Kristin is getting a new mountain bike - a custom built BC40 from Allied Cycle Works. In addition to discussing why Allied is a good fit for the Shop, we discuss types of mountain bikes (cross-country, down country, all trail) as well as some of the component choices they are making while building the new bike. 

Speaking of components, we discuss why dropper posts have become "required" equipment (and why we don't think that's a great idea) as well as answer questions from listeners and the internet on topics including mountain bike suspension, hooked and hookless rims, and bike gearing.

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Before Jackie bought a new mountain bike in 2021, the last time she had ridden a bicycle was when she was a teenager. 

But as Hale Education's Director of Camp and Community Programs worked with the organization's growing mountain bike community, she soon found herself taking up a new hobby. A few years and three bikes later, Jackie has grown as a rider, leader and ride organizer, using her platform and personal experience to create and cultivate experiences designed to welcome more girls and women to the sport.

On this episode, Jackie joins Kristin to share her development and discoveries as she started riding and what her goals are for the future. They also discuss her passion project, Everwild, a day of clinics and rides for women which is held at Hale on International Women's Mountain Bike Day.

Steve and Kristin wrap up the episode discussing where people can find good quality information and reviews about bikes and equipment, and what it means when we say shift "up" or "down."

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There is still a lot we don't know about the new tariffs, but experts all appear to agree – the costs of new bikes, as well as parts, accessories and everything else are likely to increase.

Steve and Kristin sit down to discuss how tariffs may be already affecting purchasing decisions for manufacturers, supplies and retailers, as well as what you can do to save in the short term whether you have a bike, or need/want a bike.

We also discuss the beautiful red SID Ultimate Flight Attendant RockShox fork spotted during this past weekend's UCI World Cup in Araxá, and the "ken-energy" of certain naming conventions.

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Spring is here, and our thoughts turn towards getting bikes ready to ride. But does your bike "need" a tune up? Steve and Kristin talk about what is (generally) included in a service package, what can you do to care for your bike to extend it's life, and how to ensure you get what you pay for when bringing your bike to the bike shop.

Steve also shares why he's excited for the announcements from SRAM including the new Eagle Mechanical Transmission and, but not so impressed by the 32" tires coming out 2025 Taipei Cycle Show,

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A technical glitch got us on the last episode! 

While visiting the San Lee Gravity Bike Park in Sanford, North Carolina, we recorded a spontaneous segment about the fun that is gravity parks. We discuss some gravity park basics, and why no jumping is required - just control your speed.

We also do a deep dive on mountain bike suspension inspired by a couple of questions Kristin spotted while scrolling one of her favorite mtb-related Facebook groups. We review basic terminology and setup including how to interpret the travel numbers of your bike, how to set the sag, and how where your ride, how you ride, and even how much you weigh can determine the right amount of suspension for you.

Listener feedback gets Kristin rolling on another pet peeve – male riders who feel the need to comment on equipment, or ask questions such as "did your husband bike you that bike." As Steve says... "don't be that guy."

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We're home after our two week van trip - but there is no rest for the weary! Before we put up our feet and unpack the van,  we discuss our trip, including how we travel with our dog, meal prep when the fridge is broken, working through bad wifi and other frequently asked questions.

We also share details details about our self-built Sprinter van – a 2021 160 High Roof – including why she is lighter than your average Sprinter build out (but certainly not light), what we have planned and why the “side wind assist” was incredibly helpful on the trip home.

We wrap up with our “Seen While Scrolling” segment with Steve sharing the potential of Intense’s “Frame First” program.

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Kristin and Steve report in the first week of a two-week road trip designed to get them out of the New England cold.

Planning an extended trip that includes riding, sightseeing, resources for working and accommodations for the van, and dog, is no easy feat. Kristin and Steve share where they have traveled, what's gone right (and wrong) as well as some of the resources that Steve used to plan for our first extended van trip.

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When mountain biking should you ride on clipless (clip-in) or flat pedals? While there are many “experts” with very strong opinions (which they are not afraid to share), Kristin and Steve discuss the truth which is – there are advantages and disadvantages to each.

They start with a look back at the evolution of the “clip-less” pedal, and the rise in popularity of flats, as well as discuss why it’s okay to hold back on offering unsolicited advice to riders, regardless of what is on their feet. Special thanks to Justin for allowing us to share the perfectly perfect picture of him jumping his mtb with toe clips.

They also share why you don’t need to use a blow torch to fix your brakes (unless you want to ruin them), and the most recent article from Consumer Reports regarding helmet safety.

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Beyond the bike, kids and teenagers racing mountain bikes need additional gear to round out their "kit." Kristin and Steve discuss the options for mountain bike jerseys, shorts, pedals, shoes, hydration, helmets and more. We also circle back to bikes briefly to talk about dual suspension options as well as best bikes for little racers in grades K to 4. 

Before wrapping up with tech talk inspired by the first images of new SRAM Motive brakes spotted on brujulabike.com while scrolling, Steve answers Kristin's questions about the reverence for, and history of,  Campagnolo.

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Whether you have a child thinking about joining NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association); NEYC (New England Youth Cycling) or racing solo, it starts with getting them the "right" bike. But the choices can be overwhelming, particularly for parents that may not be familiar with mountain bikes and mountain bike equipment.

Inspired by a recent Open House and Information Session we hosted at the Shop for our local NEYC, the Dover Demons, in the first in a two-part series we break down what to look for in a mountain bike for a “speedy” teen or child. 

We discuss the minimum you should plan on spending (retail) as well as what your kid needs (vs what their teammates might tell them) including dual-suspension vs hardtail; aluminum vs carbon frames; tubeless vs tubes; dropper posts, and the value of high quality components. With used bikes being a great option to get a high quality bike, we also discuss what to look for, and what to avoid.

During the second part we will be discussing the other gear kids need (or don't) as well as answering other questions.

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You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.