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Episode 88 celebrates Dane's 25th episode and features an in-depth discussion between shop owner Dane and rider Josh about the pros and cons of electronic bike components versus traditional mechanical systems. The hosts examine the substantial price difference between electronic and mechanical groupsets – with electronic options typically costing twice as much – while breaking down exactly what riders get for their investment. From SRAM's wireless transmission systems to Shimano's Di2 technology, the episode covers how electronic shifting provides more precise gear changes, eliminates cable degradation issues, and significantly improves shift quality under load.

Despite the performance advantages, the hosts also candidly discuss potential drawbacks including battery management, lithium-ion safety considerations, and compatibility issues. The conversation includes valuable insights about how brands differ in their implementation of electronic systems, with Shimano focusing on consistent shift quality across price points while SRAM delivers noticeable performance improvements as you move up their product range. The hosts also tease upcoming technology innovations including Shimano's anticipated wireless systems and SRAM's mechanical transmission option that aims to deliver many of the benefits of electronic shifting at a more accessible price point.

Some links to accompany this episode... 

Shimano MTB Components (Acoustic)
https://mtb.shimano.com/us/products/mtb/ 

SRAM MTB Components (Electronic & Acoustic)
https://www.sram.com/en/sram/mountain

PinkBike Video: Broken On Live TV: The Untold Story of Pivot’s New Phoenix DH Bike
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNinULVRHcU

Torque’ng got your down?  Here’s an article about bikes + torque + tools.
https://bike.bikegremlin.com/18208/tightening-torque-and-torque-wrenches-explained-101/

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Chris Johnson of Tonto Gravity Riders (TGR) joins us to discuss how this grassroots organization evolved from building unauthorized jump lines to becoming a trusted Forest Service partner maintaining and developing trail systems across Arizona. The episode traces TGR's origins around 2010 and their work legitimizing the legendary NRA Pit jump spot before focusing on creating gravity-oriented trails in the Pinal Mountains. Chris explains how their dedication to quality trail building and community focus transformed what began as "rogue" building into award-winning stewardship.

The conversation highlights TGR's recent work at Sunrise Ski Resort, where they've built progressive flow trails like Yage, Identity Crisis, and Squirrel Catcher that are bringing new riders to the mountain. Chris also gives listeners a preview of TGR's ambitious master plan for the Pinal Mountains, which includes adopting existing social trails and creating nearly 40 miles of new purpose-built mountain bike trails. Mountain biking enthusiasts will appreciate Chris's insights on trail difficulty ratings, the importance of progression, and his advice for aspiring trail advocates about focusing on community benefit rather than personal gain.

Tonto Gravity Riders (TGR)

Web: https://www.tontogravityriders.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tontogravityriders/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TontoGravityRiders/

Trails

Pinal Mountain Trail System: https://www.trailforks.com/region/pinal-mountain-trail-system/

NRA Jumps: https://www.trailforks.com/poi/1410/

Sunrise Bike Park: https://www.sunrise.ski/summer/downhill-mountain-biking/

Mt Graham Trail System: https://www.trailforks.com/region/pinaleno-mountains-mt-graham/

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Episode 086 takes listeners inside Tucson Hop Shop, a craft beer destination that's become synonymous with cycling culture in Southern Arizona. Owner Jessie Jean Mance and Sarita Mendez join hosts Josh and Dane to discuss how their business evolved into a cyclist sanctuary, complete with bike racks, a welcoming outdoor courtyard, and a business philosophy centered on community building rather than just selling beer. The conversation highlights how the shop's strategic location near major bike trails and their deliberate focus on cyclist-friendly amenities have created a thriving establishment where riders gather before, during, and after their adventures on two wheels.

Beyond the business aspects, this episode dives into the cultural connection between cycling and craft beer, exploring what makes this pairing so natural and appealing. The hosts and guests share personal stories about mountain biking experiences, the challenges of encouraging more women to ride, and the importance of supportive cycling communities. Listeners will appreciate the authentic discussion about bike naming traditions, trail etiquette, and how spaces like Tucson Hop Shop serve as more than just businesses—they're community hubs where friendships form, cycling stories are shared, and the post-ride beer becomes part of a cherished ritual for cyclists of all disciplines, from urban commuters to mountain biking enthusiasts.
Episode links...

Web: https://www.tucsonhopshop.com/

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/tucsonhopshop/profilecard/?igsh=eWJwMGZ5NmQxZThz

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/NT5ZtV6rwunyrCEs/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

The Loop: https://tucsonloop.org/

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Discover the remarkable story behind Mt. Lemmon's mountain biking trail network as Josh and Dane interview TORCA's leadership team. President Nick Giovannucci and Vice President Matt Hrabko provide an insider's look at the specialized techniques and challenges involved in building sustainable mountain bike trails across Southern Arizona's iconic desert sky island, where dramatic elevation changes create one of North America's most diverse riding environments.

This information-packed episode explores TORCA's innovative approach to trail design and maintenance in challenging desert terrain, their collaborative work with government agencies and environmental stakeholders, and their vision for expanding sustainable mountain biking opportunities on Mt. Lemmon. The conversation highlights how thoughtful trail development can enhance outdoor recreation while protecting fragile desert ecosystems. Whether you're a mountain biking enthusiast planning your next Arizona adventure, a trail builder seeking technical insights, or an outdoor recreation advocate, this episode offers valuable knowledge about creating and preserving world-class mountain biking experiences in unique desert mountain landscapes.

TORCA...
Web: https://www.torca.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torcamtb/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TucsonTORCA/

Santa Catalina Trails Plan: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/coronado/home/?cid=FSEPRD974570

Home Grown MTB: https://homegrownmtb.com/

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The Mountain Cog podcast features an in-depth conversation with bike industry veteran Carlos Quintero in episode 084. Currently working as Southwest Market Manager for Enso Sales Group, Carlos reveals the economic fundamentals of bike shops, explaining why accessories provide significantly higher profit margins compared to actual bike sales. The discussion tracks his career journey from bike shop manager at Bicycle Warehouse to inside sales roles at Giant and Specialized, offering unique perspectives on how these major manufacturers approach the market differently.

The hosts and Carlos explore the post-pandemic changes in the mountain bike industry, particularly how consumer buying habits shifted toward online purchasing during COVID. The episode covers the challenges bike shops face competing with direct-to-consumer brands, the importance of creating welcoming environments for new riders, and the differences between salary-plus-commission versus pure commission compensation models for sales representatives. The conversation also touches on component preferences between SRAM and Shimano, Mavic's brand resurrection, and Carlos's personal dream bike choices, providing valuable insights for both casual riders and industry professionals.

Enso Sales Group...
Intense: https://intensecycles.com/
Mavic: https://www.mavic.com/en-us
POC: https://poc.com/en-us
Derosa: https://derosa.it/

Carlos also digs… https://alchemybikes.com/

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In this action-packed episode, we talk with Colby Landin, trail and track builder at Sunrise Park Resort, Arizona's only lift-assisted bike park. Colby shares his journey from building BMX tracks in his neighborhood at age 8 to designing professional-grade mountain bike features at Sunrise. Learn about the unique challenges of building jump lines on Native American tribal land and how the park has evolved from expert-only terrain to family-friendly trails that accommodate riders of all skill levels.

The episode explores Sunrise Park Resort's exciting expansion plans, including the upcoming addition of Apache Peak, which will nearly double the size of the park. Colby discusses the cultural aspects of working on tribal land, the importance of proper trail maintenance, and what makes Sunrise's terrain unique compared to other bike parks in the Southwest. Whether you're a jump enthusiast, an Arizona local, or planning a mountain bike road trip, this insider look at one of the Southwest's most distinctive bike parks is packed with trail knowledge and riding inspiration.

Shoutouts.

First, shoutout to the White Mountain Apache Tribe, who owns and operates the Sunrise Park Resort.  We love to recreate on your mountains in the winter and summer and we appreciate you sharing them with us and working to make the trails even better.

Second, we couldn’t talk about Sunrise without shouting out the Tonto Gravity Riders.  They’ve been advocating for and working on trails throughout the state (including Sunrise and with a focus on the Pinal Mountains) since 2010.

 Sunrise Park Resort Summer Activities

-       Bike Park: 31 trails (8 green, 4 blue, 10 black, 8 double black).  2 lifts.

-       Alpine Coaster (3000’ of track, up to 25mph)

-       High Flier Zipline (tandem lines, 2100’ of elevation, up to 50 mph)

-       Tubing Hill (magic carpet ride up, 300’ hill)

-       Airbag Jump (18’ & 32’)

-       Rock Climbing Wall (42’)

-       3d Archery Course (15 target course)

-       Disc Golf (lift accessed).

eMTBs are allowed at Sunrise Park Resort.

Note: Other than letting us record this episode at the resort, we have received no compensation or perks from Sunrise.  We bought our tickets full price.

Colby Landin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colbys_bike_tracks/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@skillsandbuilds3987

Sunrise Bike Park
Web: https://www.sunrise.ski/summer/downhill-mountain-biking/
Trail Map: https://www.sunrise.ski/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Trail-Map-Sunrise-Park-Resort-Summer-2024-VistaMap-large.jpg

Tonto Gravity Riders
https://www.tontogravityriders.org/ 

Ollies Cacti (Colby’s Home Grown Nursery of desert plants)
https://www.instagram.com/ollies_cacti/

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This episode features Dr. Jody Bartz, founder of GROW Girl GROW, discussing how mountain biking serves as a powerful tool for female empowerment and confidence building among adolescent girls. With her PhD in special education and extensive coaching certifications, Dr. Bartz brings a unique perspective to addressing a critical issue: by age 14, girls drop out of sports at twice the rate of boys. The conversation explores how her six-week adventure series combines mountain biking, hiking, trail stewardship, and supporting woman-owned businesses to create transformative experiences for participants.

Dr. Bartz shares the philosophy behind her program's "no sorry, just surprise" rule that combats societal expectations for girls to apologize and take up less space. The episode highlights the program's growth in serving participants across elementary and middle school divisions, supported by 17 volunteer female coaches. Listeners will discover how GROW Girl GROW incorporates "30-second dance parties" on the trail, teaches girls to respond to compliments with "I know, right?", and plans to expand with overnight bike packing experiences. The conversation also addresses the industry-wide challenge of retaining women in mountain biking roles and how youth programs can help create the next generation of female leaders in the sport.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Gro Girl Gro

Web: https://www.grogirlgro.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grogirlgro/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grogirlgro

Sonoran Endurance Sports Academy
https://www.sonoranendurance.com/ 

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In this episode Josh & Dane chat with DVO Suspension’s Master Tuner Ronnie Dillon.  Ronnie has been working on the design, test, manufacture, and tuning of mountain bike suspension products for over 25 years.

DVO is a high-end suspension brand offering innovative trail, enduro, and downhill mountain bike shocks and forks.  Their products are known for plushness and small bump compliance.

This episode features the following topics about Ronnie and DVO…

• history and Marzocchi roots 
• Taiwan operations
• prioritizing customer relations and engagement
• historical product features like Off The Top (OTT) 
• new products like Jade X Prime & Topaz Prime
• overcoming past challenges like sticky bushings and setup complexity
• partnering with WP for the new GasGas eBike suspension
• driving innovation by hiring engineering talent outside of the bike industry
• some hints at things to come (new products in development)

Links 

DVO Suspension
https://dvosuspension.com/ 

DVO Taiwanese Factory Tour – Mo and Hannah
https://youtu.be/AJWA9C_X0-I?si=crMUD3Jfvp0ueVgZ

GasGas eBikes (featuring a custom DVO suspension design)
https://www.gasgas.com/bicycles/en-us/bikes.html

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In episode #080 of Mountain Cog Podcast, hosts Josh and Dane welcome Dave Slagle, the founder of Our MTB Rides and a pillar of Tucson's mountain biking community. Dave shares his journey from riding a Schwinn High Sierra as his first real mountain bike to becoming a Specialized brand ambassador. As a Tucson native, he offers unique insights into the evolution of local trails from Fantasy Island to Mount Lemmon, and how the mountain biking landscape has changed over the decades.

The conversation explores Dave's founding of Our MTB Rides, which has become one of Tucson's most active mountain biking groups over its 10+ years of existence. Dave also discusses his involvement with Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists (SDMB), his trail advocacy work, and the community-building aspects of group rides. The episode highlights the social elements of mountain biking culture in Tucson, from "refreshment stops" on trails to the importance of local businesses like the Hop Shop that serve as gathering places for riders.

Our MTB Rides, Tucson AZ
https://www.facebook.com/groups/ourmtbrides/

Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclist (SDMB)
https://www.sdmb.org

Cyclelogical Coffee, Pinetop AZ
https://www.facebook.com/cyclelogicalcoffee/

Tucson Hop Shop
https://www.tucsonhopshop.com/

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In this lively episode of the mountain biking podcast, hosts Josh and Dane dive into the evolving world of mountain bike technology, debating whether certain innovations are lasting trends or passing fads. The conversation explores controversial topics like belt drives, gearbox systems, and the hosts make bold predictions about the future of derailleur technology. Dane challenges Josh's prediction that belt-driven gearbox e-bikes will be mainstream within two years, while both agree that SRAM's new Transmission derailleur system represents a significant advancement.

The hosts also discuss the growing trend of shorter cranks in mountain biking, examining how this adaptation helps reduce pedal strikes on modern low-bottom-bracket bikes. Additional topics include the decline of bike lockout systems, the problems with headset cable routing, and reflections on the enduring popularity of Epic Ride’s 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo race despite the general decline of 24-hour race formats. Throughout the episode, the hosts share personal experiences with their own bikes, including Rocky Mountain models and customization challenges.

Integrated eMTB Gearbox & Motor
(a glimpse into the future, according to Josh)
https://youtu.be/-MBaP4PZpKY?si=97_P0EDcB5RBNxpC

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