In episode 2 of Bikes: Unaffiliated, Jason Schroeder, Lars Sternberg and Shawn Spomer discuss the evolution of mountain bike technology, focusing on the durability of bikes and components. They explore the expectations riders have for bike longevity, and the importance of community feedback in shaping technology. The conversation also touches on maintenance practices and the balance between cost, weight, and durability in bike design. They delve into the evolution of mountain biking, focusing on suspension setups, the impact of e-bikes on component durability, and the importance of understanding rider skill levels. The crew discusses the challenges of navigating suspension adjustments, the significance of bearing technology, and the lifecycle of bike components. They also dissect where to spend money when building a durable bike.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction, What's In/What's Out
14:10 The Evolution of Mountain Biking Gear
18:28 Tires and Tubeless Technology: A Game Changer
23:43 The Balance of Durability and Performance
29:00 Expectations on Bike Longevity
34:05 The Future of Mountain Bike Technology
45:20 Dynamic Forks and Rider Preferences
48:23 Sensitivity to Suspension Setup
51:27 Skill Levels and Equipment Accessibility
52:16 Understanding Compression and Adjustments
54:29 E-Bikes and Durability Challenges
58:17 Headset Issues and Innovations
01:03:36 Durability in High-End Bikes
01:12:14 E-Bike Technology and Future Considerations
01:17:38 Understanding Bike Longevity and Maintenance
01:19:41 Investing in Bike Parts for Durability
01:22:51 Building a Bike: Prioritizing Components
01:26:01 Injury and Its Impact on Riding
01:26:10 Choosing the Right Bike and Brand
01:29:40 The Lifecycle of Bike Parts and Consumer Expectations
01:36:49 Engaging with the Cycling Community