All the sweet bikes and parts. Mmm … parts.
Yesterday I picked up a new 2012 Specialized Demo 8 II. It’s been years since I rocked a downhill bike, and I was honestly worried about the size and slackness. I mean, the last time I rode a head angle like this, the bike was a Honda 250. Could I handle it? Would my years of pump track and indoor trainers make me unable to ride the big bike?
Well …
I’m running the 2012 XTR drivetrain and brakes on my new Stumpy Carbon 29 S-EVO, and they are simply incredible. The Shadow Plus rear derailleur makes everything else feel clunky, and the XTR Trail brakes with Ice Technology have set a new standard for consistent power.
Check out this Shimano video showing Santa Cruz Syndicate, Trek World Racing and Team Yeti opening their boxes of goodness.
Hey Lee,
I have your mountain biking book and it’s been really helpful. I plan on picking up a copy of the BMX skills book too.
I’d like to start incorporating some BMX pump track riding and BMX jumping to gain some skills as you recommend. There are also some skate parks around where I live and I thought that might be fun to try too for the hell of it. Right now I have no experience in BMX, but thought that getting a bike that is capable of BMX racing and dirt jumping would be good. From what i understand, BMX race frames and components aren’t designd to be jumped and take hits like the freestyle BMX bikes are designed to take. So I guess my question is do you think it’s better to start out with a BMX race bike and then pick up a separate dirt/freestyle BMX bike if I want to get into dirt jumping? Alternatively, would it be better to just get a chromoly dirt/freestyle BMX bike and use it for both dirtjumping and pump track riding?
Thanks,
Ben
Hi Lee,
I bought the book and built one of your tracks. Then bought your MTB book and the bmx book.
Now I want to buy a dedicated pumptrack bike but am trying to be cost effective.
Two questions:
Question 1: Do I want/need a front shock for pump track? Some things I read seem to say no others seem to think it is cool.
Question 2: Should I get a bmx, cruiser or dirt jump 26″? I ride my Santa Cruz Nomad on the trails and tried to convert my Kona Humu but it has too long of chain stays.
I live on an island and have dealer representation for Kona (downside), Redline (d-26) and Specialized (P.1). These are all 26″ dirt jumpers but I do rock best right now on my daughters 24″ Torker! Should I get a 24″… 20″
Let me know if you have thoughts. You are my mentor. I will learn the Kung fu…
Best Wishes,
Brian
Hello Lee,
I just started reading your MTB skills book. Awesome read! Only a few chapters in and have learned many new techniques. One of my favorites is the brake lever position. I moved mine as you recommended and WOW what a differance. So much better leverage and control.
Anyway, I do have one question for you. I bought a new Giant Talon last year coming off an old Hardrock(2002). I had bar ends on the HR and thought why not put them on the Talon as well. I always like to have the alternate hand position.
Today reading your book, I see no mention of them nor any pics of them. What is your recommendation? Did they go out with the ’90s?!?! 🙂
Thanks!
Brandon
It’s been a big year for sweet new bikes. First the Stumpjumper FSR 29 Carbon S-EVO and now a new p.bike, dubbed for now the p.pump.
We rode today. Check it out:
Hi Lee,
I purchased the book that you and Brian Lopes worked on together and it has helped me out tremendously. My question to you is 29 vs 26 and which one do you see yourself riding in the future? A little bit about my background. I used to race expert DH back in the late 90’s, So I tend to like the more aggresive trails. I now ride mostly All mountain here in So-cal where the terrain is a lot like what you are riding in the Boulder area, long Dry steep climbs, with just the same on the descents. I was wondering what your opinions on 29ers are for this kind of riding? I Just read your article on the stumpy Evo and I must say you got my wheels turning. I know Lopes hates 29ers but do you think they have a place in the All mountain world? I’m debating between a Ibis Mojo SLR or a Niner Rip9 So I was just wanting your thoughts.
Thanks
Justin
Last weekend I taught a skills clinic with EPC Multisport in Fruita, and it was rad.
A quick hit featuring: EPC Multisport, Fruita Bike Park, 18 Road trails, Kokopelli trails and the incredible Stumpy 29 S-EVO
If you’re racing 40something Cat 1 DS and DH at Sea Otter, all 29ers — especially my Specialized Stumpjumper FSR 29 Carbon S-EVO — suck. They are big, hoopty admissions of terrible riding ability. Stay away.
The rest of you, keep reading …
I’m stoked about flat pedals that work big and cost little. The new Fyxation Mesa MP pedals do the job for just $60.
A couple days ago I sprinted with clip-in pedals rather than flat pedals, and the power increase was dramatic.
Today I climbed with clips. More drama.
I’ve been riding flat pedals almost exclusively for a couple years now, and my handling and pedaling skills are better than ever. Lately I’ve been wondering, what will happen if I clip back in?
Yesterday’s test results were pretty powerful.