Covid-19?
What is bikerafting, and is it different from bikepacking? Do you combine the two on your trips?
How are your trips set up? What is the cost?
Do you provide history and context to the landscape as a part of your tours?
In addition to yourself, do you employ others as bike guides?
What role do you think tourism can play in terms of boosting the local economy?
What is the goal for the Navajo-youth bike program you are supporting?
Is there one thing you wish more people could understand or know about the Navajo culture?

Learn more and get in touch at dziltaahadventures.com, and follow them on Instagram @dziltaahadventures.

--This episode is sponsored by Jamis Bikes. Jamis has been designing and building quality bikes since 1979, and they were among the first to produce mountain bikes beginning in 1982. Check out the entire lineup of Jamis high performance mountain bikes at www.jamisbikes.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Mike Bush is the President of Stans, a brand whose founder Stan Koziatek pioneered the use of tubeless tires in mountain biking. Today the Stans brand® designs and markets its own line of popular wheels and tubeless tire accessories to keep mountain bikers rolling.

In this episode we ask:

Why did it take so long for tubeless tire tech to become widely-adopted for mountain biking?
How does tubeless tire sealant work?
Has the Stans sealant formulation changed much over the years to improve performance or to make it more environmentally friendly?
- What are the tradeoffs involved in designing a tire sealant?
- Have tire companies had to adjust their formulations and manufacturing processes to improve tubeless performance, to prevent weeping for example?
- What’s your take on mountain bike tire inserts?
- Is there another way to address the remaining shortcomings of tires and rims that doesn’t involve inserts?
- How have rim designs evolved over the past several seasons?
- Do you think the 30mm rim width becoming pretty standard for most mountain bike applications?
- Is a rim’s bead socket a weak point in terms of sealing tubeless tires?
What are some of the ways Stans optimizes rim design to work with tubeless tires?
Is carbon a superior material for building mountain bike rims? Why or why not?
What took so long for mountain bike tire plugs to become mainstream?
- What makes the Stans Dart tool unique?
Do you have any tips or tricks for dealing with tire issues on the trail?
Is there a better way to connect tires and wheels, assuming the whole industry agreed to work together? Are there any existing standards that are a barrier to future innovation?
What are some of the current problems with mountain bike wheels and/or tires that Stans is focused on solving in the future?

Editor's note: This episode first aired October 1, 2020.

Learn more at notubes.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Penny Deck is the Operations Manager for the Fraser Valley Mountain Bikers Association in British Columbia. She’s worked as a volunteer trail builder with the North Shore Mountain Bike Association for over 8 years and led the NSMBA Trail Academy.

In this episode, we ask Penny:

Most mountain bikers have probably heard of the North Shore but may not be familiar with the area. Where is the North Shore?
What makes the NS so unique and special for mountain biking?
Is the NS a big draw for mountain bike tourists outside of Vancouver and surrounding areas, or are the majority of the riders locals?
How are the trails organized in the North Shore? Are there a few key riding areas?
Are there many family-friendly trails in the North Shore?
Which rides are the most challenging?
What are some lesser-known trails where riders can get farther away from town?
Who builds and maintains the trails in the area?
Are there tour operators or clubs visitors can connect with if they want to ride with locals?
Where do people hang out after the ride? Are there any bars or breweries that tend to attract mountain bikers?
Where is the best area to find lodging for a North Shore MTB trip?
What is the best time of year to visit?
Are there plans to expand or improve trails in the area?
Is there anything else mountain bikers need to know before visiting the North Shore?

For more information visit nsmba.ca.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Tinker Juarez has been a professional mountain biker for more than 30 years. In that time he's competed in the Olympics twice, was crowned the 24-Hour Solo world champ four times, and was inducted into the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame. This year Tinker turns 60 years old, and he's still racing strong.

In this episode we ask:

What was the local biking scene like in California in the 1960s and 70s when you were getting started?
Why did you make the switch from BMX to cross country mountain biking?
What was it like racing in the 1996 Olympics, the first year that mountain biking was added to the competition?
Are you able to use the fact that you're such a well-known pro to your advantage, or are there drawbacks?
Does winning big mountain bike races take more physical or mental strength? Do you think you excel at one more than the other?
What’s the most difficult mountain bike race you’ve competed in?
Do you miss the 24 Hour race scene?
How do you train for ultra endurance races like La Ruuta, RAAM, and 24 Hour Solo races?
Your race calendar tends to be very full every year, so what’s your recovery routine look like?
What’s the secret to staying fast on the bike and continuing to beat riders who are half your age?
What do you know now that you wish you had known when you were competing in your 20s?
You’ve raced bikes all over the world; where are your favorite places to ride for fun?

Find out more about the Tinker Classic race at gropromotions.com/tinker-classic/

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Julian Tyo has lived in the Wood River valley for over a decade where he started the Ketchum bike park and managed the development of gravity trails on Bald Mountain and at Sun Valley Resort. Today he’s on the board of the Wood River Trails Coalition and also serves as the Community Recreation Supervisor & Events Manager for the city of Ketchum.

In this episode, we ask Julian:

How did you end up in Sun Valley?
What makes Sun Valley stand out among mountain bike destinations?
Who builds and maintains the trails in your area?
What are some of the challenges the Wood River Valley faces as a popular recreation destination?
For someone visiting for the first time, what are 2 or 3 must ride trails or trail systems?
What are the family-friendly rides, and which ones are the most challenging?
What are some lesser-known trails where riders can get away from the crowds?
Who are the tour operators or clubs visitors can connect with if they want to ride with locals?
Where do people hang out after the ride? Are there any bars or breweries that tend to attract mountain bikers?
Is there camping available in the area? Are there bike-friendly hotels in town?
What is the best time of year to visit? Are there any festivals or races visitors can plan to attend?
Are there plans to expand or improve trails in the area?
Is there anything else mountain bikers need to know before visiting Sun Valley?

For more information, and to support mountain biking in the Wood River Valley, visit woodrivertrailscoalition.org

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Dr. Kate Leeming is an explorer and adventurer who has biked tens of thousands of miles around the world, including 15,000 miles around the Australian continent in 2004 and 2005 and 22,000km across Africa from Senegal to Somalia. In 2019 she became the first person to cycle 1600km through the sands of the Namibian coast and is working toward the first-ever Antarctic bicycle crossing via the South Pole for her educational outreach organization, Breaking the Cycle.

In this episode, we ask Kate:

What is your first memory of going on an adventure?
Were you a good student in school? Did you enjoy learning?
Have you always considered yourself an explorer?
How does Breaking the Cycle: Education connect with your expeditions? What is the goal?
What got you interested in the traversing the Skeleton Coast in Namibia by bike?
Tell us about the all-wheel-drive fat bike you used. Was this a custom set up, or something you were able to find off the shelf? How did the bike perform?
Were there any surprises along the way?
How do you prepare for such massive expeditions, especially ones that no one else has completed before? How much of the preparation involves physical training versus research and logistics? How do you prepare yourself mentally?
What are the challenges that women continue to face in the world of adventuring and exploring today?
Are there ways we can be “explorers” in our day-to-day lives? What is the value of staying curious?

Learn more and connect with Kate at KateLeeming.com and BreakingTheCycle.Education.Diamonds in the Sand will air on Outside TV this summer.

Cover photo: Simon Wearne.

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Anya Bruhin is a Northwest Arkansas local who has lived and worked in Fayetteville and Bentonville for 25 years. She’s also the education program manager for Bike NWA.

In this episode we ask Anya:

What makes Northwest Arkansas stand out among mountain bike destinations?
For someone visiting for the first time, what are 2 or 3 must ride trails or trail systems?
What are some family-friendly rides?
Which rides are the most challenging?
What are some lesser-known mountain bike trails?
Who builds and maintains the trails in Northwest Arkansas?
What are some ways visitors can connect with local mountain bikers?
Where do people hang out after the ride? Are there any bars or breweries that tend to attract mountain bikers?
What is the best time of year to visit? Are there any festivals or races visitors can plan to attend?
Are there plans to expand or improve trails in the area?
Is there anything else mountain bikers need to know before visiting Northwest Arkansas?

For more information and resources visit bikenwa.org.

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Cimarron Chacon is the president and race director at GRO Promotions, which offers mountain bike event and trail development services in and around St. George, Utah. She also founded the Dixie Mountain Bike Trails Association which is now known as the Trail Alliance of Southern Utah.

We ask Cimarron:

What makes St. George stand out among mountain bike destinations?
For someone visiting for the first time, what are 2 or 3 must ride trails or trail systems?
Which trails are family-friendly, and which ones are the most challenging?
What are some lesser-known trails where riders can get away from the crowds?
Who builds and maintains the trails in the area?
Where do people hang out after the ride? Are there any bars or breweries that tend to attract mountain bikers?
What are some of the mountain bike races or events visitors can plan to attend (or avoid)?
Are there plans to expand or improve trails in the area?

Learn more about mountain biking in St. George at tasutah.org and gropromotions.com.

This episode is sponsored by Explore Brevard. Picture yourself in the middle of 100,000 acres of public lands and over 300 shredable miles of single track. A place often referred to as one of the top mountain biking towns in the country. Brevard, North Carolina has countless epic adventures for every kind of rider on tap. Whether you love rocky, rooty technical lines in Pisgah, or flowy lines in Dupont State Recreational Forest, or something in-between – Brevard has it all…in spades. Come discover the place often referred to as the Cycling Capital of the South. Start planning your trip at ExploreBrevard.com

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Kevin Adams is a board member for the Verde Valley Cyclist Coalition, a nonprofit group working to promote cycling in the Verde Valley, including the town of Sedona, Arizona. Kevin also is the President of the Sedona Red Rock Trail Fund that raises money for the maintenance and enhancement of the non-motorized trails near Sedona and the Village of Oak Creek. In his spare time, he’s the Chair of the Arizona State Committee on Trails. Of course he’s a mountain biker too, and he’s been connected to the local scene for almost a decade.

There are massive plans for new mountain bike trails in the Verde Valley, and Kevin fills us in on the details. In this episode, we also ask:

What makes Sedona and the Verde Valley stand out among mountain bike destinations?
What are 2 or 3 must ride trails or trail systems? Which trails are family-friendly, and which ones are the most challenging?
Are there any lesser-known trails where riders can get away from the crowds?
Who builds and maintains the trails in Sedona?
Are there tour operators or clubs visitors can connect with if they want to ride with locals?
Where do people hang out after the ride? Are there any bars or breweries that tend to attract mountain bikers?
Where are the best places for mountain bikers to stay during their visit?
What is the best time of year to visit? Are there any festivals or races visitors can plan to attend?
Are there plans to expand or improve trails in the area?

Find out more at vvcc.us and visitsedona.com.

This episode is sponsored by Explore Brevard. Picture yourself in the middle of 100,000 acres of public lands and over 300 shredable miles of single track. A place often referred to as one of the top mountain biking towns in the country. Brevard, North Carolina has countless epic adventures for every kind of rider on tap. Whether you love rocky, rooty technical lines in Pisgah, or flowy lines in Dupont State Recreational Forest, or something in-between – Brevard has it all…in spades. Come discover the place often referred to as the Cycling Capital of the South. Start planning your trip at ExploreBrevard.com

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Dr. Adam Phaneuf is a Doctor of Chiropractic with a degree in Exercise Science based in Bellingham, WA. He's also a bike fitter and has studied bicycle biomechanics.

In this episode we ask:

How important is bike fit to mountain bikers compared to say road or gravel riders? Even within MTB, is fit more important for XC than gravity riders?
What are some signs that a rider needs a better bike fit? What types of improvements can mountain bikers expect to see?
How does a bike fit work?
How much does a bike fit generally cost?
Can non-racers benefit from a bike fit in terms of comfort or other factors?
What are some key component swaps that can be done as part of a bike fit, and why?
How can you tell if your bars are too wide?
Do you have a rule of thumb for setting seat height for mountain biking? Do droppers make seat height settings easier, or more complicated?
What's the best way to figure out the proper bike frame size? Are there certain key measurements buyers should consider?
What are the challenges to fitting extremely tall or short riders?

Follow Adam on Instagram @apexbellingham and visit the website apexchirobellingham.com.

This episode is sponsored by Explore Brevard. Picture yourself in the middle of 100,000 acres of public lands and over 300 shredable miles of single track. A place often referred to as one of the top mountain biking towns in the country. Brevard, North Carolina has countless epic adventures for every kind of rider on tap. Whether you love rocky, rooty technical lines in Pisgah, or flowy lines in Dupont State Recreational Forest, or something in-between – Brevard has it all…in spades. Come discover the place often referred to as the Cycling Capital of the South. Start planning your trip at ExploreBrevard.com

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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David Billstrom is the CEO of Kitsbow, a North Carolina based cycling apparel company known for producing high-quality products. The company utilizes a made-to-order model for many of the items in their catalog to reduce waste, cut lead times, and support the local economy.

In this episode we ask:

What is lean manufacturing? How does it work specifically for an apparel company like Kitsbow?
How significant are transportation costs associated with manufacturing your products overseas?
Has it been difficult to find manufacturing workers in Old Fort, North Carolina? Is hiring a bottleneck in terms of expanding domestic production?
How much waste is due to forecasting errors on sizing, styles, etc.? Does lean manufacturing eliminate most of this?
What are some of the things you’ve learned from your customers or been able to improve about your products?
What does the future of cycling apparel look like for Kitsbow?

Learn more at Kitsbow.com.

This episode is sponsored by Explore Brevard. Picture yourself in the middle of 100,000 acres of public lands and over 300 shredable miles of single track. A place often referred to as one of the top mountain biking towns in the country. Brevard, North Carolina has countless epic adventures for every kind of rider on tap. Whether you love rocky, rooty technical lines in Pisgah, or flowy lines in Dupont State Recreational Forest, or something in-between – Brevard has it all…in spades. Come discover the place often referred to as the Cycling Capital of the South. Start planning your trip at ExploreBrevard.com

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Ashley Korenblat is the CEO of Western Spirit Cycling Adventures and founder of Outerbike, as well as the Managing Director of Public Land Solutions, a non-profit dedicated to “providing comprehensive recreation planning and stakeholder coordination to support effective and sustainable public land solutions.” She also previously served as IMBA Board chair.

In this episode we ask Ashley:

What is a “recreational asset?” Is this considered in strictly monetary terms, or are intrinsic values considered as well?
How does PLS identify recreational assets and what does a typical plan look like?
How significant is the Land and Water Conservation Fund in terms of recreation project funding in the US?
Is there an opportunity to work with energy development companies on recreation plans?
What are some of the ways trail advocacy groups could improve on their current land management and access strategies?
What is the PLS stance on MTB Wilderness access?
How does your advocacy background inform and connect with your trip offerings at Western Spirit?

Learn more about Public Land Solutions at publiclandsolutions.org and Western Spirit at westernspirit.com.

This episode is sponsored by Explore Brevard. Picture yourself in the middle of 100,000 acres of public lands and over 300 shredable miles of single track. A place often referred to as one of the top mountain biking towns in the country. Brevard, North Carolina has countless epic adventures for every kind of rider on tap. Whether you love rocky, rooty technical lines in Pisgah, or flowy lines in Dupont State Recreational Forest, or something in-between – Brevard has it all…in spades. Come discover the place often referred to as the Cycling Capital of the South. Start planning your trip at ExploreBrevard.com

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Josie Fouts is a two-time National Paralympics Road and Track Cycling Champion with plans to compete at the 2021 Games in Tokyo. She's also working to make mountain biking a Paralympic sport and stars in a new short film called Go Josie.

In this episode, we ask Josie:

Have you found being stubborn is a strength? Does it ever get you in trouble?
Are you able to use your formal education in nutrition and nutritional immunology as a part of your own training?
What is the level of competition like at the US National Paralympics? Were you surprised the first time you competed?
How difficult is it to find off-the-shelf products that work for para athletes? Have you found gear manufacturers are willing to work with you to find solutions?
What’s it been like working with a gear sponsor like Swiftwick?
Are there things the bike industry could be doing to make equipment more para-friendly?
Why do you think mountain biking is not a part of the Paralympics?
What do you do to keep your workouts interesting? Is training fun for you?
Were there any surprises on the first bikepacking trip you recently completed?
Are there other challenges you’ve set for yourself this year in addition to competing in Tokyo?

View the short film Go Josie on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1GfDjyUBJ4

Follow Josie on Instagram @ms.stubbornness. Thanks to Josie's sponsor Swiftwick for arranging this interview.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Renee Hutchens is a mountain biker, storyteller, and artist living in Colorado. As a member of the Diné Nation, Renee is an advocate for both Indigenous people and the lands they call home.

In this episode we discuss what it means to have a respectful and consensual relationship with the lands where we ride. Renee explains the meaning of the phrase environmental justice and talks about the mission of the Ute Land Trust. We talk about how words and naming in the bike industry can be hurtful to indigenous communities and why land acknowledgements at races are important.

Follow Renee on Instagram @renay.h and view her work at linktr.ee.

Editor's note: We reached out to Handup for comment about the "savage" glove mentioned in this interview and received the following reply: "We stopped selling these gloves in June 2020 after this came to our attention. Since then, we've changed gears to highlight 'Gloves that Give' in order for us to be able to give back to underrepresented community members of the mountain bike industry."

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Matt Martinez is the executive director of Dream Bikes, a non-profit organization that strategically places used bicycle stores in low-to-moderate income neighborhoods to provide hands-on, paid job training to teens. Dream Bikes has refurbished and returned more than 10,000 bikes to service, and operates two shops in Wisconsin.

We ask Matt:

Is there a lot of demand for bike mechanics? How does the pay for professional mechanics compare to other jobs?
What kind of impact can access to affordable bikes have on communities?
Are you seeing increased demand for bikes during the pandemic?
Beyond providing repairs and selling bikes, how does a thriving local bike shop impact neighborhoods?
Is there an environmental aspect to your mission?
Beyond the training your group provides, what is the value of a more formal bike repair education?
Does a lack of infrastructure like bike lanes or even trails limit the reach or utility of the program in the communities where you operate?
What are some ways mountain bikers can help your organization?
Are there other opportunities to help communities through bikes? What is the greatest need you’re currently unable to meet?

Learn more at dream-bikes.org.

Cover photo caption: Experienced bike mechanic Paul Brazeau works with Ryan Jackson on a repair.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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No, this isn't a sponsored episode; we just wanted to geek out on a topic that most of us take for granted!

Rob Martin is the managing director at Outdoor Sports Insurance, a Horizon Agency program dedicated to working with sports equipment manufacturers and retailers.

Tori Hoeschler is senior vice president at Horizon Agency and works with all aspects of the Outdoor Sports Insurance Program.

Like us, you may have wondered:

Are bike shops liable for faulty repairs?
Are more bike shops starting to offer rentals?
What should consumers know about signing equipment rental or guide service waivers?
With such a high demand for bikes currently, are your retail clients seeing an increase in theft?
How does product liability coverage work? How is that related to product recalls and warranty issues?
How much of the cost of a bike product, or a service like a bike park lift ticket, typically goes toward covering insurance?

More information at outdoorsportsins.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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This is part two of our interview with pioneering mountain bike skills coach Gene Hamilton. If you missed part one, be sure to load it up in your podcast app and listen!

In this episode, we ask:

Is it possible for mountain biking to be bad for our health?
What’s a mountain bike skill that separates pros from those who would consider themselves advanced or even expert riders?
Are some bike tires better at cornering than others? Which ones?
How has mountain bike skills training changed over the past two decades, in terms of the techniques and the skills you’re teaching?
As someone who has won Masters-level DH competitions, what tips do you have for staying fast and fit at your age?
Do you think today’s bikes make it easier for riders to go faster, or to have more fun? How much of performance comes down to the bike, and how much to the rider?

Connect with Gene and his team at Betterride.net.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Gene Hamilton is a former pro downhill racer who created one of the first mountain bike skills courses in the late 1990s. Today Better Ride holds clinics around the US, teaching regular riders and pros alike how to ride fast.

In the first half of our conversation, Gene answers:

How did you get into mountain biking racing?
Once you realized that you had hit a wall in terms of your own skills development, how did you go about researching proper mountain bike skills?
Were there any surprises based on your early research, or any “aha” moments that stuck out?
How can riders take advantage of momentum to go faster on the trail without putting in extra effort?

And we're just getting started! Tune in next week for part two of our conversation where Gene shares the skills that separate the pros from advanced riders, his favorite tires for cornering, and how our understanding of bike skills has evolved over the years.

Connect with Gene and his team at Betterride.net.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Rick Reed is the Brand Manager for Ride Concepts, a mountain bike footwear company based in Reno, Nevada. Before joining Ride Concepts, he was a sales director at Five Ten.

In this episode we ask Rick:

Why are mountain bike shoes more expensive than “regular” shoes? Is there really an advantage to wearing something made specifically for biking?
How does pedal grip translate to trail grip when it’s time to hike-a-bike?
Is there a sweet spot when it comes to sole stiffness? Is stiffer always better, at least when you’re on the pedals?
What do you think about the trend toward moving cleat positions back toward the mid foot?
Are there advantages to using traditional laces instead of Velcro or something like a Boa, or is that just for aesthetics?
What types of features can be built into a shoe to provide protection against injury?
What are the biggest constraints when it comes to designing a good bike shoe?
How is the environmental footprint factored in when designing a pair of shoes? Are there ways the impact can be minimized?
Where are most mountain bike shoes manufactured?
How are women’s mountain bike shoes different from men’s shoes?
When you sponsor athletes like Rachael Atherton, do you have a way of quantifying the return on that investment? Do influencers move the needle to a similar degree?

Get more info about some of the shoes we covered in this episode at RideConcepts.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Douglas Carchrie is a bicycle mechanic, mountain bike guide, and mountain bike trail consultant at Big Mountain Scotland. He has also served as a national park conservation intern and conducted research into mountain biker behavior as a student at the University of Highlands and Islands in Scotland.

In this episode, we ask:

Do mountain bikers tend to bother animals more than other trail users?
What are some of the things mountain bikers have been asked to do to avoid disturbing animals like the threatened Capercaillie bird?
Based on your study, do you think most mountain bikers are willing to change their behavior if they understand the impact of their actions?
Which methods are most effective when it comes to communicating conservation information to riders?
There are a number of tools available to land managers, including enforcement, trail design, and education. Which ones provide the biggest impact in your opinion?
Based on your experience as a mountain bike guide and director for Big Mountain Scotland, where are some of the best places to ride in the country?

Read more about Carchrie's study here:

https://www.bigmountainscotland.co.uk/post/mountain-bikers-awareness-of-capercaillie-in-the-cairngorms-national-park

And if you missed part one of our discussion of mountain biking and the environment, be sure to go back and listen to our previous show, episode #279.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Doug Blease is a mountain biker and environmental researcher based in Scotland. He’s a member of IMBA-EU and has served in active trail planning roles with the Aberdeen Trail Association.

In this interview, we ask:

What does an environmental impact assessment look like when it comes to trail planning?
How big of a concern is erosion when it comes to bikes, especially compared to other trail users?
How resilient is nature in terms of the ecosystem? Could there be long-term effects due to trail building if it’s not done properly?
As individuals, how can we minimize the impact of our rides?
How can we balance the tension between creating opportunities to enjoy the environment, with protecting it from damage or overuse?
How would you grade the mountain bike industry’s overall eco footprint?

If you'd like to contact Doug for advice or to ask a question, email info@singletracks.com and we'll pass your message along.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

*Cover photo: Luis Ascenso Photography from Lisbon, Portugal, via Wikimedia Commons

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Jeremiah Stone is a mountain bike skill instructor who has taught hundreds of riders across the western USA with Ninja Mountain Bike Performance and the Sedona Mountain Bike Academy. He’s also a freelance trail builder and machine operator in addition to being a skilled rider.

In this interview, we ask:

How did you develop your own mountain bike skills? Did you have a coach?
Do you think today’s mountain bikes make it easier to be a good biker, compared to the equipment that was available in the old days?
Timing seems to be a big factor when it comes to landing jumps or clearing doubles. How can riders develop a good sense of timing and speed?
Why is it easier to ride a technical feature once you’ve seen someone else ride it first?
What are some common bad habits when it comes to technical trail descending?
Beyond improving physical fitness, are there skills that can make climbing on the bike more tolerable?
Do you have any tips for helping riders overcome their fear of trying something new? How does that advice change for someone recovering from a traumatic crash?

Connect with Jeremiah on Instagram @vitabrevis and learn more at ridelikeaninja.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Jon Cariveau is the head of marketing for Moots, the Steamboat Springs, Colorado based bike brand known for hand building premium, titanium bikes. Jon is a passionate rider and racer, and has been with the brand for 24 years, starting in the shop when Moots had less than half a dozen employees.

Moots is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year so we look back at some of the brand's unique bike designs and product decisions over the years, starting with the YBB soft tail mountain bike released in the 1980s.

We also ask:

What are the biggest advantages of a titanium mountain bike frame? What are the disadvantages or tradeoffs?
In 2010 Moots featured a "96er" in the lineup. Are you surprised to see mixed wheel bikes making a bit of a comeback today?
As a company that is building bikes domestically, how has Moots been dealing with supply chain disruptions due to Covid?
How does the company's location in Steamboat Springs, Colorado influence the products and design?
What does Moots have in store for the next decade? What will we be talking about when Moots celebrates its 50th anniversary?

To learn more about Moots, visit moots.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Tony Boone has been building mountain bike trails for more than 30 years, and literally helped write the book on the subject, contributing to IMBA’s Guides to Building Sweet Singletrack and Providing Great Riding. He established the first bike patrol in Colorado in 1989 and has been an active member of the Professional Trail Builders Association since 1995.

Tony talks about the trail building and mountain bike scene in China, what it's like to work as a government land manager, and the projects he's most proud of.

In this interview we also ask:

What are some of the most common mistakes new trail builders make?
How do concepts like sustainability and stewardship fit into recreational trail building?
How do the early trails you built compare to the ones you’re involved in creating today?
- Can trail builders benefit from a more formal education?

To connect with Tony, or to learn more about his work and the studies mentioned in this episode, choose from the following links.

https://www.tonyboonetrails.com/
http://www.timberlinetrailcraft.com/
https://outdoorindustry.org/resource/2017-outdoor-recreation-economy-report/
https://www.bea.gov/data/special-topics/outdoor-recreation
https://www.waltonfamilyfoundation.org/about-us/newsroom/bicycling-provides-137-million-in-economic-benefits-to-northwest-arkansas

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Earl Serafica is the owner of Earl’s Bike shop, a Specialized dealer located on the west side of Atlanta near the Georgia Tech campus and close to downtown. I first met Earl on a mountain bike ride several years ago, and he’s remained a good friend and tireless promoter of the local cycling community here in Atlanta.

Earl talks about how the pandemic and surprising bike boom has affected business, and his approach to connecting with new and old customers.

We also ask:

What’s the most common repair you make?
Which repairs are more challenging?
How has Covid affected your inventory and your ability to get bikes and parts?
Which bikes sold the fastest in 2020?
Do you worry that delays, and lack of inventory is pushing some folks toward alternatives like wrenching at home, or buying complete bikes online?
How are e-bike sales looking? Which types of electric bikes are people choosing, and what do the buyers look like?

Connect with Earl and his shop at earlsbike.shop.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Rab Wardell is a mountain bike athlete and coach living in Glasgow, Scotland. He recently set the fastest known time on the West Highland Way, a 96 mile off-road route connecting Milngavie and Fort William.

In this episode, we find out what makes a Fastest Known Time (FKT) attempt different from other mountain bike races, and why Rab chose to challenge the FKT on the West Highland Way in Scotland. Rab outlines the steps he took to prepare his body and his gear for the attempt and shares some of the issues he faced during the ride.

In addition to competing, Rab is also a cycling coach, and he shares his tips for building skills, confidence, and fitness that any rider can apply.

For more info and to connect with Rab, visit rabwardell.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Simon Lawton is the founder of Fluidride, a world-class mountain bike instructional school that offers both online courses and in-person clinics around the world. We first spoke with Simon on the podcast in the summer of 2019, and spent some time catching up and learning what mountain bike skills clinics and instruction look during Covid-19.

With so many new mountain bikers joining the sport in 2020, Simon talks about the opportunity for not just skills training but also educating riders on trail use and etiquette. For those rejoining the sport, we ask if certain mountain bike skills can get rusty, and what it takes to break old habits.

In this episode we also talk about the mountain bike scene in Baja, Mexico where Simon now spends his winter season. Connect with Simon and learn more at fluidride.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Fabio Wibmer is an Austrian trials rider and mountain biker with almost 6 million YouTube followers and is closing in on 1 billion views. He’s known for starring in videos like Wibmer’s Law, Fabiolous Escape 1 and 2, and most recently, Home Office. In addition to trials riding, Fabio is also a winning downhill and freeride mountain biker.

In this episode, we ask Fabio how he got his start riding and talk about the athletes who have inspired him along the way. Fabio shares the source of his confidence on the bike, the projects he’s most proud of, and tells us what he would be doing if he weren’t a Red Bull sponsored athlete. We also ask if he considers himself a perfectionist, hear about his recovery from a recent broken foot, and learn his secret for pulling off a really good whip. You don’t want to miss this episode!

Find Fabio on YouTube at youtube.com/user/fabwibmer and Instagram @wibmerfabio.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Mat Stanke is a trail builder and board member of the Clinch Valley Trail Alliance in Oak Ridge, Tennessee outside of Knoxville. He and his club recently opened a new skills park called the Dirt Lab through a grassroots effort involving local businesses and community members.

We talk about the vision behind creating the Dirt Lab bike park and how it differs from the natural singletrack trails that were already available to riders in the area. Mat walks us through approvals, funding, and construction, offering insight into the process for others who might be considering the same for their local community. More than just a place for riders to progress their skills, the Dirt Lab offers builders an opportunity to hone their trail feature building skills for future projects as well.

Tune in to hear about the mistakes the group made along the way as Mat speaks candidly about some of the challenges the project faced.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Ron Bergin is the Executive Director of the Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association, also known as CAMBA, located in northern Wisconsin. The club is known for maintaining a well known network of mountain bike trails which host popular races and events including the Chequamegon Mountain Bike Festival and the Borah Epic. CAMBA recently worked with River Falls Research Center on a study linking trail visits to $7.8 million in economic impact within two surrounding counties.

We learn how the CAMBA trail usage and economic impact study was conducted, and what the results mean for future trail building and maintenance. Are events big economic drivers, or are trails alone enough to make an impact? Is it tough to find enough local volunteers to maintain trails used primarily by tourists? Do groomed fat bike trails draw winter visitors? Ron answers all these questions and more.

Read the full report here (https://cambatrails.org/about/economic-impact-studies/) and learn more about the group at cambatrails.org.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Ben Turits runs a coaching business and sports therapy practice called The Endurance Collective. He’s joined us a couple of times on the Singletracks podcast in the past, and we’re stoked to have him back to talk about strength and fitness training in the time of Covid.

Pro and amateur cycling athletes alike have seen their 2020 race and training schedules disrupted, so we dig into the ways athletes are adapting. While our discussion is centered around the effects of the current pandemic, many of the takeaways are applicable to anyone who is facing fitness or training challenges due to unexpected events.

We discuss mental tricks for staying focused, the effect of competition on performance, and the positive things some have learned amid forced downtime. The current pandemic is accelerating training technology adoption so we discuss which changes will stick around.

Connect with Ben at theendurancecollective.com

This podcast is sponsored by Gloworm Lites.

Gloworm is a mountain bike light brand founded almost a decade ago by two mountain bikers in New Zealand, and today the company offers some of the most customizable, highest quality bike lights on the market. Gloworm’s complete line of lights start at 1200 lumens and range up to a blinding 3400 lumens, all at reasonable prices.

Save 15% off all light systems on the Gloworm website with the coupon code SINGLETRACKS2020. Shop for lights at glowormlites.co.nz

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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In this week’s episode, Gerow, Jeff, and Matt sit down to discuss the latest mountain bike news, starting with a question that seems to come up every few years: is this the golden age of mountain biking? We’ll talk about interesting new products including a linkage upgrade and a shippable, cardboard pump track template, plus we take a look at the short 2020 professional mountain bike race season.

There’s also much to talk about in the world of e-bikes, from trail access to the latest take on lightweight eMTBs from Orbea. Listen in as we answer the question: what’s been your best and worst ride lately?

This podcast is sponsored by Gloworm Lites.

Gloworm is a mountain bike light brand founded almost a decade ago by two mountain bikers in New Zealand, and today the company offers some of the most customizable, highest quality bike lights on the market. Gloworm’s complete line of lights start at 1200 lumens and range up to a blinding 3400 lumens, all at reasonable prices.

Save 15% off all light systems on the Gloworm website with the coupon code SINGLETRACKS2020. Shop for lights at glowormlites.co.nz

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Chris Currie is a bike industry veteran with decades of experience in everything from retail and marketing to product design. His patented mountain bike suspension design, dubbed 3VO, is well regarded and is currently being used by Jamis Bikes in their full suspension bike line.

Chris fills us in on what it takes to design and patent a brand new mountain bike suspension setup, and talks about what makes his approach unique. We also ask Chris to explain confusing but important terms like instant center and axle path. What’s the most annoying thing about mountain bikes at the moment? Listen in to find out how Chris answers.

This podcast is sponsored by Gloworm Lites.

Gloworm is a mountain bike light brand founded almost a decade ago by two mountain bikers in New Zealand, and today the company offers some of the most customizable, highest quality bike lights on the market. Gloworm’s complete line of lights start at 1200 lumens and range up to a blinding 3400 lumens, all at reasonable prices.

Save 15% off all light systems on the Gloworm website with the coupon code SINGLETRACKS2020. Shop for lights at glowormlites.co.nz

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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The Singletracks staff has tested a ton of gear this year, and this week we’re looking back at some of our favorites. Listen in to hear what impressed us about each of these items, from clothing and accessories to complete bikes.

Some of the products covered in this episode:

MTB components

TRP G-Spec brakes Teravail Honcho tires * Schwalbe Magic Mary tires Formula Selva R fork * Hope Fortus 30 wheels * Versus tires* MRP Raven fork * Ohlins TTXAir shock * And four more favorite tires tested in 2020

MTB accessories* Topeak Burrito seat pack * Thule Roundtrip duffel bag * Garmin Forerunner 235 watch * Polar Grit X watch * Topeak Tubi 18 mini tool * Topeak DA mountain pump * Fidlock bottles * Camelbak Chase hydration vest * Topeak Prepstand Pro work stand

Clothing and wearables

Pactimo Ridgeline hoodie * Gore C5 All-mountain shorts * Tasco gloves * Giro Ventana shoes * Endura MT500 jacket * Fox Speedframe helmet

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

Garmin Forerunner 235 - Black/Gray (Renewed)

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Dr. Chris Leatt is the founder of the eponymous bike and moto protection brand based in South Africa. The company’s bike product line has expanded over the years to include helmets, pads, goggles, and even hydration packs, all designed with a focus on safety and protection.

We find out how the Leatt company got its start, and what the brand is doing to help athletes stay safe. Dr. Leatt explains how everything from neck braces to helmets and body armor are designed to work, and offers tips for reducing risk on the bike trail.

This episode is sponsored by Boeshield (boeshield.com), makers of Boeshield T-9, a lube designed to waterproof your bike chain, lubricate cables, and prevent rust with its unique and effective all-in-one formula. This month Boeshield is giving away a free prize pack to a lucky listener! Visit singletracks.com/Boeshield to enter — open to anyone the contiguous United States, no purchase necessary.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Mike Bush is the President of Stans, a brand whose founder Stan Koziatek pioneered the use of tubeless tires in mountain biking. Today the Stans brand designs and markets its own line of popular wheels and tubeless tire accessories to keep mountain bikers rolling.

For most mountain bikers, tubeless tire sealant is basically magic, and Mike gives us one of the best explanations we’ve heard for how the stuff actually works. Of course tire sealant is just one piece of the inflation puzzle, so we spend a lot of time talking about rims and also tires.

Is carbon a better material for building rims than aluminum? Are 30mm-wide rims becoming the standard? Listen in to hear the answers to these questions and more. There’s also additional info about the Stans brand at NoTubes.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Vittorio Platania is the marketing manager for the Formula group based in Italy, and he’s here to fill us in on everything we need to know about mountain bike brakes.

We’ll discuss how hydraulic disc brakes work, and the factors that going into making a more powerful brake. Vittorio explains why brakes need to be bled, how hose selection plays into the overall system, and how rotor and pad selection can affect the feel of a brake. We’ll also get tips for braking and talk about potential areas of improvement for modern mountain bike disc brakes.

Info about Formula brakes at rideformula.com

This episode is sponsored by Boeshield (boeshield.com), makers of Boeshield T-9, a lube designed to waterproof your bike chain, lubricate cables, and prevent rust with its unique and effective all-in-one formula. This month Boeshield is giving away a free prize pack to a lucky listener! Visit singletracks.com/Boeshield to enter — open to anyone the contiguous United States, no purchase necessary.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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David Juarez, known to mountain bikers around the world as Tinker, is a 2-time Olympian, 4-time 24 Hour Solo series champ, and Mountain Bike Hall of Famer from California. Long-sponsored by Cannondale, he’s been racing mountain bikes professionally for 31 years and continues to compete in ultra endurance racing at the highest level.

Tinker talks about his BMX background, growing up in southern California, and his transition to cross country and later ultra endurance mountain biking. We ask whether winning races is more about physical or mental strength, and get Tinker’s tips for staying fit and fast at 59 years old. Tinker also shares his most difficult races, and reflects on the 24 Hour race scene.

Find out more about the Tinker Classic race at gropromotions.com/tinker-classic/

This episode is sponsored by Backcountry.com, an online outdoor gear & apparel retailer carrying thousands of brands and products for mountain biking and your everyday outdoor lifestyle.

Not only does Backcountry have the widest assortment of gear and apparel, but the heart and soul of the company lies with their Backcountry Gearheads. These Gearheads are former pro-athletes, Olympians, and all-around experts that are available 24/7 by phone/email/chat for one-on-one service, product recommendations, and to ensure you have everything you need for your next outdoor adventure.

For the entire month of August, Backcountry is running their Semi-Annual Sale, which only happens twice a year. Take advantage of the final days of summer and save up to 50% off on huge brands like Patagonia, The North Face, Arc’teryx and more.

Go to www.backcountry.com/singletracks and use the code SINGLETRACKS15 to get 15% off your first purchase (some exclusions apply).

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Alastair Beckett is a mechanical engineer and bike race mechanic based in the United Kingdom. His firm Redburn Design helps small bike brands expand “their product range through innovative and award winning product development and manufacturing process refinement.” Listeners may be familiar with one of Alastair’s most recent design projects, the new 161 enduro bike from the Privateer brand.

We learn how frame designers like Alastair work with bike brands to create unique mountain bike designs, and talk about the constraints and tradeoffs that need to be made along the way. Alastair also weighs in on the limits of “long, low, slack” geometry and the convergence of enduro and DH geometry.

Connect with Alastair at redburndesign.com.

This episode is sponsored by Backcountry.com, an online outdoor gear & apparel retailer carrying thousands of brands and products for mountain biking and your everyday outdoor lifestyle.

Not only does Backcountry have the widest assortment of gear and apparel, but the heart and soul of the company lies with their Backcountry Gearheads. These Gearheads are former pro-athletes, Olympians, and all-around experts that are available 24/7 by phone/email/chat for one-on-one service, product recommendations, and to ensure you have everything you need for your next outdoor adventure.

For the entire month of August, Backcountry is running their Semi-Annual Sale, which only happens twice a year. Take advantage of the final days of summer and save up to 50% off on huge brands like Patagonia, The North Face, Arc’teryx and more.

Go to www.backcountry.com/singletracks and use the code SINGLETRACKS15 to get 15% off your first purchase (some exclusions apply).

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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In this episode we share an interview Singletracks podcast host and editor-in-chief Jeff Barber recorded with Gareth Beckett from the MTB Tribe podcast. Gareth and Jeff chat about the mountain bike industry, swap notes about how trail access works in the US compared to parts of Europe, and discuss general mountain bike culture.

Be sure to check out the MTB Tribe podcast on iTunes and Spotify, or visit the website at mtb-tribe.com.

This episode is sponsored by Boeshield (boeshield.com), makers of Boeshield T-9, a lube designed to waterproof your bike chain, lubricate cables, and prevent rust with its unique and effective all-in-one formula. This month Boeshield is giving away a free prize pack to a lucky listener! Visit singletracks.com/Boeshield to enter — open to anyone the contiguous United States, no purchase necessary.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Harry Molloy is the brains behind the Flow Style World Cup DH racing team, and runs the Flow Style riding apparel brand. He has been racing top level downhill for over ten years.

In this episode, we find out what it takes to put together a professional mountain bike team racing at the World Cup level. Harry shares the strategies involved in competition and how race teams like Flow Style are financed. We discuss how Covid-19 is affecting the current downhill race season and the athletes on his team.

This episode is sponsored by Backcountry.com, an online outdoor gear & apparel retailer carrying thousands of brands and products for mountain biking and your everyday outdoor lifestyle.

Not only does Backcountry have the widest assortment of gear and apparel, but the heart and soul of the company lies with their Backcountry Gearheads. These Gearheads are former pro-athletes, Olympians, and all-around experts that are available 24/7 by phone/email/chat for one-on-one service, product recommendations, and to ensure you have everything you need for your next outdoor adventure.

For the entire month of August, Backcountry is running their Semi-Annual Sale, which only happens twice a year. Take advantage of the final days of summer and save up to 50% off on huge brands like Patagonia, The North Face, Arc’teryx and more.

Go to www.backcountry.com/singletracks and use the code SINGLETRACKS15 to get 15% off your first purchase (some exclusions apply).

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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In this episode, the Singletracks staff talks about the process we use to the evaluate the mountain bikes and gear we review regularly.

What are some things to consider when testing a piece of gear? How are bike reviews different from component or accessory reviews? Are there questions that can’t be answered in the review process?* What happens if a sample breaks, and how do press camps work?

For a sampling of reviews, browse our mountain bike review and gear article archives.

This episode is sponsored by Backcountry, an online outdoor gear & apparel retailer carrying thousands of brands and products for mountain biking and your everyday outdoor lifestyle.

Not only does Backcountry have the widest assortment of gear and apparel, but the heart and soul of the company lies with their Backcountry Gearheads. These Gearheads are former pro-athletes, Olympians, and all-around experts that are available 24/7 by phone/email/chat for one-on-one service, product recommendations, and to ensure you have everything you need for your next outdoor adventure.

For the entire month of August, Backcountry is running their Semi-Annual Sale, which only happens twice a year. Take advantage of the final days of summer and save up to 50% off on huge brands like Patagonia, The North Face, Arc’teryx and more.

Go to www.backcountry.com/singletracks and use the code SINGLETRACKS15 to get 15% off your first purchase (some exclusions apply).

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Jason Finnell is a mountain biker who works with the The Schejola Foundation and PedalUp, an organization that is working with Boys and Girls Club locations to start onsite mountain bike programs.

We talk about how the program got started, and how it’s using pump tracks and funding for bikes to empower disadvantaged kids. The group is currently reviewing applications from Boys and Girls clubs around the USA to fund more programs like the ones already in place in locations all around the southeast.

Jason also gives us an update on the mountain bike scene in his hometown of Chattanooga, Tennessee and in Dalton, Georgia, home of the Snake Creek Gap time trial.

This episode is sponsored by Boeshield (boeshield.com), makers of Boeshield T-9, a lube designed to waterproof your bike chain, lubricate cables, and prevent rust with its unique and effective all-in-one formula. This month Boeshield is giving away a free prize pack to a lucky listener! Visit singletracks.com/Boeshield to enter — open to anyone the contiguous United States, no purchase necessary.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Hannah Bergemann has been busy making a name for herself in the enduro and freeride scene over the past few years. We caught up the rising freeride star and talked to her about how she got started, her life in Bellingham, Washington, the women’s freeride scene, and how she shot her segment for the new Teton Gravity Research MTB movie, Accomplice.

To hear more from Hannah, check out this March 2019 interview on Singletracks.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Scott Nydam is a longtime bike racer who has been inspired to start a NICA program for youth in Gallup, New Mexico. The city borders the Navajo reservation, and Nydam hopes to create numerous opportunities for native kids, both in Gallup and on the reservation.

Vincent Salabye is the Diné comp NICA team head coach and board president of Silver Stallion bicycle and coffee works. He’s also a father of two kids and lives on the Navajo reservation.

The nonprofit Scott and Vincent support recently received a grant from the Outride Fund.

In this episode we talk about the challenges facing folks living on the reservation and how mountain biking fits in with efforts to serve the community.

For more information visit bicyclecoffee.org and the Diné NICA team’s fundraising page here.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Lindsey Richter founded Ladies AllRide as “a movement dedicated to growing the community of female mountain bikers across the globe.” She’s a former professional mountain bike racer and was a contestant on the reality television show Survivor.

Singletracks talks with Lindsey about why she’s so passionate about mountain biking, and how she and others use the sport to build confidence and self esteem. Lindsey tells us why she thinks more women aren’t riding (yet) and shares tips all mountain bikers can use to improve their skills. We ask Lindsey what she’s learned since starring on Survivor, and who is inspiring her to be her best self.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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The Singletracks staff kicks off a busy summer mountain bike testing season! In this episode we share our impressions of the mountain bikes we’ve recently tested, and those we are just getting to know. If you’re considering a new bike this year, from gravel to enduro, and from expensive to cheap, we have you covered. Settle in, this is going to be a long one.

Recently tested: * Guerrilla Gravity Smash and Gnarvana YT Jeffsy Ibis Ripmo Transition Scout Pivot Switchblade Niner RIP 9 Spot Ryve 115 Specialized Epic S-Works Schwinn Axum* Viathon G1

Currently testing: * Santa Cruz Megatower Canyon Spectral Mondraker Foxy Orbea Occam Revel Rascal (bike build) Trek Fuel EX * Norco Torrent (bike build) Surly Karate Monkey (bike build)

Compare pricing and availability for these and other mountain bikes at singletracks.com/deals

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Lael Wilcox started biking in 2008 at age 20 with an around the world bike trip that took her through more than 30 countries. In 2015, essentially her first year of racing, she won the Tour Divide and smashed the women’s record by more than 2 days. The next year she won the 4,400 mile Trans Am Bike Race, and set the overall record for both men and women on the Baja Divide route in 2017. Today Lael continues to race and co-leads a mentorship program for middle school girls called Anchorage GRIT in her hometown.

We ask Lael to share her tips and tricks for bikepacking and mental toughness, and talk about the role gender plays in ultra endurance competition. Lael fills us in on how her plans have changed for 2020, her take on documenting and filming her adventures, and finding nutritious food to eat during races.

Follow and connect with Lael on Instagram @laelwilcox

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Brad Copeland worked his way up the bike tuning chain, from shop mechanic to a full-time position at Specialized Bicycles, and eventually landed a spot wrenching for the brand’s domestic teams. His racing and career interests laid deep in the dirt side of cycling, and when asked to travel with the Specialized World Cup XC athletes to a few events, he excitedly accepted. Copeland developed lasting friendships with several riders, eventually becoming the primary traveling wrench for Kate Courtney, who would then go on to win both a rainbow jersey and a World Cup overall title.

When Courtney switched to the Scott-SRAM MTB Racing team she was able to bring Copeland with her, which doesn’t happen in XC as often as it does in downhill racing. The pair are working hard to prepare for what the 2020 season holds, and we recently chatted with Copeland to get the story from his side of the pits. This discussion wasn’t originally intended to be a podcast, but given Copeland’s passionate descriptions, we wanted to share the raw recording.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Larry Pizzi is the Chief Commercial Officer for Alta Cycling Group, the parent company of wll known bike brands including Diamondback, Raleigh, and Ghost. He is also a board member at People for Bikes, a non-profit organization dedicated to making bicycling “safer, easier to access and more fun.”

In this episode, we get Larry’s take on gravel biking: Who are gravel bikers? How much are they spending on bikes? What does gravel advocacy look like? Will we see a gravel biking World Cup someday?

Larry also talks about electric bikes and the challenges facing local bike shops today.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Ken Avery is the Vice President of product and marketing for Vittoria, the world’s leading producer of bicycle tires. As an industry insider for many years, Ken has a wealth of knowledge on everything from mountain bike product design to marketing.

In this episode, we talk about how mountain bike tire design and technology evolved over the years, the tradeoff between tire weight and traction, and how preferences for lower tire pressures have influenced tire design. Ken goes over the basics of tire construction and talks about current demand for various widths and diameters. We also discuss tire inserts, sealant, and get the inside story about Ken’s involvement in the introduction of the original Maxxis Minion.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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It’s an understatement to say Covid-19 has changed the world as we know it. Mountain biking is no exception.

In this episode, Matt, Gerow, and Jeff talk about what’s going on in Colorado, Italy, and Georgia, respectively. We discuss the latest on mountain bike racing, athletes, tourism, brands, and of course everyday trail riders. If you haven’t been paying attention to mountain bike news lately — and we don’t blame you if you’ve been preoccupied — this will serve as a good recap.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Paul Howard has been coaching mountain bikers all around the world for over 20 years now. He’s a co-founder of the Professional Mountain Bike Instructors Association (PMBIA) and is the owner and head coach at ZEP Mountain Bike Camps in Whistler.

In this episode, Paul shares the #1 skill mountain bikers actually need to work on, and how that’s often different from the skills they think need improvement. We talk about mountain bike skills myths, how mountain bike skills and fitness are related, and whether watching videos online can be a substitute for in-person skills coaching. Paul also fills us in on the PMBIA and its role in improving coaching in the mountain bike world.

Learn more about ZEP at zeptechniques.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Greg Williams is the founder of the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, a non-profit group based in California that’s dedicated to the restoration, preservation, and enhancement of recreational trails. The group’s Connected Communities plan offers an innovative roadmap for bringing tourism through trails to former timber and mining towns.

We talk about how the group formed, and how their trail work is impacting the local economy. Greg shares some of the strategies the group has used to bring various trail user groups together that are applicable in other communities facing similar challenges. We also discuss the ways mountain bikers can help the trail communities they visit and how groups like the STBS measure success.

Learn more at sierratrails.org.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Chris Cocalis is the founder and president of Pivot Cycles based in Tempe, Arizona. Pivot is known for creating cutting-edge, high performance mountain bikes and also for sponsoring many talented athletes over the years while giving back to the community.

In this episode we talk about the mountain bike design process and how bikes are manufactured. Chris fills us in on current trends in the bike world, the benefits of sponsoring and working with pro-level riders, e-commerce challenges, new technologies, and why Pivot doesn’t offer builds priced less than $5,000.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Maurice and his partner Elaine started Dirt Rag back in 1989. For decades the magazine documented the sport and for many carried with it the very soul of mountain biking.

Maurice talks about how mountain bike gear and culture has evolved over the past three decades, and his recent decision to cease operations at the iconic publication.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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In 2012, Kate was the first American woman to win a UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Junior title. Then in 2017, she won the Under 23 World Cup Overall title. In 2018, she won gold at the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships, and then the next year she took the overall UCI Mountain Bike World Cup title. Recently, Kate was named to the 2020 Olympics team for cross country mountain biking.

This episode is sponsored by Boeshield (boeshield.com), makers of Boeshield T-9, a lube designed to waterproof your bike chain, lubricate cables, and prevent rust with its unique and effective all-in-one formula. This month Boeshield is giving away a free prize pack to a lucky listener! Visit singletracks.com/Boeshield to enter — open to anyone the contiguous United States, no purchase necessary.

Please visit Singletracks.com for the full transcript of this interview with Kate.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Chris Sugai is the co-founder and President of Niner Bikes, a brand which was an early adopter of the now ubiquitous mountain bike wheel size. Over the years Chris and Niner have worked with incredible athletes, produced countless innovations, and generously supported the International Mountain Bike Association.

We get the inside scoop on how Niner got its start and talk about the current state of the mountain bike wheel size debate. Chris talks about building a culture and a brand, and what’s changed now that Niner is part of a larger parent company. We ask about gravel bikes and also what’s next for the bike industry.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Oskar Blues is known primarily as a beer company, but the brand also has a big toe in the mountain bike world with the Reeb bike brand based in Lyons, Colorado. We geek out about beer with senior marketing manager Aaron Baker and also hear from Reeb sponsored rider Jeff Lenosky who fills us in on all the different bikes in the line.

In addition to the bike and beer brand, Oskar Blues also operates a bike shop in Longmont, Colorado and a place called Reeb Ranch with access to some of the best mountain bike trails in Dupont State Forest near Pisgah. The company opened a second brewery in North Carolina near the Pisgah National Forest about 8 years ago and also puts on popular events each year.

This episode is sponsored by Mountain Biking Park City. As the world’s first IMBA Gold Level Ride center since 2012, Park City, Utah is a premier mountain biking destination. What makes Park City a gold-level ride center? For starters, the immediate area boasts a diverse variety of trails spread across 450 miles with everything from paved commuting paths for a family-friendly ride to aggressive cross-country rides like the Epic Wasatch Crest trail. Combined with magnificent scenery, numerous bars and restaurants, world class accommodations, free public transit and a wide range of entertainment options, it’s no wonder Park City was awarded gold. Experiencing Park City, Utah has never been easier. And, there’s never been a better time than now. Arrange your stay, rent a bike, and book a guide, by visiting mountainbikingparkcity.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Rebecca Rusch is a 7-time World Champion in cycling, adventure racing, and cross country skiing events, a best-selling author, and a passionate community activist. She’s also an Emmy award winner for her documentary Blood Road which highlights the problem of unexploded ordnance in Laos that her Do Good foundation is working to solve.

In this episode we dive into the life equations Rebecca has figured out like “blood flow = brain flow” and “passion = payoff,” and how these apply both on and off the bike. Rebecca shares how she approaches challenges, talks about why gravel riding is so attractive to all types of riders, and tells us about what her foundation is doing to help others around the world.

We also ask Rebecca to weigh in on why women’s performance in ultra endurance events is more evenly matched with men than in other sports, and what it’s like riding for her new sponsor, Liv/Giant.

Learn more about the Be Good foundation and keep up with Rebecca at rebeccarusch.com

This episode is sponsored by Boeshield (boeshield.com), makers of Boeshield T-9, a lube designed to waterproof your bike chain, lubricate cables, and prevent rust with its unique and effective all-in-one formula. This month Boeshield is giving away a free prize pack to a lucky listener! Visit singletracks.com/Boeshield to enter — open to anyone the contiguous United States, no purchase necessary.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Ryan White is the senior product designer at cycling apparel company Pactimo based in Denver, Colorado. He studied industrial design at Wentworth Institute of Technology and has been designing soft goods for almost a decade.

In this episode, we dig deep into the design decisions that go into creating clothing that mountain bikers want to wear. If you’ve ever wondered why mountain bike apparel costs as much as it does, or what the true benefits are to wearing jerseys and shorts designed specifically for biking, this show will answer those questions and more.

Learn more at Pactimo.com. This podcast was not sponsored, influenced, or directly supported by Pactimo in any way.

Let us know if you’d like to hear more episodes like this one where we talk shop and geek out about gear!

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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If you’re a mountain biker, chances are you’ve seen Paris’s brilliant photography online and in your favorite magazine. He’s spent more than a decade capturing mountain bike culture through the eyes of its athletes and brands in locations around the world, and his highly regarded work is routinely showcased in both commercial and editorial features.

In this episode, Paris talks about how he got started as a mountain biker, and later a mountain bike photographer. We hear stories about lost memory cards, dropped cameras, and one particularly unusual technique he’s used to get perspective in his shots. He’ll also share some great tips for budding photographers.

View Paris Gore’s work online at ParisGore.com and follow him @ParisGore on Instagram.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Keri Hatley is the head coach at Shred Science Nutrition, a program designed to help clients lose weight and build lean muscle to unlock their optimum performance. She’s an athlete who has competed in everything from running and cycling to powerlifting and holds a certificate in Nutrition coaching.

We’ll find out what macro nutrients are, and how tracking them can help mountain bikers — and anyone really — reach their fitness goals. Keri weighs in on current diets and intermittent fasting, muscle imbalance in cyclists, and the idea that food is fuel. We also talk about the ideal pre- and post-ride foods.

If you want to get faster or feel better this year, listen in for some ideas to try! Learn more and connect with Keri at shredsciencenutrition.com

This episode is sponsored by Boeshield (boeshield.com), makers of Boeshield T-9, a lube designed to waterproof your bike chain, lubricate cables, and prevent rust with its unique and effective all-in-one formula. This month Boeshield is giving away a free prize pack to a lucky listener! Visit singletracks.com/Boeshield to enter — open to anyone the contiguous United States, no purchase necessary.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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There are few topics in the world of mountain biking more controversial than electric mountain bikes. While one side believes anything with a motor goes against the spirit of the sport and could have a devastating effect on trail access, the other side argues the new tech helps disabled riders and makes mountain biking even more fun.

So who is right? Like most issues, the truth lies somewhere in between the extreme views on either side, and none of us know for certain how this will all shake out in the future. This is a debate that’s been going on for several years, yet today we’re starting to see how some of the early predictions of the impact e-bikes might have are coming true in terms of trail access and riders’ health.

In this episode I’ll share two recent stories about e-bike trail access and a study that looks at the health benefits of riding an electric mountain bike, and how riders’ perceptions change (or don’t change) after riding one. You can read all three of these articles, written by Matt Miller, on Singletracks.com, listed below.

Secretary of Interior Allows E-bike Access Across BLM Land, National Parks
We Asked Four Major Trail Organizations for their Thoughts on eMTB Trail Access
Study Suggests eMTBs Offer Nearly Same Workout as Non-motorized MTBs, Attitudes Towards eMTBs Change After Riding

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Today I’ll be talking about mountain biking on a budget and ways to make mountain biking more affordable. The format for this week’s show is going to be a little different than usual. Instead of interviewing a guest or having a discussion, I’ll be reading a few reviews and articles and providing some commentary on this topic based on our readers’ comments.

The reviews in this show include an affordable drivetrain from Box, a knock-off 4K helmet camera from VanTop, bikes from Marin and Raleigh. I’ll also share nine tips for saving money from Singletracks contributor Ray Southwick.

View the latest hand-selected deals on mountain bikes and gear at singletracks.com/deals

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Kurt Refsnider is a badass bikepacker who is the only person to have won all three events in the Triple Crown of Bikepacking — the Tour Divide, the Arizona Trail 750, and most recently, the Colorado Trail Race. He’s also a former professor of geology, a cycling coach, and the founder of Bikepacking Roots, an organization that advocates for bikepacking and the environment.

We talk with Kurt about competition, bikepacking, and seeking out personal challenges. Kurt shares his tips for mountain bike training, and his favorite piece of gear for any bikepacking expedition.

We also learn about Bikepacking Roots and discuss the fight for bike access in Wilderness areas.

Connect with Kurt at Ultramtb.net and bikepackingroots.org.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Jeremiah is an 18-time member of the USA Cycling National Team who has won countless cross-country, ultra-endurance, and mountain bike stage races all around the world, including gold at the Pan American games in 2003, overall wins at the Breck Epic and Pisgah stage races, National titles in both short track and marathon, and multiple overall wins in the National Ultra Endurance Series. He’s currently a member of the Canyon-Topeak racing team and lives in Harrisonburg, VA.

We ask Jeremiah to share his tips for racing and recovery and how he deals with riding at altitude. As a long-time pro, we get Jeremiah’s perspective on modern mountain bikes and the riding scene in Harrisonburg. We also talk about some of the projects he’s involved in like Luv Trails (luvtrails.com), a program designed to raise funds for local trail groups.

Learn more and keep up with Jeremiah at JeremiahBishop.com.

This episode is sponsored by Boeshield (boeshield.com), makers of Boeshield T-9, a lube designed to waterproof your bike chain, lubricate cables, and prevent rust with its unique and effective all-in-one formula. This month Boeshield is giving away a free prize pack to a lucky listener! Visit singletracks.com/Boeshield to enter — open to anyone the contiguous United States, no purchase necessary.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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This week we’re re-sharing one of our listeners’ favorite episodes from 2019. On January 6 we’ll be back with fresh episodes including some big interviews you won’t want to miss. Stay safe and happy trails!

In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, Gerow and Jeff share tips for making mountain bike repairs in an emergency. From packing the right supplies (duct tape!) to finding creative ways to get rolling again, you don’t want to miss this helpful episode.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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This week we’re re-sharing one of our listeners’ favorite episodes from 2019. On January 6 we’ll be back with fresh episodes including some big interviews you won’t want to miss. Stay safe and happy trails!

In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, we talk about the three main considerations when designing a set of mountain bike wheels, and break down the pieces that make up a wheelset from the rims to the hubs. We’ll also share some tips for troubleshooting and repairing wheels, and offer our thoughts on various rim diameters and widths.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Enrico Guala is the founder of Italy’s Superenduro series and an Enduro World Series board member. He also owns 4Guimp, a bicycle distribution company based in Italy.

We talk about the history of enduro mountain bike racing, along with the challenges race promotors face. Enrico shares his thoughts on recent doping cases in the sport, and how e-bikes fit into enduro. Finally, we ask Enrico if he thinks courses will become more difficult as riders’ skills progress.

Find more at superenduromtb.com and 4guimp.it.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Wendy Engelberg is the founder of Girlz Gone Riding, a mountain bike group working to get more women riding and enjoying the experience. Club rides routinely see up to 100 mountain bikers, and the group counts thousands of members spread across California and Arizona.

We talk with Wendy about the challenges women face when it comes to getting started in mountain biking and finding others to ride with. Based on years of experience, Wendy shares her tips for leading a successful and accessible group ride for mountain bikers of all abilities. Later, we discuss the brands and women in the mountain bike industry that are setting an example when it comes to diversifying participation.

For more information go to girlzgoneriding.com

View the latest hand-selected deals on mountain bikes and gear at singletracks.com/deals

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Alex Gardner, Nick Gibson, and Tommy Magrath started the Trans Cascadia 4-day enduro race five years ago as a way to allow riders to experience forgotten trails and incredible riding in the Pacific Northwest. Over the years they’ve forged relationships with the Forest Service and other trail user groups like the Backcountry Horsemen and have used the race as a way to give back to the trails.

Despite the steep entry fee, Trans Cascadia routinely sells out from year to year as riders have come to appreciate the incredible trails, delicious meals, and a party-like atmosphere in between racing. Alex, Nick, and Tommy share their tips for bike selection and preparation for a multi-day enduro race and talk about how their model for giving back and putting on a great event could work for other locations.

Editor’s note: The audio quality isn’t great for portions of this episode, but it’s definitely worth the listen! The guys were gracious enough to make time to record while in Wenatchee, Washington following a meeting with the Forest Service.

For more information, go to trans-cascadia.com

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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The Singletracks team traveled far and wide to cover the world of mountain biking this year. From fat biking during the Polar Votex in Wisconsin to racing across BC and Croatia, we saw a lot of trails in 2019. Listen in as we talk about our favorite mountain bike destinations, including St. George, Utah; Whistler, British Columbia; Czech Republic; Indonesia; Slovenia; Bellingham, Washington; Palisade, Colorado; Santa Cruz, California; Greece; Denmark; and Croatia.

This podcast is sponsored by Gloworm Lites. Gloworm is a mountain bike light brand founded almost a decade ago by two mountain bikers in New Zealand, and today the company offers some of the most customizable, highest quality bike lights on the market. Gloworm’s complete line of lights start at 1200 lumens and range up to a blinding 3400 lumens, all at reasonable prices. glowormlites.co.nz

Save 15% off all light systems on the Gloworm website with the coupon code SINGLETRACKS2020. Shop for lights here: https://www.glowormlites.co.nz/product-category/lights/

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Ryan Leech is a mountain bike trials riders who has starred in many mountain bike films over the years and has performed live in front of audiences around the world. He’s also a mountain bike skills coach and trainer, offering online programs covering topics like wheelies, cornering, and jumping.

In this interview, Ryan opens up about the mental stress of performing mountain bike tricks, and also the physical toll it’s taken over the years. He fills us in on how yoga has helped heal both the mind and body, and how community makes his online mountain bike skills training and coaching program, the Ryan Leech Connection, unique.

We also find out what it was like to perform in Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba show and how he came to launch a motivational speaking tour for teenagers call The Trials of Life. Connect with Ryan and learn more about his training program at ryanleech.com.

This podcast is sponsored by Gloworm Lites. Gloworm is a mountain bike light brand founded almost a decade ago by two mountain bikers in New Zealand, and today the company offers some of the most customizable, highest quality bike lights on the market. Gloworm’s complete line of lights start at 1200 lumens and range up to a blinding 3400 lumens, all at reasonable prices. glowormlites.co.nz

Save 15% off all light systems on the Gloworm website with the coupon code SINGLETRACKS2020. Shop for lights here: https://www.glowormlites.co.nz/product-category/lights/

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Enduro World Series founding board member Chris Ball talks about how he get into mountain biking, and the motivation for creating a race series outside of XC and DH competition. We find out how the first year of the UCI partnership went, and talk about EWS Travel, a program that lets riders experience iconic EWS destinations around the world.

Chris shares the thinking behind adding the new e-bike race format to the EWS, the future of team competitions like the Trophy of Nations, and mountain bike safety. We also get Chris’s take on the best bike for enduro racing and his own personal favorite places to ride.

This podcast is sponsored by Gloworm Lites. Gloworm is a mountain bike light brand founded almost a decade ago by two mountain bikers in New Zealand, and today the company offers some of the most customizable, highest quality bike lights on the market. Gloworm’s complete line of lights start at 1200 lumens and range up to a blinding 3400 lumens, all at reasonable prices. glowormlites.co.nz

Save 15% off all light systems on the Gloworm website with the coupon code SINGLETRACKS2020. Shop for lights here: https://www.glowormlites.co.nz/product-category/lights/

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Sometimes, you just gotta vent. Matt, Gerow, and Jeff talk about the mountain bike stuff that has us stoked right now, and the things that are bumming us out. From gear to trail access, we cover it all including e-bikes, flow trails, stage racing, slopestyle mountain biking, and even health insurance. With so many topics on the table, every listener is bound to agree and disagree with our staff writers on at least one item!

This podcast is sponsored by Gloworm Lites. Gloworm is a mountain bike light brand founded almost a decade ago by two mountain bikers in New Zealand, and today the company offers some of the most customizable, highest quality bike lights on the market. Gloworm’s complete line of lights start at 1200 lumens and range up to a blinding 3400 lumens, all at reasonable prices.

Save 15% off all light systems on the Gloworm website with the coupon code SINGLETRACKS2020. Shop for lights at https://www.glowormlites.co.nz/

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/singletracks/support

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Rémy Métailler is a professional mountain bike racer who competes in both DH and freeride competitions around the world. He also posts skills videos and ride reports regularly on his popular YouTube Channel.

We ask Rémy about how he got started in mountain biking, downhill and freeride competition, and what it’s like to ride in an urban DH race. Rémy shares his thoughts on the new Redbull Rampage qualifier format, Whistler Bike Park, and YouTube and social media.

Connect with Remy at youtube.com/c/remymetailler and on Instagram @remymetailler.

This podcast is sponsored by Gloworm Lites. Gloworm is a mountain bike light brand founded almost a decade ago by two mountain bikers in New Zealand, and today the company offers some of the most customizable, highest quality bike lights on the market. Gloworm’s complete line of lights start at 1200 lumens and range up to a blinding 3400 lumens, all at reasonable prices.

Save 20% off all light systems on the Gloworm website with the coupon code SINGLETRACKS19. Shop for lights here: https://www.glowormlites.co.nz/product-category/lights/

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Darren Kinnaird is the general manager for the Crankworx World Tour and a board member of both the Enduro World Series and the Freeride Mountain Bike Association. We ask Darren about how Whistler has changed over the past decade, and how Crankworx has become a part of international mountain bike culture. In this episode we also talk about the possibility of slopestyle mountain biking becoming an Olympic sport, how freeride is getting more women into riding, and additional Crankworx stops in the future. For more information about Crankworx, visit crankworx.com.

To get exclusive online retailer coupons and to find deals on your favorite mountain bike products, go to singletracks.com/deals.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Jenny Corso is a cyclist and R&D Scientist who has studied exercise nutrition and physiology through various undergraduate, graduate, and PhD programs. She’s also a licensed USA Cycling coach, and has written many articles for Singletracks on topics including fitness, nutrition, and travel. Topics Discussed:

How is exercise metabolism separate from just everyday metabolism? How are nutritional needs different for athletes?

How do you look at studies regarding the health of certain foods, which are often contradictory, and what’s the best way to take this into account when making decisions about what to eat?

Is gluten bad for athletes, or people in general?

Nutrition and exercise clearly go hand in hand in terms of health. But does one win out over the other in terms of outcomes?

Is intermittent fasting good for athletes?

Why do you think nutrition is so difficult for many people to get right?

Connect with Jenny for coaching and consultation through her website, truphys.com where she delivers objective information on scientific research on nutrition and exercise.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Cam McCaul is a legendary slopestyle mountain biker who has helped grow and shape the sport for amost twenty years. He’s won numerous freeride competitions including Crankworx Colorado and the Bearclaw Invitational. He’s also been featured in some of the biggest mountain bike films and is a regular announcer at Red Bull mountain bike competitions.

We talk with Cam about the history of freeride, his career, and his newest sponsor, PlusCBD Oil. In addition to sharing his sense of humor and how he looks at risk, Cam also opens up about dealing with bike-related injuries and navigating health insurance choices as a professional mountain biker. We even get his take on building challenging mountain bike trail features.

Follow Cam McCaul on Instagram @cammcaul and check out his latest videos on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/user/camwmccaul

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Most, if not all mountain bikers are nature lovers too. For many of us, it’s the main reason we ride off road. This week, we want to share our stoke for nature and perhaps inspire others.

Topics Discussed

How important is the natural aspect of mountain biking to you?

Has your interest in nature grown since you started riding?

What do you find most interesting on the trail — trees, plants, vistas, rocks, wildlife, or something else?

What is your favorite type of ecosystem for mountain biking?

What are some places you’ve ridden where the natural beauty surrounding the trail really stands out?

What are some natural highlights you’ve experienced on the trail?

Do you see any tension between having a love and respect for nature and riding or building trails?

Do you think there are ways mountain bikers can be better natural stewards?

What do you think about the fight between various recreation groups over land access? Is there at least common ground we can recognize?

Sponsored by TripOutside.com which makes finding, comparing, and booking rental gear quick and easy.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Darcy Wittenburg is a partner, director, producer, and cinematographer at Anthill films. Anthill has produced some of the most iconic mountain bike films in recent memory, including Return to Earth, Unreal, and Strength in Numbers. I ask Darcy what is it about mountain biking that he finds interesting, and how all the movie pieces of a major film like Return to Earth comes together. We talk about the challenges and the most exciting moments of making a mountain bike movie, and how much risk athletes take to nail their tricks.

What are some tricks of the trade? What make a mountain bike film a success? What other projects is Anthill working on this year? Listen in to find out! To learn more, go to Anthillfilms.com. Look for Return to Earth on AppleTV, Google Play, and Amazon.com.

Sponsored by TripOutside.com which makes finding, comparing, and booking rental gear quick and easy.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Sonya Looney is a four time, national collegiate 24 hour racing champion, and was crowned the 24 hour world champion in 2015. She’s also notched wins at big endurance races like the Breck Epic (twice), Trans Andes, Brasil Ride, and La Leyenda Del Dorado in Columbia. She hosts her own podcast, called the Sonya Looney Show, where she talks about psychology, nutrition, and physiology.

We talk about how Sonya got into mountain biking and how she was able to make time to train for ultra endurance races as a student and later as an engineer working full time. Sonya gives tips for gaining confidence and taking risks, and discusses what she’s learned about nutrition and plant-based diets over the past few years.

Sponsored by TripOutside.com which makes finding, comparing, and booking rental gear quick and easy.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, we share our experiences and tips for choosing your next (or your first) mountain bike.

Where do you start? How do you know when it’s time for a new mountain bike? Is buying a used bike a good idea? Is it better to buy an expensive bike, or a cheap one to upgrade down the line? How do you decide to pull the trigger?

Sponsored by TripOutside.com which makes finding, comparing, and booking rental gear quick and easy.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Greg Jacob is a self-described “regular” guy who decided to attempt the Navad 1000, a 621-mile, single-stage mountain bike race across Switzerland with more than 100,000ft. of climbing along the way. He’s here to talk about how he went from basically zero mountain bike experience to completing a grueling race in just a short time.

In this episode, Greg shares:

His background in terms of fitness and spending time outdoors

His inspiration for signing up for the Navad 1000

How he prepared himself for the race.

The biggest challenges he faced in his training.

What surprised him about mountain biking relative to other sports he’s more familiar with, like road cycling.

How turning 40 this year puts him at a disadvantage for adventures like this, but also gives him some advantages.

Plans for mountain bike adventures in the future.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Matt, Gerow, and Jeff talk about the link between mental wellness and mountain biking. Mountain bikers are using the sport to deal with depression, PTSD, learning disabilities, anxiety, seasonal affective disorder, and lack of confidence in inspiring ways, and we look at how this might work. We also discuss some specific programs that use mountain biking to address learning disabilities and improve mental wellness.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Gerow, Matt, and Jeff share updates and impressions from recent and upcoming mountain bike tests, from gravel and XC to trail and enduro bikes. Plus, we preview other bikes we’ll be testing and reviewing later this year.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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James Wilson has been helping mountain bikers all around the world get strong and fit since 2005 through his online training programs and podcast. He’s also designed his own flat mountain biking pedal called the Catalyst to help riders improve both power and comfort on the bike.

In this episode, we ask James for mountain bike training tips, and talk about why flat pedals are better than clipless for many riders.

Connect with James at bikejames.com.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Note: This episodes contains language some listeners may find offensive.Mark Weir is a legend in the mountain bike world, having won the Downieville Downhill eight times and making his mark at WTB as a demanding product tester over two decades. He even has a mountain bike tire named after him, the WeirWolf.

In this wide-ranging interview, we talk about enduro racing, climbing a million vertical feet in a year, his near heart attack, trail advocacy, and electric bikes. Mark is an entertaining guest who could easily host his own podcast, so you won’t want to miss this one. It’s already one of our favorites! Here are some of the questions we asked.

How is downhill endurance racing different from the more traditional, UCI-style downhill mountain bike racing?
How does enduro racing connect with the ethos established in the early days of mountain biking?
How and when did riders like yourself bring the French enduro race format to the US? Was there a natural transition from races like the Downieville Classic and super-D events to enduro, or was the change more abrupt?
When did you start to see frame geometry and components shift in the enduro direction in the US?
Based on your experience over the years, what’s more important in mountain biking: will or skills? Obviously, you need both, but what’s a good percentage split in your opinion?
Last year you came dangerously close to suffering what’s known as a widowmaker heart attack. Part of your recovery following surgery has involved riding an e-bike. How has that helped you get back into riding and fitness?
One of your many claims to fame is you climbed 1M vertical feet on your bike in a single year. Why did you set this as a goal for yourself? What did it take to make this happen?
Mountain biking has taken you all over the world. What are some of the best trails that stand out in your mind?
You’ve worked closely with WTB for at least a couple decades now. What are some of the projects you’re most proud to have been a part of? Where do you see opportunities for MTB product improvement in the future?

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I was recently a guest on the Curiosityness podcast with Travis DeRose on the topic of getting started in mountain biking. If you’re listening to the Singletracks podcast, chances are you’re already a mountain biker, but you probably have friends and family members who are not (yet). So whether you’re looking for ways to convince your friends to join you, or you know someone who could benefit from this discussion, we hope you find this helpful. In this interview, I talk about trying mountain biking for the first time, trail dos and don’ts, how to shop for a bike, and how to find the best trails to ride.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Dylan Renn is the lead coach at A Singletrack Mind where he teaches mountain bike skills to riders of all abilities. He’s been gravity racing since 1994 and has served as head coach for a two high school mountain bike teams.

In this episode, Dylan shares his tips for descending on a mountain bike. Whether you’re interested in racing downhill or just want to gain some confidence, these are the skills you need.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, Gerow, Jeff, and Matt discuss trail advocacy news from the North America and Europe, and share the results from recent trail etiquette surveys.

Riding wet trails
Pirate trails going legit
Who yields: climbers or descenders?
Is skidding still cool?
Trail terrorism
IMBA EU
Mountain bike impact review
New bikes in Wilderness legislation
Natural Resources Management Act

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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We’ve dedicated a couple Singletracks podcast episodes to mountain bike tires already, but things are changing fast! Based on popular demand, Matt and I talk about the latest in tire widths (is a 2.5″ tire mid-plus?), tread patterns, sealants, and tire inserts.

Want more? Go back and listen to our show about choosing the best mountain bike tires for conditions and our interview with Bobby from Maxxis about plus tires.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Simon Lawton is the founder of Fluidride, a world-class mountain bike instructional school located in Seattle, WA. He’s helped riders all over the world in person and through his online videos. He’s also a tireless mountain bike trail building advocate and his nonprofit has helped disabled riders get back in the saddle.

I ask Simon about his overall approach to mountain bike skills instruction and he shares tips for cornering and manuals. We also talk about trail advocacy, favorite places to ride around the world, and how video is changing mountain bike skills instruction.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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No other man is as well positioned to talk about where mountain biking has been, and where it’s going in the future, than Gary Fisher. From organizing the first mountain bike races at Repack, to building an eponymous mountain bike brand and his current role at Trek, Gary is an outspoken and enthusiastic advocate for biking. Listen in as Gary recounts the early days of mountain biking and weighs in on where our sport is headed today.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Professional mountain bike racer Payson McElveen shares how he got started in the sport and talks about his favorite places to ride. His latest competitive projects involve establishing the fastest known times (FKTs) for iconic mountain bike routes like the White Rim Trail in Utah. We ask Payson for his training tips and how racing against the clock is different from racing the field.

Follow Payson on Instagram @paysonmcelveen and check out his podcast, The Adventure Stache, available in podcast apps and on his website.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast I talk with Mike Brcic about the best ways to share the mountain bike experience with others, whether that’s leading a group ride or promoting mountain bike tourism in local communities. Plus, we talk about some of Mike’s favorite places to mountain bike around the world, including some up-and-coming spots to put on your radar.

Mike is the founder of Sacred Rides, one of the top providers of mountain bike tours around the world. He’s an educator with the Adventure Travel Association, and a Co-founder of Bikes without Borders, a non-profit dedicated to empowering marginalized communities through bike-related solutions. Mike’s latest venture, Mastermind Adventures, hosts small-group adventures for entrepreneurs in top outdoor destinations.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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In this episode, Gerow gives us the low down on some of the mountain bike trails he’s discovered in Italy so far. We talk about mountain bike culture in this part of Europe, and discuss some interesting European mountain bike brands that may not be familiar to US listeners.

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Hans Rey is a mountain bike trials legend and global ambassador for the sport, exploring and documenting exotic locations around the world by bike. His non-profit, Wheels4Life, provides bicycles for transportation to folks in developing countries. He was inducted in the mountain bike hall of fame in 1999, and is an IMBA honorary board member.

I talk with Hans about how he got started in mountain bike trials, and how trials riding is related to freeriding. Hans shares his secrets for staying strong on the bike after all these years, his favorite places to ride around the world, and why he’s such a big fan of flow trails. We also talk about the work his non-profit Wheels4Life is doing globally, and how mountain bike video production and distribution has changed since the VHS days.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, Matt, Gerow, and Jeff talk about recent, current, and future mountain bike review tests. We share impressions and thoughts on the following bikes:

GT Force
Ancillotti Scarab Evo 29
Ibis Ripley
Salsa Spearfish
Orbea Rallon
Orange P7
Fezzari Signal Peak
Cannondale Jekyll 29
Diamondback SyncR carbon

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A National strategy for developing mountain biking in Scotland has been in place since 2010 and an updated comprehensive plan for the next 6 years is set to be released any day. We talk with Graeme McLean, project manager from Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland (DMBinS), about how well the plan has worked so far, and what DMBinS has in store for the future. Any group looking to develop mountain biking — whether it’s at the local or national level, for tourism, industry, or athlete development — can learn from what DMBinS has accomplished so far.

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Matt and Jeff recap all the new products and news from Sea Otter 2019 in Monterey, CA. We share impressions of the mountain bikes we tested, cover notable product releases, and talk about some of the wackier things we found. Sea Otter was bigger and better than ever before, so we discuss what that might mean for mountain bike culture.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, Matt, Gerow, and Jeff talk about what enduro is, and why it matters to the sport of mountain biking. From athletes and races to bikes and gear, enduro is a reflection of how many of us approach riding.

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Jeff Kendall-Weed is a mountain bike content creator on a mission to grow the sport and inspire others to get involved in mountain bike advocacy. His popular YouTube series, Local Loam, showcases rad trails, rad riding, and the rad people who make it all happen.

In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, I ask Jeff about his inspirations, favorite places to ride, skills progression, and how he makes time for riding. Jeff also hosts a popular podcast called Kendall vs. Kendall, and his website is JeffKendallWeed.com.

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Chris Akrigg is known around the world for his incredible bike handling skills and his creative approach to riding on anything with two wheels. His latest series of videos, The Process, focuses on creating fun and challenging bike features out of natural surroundings.

I talk with Chris about how he keeps his trials riding skills sharp and fresh, and what makes technical trail challenges so appealing to him. Chris speaks about injuries over the years, and how he approaches recovery with the same competitive, can-do spirit as his riding. We also talk about taking risks, his favorite projects over the years, and what Chris has in store for the future.

Watch Chris in action on his YouTube channel and on the Mongoose channel.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, Gerow, Matt, and Jeff share mountain bike race tips learned over many seasons of racing and watching the pros. We touch on training and preparation before the event, and offer advice for setting up your bike for the big day. Listen to avoid some of the biggest mistakes we’ve seen racers make, and also some of the smartest things we’ve observed.

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Andrew Taylor is a professional freeride mountain biker who set out last year to ride his mountain bike in all 48 Continental US states. He’s still on the road with just a few more states to go and joins us to talk about his motivation for the trip and the equipment he’s using to make it happen. Andrew also shares some of his favorite mountain bike trails and destinations so far, and the surprising things he’s learned along the way.

You can watch videos from the trip on Andrew’s YouTube channel.

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SRAM recently announced a wireless mountain bike drivetrain and dropper post, which got us thinking: What does going wireless and electronic mean for mountain biking? In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, Matt and I discuss the various wireless, electronic controls for drivetrains, suspension, dropper posts, and even brakes.

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Jake Pantone is the Vice President of Product and Consumer Experience at Enve, a Utah-based company that makes carbon fiber bike parts.

We ask Jake where the name Enve comes from and why high-quality carbon mountain bike parts cost as much as they do. We also get an inside look at what it takes to be successful in the bike industry and talk about Jake’s favorite places to ride in Utah.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, Matt and Jeff explain the pros and cons of different types of mountain bike pedals. We also offer tips for learning to ride with clipless pedals and discuss some of the performance considerations when choosing a mountain bike pedal type.

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Mountain biking is riding a wave of popularity at the moment, and it’s a good time to be a rider. We’re seeing progression in everything from bikes and trails to racing, so we thought it would be helpful to give our take on some of the trends we’re tracking in 2019. Matt and Jeff discuss some of the positive trends we’re seeing, along with some of the potentially negative things that could affect mountain biking in the future. We also touch on some of the trends that we predict will fade this year.

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Huw Oliver and Annie Lloyd-Evans are outdoor educators based in Scotland. The couple has raced and bikepacked all over the planet, and recently completed a winter fat bike expedition above the Arctic Circle in Sweden. The story of their adventure, Lemonade in Lapland, was recently published at Discover Interesting. Singletracks talks to Huw and Annie about their adventure, and what drives them to visit new places and to face extreme outdoor challenges. We also get their invaluable tips for mountain biking in cold, winter conditions.

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Todd Branham lives, works, and plays in the Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina as a professional trail builder. He also directs the Pisgah Stage race, a 5-day, fully-supported mountain bike race that showcases 140 miles of the best singletrack in the forest. I ask Todd to share his tips for designing and building great trails and about what makes the mountain biking in Pisgah National Forest so special. Todd talks about why building flow trails is so important, and spills the beans on some under-the-radar trails in Pisgah few will ever ride, but more should.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, Matt and Jeff talk about the most recent mountain bike advocacy news.

Mountain bike access in Wilderness Study Areas like the Bitterroots, Montana.
Updates on the bill to allow mountain bikes in select Wilderness areas.
The impact of forest fires in California on mountain bike trails.
A new(ish) state-level mountain bike advocacy model being used in Vermont, Michigan, and other states.
MTB-related bills being supported by IMBA that are (or were recently) under consideration.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, Jeff and Matt share their experience with six long term bike reviews completed recently. Get inside info on how Singletracks conducts bike reviews, and hear our extended thoughts on the bikes listed below.

Pivot Firebird (29er enduro)
Norco Sight (29er trail bike)
Rocky Mountain Thunderbolt (alloy trail bike)
Cannondale Scalpel SE2 (aggressive XC build)
Marin San Quentin (trail/DJ hardtail)
Ritchey Ultra (steel trail hardtail)

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In this re-share from the Singletracks podcast, we talk with professional mountain bike instructor Richard La China from Ninja Mountain Bike Performance about the number one skill mountain bikers need help with, plus the biggest mistakes mountain bikers make when it comes to building technical skills. We also get the low down on how riders are able to progress from small jumps to nailing huge gaps.

We’ll be back in 2019 with a fresh slate of podcast interviews and mountain bike topics for the New Year, so Happy Trails until then!

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In this podcast re-share, we talk about 1X vs. 2X mountain bike drivetrain configurations, gearing, and performance. Not only that, we talk about electronic shifting, oval chainrings, belt-driven drivetrains, and internally geared setups. We’ll be back in 2019 with a fresh slate of podcast interviews and mountain bike topics for the New Year, so Happy Trails until then!

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Mountain biking has a lot of momentum going into 2019, but if we’re honest there are things all of us can do to make our sport even better. Whether you’re new to the MTB community, or you’re comfortably established, we want to reflect on some ways to give back during this season of giving. If mountain biking had a wish list for Santa, these are the things that would be on it. In this episode, we’ll suggest ways we can all speak, give, share, and help the mountain bike community. Here are the action steps we suggest for 2019:

Take 5 minutes to submit a letter to your rep or to sign a petition the next time one hits your inbox or news feed.

Give to you local MTB club this year. It costs less than a single new tire.

Share something on Singletracks.

Offer help or encouragement to someone who is just starting out.

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We get inside the head of Ibis’ product designer, Roxy Lo, to find out what it takes to design iconic, high-performance mountain bikes like the Mojo, Ripmo, and new DV9.

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Phil Kmetz is a 3-time Collegiate National mountain bike champ who has podiumed at several US National Championships and has competed in UCI World Cup events. His popular YouTube channel, Skills with Phil, has more than a quarter of a million subscribers. In this episode, we talk with Phil about Youtube, mountain bike skills, urban downhill racing, and his vision for a mountain biking wonderland.

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Carl Decker is a five-time Downieville champion, a three-time US singlespeed champion, and in 2008 he won the World singlespeed championship. He’s currently part of the Giant Factory Off-Road Team and just recently helped put on the Singlespeed World Championship race in Bend, Oregon.

In this episode, Carl talks about what it’s like to be a pro mountain biker and shares some of the competitive secrets he’s picked up over the years. We also talk about what makes singlespeed mountain biking so dang attractive and addictive.

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Chloe Woodruff is from Prescott, Arizona and owns and rides for the Stans / Pivot Pro Team presented by Maxxis. She has raced the cross-country discipline on 10 World Championship teams as a junior, under 23 athlete, elite. She was also one of two women mountain bike racers who represented the United States in the 2016 Olympics. I met up with Chloe in Sedona at Roam Bike Fest, a women’s mountain bike festival, to talk about racing, the Olympics, and to learn about her approach to goal setting.

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The Vermont Mountain Bike Association (VMBA.org) is a state-level group that supports grass-roots clubs building and maintaining trails, while also promoting tourism. Other states are taking note and considering how this model might work for them. We talk with Tom Stuessy about what the group has been able to accomplish thanks to the group’s unique configuration. Tom also gives us the lowdown on the best places to ride in Vermont beyond Kingdom Trails and Killington Resort.

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Jeff Lenosky is a professional trials mountain biker who has traveled all over the world competing and starring in films. He’s also a dedicated product tester and bike event organizer with a popular YouTube channel where he’s known as the Trail Boss.

In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, we ask Jeff for his climbing tips, and talk about the skills involved in mountain bike trials riding. Jeff tells us about his favorite places to ride, including some unexpected discoveries, plus he shares his tips for being successful on YouTube.

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Bonnie McDonald, co-founder of Backcountry Lifeline, talks about the group’s mission, which is to provide mountain bikers and event organizers with the tools and knowledge to make riding safer. We’ll cover some basic first aid tips and strategies for backcountry emergencies, and talk about the level of risk various types of mountain bike rides can pose.

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The #vanlife is trending, and many are following their outdoor passions by living on the road. Julie and Reet Singh have been on the road for nearly a year while building their outdoor equipment rental booking service, TripOutside. We talk about the pros and cons of living on the road, and get tips for those who might be thinking of making the plunge.

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Matt and Jeff recap all the news from Interbike 2018, from test rides at Northstar to new mountain bike products spotted in Reno.

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It’s universal: None of us feel like we get enough time to ride. Mountain biking is addictive and epic rides just leave us wanting more.

Leah, Matt, and Jeff share dozens of ideas for unlocking more ride time for those facing family, work, and other time pressures.

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It’s been just one year since our last podcast episode about long travel 29ers, and a lot has changed since then! Matt and Jeff talk about some of the latest mountain bikes to go 29er, and speculate on what’s to come.

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Rich Bernoulli, a bike frame building instructor at the United Bicycle Institute (UBI) in Portland, Oregon, fills us in on how bike frames are fabricated. We discuss materials selection, welding techniques, and how professional bike builders hone their skills. Get more information about the frame building classes offered at UBI.

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Crankworx is more than just a festival, or a series of competitions, or a bike demo. It’s a part of mountain bike culture. Matt spent five days at Crankworx Whistler this year and fills us in on the new products, racing, trails, and athletes at Whistler in British Columbia.

This episode is sponsored by RXBar. Listen to the podcast for an exclusive offer for 25% off your first order of RXBar for Singletracks members!

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Tom Ritchey is credited as the first production mountain bike frame builder in the world, and has introduced countless bike designs and products over the years that are considered standard in the industry today. His company, Ritchey Design, where Tom is still actively involved, designs high performance bikes, handlebars, seatposts, grips, tires, and everything in between.

Tom talks with Singletracks about the history of mountain biking, wheel sizes, the pros and cons of industry standards, and even electric bikes.

This episode is sponsored by Evo.com. Use code “SINGLETRACKS” to take 10% off your next order.

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Joe Breeze practically invented the mountain bike and has accomplished many firsts in our sport. In 1988 he was inducted into the mountain bike hall of fame, and today he’s the curator of the Marin Museum of Bicycling. In addition to talking about how mountain biking got started, Joe gives some insight into why people feel compelled to ride bikes off road. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the beginnings of our sport, how today’s MTB culture is influenced by those early days, and where mountain biking is headed in the future.

This is the second interview in a series about the past, present, and future of mountain biking. Catch up by listening to our conversation with Charlie Kelly and look for interviews with Tom Ritchey, Gary Fisher, and others coming soon.

This episode is sponsored by Evo.com. Use code “SINGLETRACKS” to take 10% off your next order.

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Whether you’re getting in shape for mountain bike racing or just trying to hang with the group, we offer our tips for improving mountain bike fitness.

This episode of the Singletracks podcast is sponsored by evo. evo is a leading action sports retailer with stores in Seattle, Portland, and Denver, along with their website evo.com. evo goes beyond just selling mountain bikes, they offer a full, immersive experience blending sports, culture, and lifestyle. Listen for an exclusive discount code to use in store and online at evo.com.

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Eric Porter talks about how he was able to progress from XC racer to winning slopestyle mountain biker over his career as a professional rider. We ask Eric how he’s dealt with concussions and head injuries over the years, and what it takes to be a rad Dad to two young boys.

Follow Eric on Instagram @portermtb.

Thanks to Stio for sponsoring this episode. Go to stio.com/singletracks to check out their entire Pedal Collection of mountain bike shorts and jerseys.

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No matter your skill level, there is always room for improvement when it comes to descending skills. We share our tips for getting faster at mountain biking downhill.

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Whether you’re a woman buying a bike for yourself, or a man who is having a hard time finding smaller mountain bikes that fit, this is the podcast for you! We talk about the mountain bikes that are available to women today, and hear directly from some of the brands designing bikes for smaller riders.

Thanks to Stio for sponsoring this episode. Go to stio.com/singletracks to check out their entire Pedal Collection of mountain bike shorts and jerseys.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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It would take two lifetimes to learn everything there is to know about mountain biking, and along the path we’re all bound to make mistakes. We talk about some of the most common pitfalls and offer hard-won advice that’s useful for everyone from newbs to pros.

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Charlie Kelly is a man who can rightfully claim many firsts in the sport of mountain biking: promoting the first mountain bike race, co-founding the first company to sell complete mountain bikes, and starting the first mountain bike magazine, Fat Tire Flyer. He’s known as one of the founding fathers of mountain biking, and is a member of the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame.

I talk with Charlie about the early days of mountain biking, and how he and others helped shape the mountain bike culture of today. Check out Charlie’s website for more about MTB history, including photos.

There is also a Go Fund Me campaign to digitize Charlie’s massive collection of mountain bike media collected from the 1970s through 1992. Watch the video below to get more info and donate here.

Thanks to Stio for sponsoring this episode. Go to stio.com/singletracks to check out their entire Pedal Collection of shorts and jerseys, and take up to 70% off through June 25, 2018.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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We share our tips for becoming a better mountain bike climber including equipment selection, technique, and mental hacks for getting to the top of the hill faster.

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Leah and Jeff talk with Singletracks’ new staff writer, Matt Miller. Matt is a journalism graduate and enduro mountain biker based in Golden, CO.

We also talk about our summer travel plans and preview upcoming coverage.

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Mountain bike guidebook author Stephen Hlawaty was documenting the best mountain bike trails in Colorado nearly two decades before the #vanlife started trending. Now he’s back at it with an updated edition of his book, Mountain Biking Colorado: An Atlas of Colorado’s Greatest Off-Road Bicycle Rides.I spoke with Stephen about his favorite trails, what it takes to document and publish mountain bike trail information, and why he’s still a fan of paper books in the digital age.

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Today we talk with cycling coach Ben Turits about common mountain bike injuries and how to prevent them. Ben shares his tips for dealing with knee, back, neck, and arm pain through exercise, stretching, bike fit, and recovery.

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Sure, a lot of mountain bike production happens outside North America, but a surprising amount of work is being done by American companies at home. We talk about what it takes to design, engineer, prototype, and test mountain bikes, components and gear.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, we talk with professional mountain bike instructor Richard La China about the number one skill mountain bikers need help with, plus the biggest mistakes mountain bikers make when it comes to building technical skills. We also get the low down on how riders are able to progress from small jumps to nailing huge gaps. For more information, check out ridelikeaninja.com.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, I talk with Daniel Jessee about an exciting project to create an long-distance, East Coast bikepacking route called the Eastern Divide Project. Daniel is an experienced bikepacker who has travelled all around the world, and he shares his expert tips for getting started.

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In this episode, we talk about the new mountain bike products on display at Sea Otter this year. From new and updated enduro, trail, and XC bikes to components and accessories, there is a lot to cover! Listen in as we speak with representatives from many of the companies at Sea Otter 2018.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, Greg and Jeff highlight some of the best mountain bike trails in the mountain states of Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada. We’ll share our favorite destinations, lift-served resorts, all-around trail systems, backcountry rides, frontcountry/suburban rides, and long distance trails.

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For some of us, endurance training means gearing up for a 6 or 12 hour race or a multi-day stage race. For others, it simply means hanging on at the back of the pack for a 2-hour ride. For everyone, mountain bike endurance looks different, but for anyone who has a goal to get fit, our guest has some great advice for success. Ben Turits runs a coaching business and sports therapy practice called The Endurance Collective. He coaches the Duke University Cycling team as well as a number of mountain bike athletes including Travis Livermon. Ben is helping Travis prepare for the 2020 Olympics to compete in cross-country mountain biking. In this episode, Ben shares his tips for endurance training, talks about the tools of the trade, and shares his philosophy for coaching elite mountain bike athletes. To connect with Ben and to learn more about the Endurance Collective, go to theendurancecollective.com.

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Neil Beltchenko holds the record for both the Colorado Trail Race and the Arizona Trail 750, and is a contributor at Bikepacking.com. Neil recently won the Iditarod 350 bikepacking race in Alaska, and is hosting the second annual Bikepacking Summit in Gunnison, Colorado this September.

In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, I talk with Neil about bikepacking in Alaska, and the fundamental skills necessary to be a successful bikepack racer. Don’t miss this great interview!

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For many of us, mountain biking is a lifelong sport. So that means a retirement to the coast of Florida just isn’t going to cut it. Back in 2016 Greg started a great discussion on the Singletracks forums about the best mountain bike retirement locations, and recently followed up with an in-depth article about truly affordable mountain bike towns. Today we’re going to discuss his findings, and talk about some challenges associated with keeping great MTB destinations affordable.

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Great mountain bike trails exist wherever there are dedicated riders, and the Central USA is no exception. One could spend a lifetime exploring the excellent singletrack from Texas to Michigan so today we are going to highlight many of the trails and destinations that should not be missed.

This episode is sponsored by the Keweenaw Adventure Company. Book your Copper Harbor trip at keweenawadventure.com today, use promo code singletracks for a discount!

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From the outside, it might seem like mountain bikers are living the wild life, but one of the reasons many of us ride is simply to catch a glimpse of the wildlife. We’re going to share some of our own experiences with wildlife on the trail and also talk about some extreme cases of wildlife encounters on the trail. We’ll also share tips for dealing with various animals on the trail.

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What is the best way to keep mountain bikers engaged in the sport? Well, for starters, pizza never hurts! If you’re listening to this podcast episode, chances are you’re hooked on mountain biking. But not everyone sticks with mountain biking, and many riders eventually move on to other things, leaving their bikes to gather dust in the garage. What, if anything, can be done to prevent people from leaving the sport, and how can we reactivate those who are already gone? Today we’re going to talk about ways to keep mountain bikers engaged and active. If you have a friend who is losing the fire, or you even find yourself starting to ride less, this is the episode for you.

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Despite being a relatively young sport, mountain biking has a rich history starting in the 1800s. Over the years, the sport has evolved and branched into different disciplines ranging from cross-country to downhill. In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, we talk about the origins of mountain biking and explain the various forms of mountain biking that exist today.

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The frame is easily the most visible part of any bike build, and a well-built mountain bike frame can last for decades. Today we’re going to focus on the most common materials used in mountain bike frames, and discuss the pros and cons of each. A lot of our materials discussion will apply to bike parts–like handlebars and seatposts–as well.

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Whether you’re planning a trip to mountain bike in the southeast, or you’re just curious about the scene, don’t miss this episode! Aaron, Greg, and Jeff discuss our favorite bike trails to ride in the southeastern USA, where mountain bikers will find big mountains and an off-season that never comes.

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For those outside the sport, it might seem like mountain bikers speak another language. Even new riders may find themselves nodding along in a conversation, not knowing exactly what’s being said. Whether you’re a noob trying to break the code or an old-timer looking to brush up on the latest lingo, this podcast should get you up to speed.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, we talk about the signs of a bad bike fit, and discuss the benefits to getting the right fit. We’ll also talk about the things riders can adjust based on various types of pain they may be experiencing on the bike. Finally, we share resources and advice for getting a great bike fit.

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All but the most diligent of us are guilty of this sometimes: putting off crucial mountain bike maintenance. Sure, maintaining a bike isn’t always fun, but the benefits are clear. In this episode, we share tips for getting in the habit of keeping mountain bikes running smoothly, with specific tasks you can start adding to your routine today.

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There has been a lot of debate recently about the ban on mountain bikes in wilderness areas. In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, we recap the latest developments in the push for bike access in certain wilderness areas, and talk about the long term effects this could have on mountain biking.

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Mountain bike suspension can be confusing, what with all the dials, settings, and moving parts. In this episode, we go over the basic parts of any suspension system and talk about how suspension works. From here, we talk about what specific bike suspension settings do, and how to dial everything in for your own bike. We even touch on the history of mountain bike shocks and suspension.

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Singletracks is celebrating our 150th podcast episode by talking about our favorite shows so far. We discuss some of the most popular topics according to our listeners, and also preview what’s to come in 2018. If you’re a regular listener, you don’t want to miss this episode. And if you’re just joining us, this is the perfect way to get caught up! Not only have we recorded 150 episodes, but the Singletracks podcast also recently clocked 1,000,000 downloads! Thanks to all our listeners for making the show such a success. We’re have a blast and we hope you are too.

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Great ready, because in this episode of the Singletracks podcast, we’re talking about all the mountain bike stuff that blew our minds in 2017. We gather the sickest, most jaw-dropping bikes and trail discoveries on the planet, plus all the breaking news and trending trends into a single show that would leave less professional podcasters at a loss for words. Warning: make sure you’re sitting down before you listen in!

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Nearly every mountain bike update this year has boasted geometry that is longer, lower, and slacker than before. But what does this even mean? In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, we define long, low, and slack as they pertain to mountain bike geometry. We discuss what’s driving this shift, the tradeoffs involved, and what this means for current mountain bike owners.

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It’s been more than two years since we dedicated an entire show to the topic of electric mountain bikes, and a lot has changed since then. In this episode, we talk about how electric mountain bikes have evolved, where current regulations regarding eMTBs stand, and how mountain bikers opinions are slowly shifting.

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Perhaps the number one question we get on social media, via email, and on the Singletracks forums is this one: Which bike should I buy? Choosing a new mountain bike is a big decision, so we’ve dedicated this entire episode to sharing our personal recommendations for mountain bikes in the following categories:

Hardtail
XC Race
Trail 27.5
Trail 29er
Enduro
DH
Bikes above $4,000
Bikes under $1,500

For the first six categories, we each choose bikes that retail for less than $4,000 (and in some cases, much less.) We also provide our recommendations for ultra-expensive bikes and budget bikes in the final two categories.

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In this episode, Greg and I share our tips for getting out on your mountain bike this winter without spending a lot of money on specialized gear and equipment.

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Do mountain bike companies conspire to create new standards just to sell more gear? Are electric bikes being pushed down our throats so others can get rich? We explore these and other myths about how the bike industry works.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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In this special episode of the Singletracks podcast, ride with Aaron as he pedals nearly 300 miles along some of the best singletrack in North Georgia and Southern Tennessee. Listen in on the highs and lows in this raw audio diary recorded over 3 days of mountain biking through rugged terrain.

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With concern about concussions and traumatic brain injuries growing in sports like football, we explore how the bike industry is poised to deal with this serious issue. We start our conversation by explaining what concussions are and how they are caused. Then, we talk about how bike helmet designs seek to address the risk of concussions, and what this risk could mean to the future growth of mountain biking. Read the full transcript at Singletracks.com

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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It’s been over a year since we talked about enduro mountain bikes on the podcast, and a lot has changed over the past 15 months! In this episode we share our experiences testing some of the top enduro bikes of 2017, and talk about the mainstreaming of long travel bikes.

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Warning: this episode contains adult language.

There are countless coaches and videos out there to help with bike handling and wrench skills, but soft skills are just as important for mountain biking. In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, we offer tips for getting along with your fellow mountain bikers, other trail users, and even your spouse. However, please note that if you’re getting relationship advice from Singletracks, you may be in more trouble than you realize.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Today we talk with Walt Bready, professional trail builder and educator, about how mountain bike trails are built and maintained. Walt describes the approval process and construction techniques, and also shares some of his favorite tools and resources for learning more.

Contact Walt at B Ready Trails with your trail building questions or to schedule a consultation.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, we talk about essential bike tools for setting up your home work shop. We also discuss nice-to-have bike tools and tools which no one really needs to own. In addition, we offer tips for storing tools, recommended shop supplies, and resources for learning how to wrench at home.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, I talk about key survival techniques mountain bikers can use in case of a backcountry emergency. No one goes out for a day trip planning to get lost or to spend the night on the trail, but it can (and does) happen. Listen in to brush up on the basics of survival so you’ll be prepared.

--Keep up with the latest in mountain biking at Singletracks.com and on Instagram @singletracks

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Another Interbike is in the books, and while this year’s show wasn’t as big or as well attended as events in years past, there was still much to be seen. In this episode of our podcast, Aaron, Greg, and Jeff set the scene at Interbike 2017, talk about the most interesting products on display, and recap news and reviews from the show.

Editor’s Note:This podcast was recorded about a week ago, and just released today. The timing with yesterday’s tragedy at the Mandalay Bay Casino in Las Vegas is purely coincidental. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the families of the victims of that tragic shooting.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, we talk with Ross Martin, a PhD candidate at the Texas State University, about his research into the environmental impact of mountain biking. Ross is a mountain biker and a scientist who is working to understand how mountain bikes affect everything from plants and animals to soils and society at large. We get down and dirty in our discussion on erosion, and ask Ross what he thinks about potentially allowing mountain bikes in Wilderness areas.

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In this episode of the Singletracks podcast, ultra-endurance mountain bike racer and record holder Eddie O’Dea talks about what it takes to be a bikepacking champion. (Hint: it involves staying awake for long periods of time.) Eddie holds course records in the Stage Coach 400, Trans North Georgia, and Huracan 300 ultra endurance mountain bike races, with more bikepacking course records than any other racer. This year he completed the Tour Divide and raised nearly $20,000 for the Georgia state high school racing league along the way.

Eddie talks about the unique skills that come into play in ultra-endurance racing and explains some of the tactics and strategies he’s found effective over the years. We also ask Eddie why he does what he does and talk about what he’s up to when he’s not riding his bike all day and night.

Singletracks Mountain Bike Podcast: Recent Episodes

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