Everything to help you ride stronger and better.

Are freeride tires faster than XC race tires?

/34 Comments/in , /by


Disclaimer: I wrote this story three years ago for VeloNews, and it was so intricate and demanding to read that even they wouldn’t run it. (Heck, I didn’t consider running it until I posted this story.)

The VeloNews editor also didn’t like the idea that, on a long trail ride, freeride tires might be faster than XC race tires. Trying to convince him that skill, cornering speed and confidence are more important than low weight and rolling resistance was a lost cause.

You’ve been warned. Now check out this action:

Read more

DH training at the school gym

/2 Comments/in , /by

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.

Read more

The joys of indoor training: Part 1 – Equipment

/10 Comments/in , /by

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

Read more

DH training with limited terrain

/4 Comments/in , , /by


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.

Read more

Darn those weak hip flexors

/7 Comments/in , /by


Hi Lee;

In Chapter 3 of MMBS you do what I think is a good job of explaining the pedalling process.

I’ve been paying more attention to my legs and where they seem to get tired on climbs, and I am of the opinion that my hip flexors are the weak link. (seems to be the same thing running intervals on the treadmill)

Does this make sense to you and can you offer any additional exercises to the ones in your book that might address my self diagnosis?

Great book and web site by the way, keep up the good work.

Cheers Greg

Read more

Some fun clinics this week

/in /by


This is always a busy time of year, teaching-wise. Maybe it’s the nice weather, or people are back in town after summer, or maybe they’re starting to think about next season. Whichever. This week was fun.

Read more

New world record: 100 laps of pump – 20″ style

/14 Comments/in , , , /by

This weekend I rocked the Intense Factory Alloy 20 on The Fix pump track, and the results were surprising.

Read more

Ripping with The Kid and his bro’s

/2 Comments/in , /by


My kid Ian started riding bikes last March. At the time, it was mostly a way to avoid playing baseball, but he’s become a solid rider — and he’s gotten some of his buddies into Pump Track Nation.

Read more

Help: My front wheel is washing out

/3 Comments/in , /by


Hey Lee,

I think everything about cornering you have taught me just clicked. however i am still having minor troubles with the front wheel slidding a little bit. Any advice?

Zach

Read more

Ergon grips for DH riding?

/7 Comments/in , , /by


Would you ever recommend using Ergon grips for DH riding? I’ve been toying with the idea since my two end fingers get sooooo worn out after 8 runs down anything. I’m getting a softer spring for my Domain on Monday, and heading up for a last hoorah at WinterPark on Wednesday. Do you foresee the Ergon grips helping/hurting any part of “pinky/ring” finger muscle strain???

Thanks for all your help and all your help previously. You’re the best.

Read more

Rocking with the SMBA monkeys

/4 Comments/in /by


Lyons, CO (leelikesbikes.com) – The mighty youths of Singletrack Mountain Bike Adventures showed Hall Ranch who is boss.

Read more

Back on the bike!

/in /by

Dudes … I’ve been so pinned with the BMX book, a site redesign and random information architecture stuff that I’m going nuts. Too much work and not enough play makes Lee a grumpy boy.

But today — today — I’m riding Hall Ranch with the kids of SMBA. Heck yeah!!! Watch for photos of young people ripping singletrack.