Questions, comments and criticisms

Hardtail or suspension for a (re)learner?

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Lee,

Throughout 2011, I’ve been trying to get to grips with flat pedals on my Enduro SL. After a couple of decades riding clips and straps then clipless, this past year has been about the worst I can remember. Admittedly, I haven’t managed to ride as much as I’d have liked, but when I do get out, I don’t feel secure on the bike and live in mortal dread of becoming detached from the bike should the rear wheel ever leave the ground… I’d really like 2012 to be different. So, would I be better served by a hardtail for re-learning some basic skills or am I kidding myself that switching to a hardtail will make any difference? Should I just knuckle down with MMBS and the Enduro?

Thanks,

Don

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Switch from Epic 29 to Stumpy 29?

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Hi Lee,

In the middle of Mastering Mountain Bike Skills book, great reading. I’m thinking of getting a Stumpy FSR 29er. I’ve got an Epic 29er and I’m really happy with it but would like something for rougher trails and that I could do some jumps on. I can’t quite swing the Expert and was wondering if the Comp with the Triad is still compliant to root sized bumps in the propedal position. I’m not a fan of FSRs in fully open position but I think they are great with the Brain. Thanks, Bob

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Growing some for a drop

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Hey Lee,

One section that I’ve been rolling has eroded a bit and I need to get up to task (read: grow some) and drop this sucker! Chunky approach to a 4 foot ledge with a rutted downhill landing and runout… I ride a Santa Cruz Nomad with a coil fork and I’ll be sporting my body armor for sure.

Here’s a photo of the drop. Any tips for me?

Tony

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29er for DS racing?

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Lee, I am in need of a new bike and was about to write off 29ers because I want the most versatile bike for the bucks. When you endorse 29ers for pump and jump I’m back on the fence. I own an old copy of Mastering MTB Skills and it really helped to improve my riding. Here is the clincher Brian Lopes is not impressed with 29ers but you highly recommend them. If you are racing them in DH/DS events that require considerable technique I can only assume that they are up for the task. Is Lopes just set in his ways or is it that the level that he operates at demands a 26″ bike.
Billy

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Questions about remote seatposts

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Our colleague EJ has questions. I have answers (or at least opinions).

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Flat pedals for enduro racing?

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Hey Lee!

What do you think about using flat pedals for high level XC and Enduro DH racing? I have been a clipless guy for years but have recently made the switch back and have found that I prefer flats, mostly because they are just more fun. It seems like everyone (literally) racing expert level Enduro is on clips. Do you think it’s possible to be competitive on flats?

Thanks. -Markus

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Captain America 29er?

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Lee,
Have you given any thought to a 29er version of Captain America? How do you think a do-it-all bike with 29er wheels would go for occasional pump and jump?

Thanks, Ben from Melbourne, Australia

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Pedaling while pump-manualing?

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This question is spurred by Pedaling in attack position?

Lee,

Do you have any pro tips how to pump-manual while still pedalling? It’s OK to me if I want to do it on a table-top or with a small speed, but when the speed goes up and bumps get bigger I can’t keep up with the terrain…

Jakub

WITH VIDEO

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2.3 or 2.5 for enduro racing?

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Hi Lee!

First of all : Best wishes for You and Your Family in 2012 ! 😉

Just short question. Enduro racing, terrain is something like Superenduro in Italy or Trans Provence. One day race, total distance about 30 miles.

Which tyre is better: 2,35 or 2,5 from Maxxis ? Both are Minion 2ply (lots of rocks, don’t wanna puncture at all) 2,35 is slightly lighter and I think it’s rolling easier. 2,5 may provide better traction ? Rims are en 321 form Mavic. Which one would You choose ?

Thanks and (as always) greetings from Poland 😉

Szczepan

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Pedaling in attack position?

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Hey Lee,

I hope you don’t mind I’m emailing you. I am reading your Mastering Mountain Bike Skills book and just had a quick question. It’s actually quite simple and maybe a bit silly. Do you actually pedal in the Attack Position? Or is the attack position used when you are off the gas so to speak? The reason I ask is because in the attack position, your butt should be off the seat a bit. However, when reading the pedaling chapter it seemed best to have yourself firmly planted on the seat to generate maximum power (essentially using the seat to push off of). Anyways, let me know what you think.

Very much appreciated!

Scott

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Specialized Camber vs. Stumpjumper in Texas (and elsewhere)

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In Bike for Texas (and other) trails?, Scott asked about switching from a Stumpy 29 to a Camber 29 for the rocky trails in Austin, TX. I told him I enjoyed the Camber on his terrain, and that he should give one a try.

Well, he did.

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Riding a fixie

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Hi Lee — since reading your skills book I’ve been working on my pedal stroke on my commute. I’m in Chicago and I’m thinking of switching my single-speed to a fixed gear for more control in snow and ice. Any advice on how this will affect pedal stroke or what to focus on? Would using foot retention hamper pedaling improvement? Any other advice on working on braaap skills during the city commute (about 3.5 miles each way)?

Thanks!
Allen

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