Singletracks Mountain Bike News » All Posts https://www.singletracks.com/forums/forum/mountain-biking-2/feed/ Fri, 05 Apr 2024 12:57:08 +0000 https://bbpress.org/?v=2.6.9 en-US https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/falcon-fw-842-8-speed-13-42t-freewheel/#post-657975 <![CDATA[FALCON FW-842 8 Speed 13-42T Freewheel]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/falcon-fw-842-8-speed-13-42t-freewheel/#post-657975 Thu, 11 Jan 2024 15:52:42 +0000 Coolride88 <div style=”color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;”>Can I replace the MF-TZ500-7 SHIMANO on the rear wheel (Formula DC-31 hub, alloy, 6-bolt, 6/7/8-speed freewheel) with the FALCON FW-842 8 Speed 13-42T Freewheel for my Trek Marlin 4?

Will it work?</div>
<div style=”color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;”></div>
<div style=”color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;”>My goal is to convert it to a 1X drivetrain. 32T Front X 13-42T Rear.</div>
<div style=”color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;”></div>
<div style=”color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;”>Sadly the Trek Marlin 4 has a freewheel and not freehub, therefore the only option is to change the hub or wheelset.</div>

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/any-experience-with-bike-insurance/#post-657096 <![CDATA[Reply To: Any experience with bike insurance?…]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/any-experience-with-bike-insurance/#post-657096 Sat, 16 Dec 2023 01:24:23 +0000 Sunspot

Yes, all good things to consider. have you purchased bike insurance yourself?

 

I have not since other policies covered the bikes. Pays to raise the important questions during the process of choosing insurance. Create a list of questions and question the coverage of many items as you feel necessary. It is worth knowing if you are buying the same coverage multiple times over.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/dirt-jumper-vs-bmx/#post-656518 <![CDATA[Reply To: Dirt Jumper vs BMX]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/dirt-jumper-vs-bmx/#post-656518 Thu, 14 Dec 2023 16:02:51 +0000 Sunspot Gotta ask a couple of questions…

What size of bike/wheels are you interested in?

Something with minimal BB drop will enhance the playtime experience, so perhaps looking at a street trials bike, such as Inspired Hex, Fourplay or Arcade would be in order.

From that approach, you can get into more activity with greater ease since street punks, um trials bikes are designed around wheelies/manuals and far greater things. Then you get to work your way through learning a loooong list of skills that take mountain biking to a whole new level.

For some very well done tutorial videos, https://www.youtube.com/@SuperRiderTV

Honestly, you can do more on a typical mountain bike than you think! Avoid full suspension since they consume too much energy and inertia than does a hardtail.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/any-experience-with-bike-insurance/#post-656763 <![CDATA[Reply To: Any experience with bike insurance?…]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/any-experience-with-bike-insurance/#post-656763 Tue, 12 Dec 2023 22:55:47 +0000 ZipHead I have a seperate rider for all my bikes with my homeowner’s insurance policy. Only costs an extra hundred or so a year (and that covers 8 bikes).

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/any-experience-with-bike-insurance/#post-656585 <![CDATA[Reply To: Any experience with bike insurance?…]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/any-experience-with-bike-insurance/#post-656585 Mon, 11 Dec 2023 16:34:18 +0000 Travis Reill Yes, all good things to consider. have you purchased bike insurance yourself?

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/dirt-jumper-vs-bmx/#post-656519 <![CDATA[Reply To: Dirt Jumper vs BMX]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/dirt-jumper-vs-bmx/#post-656519 Sat, 09 Dec 2023 16:22:59 +0000 Sunspot Look up Super Rider on YouTube… That may give you some insight into what you are actually seeking. At first glance, it will blow your mind however, it will likely inspire you to want to go further into playing bikes!!

DJ is heavy in comparison to a true BMX. True BMX’rs are intentionally light and meant for racing vs. a DJ being made stronger for big hit action.

Street Trials bikes are designed for riding obstacles and things considered not rideable. definitely worthy of looking into if you are interested in getting into more than just a wheelie or a manual here and there.

 

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/any-experience-with-bike-insurance/#post-656517 <![CDATA[Reply To: Any experience with bike insurance?…]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/any-experience-with-bike-insurance/#post-656517 Sat, 09 Dec 2023 15:59:33 +0000 Sunspot Travis, there are some things to consider… Bikes today require the equivalent of car loan!!

Sooo…

Coverage terms need to be clear. Does it cover accidents, property damage, fire, theft etc.

What is the premium? Would that premium buy a new bike in less than say, two years? Frankly, people need to investigate the terms of their homeowners/renters insurance. They may already have coverage and not know it.

Peace of mind is also a key component.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/dirt-jumper-vs-bmx/#post-656516 <![CDATA[Dirt Jumper vs BMX]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/dirt-jumper-vs-bmx/#post-656516 Sat, 09 Dec 2023 15:57:28 +0000 Gdb49 Want to learn how to Wheelie, Manual, jump. etc…  What’s the better choice of bike, Dirt Jumper or BMX?  What’s the difference?

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/any-experience-with-bike-insurance/#post-656266 <![CDATA[Any experience with bike insurance?…]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/any-experience-with-bike-insurance/#post-656266 Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:13:31 +0000 Travis Reill I’m wondering if anyone out there can share their experience with purchasing bike insurance from a company like Velosurance (or any other insurance company that will cover mountain bikes…it looks like even Geico does)

Was it worth it? Would you mind sharing your rates and what you had covered? Was the claim process easy? Any insight would help…even directing me to an existing forum on the topic that I missed!

Thanks!

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/leasing-mtb/#post-655978 <![CDATA[Reply To: Leasing mtb]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/leasing-mtb/#post-655978 Fri, 01 Dec 2023 07:45:56 +0000 ReboLangos I’ve actually leased an MTB before, and it worked out great for me! It’s a smart way to try out different bikes without committing to a big purchase. If the price is right, I say go for it and see if it suits your riding style, but better contact Mortgage Broker in Chesterfield to make the best decision. Good luck!

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/leasing-mtb/#post-655706 <![CDATA[Reply To: Leasing mtb]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/leasing-mtb/#post-655706 Tue, 28 Nov 2023 02:13:54 +0000 ZipHead Haha Christmas spam!  ^^^

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/leasing-mtb/#post-655624 <![CDATA[Reply To: Leasing mtb]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/leasing-mtb/#post-655624 Mon, 27 Nov 2023 16:39:24 +0000 FranklinWilliamson I see that this thread is from four years ago, and you might have already made a decision regarding leasing an MTB. Nonetheless, I can still offer some insights for anyone else who stumbles upon this thread with a similar question. Leasing an MTB can still be a viable option today, just as it was back when this thread started. The key factors to consider remain largely the same: your frequency of use and budget. When it comes to making financial decisions like these, consulting with a professional can be beneficial. You might consider reaching out to a Mortgage Broker in Chelmsford for advice on managing your finances effectively. Although they primarily specialize in mortgages, their expertise can extend to budgeting and expense management.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/swapping-out-shimano-mt510-1-1x32t-for-28t/#post-655568 <![CDATA[Reply To: Swapping out shimano mt510-1 1x32T for 28T]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/swapping-out-shimano-mt510-1-1x32t-for-28t/#post-655568 Sun, 26 Nov 2023 20:17:26 +0000 Sunspot Shaky, 28 is a large change from 32. Not huge buuut, worth pointing out. Might want to consider a 30 for testing as well as 28. Just my 2 cents.

Start with a 30, test it for a few reasonable rides. If curiosity prevails, the 28 can be had too. LBS’s might have a couple rings you can test with before purchase. Worth asking, anyway.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/mullet-regrets/#post-655567 <![CDATA[Reply To: Mullet regrets]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/mullet-regrets/#post-655567 Sun, 26 Nov 2023 20:13:42 +0000 Sunspot Dogtown,

Suspension settings can be a rabbit hole since it is more subjective than seats and tire pressures!

Frankly, a mullet does require tuning riding style to it. Rollover is often humorous since some folks aren’t adept at trials! Hell, I can roll over things that 29’ers have difficulty with, on my 26″ wheeled trials bike, but that’s a seperate topic.

I am of the experiment with things that are easy tweaks, like wheels. Then it also gets on to practice makes progress, to borrow a phrase from SuperRider on ewww tewb. Give each experiment enough trail time to acclimate and take away a solid answer. Sometimes it doesn’t require the acclimation phase since it seems horrible right off. Needless to say, play with it and get an idea of what works for you and not a crash test dummy. Borrow wheels if need be.

 

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/mullet-regrets/#post-655478 <![CDATA[Reply To: Mullet regrets]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/mullet-regrets/#post-655478 Thu, 23 Nov 2023 03:52:29 +0000 Dogtown Sunspot,

Thank you for the additional input. I agree with you that buying a new bike is silly expensive, and therefore an unnecessary step at this point. I think for the near term I’m going to swap out the tire set and maybe upgrade the chainring to help my gear ratio, then ride it for a while and see how it goes. My next step, if I’m still not satisfied, is convert it to full 29er and see how that feels. The thing is, I love this mullet build on the flat and the downhill single track. It’s so playful compared to the 29er.

The issue mentioned above by Bike Nerd, about dialing in the rear suspension, is something I have to mess around with. I’ve never paid a lot of attention to this setting, so it’s hard for me to know good from bad.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/mullet-regrets/#post-655244 <![CDATA[Reply To: Mullet regrets]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/mullet-regrets/#post-655244 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 04:18:42 +0000 Sunspot Dogtown,

The thing with mullet is, it is not for everyone. Of people I know that are on them, similar build to my own (Lanky 6′ beanpole) have all said similar things on their experiences. Gearing needs to be done according to the rear wheel’s diameter. That does affect the ratio of the drive train. They also mention tuning their riding habits to the mullet.

My experience in being on the trail with them is that they do everything with no issue. They haul ass, they go full send, just like everyone else. While I ride an RSD Middlechild with a one speed automatic transmission, sure, I keep up or leave em here and there. I get trialsy if I am on knobbies so, there is that however, we get in many awesome adventures with no issue.  The collection of bikes in my stable is 18 strong.

There have been a couple peeps that didn’t get on with a mullet. They were keen to try it  and did a rent with option to buy so they could do a proper shakedown. Good thing for the gents that didn’t find it a good fit.

Frankly, before tossin the towel… Borrow a 29 rear and give it a try. A bona fide shakedown!! A bike purchase can be silly expensive. Put in a few rides and see if the change makes the cut.

 

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/mullet-regrets/#post-654884 <![CDATA[Reply To: Mullet regrets]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/mullet-regrets/#post-654884 Thu, 16 Nov 2023 01:43:40 +0000 Dogtown Bike Nerd – thanks for the excellent and helpful reply. I’ve considered just converting it to full 29″, but I’m feeling a little misled by Specialized on how the bike would perform. I may just cave and convert it, but part of me wants to throw in the towel and get an Ibis or maybe a Santa Cruz. Another local shop sells both. I thought it was just me having an issue with setting the rear shock; I’ll keep playing with that adjustment to see if I can find that sweet spot. Appreciate the input.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/mullet-regrets/#post-654526 <![CDATA[Reply To: Mullet regrets]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/mullet-regrets/#post-654526 Mon, 13 Nov 2023 15:20:49 +0000 Bike Nerd Rollover matters!  You probably won’t see XC racers riding mullets anytime in the near future.  Full 29 is just faster and a 29er XC bike is the fastest, which is what you were riding before.  A mullet trailbike is not the fastest.  Mullets are best for people with shorter legs and for tight twisty turns, not for going fast.  However, before you trade in your Stumpy, try putting on some lighter faster-rolling XC-ish tires.  I ride the Stumpy EVO which came with the same tires you are riding and I found them rather draggy and I’ve never liked 2.3 wide tires.  I use the 2.6 Maxxis Rekon front and 2.6 Ikon rear or 2.4 Rekon rear.  If you want to stick with Specialized, get a set of 2.35 Ground Controls.  Maybe a set of Schwalbe Wicked Wills would do.  Tires made a huge difference for me.  I easily ride 10-15% faster than with the stock tires.

Also, spend some time making sure you’ve got the rear shock set correctly.  Multiple reviewers complained the rear suspension on the Stumpy is difficult to set up.  Too firm and the bike didn’t descend well.  Too soft and the bike didn’t climb well. The Stumpy has a very narrow sweet spot.   Some felt that they were never able to get it quite right.

If you do sell your bike, you sound like the ideal candidate for a Transition Spur, Ibis Ripley, or Rocky Mountain Element.  Something a little more sporty.  You could also convert your Stumpy back to full 29.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/mullet-regrets/#post-653954 <![CDATA[Mullet regrets]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/mullet-regrets/#post-653954 Mon, 06 Nov 2023 15:00:11 +0000 Dogtown I can use some independent advice from the community. I’ve been MTB’ing for over 30 years, and have had multiple bikes. Most recent one was a Kona Hei Hei Supreme 29er that I bought in 2014. In April this year, I wanted a new bike and decided on a Stumpy mullet build (29 front, 27.5 back) based on recommendation from the local Specialized shop. While the bike is very fun on downhill single tracks, it seems that I had to sacrifice uphill power to an extent I didn’t expect. I’m not liking this bike. My rides are about 10-15% longer, I assume because of this power loss.

Have other riders out there had a similar experience with these mullet bikes? I’m tempted just to sell it at a loss and get another 29er from a different manufacturer. For background, I’m age 62 and ride a couple times a week in the Los Angeles area – about 90% fire roads, 10% single track. The links to my old and new bikes are below. Appreciate any advice I can get.

2014 Kona Hei Hei Supreme Bike – Reviews, Comparisons, Specs – Bikes – Vital MTB

S-Works Stumpjumper LTD (specialized.com)

 

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/swapping-out-shimano-mt510-1-1x32t-for-28t/#post-653781 <![CDATA[Swapping out shimano mt510-1 1x32T for 28T]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/swapping-out-shimano-mt510-1-1x32t-for-28t/#post-653781 Fri, 03 Nov 2023 13:28:25 +0000 The real slim shaky Hello. My wife currently has a 32T front chainring and would like to go down to a 28T. On the shimano website it looks like the smallest mt510-1 is a 30T. Does anybody know of a 28T chainring that would be a straight forward swap out?

Thanks!

 

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/chainring-cassette-wolf-tooth-vs-shimano/#post-653778 <![CDATA[Reply To: Chainring & Cassette – Wolf Tooth vs Shimano]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/chainring-cassette-wolf-tooth-vs-shimano/#post-653778 Thu, 02 Nov 2023 13:32:04 +0000 The real slim shaky Kind of following up on this, but a little different. My wife has a shimano mt510-1 1×12 with a 32T chainring. She would like to go down to a 28T chainring, but the smallest mt510-1 we have seen is 30T.

Can anybody recommend a 28T chain ring that would be an easy swap?
<p style=”text-align: left;”>Thanks!</p>

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/what-have-you-learned-jeff-carbon-vs-aluminum/#post-653478 <![CDATA[Reply To: What Have You Learned Jeff? Carbon vs Aluminum]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/what-have-you-learned-jeff-carbon-vs-aluminum/#post-653478 Sun, 29 Oct 2023 05:43:53 +0000 Sunspot When I was building frames and had converstions with engineers from the aerospace industry, I was advised to stay out of the carbon segment. Frankly, I placed a great deal of trust in their advice and still do.

Titanium and chromo were fine materials to work with. Welding is the part that is needing most attention to detail, such as heat control during the welding process. Especially with titanium!

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/how-to-remove-this-decal/#post-653477 <![CDATA[Reply To: How to remove this decal…?]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/how-to-remove-this-decal/#post-653477 Sun, 29 Oct 2023 05:33:08 +0000 Sunspot Duplicolor will do you right. 320 grit wet sand for better adhesion. Wipe it down with a lint free cloth soaked in acetone prior to primer. After primer coat is done, wait for it to become flat in appearance and a quick once over with 000 steel wool and a wipedown with a tackcloth. Spray the color coat before the primer has cured out. In other words, same day as primer was applied. Usually, within a hour, you can do the steel wool. Be gentle with the steel wool! All you are doing is is knocking down any roughness in the primer finish, nothing more. Tackcloth can be purchased at a paint store or Lowes/Homie D’s.

 

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/carbon-lower-grade-components-vs-aluminum-higher-end-components/#post-651863 <![CDATA[Reply To: Carbon lower grade components vs aluminum higher end components]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/carbon-lower-grade-components-vs-aluminum-higher-end-components/#post-651863 Wed, 27 Sep 2023 01:53:36 +0000 MTI …and really worthwhile and excellent question by the way.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/carbon-lower-grade-components-vs-aluminum-higher-end-components/#post-651862 <![CDATA[Reply To: Carbon lower grade components vs aluminum higher end components]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/carbon-lower-grade-components-vs-aluminum-higher-end-components/#post-651862 Wed, 27 Sep 2023 01:50:40 +0000 MTI My humble opinion and it is what I did last year with no regrets, I went aluminum frame with higher end components on my trail bike Orbea Oiz H10.  The main decision was the fork and shock on the aluminum were so much above and beyond the comparable priced carbon.  Unlike a drivetrain which wears out, the fork and shock are staying.

I’m an experienced rider and could have afforded the Carbon with equal components as the aluminum if I wanted, but I also knew regardless of which bike I got I would buy an upgraded wheelset and that would have made the carbon bike waaay more than I wanted to spend.  I still keep up and have just as much fun as my friends on high end carbon.

 

 

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/brake-rotor-question/#post-651598 <![CDATA[Reply To: Brake Rotor Question]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/brake-rotor-question/#post-651598 Mon, 25 Sep 2023 12:31:09 +0000 Rock Garden Hi juswalk,

I may be a few years late in seeing your question and answering it.  In case you never got an answer and are still curious, I may have an answer for you and anyone else who is asking the same thing.  I have been shopping around for Tektro brake rotors recently.  As you mentioned before, the first number in the Tektro brake rotor part number is the diameter of the rotor in millimeters.  The second number of the part number is Tektro’s own code for the type of brake rotor.  From shopping around, I figured out that the “24” means that the rotor is made to be installed with single piston brake calipers.  “52” (i.e., 180-52) means the rotor is made to be installed with two piston brake calipers.  “35” means that the rotor has a Center Lock type of hub instead of the standard 6 bolts for mounting onto the wheel.  I hope that answers your question.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/how-to-remove-this-decal/#post-651238 <![CDATA[Reply To: How to remove this decal…?]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/how-to-remove-this-decal/#post-651238 Wed, 13 Sep 2023 23:17:04 +0000 bradleyheathhays Ok I’ve decided.  I’m gonna sand the whole frame down with 800 grit, and then what?  I’m gonna paint the whole thing myself but I’m not sure what kind / brand paint to use.  I’d like for it to be more durable than whatever comes in those cans at Home Depot.  Do I need to head down to the local auto paint store?  I don’t mind buying a new paint gun if I have to.  Should I be looking at using an enamel?

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/hard-case-bike-box-suggestions/#post-651087 <![CDATA[Reply To: Hard Case Bike Box Suggestions]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/hard-case-bike-box-suggestions/#post-651087 Sat, 09 Sep 2023 22:45:05 +0000 _Rooty Thanks for the feedback.  I went with just getting another EVOC Pro bag due to the weight limits the airlines impose on us.  I wasn’t keen on spending additional monies on overweight fees.  Over the last few years and multiple OCONUS trips for my wife and I, we’ve been very lucky using the Pro bags.  It’s always a gamble though.  Those baggage crews are awfully rough on all luggage.  I think it must be a game for them, although I suspect the airlines put a lot of pressure on them on every load saying “get that crap on there as fast as possible”.   So I don’t really blame them personally, although I am disappointed in the way they handle our luggage/bikes.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/how-to-remove-this-decal/#post-650992 <![CDATA[Reply To: How to remove this decal…?]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/how-to-remove-this-decal/#post-650992 Thu, 07 Sep 2023 00:03:50 +0000 bradleyheathhays I’m almost positive now the decal has a clear coat on top of it so I’m just gonna prep and give the lowers a thrice over with a rattle can of satin black.

Any suggestions for a good paint brand or just in general for doing this?

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/what-have-you-learned-jeff-carbon-vs-aluminum/#post-650851 <![CDATA[Reply To: What Have You Learned Jeff? Carbon vs Aluminum]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/what-have-you-learned-jeff-carbon-vs-aluminum/#post-650851 Tue, 05 Sep 2023 12:25:04 +0000 motoguy128 I’m pretty fed up with creaky bottom brackets on carbon bikes.  Had a Tri bike that I could never resolve after trying 4 different solutions.  I think it was just out of round and needed major carbon repairs to fix it.  (Trek junk)  and now a new to me 2013 Scott Spark is creaking like crazy.  Yes, I checked the seat post and suspension pivots.  Its the BB.  Will be a winter project ot tear it apart and find a better BB solution for it.

Point being, getting precise dimensions on a metal that can be machines to 0.0001″ accuracy using a CNC machine vs. carbon that it hard to even get to form a perfectly round shape in high volume production, is a big difference.   I suppose bonding was more problematic overall as Trek had issues on the first PCLV.  I wonder what the aerospace industry is doing to resolve this?

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/how-to-remove-this-decal/#post-650844 <![CDATA[How to remove this decal…?]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/how-to-remove-this-decal/#post-650844 Sat, 02 Sep 2023 22:23:37 +0000 bradleyheathhays I got this bike for a great deal at a city auction but I’d like to change or just take off the decals because these were once police bikes. I thought I’d just go about it by soaking in adhesive remover but now that I’ve taken a closer look I’m not sure that’s gonna work. The edge of the decal can be seen but can’t be felt when you rub a finger over it. I think some kind of clear coat was applied after the decal was put on.

Anybody know something about this?

 

https://i.imgur.com/mBG9ZU9.jpg

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/what-have-you-learned-jeff-carbon-vs-aluminum/#post-650663 <![CDATA[Reply To: What Have You Learned Jeff? Carbon vs Aluminum]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/what-have-you-learned-jeff-carbon-vs-aluminum/#post-650663 Wed, 30 Aug 2023 13:18:57 +0000 Jeff Barber The biggest thing I’ve learned over years of interviews and reporting is that every design choice has its pros and cons, and there’s no such thing as a perfect product or perfect solution.

I just bought a Canyon Neuron trail bike and decided to go with the aluminum version. Honestly the biggest factor was the cost, and while there are weight and ride quality differences between carbon and aluminum, the advantages of carbon weren’t enough for me to outweigh the cost, at least in this particular decision.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/has-sram-left-shimano-in-the-dust/#post-649609 <![CDATA[Reply To: Has SRAM Left Shimano In The Dust?]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/has-sram-left-shimano-in-the-dust/#post-649609 Thu, 10 Aug 2023 19:07:15 +0000 sgodtrailangkol First time to post an answer here, it’s a real showdown between SRAM and Shimano in the MTB, but you know shimano are always plotting something rad.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/on-your-left-is-now-dangerous/#post-649607 <![CDATA[Reply To: “on your left” is now dangerous]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/on-your-left-is-now-dangerous/#post-649607 Thu, 10 Aug 2023 19:07:02 +0000 motoguy128 Interesting enough I was out running in the Detroit suburbs while visiting my parents on a paved trail.  I passed a walker by maybe 3-4′ clearance and didn’t think much of it.  I didn’t say :on your left” since it seemed unnecessary, no oncoming traffic he was mostly to the right and 50/50 that the walker turns and steps right into your path.  OK, NBD… then the guy chews me out for not warning him I was passing.  “I could have run into you if I moved over”.  Uhhh… why would you make a sudden left turn without looking behind you on a shared trail on a weekend.  I exchanged some sarcasm ane went on my way.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/how-much-money-would-it-take-for-you-to-do-this-climb/#post-649606 <![CDATA[Reply To: How Much Money Would It Take for You to Do This Climb?]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/how-much-money-would-it-take-for-you-to-do-this-climb/#post-649606 Thu, 10 Aug 2023 19:06:36 +0000 motoguy128 1500′ in 1/2 mile isn’t rideable.  i have a trail I hike that have that.  It’s 7300′ to 9000′ in about 1 mile. .  The forest road on a MTB takes 4 miles to climb that same distance.   Hiking that segment is I think 25 minutes and it’s a solid effort for me, and I’m an above average trail runner, although a little overweight right now.  But that’s only a 10% difference in ascent rate.

That’s over a  25% grade.  Trust me, that’s sketchy just hiking on loose surface.  Even harder since it’s at altitude.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/has-sram-left-shimano-in-the-dust/#post-649302 <![CDATA[Has SRAM Left Shimano In The Dust?]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/has-sram-left-shimano-in-the-dust/#post-649302 Wed, 02 Aug 2023 00:11:44 +0000 _Rooty Seems SRAM has won the hearts of MTBers across the planet.   I love Shimano and been using their products since, well forever.  But, since SRAM has developed the Eagle, and now their new transmission, what will Shimano’s response be?

 

Anything new on the horizon with Shimano to counter SRAM’s dominance in the MTB (and gravel) world?

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/hard-case-bike-box-suggestions/#post-648765 <![CDATA[Reply To: Hard Case Bike Box Suggestions]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/hard-case-bike-box-suggestions/#post-648765 Mon, 24 Jul 2023 19:35:03 +0000 m.krupp Borrowed a hard case box this last year from a friend, beleive it was a Thule. Made the weight limit but made it a point to only put bike in it and maybe a multi-tool. Most modern bikes I think come in around 30-35 lbs. Bike only plus weight of box and you should make the 50lbs. Put  your helmet and tools in your checked bag. Hopefully you will be traveling minimally with tools. Enought to get bike back together. I think the biggest thing is the size of the box. Felt my friends box was a bit on the smaller side and I ride a large bike compared to his medium. Called for more disassembly…more time and tools involved. My travel also had me going to a destination that had tools. If you can coordinate tools at your destination this saves alot on weight no matter where you would pack them.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/hard-case-bike-box-suggestions/#post-648548 <![CDATA[Hard Case Bike Box Suggestions]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/hard-case-bike-box-suggestions/#post-648548 Tue, 18 Jul 2023 17:59:21 +0000 _Rooty What are you folks using to travel with?   As a frequent flyer, I am always afraid to take my bike with me but have been very fortunate so far with only minor damage on all my trips.  I am using the EVOC pro bag at the moment.

I was wondering, does anyone use or have experience with a hard cased bike box?   Seems some of them may be too heavy to meet the 23KG/50LB weight when adding in a MTB.  Road and gravel bikes are always G2G, but our MTBs are much heavier.

Thoughts?

Thanks in Advance,

 

Frank

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/little-help-please/#post-648125 <![CDATA[Reply To: little help please!]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/little-help-please/#post-648125 Mon, 10 Jul 2023 14:09:28 +0000 Jeff Barber Start by cleaning everything using car wash soap (I like the pink stuff) or dish soap if you don’t have car wash soap. You might need to use degreaser on the chain, cassette, and crank if the soap doesn’t cut it.

Sandblasting the frame is a big job. You need to remove EVERYTHING, pedals, gears, bottom bracket, head set, etc. It’s rarely worth it.

Check if the suspension is at least holding air by topping it off with a shock pump and checking it after a ride or two. Wipe down the stanchions.

That should get you started!

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/little-help-please/#post-648123 <![CDATA[little help please!]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/little-help-please/#post-648123 Mon, 10 Jul 2023 14:05:44 +0000 Newb1E hello,

I got a used bike from a friend and am wanting to get in in better condition. I have a few questions about how to  do certain things and I do not have much knowledge in this field so Iam asking you guys for some advice such as:

Which parts of the bike do I have to clean and with what..degreaser?just plain soap?…

how do I make sure the front suspension is working and if not how do i clean and improve it

If i were to sandblast the frame should I remove the pedals and the gears along with them?

I have a few questions more and will probably get a few more as I go along with the project. I can provide photos so If anyone can help me out, I thank you very much

LP

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/shreditation-mountain-biking-and-mental-health/#post-647982 <![CDATA[Reply To: Shreditation: Mountain biking and mental health]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/shreditation-mountain-biking-and-mental-health/#post-647982 Thu, 06 Jul 2023 13:08:29 +0000 FranklinWilliamson Mountain biking has been my saving grace during tough times. There’s something about being out in nature, feeling the rush of adrenaline, and conquering challenging trails that helps me find strength and clarity. It’s like therapy on two wheels!

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/presta-vs-schrader-2/#post-647918 <![CDATA[Reply To: Presta Vs. Schrader]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/presta-vs-schrader-2/#post-647918 Wed, 05 Jul 2023 05:01:24 +0000 _Rooty Good question.  I think the easy answer is based on rim selection.  I haven’t seen a “decent” set of wheels that uses Schrader valves.  They all are presta.  So that would be what I would want to be sure of.  What do my fancy carbon wheels* require.

*because we all have fancy carbon wheels 🙂

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/what-have-you-learned-jeff-carbon-vs-aluminum/#post-647910 <![CDATA[What Have You Learned Jeff? Carbon vs Aluminum]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/what-have-you-learned-jeff-carbon-vs-aluminum/#post-647910 Wed, 05 Jul 2023 01:23:57 +0000 _Rooty Jeff,

I’d love to have you do a podcast with yourself.  After all these years, it would be great to interview yourself and tell is what you have learned over the past years of hosting your podcast.  It would be so interesting to hear that.  But, that would probably be a ton of work for you.  Keep up the great work and love the show.

Anyway, to my question.  You have talked with a lot of people in the industry.  The interview with Sam from Cane Creek has convinced me to spec out my new ride with Cane Creek products but, I am currently trying to decide which frame to go with.  The Ripley V4 or the Ripley AF.  On a cursory look, it seems like a number of frame manufactures are putting out aluminum framed versions of their best bikes.  Not sure if this is just targeted at cost savings, or if aluminum is making a comeback since we have “discovered” it is actually not a bad frame material since they can do so much with the material and make it stiff and compliant based on wall thickness and shape.

If price was no object, nor weight savings, since the weight isn’t that big of a difference between the two when talking about MTBs, what are your thoughts based on what you know/learned?

Anyone is allowed to chime in of course, and I am sure it will be a lively debate, but looking to get a gauge on the current thinking of a Ripley in carbon or aluminum.

Thanks in advance and again, your show is something I listen to as soon as I can on my commutes.

 

Frank

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/support-add-popping-up/#post-647888 <![CDATA[Reply To: Support / Add popping up]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/support-add-popping-up/#post-647888 Mon, 03 Jul 2023 23:11:37 +0000 ZipHead …and crickets…..

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/support-add-popping-up/#post-647728 <![CDATA[Support / Add popping up]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/support-add-popping-up/#post-647728 Tue, 27 Jun 2023 10:42:25 +0000 Called2RideMTB I have a paid subscription, but for the last two days, every page puts up the “Please allow ads on our site.”

 

Not sure what changed, but this is annoying. I sent an email yesterday to the help address, but did not receive a reply.  Can someone please look into it?

I tried to add a screenshot picture but that wouldn’t unload.

 

Thanks,

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/29-or-27-5-for-south-florida/#post-647305 <![CDATA[29 or 27.5 for South Florida]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/29-or-27-5-for-south-florida/#post-647305 Mon, 19 Jun 2023 16:59:53 +0000 Rob31584 Hello everyone! New here. Was mountain biking some a few years back. Had a HT 29er (Fuji Nevada), ended up selling that. Now I’m looking to get back into it and I’m curious which wheel size would be best for Miami.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/question-on-rockshox/#post-646881 <![CDATA[Reply To: Question on Rockshox]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/question-on-rockshox/#post-646881 Thu, 08 Jun 2023 15:22:19 +0000 m.krupp Had a very similiar situation years ago when I first started getting into mountain biking. I think it may have been a Rockshox Judy. Turns out the bike was old enough that model had changed so much that there were no parts or info on it because of modernization. Chances are fork is way out of date. If you could get someone on the phone can be really helpful or talk to you local bike shop that deals with MTB bikes.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/presta-vs-schrader-2/#post-646879 <![CDATA[Reply To: Presta Vs. Schrader]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/presta-vs-schrader-2/#post-646879 Thu, 08 Jun 2023 15:07:21 +0000 m.krupp I don’t have an argument either way. But I have never seen a tubeless option or set up with Shrader valves. Maybe I am shelter and it can be done but it appears all MTB rims are set up for Presta. Someone correct me if I am wrong. Not needing an adapter and more airflow an ability to get sealant in easier would be a nice benefits of Shrader for setting up tubeless if it even exists.

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/presta-vs-schrader-2/#post-645938 <![CDATA[Reply To: Presta Vs. Schrader]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/presta-vs-schrader-2/#post-645938 Mon, 22 May 2023 14:43:07 +0000 Debimth Schrader valves are more commonly found and supported at gas stations and service centers, making it convenient for quick inflation. They have a spring-loaded valve mechanism that allows for easy attachment of pumps without the need for additional adapters. The valve design also prevents air leakage during inflation or when disconnecting the pump. Schrader valves are typically more affordable and widely available compared to Presta valves, making them a popular choice for recreational cyclists and casual riders.

 

 

 

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https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/fezzari-solitude/#post-645943 <![CDATA[Fezzari solitude]]> https://www.singletracks.com/forums/topic/fezzari-solitude/#post-645943 Mon, 22 May 2023 14:39:41 +0000 casey36 I am looking into a Solitude Comp. Anybody have any experience with these bikes or the company? Thanks in advance.

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