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Large-platform SPDs vs. small ones

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Hi Lee,

I’ve been riding large platform clipless pedals (DX resin cage etc) since I started riding clipless way back when. I quite like them, however push is coming to shove and I’ve had enough sand kicked in my face etc etc, to cut a long story short, I have found myself needing to shed some weight from my bike. The weight difference between DX clip ins and say XT pedals is pretty enormous in the scheme of things.

Pedals must be rotating weight. Should this be as noticeable as lighter wheels and tyres?

With stiff soled race shoes, do you think I’ll miss the extra platform? From memory running regular spd size pedals doesn’t make you any less aggressive on the trail.

Thanks,

Chris Q.

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Measuring stem length

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Lee,
I was wondering if you could share with us the method of measuring stem length, and is this method shared by all manufacturers.

I am thinking of possibly stretching out the cockpit just slightly on my Giant STP, and was thinking maybe a slightly longer stem and possibly just a tad more rise in the bars. The stock stem measures in center to center at roughly 2cm or 20mm (I think thats right). I do not want to sacrifice too much of the responsiveness of the steering though as its great as is, its like auto pilot.
Thanks, Corbin

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Lopes is winning on his Ibis Tranny

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Hi Lee
I was surfing the net when I came across the Ibis Tranny, looks cool, concept of a sub 20 lbs bike that comes apart to fit into a suit case and comes along on trips, brilliant! I know you and Brian are buds, has he said anything to you about the Tranny? I am really attracted to this bike but am a little leery of the price. My hard tail is an 06 P2 CrMo, how would the Tranny compare? Besides almost half the weight, is it pump track compliant?
Thanks for the great site, I visit daily.
Stefan

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DH training at the school gym

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Could you recommend someone that offers skills clinics near Baltimore MD. I am specifically interested in down hilling. Are there any books you know about that are specifically about downhill training or technique. i already bought the mountain bike techniques book. lastly what exercises should i do, i have weight lifting in school for a hour and a half every day.

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2009 P. Bike vs. P. All Mountain?

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lee
I was wondering what the difference was between a Specialized P. bike and a Specialized P. All Mountain. I’m looking to purchase a new bike and I was recommended these, but I’m not sure which suits me better. Thanks a lot.
eli

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High-altitude jetting for trail moto?

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hey lee, wondering what you did to you 250x to make it run better at high altitude. we took the babes to switzerland trail and i think it’s time to get them better jetting for the mountains. who did the work for you? and do you know what exactly was done? also did you modify the rear tail light to add a brake light?
hope all is well
carol

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F100 vs. TALAS for Yeti 4X?

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Hi Lee,
I have a 2008 Yeti 4x which i need to buy a fork for. Im undecided between the fox rlc f100 series or a fox 32 rlc talas with the 100/120/140mm setting and 15mm axle. I want the bike to be my most verstile bike in my stable and be a good all rounder. I would use it for 4x, slalom and aggresive x-country with some light downhill as well. I figure i would use the 100mm setting the most on 4x and slalom and the 120mm on slalom also? and downhills? What’s your opinon?
Cheers Andrew.

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The joys of indoor training: Part 1 – Equipment

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Hi Lee,

Thanks for the info reguarding weak hip flexors. I’ve started in on James’ DB combo workout too.

I am looking for some advice on a stationary trainer for intervals to complement my treadmill workouts for the winter. I’ve read about your recumbent on such a device, so I suspect you have an opinion on this.

I ride a GF HiFi Pro and have a RMountain Trailhead for commuting and easier trail riding. I have no racing aspirations, just like riding with a friend for exercise, conversation and fun.

Cheers Greg

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The right tool for the job, Volume 129

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Lee,

I absolutely love the feel of the demo. The slack angles and rear suspension feel perfect on the decents. However, the type of riding most available to me is more suited for an enduro sl or even a stumpjumper. The local trails here aren’t easily shuttled, and I’ve grown quite accustomed to getting out of the saddle and pedaling the demo up hill. I guess what I’m trying to get at is… I’m a one bike kind of guy. Is it worthwhile to have a bike like the demo when you’re doing mostly xc/all-mountain riding, or would it be more worthwhile to trade in my demo for something more practical?

Matt

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Backyard dirt jump liability

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Hey Lee,

I have a set of jumps that I built on my parents land behind their house. I built the jumps so that I could share them with the local kids and riders, who I have met riding my local skatepark. I am trying to promote and build a positive bike scene. The jumps are beginning to get popular and my parents have expressed concern about someone getting hurt. I know you are not a lawyer, but I need to know how I can protect my parents and myself from any lawsuits.

Also thanks for the advice on a DJ bike (20 vs 24 vs 26 for BMX riding) that I wrote to you about, I have the 09 Fit cruiser complete on order

Chris

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What’s with the forks on the 2009 Enduro SLs?

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People have been asking why the new Enduro SLs, except for the S-Works model, are using FOX 32 forks instead of last year’s Specialized E150. I got the answer from The Doctor himself, Brandon Sloan.

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DH training with limited terrain

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Lee,
I live in Mt. Airy, MD where there are no pump tracks or dirt jumps. I go Dh ing every sunday. I am planning on starting dh racing in the spring and summer. I just picked up some Kreitler rollers for fun. What can i do on the other days of the week to get prepared.
P.S. I am so jealous of all the places you guys have to ride.

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