Mountain Cog

Send us Fan Mail

This week the MCP is joined by guest host Mike Mucker and features special guest Matt Nelson, Executive Director of the Arizona Trail Association (ATA). The ATA is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to protect, maintain, enhance, promote and sustain the Arizona Trail as a unique encounter with the natural environment. 

The Arizona Trial is 1 of 11 officially designated ‘National Scenic Trails’ in the US.  It spans ~800 miles, South to North, across Arizona, from Mexico to Utah.  The trail is supported by 100’s of ambassadors and stewards, 1000’s of volunteers, and 10’s of 1000’s of users each year.  It is a multi-use trail frequented by mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians.  It offers, hands down, some of the most spectacular mountain biking in the Southwest United States and should, without a doubt, be on your bucket list to ride. Matt is an amazing leader, advocate and human.  We like him.  You will as well.

Check out these links… 

• Arizona Trail Association: https://aztrail.org/
• 1 of 11 National Scenic Trails: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationaltrailssystem/national-scenic-trails.htm
• AZ Trail Rainwater Collector: https://aztrail.org/azt-rainwater-collector/
• AZT Hidden Gem - Picket Post to Kelvin: https://www.trailforks.com/route/azt-picketpost-to-kelvin/
• AZT Hidden Gem - Kaibab Plateau: https://www.trailforks.com/region/kaibab-plateau-1651062229/trails/
• MCP #25 - Mark Flint: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2052531/12151364-025-wait-trails-have-personalities-you-bet-they-do-mark-flint
• Bike Packing Roots: https://bikepackingroots.org/
• Extreme Pogo: https://xpogo.com/

Listen to Mountain Cog
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Other Podcast Sites

Socials
Instagram
Facebook

Email
[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

Wil “The Phantom” Bisel and his wife Jessica join the MCP for an entertaining conversation that weaves together his  DYI approach to BMX, gravel riding, and yoga.  Wil is a multi-faceted athlete and coach, currently riding and coaching for the Biolab Sciences team, and a recently certified yoga instructor. Jessica is a certified yoga instructor, as well as a therapist, and runner.

Here are some of the highlights from the episode:

• Why riding in jorts is better than spandex.
• Taking a hot lap at the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo on a 20” BMX bike 
• Searching for elusive abandoned pools to ride.
• Is a $10,000 gravel bike the go-to for all around shredding?
• The benefits of yoga for cycling and life – “quieting the mind.”

Will and Jessica bring a unique perspective with their stories and quips, making it a fun listen. We greatly enjoyed the conversation and think you will too. “If we ride bikes, we should be friends.” . . . The Phantom.

Check out these links: 

• Wil’s Insta:  https://instagram.com/bermdix?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
• Jessica’s insta: https://instagram.com/jessicarabbitdeweese?igshid=ZDdkNTZiNTM=
• Biolab Science: Www.biolabsciences.net
• Sunn: https://sunnspokes.com/
• Roots Yoga: www.rootshotyoga.com
• Genuine BMX: https://instagram.com/genuinebmx?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
• Premise Skate Park: https://instagram.com/premisespark?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
• Tucson BMX Track: https://instagram.com/tucson_bmx__?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
• Sports Park BMX Track: https://instagram.com/sportsparkbmx?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Wil’s video parts:

• Underedit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iftlPo_eiK4&t=12s
• City of Dust and Ashes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5roQyLfkdjQ
• Water Search: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tWMx6itRc8

Listen to Mountain Cog
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Other Podcast Sites

Socials
Instagram
Facebook

Email
[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

In this week’s episode, the boys are joined by Andy “Floyd” Erickson who runs the ‘Tucson BMX’ racetrack in southern Arizona.  Throughout the conversation the crew uncovers many interesting topics including: 

• How BMX turns out great multi-discipline cyclists.
• The evolution of BMX components and geometry over time and how they compare to mountain bikes.
• The construction, maintenance, and management of a BMX racetrack.
• The national BMX race scene.
• Great stories and anecdotes of BMX racing and freestyle riding. 

Floyd is a solid guy with a big heart and deep passion for racing and riding bikes.  You’ll enjoy hearing about him, his track, and his perspectives.  

Check out these links… 

Tucson BMX Track

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tucson_bmx__/
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/TucsonBMX520
• Map: https://goo.gl/maps/eCdfHW1MQdY1YYKH8

Notable Tucson BMX Racers

• Corben Sharrah: https://www.teamusa.org/usa-cycling/athletes/Corben-Sharrah
• Colton Kidd: https://www.kgun9.com/sports/local-sports/tucson-bmx-star-colton-kidd-looks-to-continue-his-no-1-nag-reign

HT Pedals: https://www.ht-components.com/product

Listen to Mountain Cog
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Other Podcast Sites

Socials
Instagram
Facebook

Email
[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode the boys discuss checks, checks, checks.  Pre-ride bike checks.  Ride gear checks.  Shop tool checks.  And how to stay positive and check yourself when forced off the bike with an injury.  Topics covered include: 

• The pre-ride “M” check.
• The gear you should take along with you on a ride.
• The basic shop tools every self-respecting cyclist should own.
• Ways to keep the stoke and vibe high when down with an injury.

Thanks for tuning in and check out these cool links:

How to M-check your mountain bike: https://www.redbull.com/gb-en/how-to-m-check-mountain-bike-guide

Purple Extreme Lube https://purpleextreme.com/

LMNT Electrolyte Drink Mix https://drinklmnt.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&gclid=CjwKCAjw586hBhBrEiwAQYEnHUlU-mJF0Dn9Kdses-oVVPGhrmyE4sVdQUDRMl5-PqSyOMSpLKxLCBoC56AQAvD_BwE

Topeak ALiEN II https://www.topeak.com/global/en/product/172-ALiEN-II

The Science & Use of Cold Exposure for Health & Performance https://hubermanlab.com/the-science-and-use-of-cold-exposure-for-health-and-performance/

Berm Peak What to bring on your mountain bike ride (Mountain Bikes 101) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8be6V7s_s4

Gear Checklist https://www.mec.ca/en/explore/mountain-biking-gear-checklist

Park Tool Calvin’s Corner https://www.parktool.com/en-us/blog/calvins-corner

Listen to Mountain Cog
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Other Podcast Sites

Socials
Instagram
Facebook

Email
[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

This week Mike and Josh are joined by a father and son duo of mountain bike enthusiasts; Aaron “Limited Edition” Cavazos and his teenage son James “The Rambler”.  These two boys share their passion for mountain biking through stories of riding, racing, coaching, and gear selection.  Many topics were touched on in this episode including…   

• Decoder ring - yellow vs. white lettering on Maxxis tires.
• Coaching & racing w/ the Vail (School District in AZ) Composite Mtn Bike Team
• 24 Hrs In the Old Pueblo - James racing experience.
• Sons outperforming dads (simultaneously stings and makes you proud)
• La madriguera de un conejo
• Onza Tires - Marzocchi Z1 & Z2 Bombers
• Canyon - Fezzari - Rocky Mountain - Ibis - Giant - Trek - Specialized

Check this episode out, you’ll dig it.  Oh, and here are some links… 

Vail (AZ) Composite MTB Team

• Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/vailhighschoolcycling/
• Strave: https://www.strava.com/clubs/vail-composite-high-school-mtb-155562
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vailmtb/

Onza Porcupine Tires: https://www.onza-tires.com/products/porcupine

AMC Rambler: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rambler_American

Marzocchi Suspension: https://www.marzocchi.com

Guru Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Danethesuspensionguru

2023 24 IHOP Results - Unbroken Bandits: http://results.epicrides.com/liveresults/24results/teamresult.aspx?TeamNumber=452&NumResults=0&TeamType=0&Event=202

Dawn to Dusk Race Phoenix, AZ -12.03.23: https://ziarides.com/event/dawn-to-dusk-az

Nato Phonetic Alphabet: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NATO_phonetic_alphabet

Listen to Mountain Cog
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Other Podcast Sites

Socials
Instagram
Facebook

Email
[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we meet Dane Higgins, the owner of Guru Bikes and Guru Suspension. Guru Bikes is a newly opened and full service bike shop in Tucson, Arizona.  Guru Suspension is a nationwide mountain bike suspension service company that works with both independent bicycle retailers and consumers directly.  Guru Suspension services most major brands including; DVO, Fox, Rock Shox, Manitou, Marzocchi, Ohlins and Magura

Dane has been in the mountain biking industry for over 20 years, and his expertise in suspension technology is highly regarded.  He’s worked with a wide range of clients, from professional racers to weekend enthusiasts. During the episode, Dane shares insights into the evolution of the sport and how suspension technology has changed over the years. He discusses the different types of suspension systems available, and how they impact a rider's performance. He also shares his knowledge of suspension tuning and how to get the most out of your suspension.

Throughout the podcast, Dane relays stories and insights from his years in the industry, providing a fascinating look into the world of mountain biking. His proficiency in both suspension systems and custom bikes makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to take their riding experience to the next level. Whether you're an experienced rider or just getting started, you will hear why Dane has earned the title of The Suspension Guru.

Guru Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Danethesuspensionguru/
Guru Insta: https://www.instagram.com/guru_bikes/
Brick Cheese: https://www.wisconsincheesemart.com/products/wisconsin-brick-cheese-widmers
Dusty Betty - 50 Year Trail: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cvua2fbgTr4
Trek Y Bike https://archive.trekbikes.com/us/en/2003/trek/y26#/us/en/2003/trek/y26/details
Horst Link https://www.pinkbike.com/u/pheller/blog/horst-link-pivot-placement-and-pedaling-efficiency-specialized-fsr.html
Rocky Mountain Bikes: https://www.gurususpension.com/
Pivot Cycles: https://www.pivotcycles.com/en/
Scott Bikes: https://www.scott-sports.com/us/en/sports/bike

Listen to Mountain Cog
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Other Podcast Sites

Socials
Instagram
Facebook

Email
[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

This week we are excited to introduce our audience to the “Stoke Podcast” in this joint MCP/Stoke episode. Stoke Podcast is hosted by Quinn Travis who is a professional off-road cyclist, Psychology major, Yoga student, a new dad, and a seeker of movement.  Through his Stoke Podcast, Quinn interviews people who explore the realms of discomfort through the ultra-endurance world, nutrition and overcoming adversity.  Simply stated… he’s “interviewing normal people doing extraordinary things”.  

The episode includes the following topics… 

• Intro to the Stoke Podcast & MCP
• Concept of Fastest Known Times (FKT) & the Sedona Big Friggin’ Loop
• Balancing fatherhood, work, mountain biking, & podcasting.
• The true meaning of “yoga”.
• Impact of alcohol on performance.
• Whoop fitness tracking.

Stoke Podcast...
- Insta: https://www.instagram.com/stokepodcast/
- Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stoke-podcast/
- Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stokepodcast

BFL: https://rockyroad5050.wordpress.com/3-sedona-big-friggin-loop/

Santa Cruz Blur: https://www.santacruzbicycles.com/en-US/bikes/blur

Yoga: https://www.yogapedia.com/what-is-the-true-meaning-of-yoga/2/9038

Whoop Fitness Tracker: https://www.whoop.com/

Listen to Mountain Cog
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Other Podcast Sites

Socials
Instagram
Facebook

Email
[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

In this podcast, we hear from Brian Newbrey, (aka Dah Shark) owner of Ajo Bikes, a family bicycle shop in Tucson, Arizona. Brian talks about his passion for helping people find the right bike for their needs, and how his shop has become a hub for the local biking community.

One of the unique offerings at Ajo Bikes is their selection of recumbent bikes, which are ideal for people with back problems or other physical limitations. Brian explains how these bikes can make cycling more accessible for people who might not be able to ride a traditional bike.

Throughout the conversation, Brian emphasizes the importance of his team at Ajo Bikes. He speaks about how grateful he is for their hard work and dedication, and how their passion for biking is a key factor in the success of the shop.

Overall, this podcast is a great listen for anyone interested in biking, entrepreneurship, or community building. Brian's love for his work and his customers shines through, and his story is a testament to the power of following your passion and building a business that truly serves the needs of the people around you.

Ajo Bikes https://www.ajobikes.com/
Employer Story – Ajo Bikes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mx6YZ5fEk8I
Catrike Recumbent Trikes https://www.catrike.com/
Episode #16: Ryan Beamish – Cycling Program Manager for Team Semper Fi https://www.buzzsprout.com/2052531/11808471-016-noid-cycling-pm-for-team-semper-fi-transition-bikes-giddyup-rider-ryan-beamish
Bosch eBike Systems https://www.bosch-ebike.com/us/
Jamis Bikes https://www.jamisbikes.com/
Diamondback Bikes www.diamondback.com
Berm Peak https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu8YylsPiu9XfaQC74Hr_Gw

Listen to Mountain Cog
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Other Podcast Sites

Socials
Instagram
Facebook

Email
[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

Eric “EZ” Ebenboch (aka The Cheetah) stops by the Mountain Cog studio during his trip to Tucson for the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo event.  Throughout the chat and amongst the banter, EZ shares a lot of great insight into what sounds like a pretty amazing bike scene in Wisconsin.  We knew Trek was based out of Wisconsin, we had no idea how much else it had to offer cyclists.

Velodrome: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Velodrome

Tour of America’s Dairyland: https://www.tourofamericasdairyland.com/

Ride Across Wisconsin: https://www.rideacrosswisconsin.com/

Chequamegon MTB Festival: https://www.cheqmtb.com/

John Muir Trails: https://www.trailforks.com/region/john-muir-trails/

Metro Mountain Bikers: https://www.metromountainbikers.com/

Trek Isospeed: https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/inside_trek/isospeed/

Life Time Grand Prix: https://www.lifetimegrandprix.com/

Listen to Mountain Cog
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Other Podcast Sites

Socials
Instagram
Facebook

Email
[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

Jody Bartz, PhD, dedicated endurance athlete with over a decade of experience as a competitive cyclist, recently started a program called GRO Girl GRO which stands for “Gathering and Recreating Outdoors, Girl(s) learn how to Give back, be Responsible, and take Ownership.” In the podcast, she discusses the mission of the program to create a space for girls in 4th – 8th grade to give back to the community, demonstrate responsibility, and take ownership by gathering and recreating outdoors. She explains that this will be accomplished thru activities like mountain biking, hiking, trail running, trail advocacy and stewardship, along with active reflection.

Overall, Dr. Bartz’s message is one of empowerment and positivity thru a concept she describes as Making, Creating, and Taking Space. She believes that by creating positive outdoor exercise experiences, providing girls with the tools and support they need to build healthy habits, and fostering a sense of community and connection, we can help young girls develop the confidence and resilience they need to thrive both on and off the trails. GRO Girl GRO!

GRO GIRL GRO!: https://aztrail.org/youth/gro-girl-gro/

Flagstaff Gear Girls: https://aztrail.org/youth/gear-girls/

Girls in Gear: https://www.girlsingear.org/

Co-Motion Cycles (tandem bikes): https://co-motion.com/

Does Cycling Help Children with Autism?:  

https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/cycling-with-autism/

Thomas Endurance Coaching: https://www.thomasendurancecoaching.com/coaches/

Listen to Mountain Cog
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Other Podcast Sites

Socials
Instagram
Facebook

Email
[email protected]