Mastering Flashcards
What is the main goal of the third edition of Mastering Mountain Bike Skills?
To help riders improve their skills and become better all-around mountain bikers.
What are the three essential truths discovered by Lee in his skills classes?
- No one has it mastered
- Everyone can get better
- The better you get, the more fun you have.
What does the 80/20 principle in mountain biking refer to?
Eighty percent of your results come from a core 20 percent of the skills you learn.
What is emphasized as the foundation of great riding in this book?
A solid skills base built from the bottom up.
What should riders focus on to improve their skills effectively?
One thing at a time.
What is the consequence of developing bad habits while mountain biking?
Bad habits can be difficult to change and may lead to injury.
Fill in the blank: The most common reason for fear while riding is that you _______.
[don’t know how to ride that drop]
What is the recommended approach when learning a new skill on the bike?
Focus on precision first, then speed.
What should be considered before heading out on a ride?
- Number of hours in the saddle
- Time of day
- Forecasted weather
- Terrain or obstacles
- Company you’re riding with.
True or False: It is advisable to push through fear when facing a challenging riding obstacle.
False.
What is the importance of being prepared for a ride?
To ensure fun, safety, and the ability to finish the ride without issues.
What is the significance of focusing on newer and better skills?
To build better habits and improve riding performance.
What does the author compare mastering riding skills to?
Painting with primary colors to create any color you want.
What is the advice given regarding riding within your comfort zone?
To prevent reverting to old habits when pushing beyond comfort.
What is the suggested mantra for maintaining focus while riding?
I will fly over there.
What should riders avoid thinking about while navigating obstacles?
What they are trying to avoid.
What are the potential consequences of riding without proper preparation?
Cold, running out of water or food, frequent flats, and inability to handle terrain.
What is the recommendation for practicing new skills?
Do it slowly on easy terrain.
What is one benefit of having a coach?
Learn in your own style through words, demonstrations, and on-bike doing.
How does a coach help with skill improvement?
Provides immediate feedback on performance.
What is the impact of coaching on learning speed?
Improves learning speed by avoiding bad habits.
Investing time and money in skills leads to what outcomes?
Higher performance and more fun than any equipment upgrade.
What is the first step in challenging perceptions according to Dr. Jason Richardson?
Be specific about what you want.
What does ‘rule in rather than rule out’ mean?
Be open to multiple ways to achieve success.
What is an example of unexpected success in downhill racing?
Aaron Gwin winning a World Cup downhill without a chain.
How can language recalibrate our mindset?
Using empowering phrases instead of limiting ones.
What is the difference between ‘I will get faster’ and ‘I am getting faster’?
‘I am getting faster’ conveys current progress.
What should athletes do before performing?
Pause, take deep breaths, and visualize success.
Fill in the blank: The way to self-medicate is to _______.
[meditate]
How can one gamify their daily routine?
Engage in challenges or try new activities.
What is the benefit of having someone looking out for your best interests?
Keeps you sharp and accountable.
What is the bottom line regarding brain function and habits?
The brain works better toward what it sees or knows.
What is a powerful habit to create?
Being in the habit of creating powerful habits.
True or False: A good instructor only uses verbal communication.
False
What is the role of words in shaping our beliefs?
Words have weight and influence our mindset.
What should you do to challenge yourself according to Dr. Richardson?
Hire your boss or coach.
What does it mean to ‘slow down to go faster’?
Taking time to breathe and visualize before acting.
What happens when challenge meets skill in mountain biking?
Fun happens
This concept emphasizes the importance of matching skill level with challenges for an enjoyable experience.
What is the journey of a mountain biker characterized by?
A never-ending journey of self-improvement and good times
Mountain biking is not just a sport; it’s a continuous process of growth and enjoyment.
What is the first level of mountain biking experience?
Level 1: The Trail Works You
At this level, riders have little faith in their abilities and often struggle with basic control.
Describe the characteristics of a Level 1 mountain biker.
- Tense muscles
- Frequent braking
- Creeping over obstacles
- Difficulty in turning
- Lack of flow and enjoyment
Many riders remain at this level and may give up on mountain biking.
What is the first step to leap from Level 1 to Level 2?
Relax
Relaxation is crucial for improving riding skills and reducing fear and tension.
What should a rider do if they are going to brake?
Brake like you mean it
This entails slowing down effectively and then getting back to rolling instead of dragging brakes.
What is the second level of mountain biking experience?
Level 2: You Survive the Trail
At this level, riders start to enjoy the sensations of speed and flow.
List some characteristics of a Level 2 mountain biker.
- Coasts between turns
- Rolls over obstacles
- Tends to tense up in rough terrain
- Experiences bogging down and loss of control
Many riders are satisfied at this level without realizing there is more to learn.
What is the first step to leap from Level 2 to Level 3?
Relax even more
Riders need to focus on what they need to do in the moment to enhance their skills.
What does it mean to commit in mountain biking?
Commit to the ups and downs of porpoiseful riding
This involves making decisive movements and adjustments while riding.
What is the ultimate level of mountain biking?
Level 3: You Work the Trail
This level is characterized by relaxed aggression and skillful manipulation of the trail.
Describe the characteristics of a Level 3 mountain biker.
- Never lets the front wheel hit a rock
- Pumps every backside
- Scupts the trail to suit their fancy
- Gains speed and control through rough sections
Riders at this level are in a small company of skilled bikers.
What happens to riding habits under stress?
Riders revert to old habits
It’s important to build good habits to ensure proper riding techniques under pressure.
What are subskills in the context of braking?
Subskills for braking include:
* Low, balanced attack position
* Gradual and powerful pressure on the brake levers
* Gradual rotation of your body backward to match the angle of the net force
* Driving the net force into your feet
Managing the steepness of the trail and navigating bumps are also important.
How does skill progression work in mountain biking?
The better you get at each subskill, the better you get at the main skill. The better you get at each main skill, the quicker you can transition between them.
This allows for more complex maneuvers such as hopping and turning simultaneously.
What is the rhythm of riding at low speed?
At low speed, the rhythm might be: ‘I’m going over the rock… now I’m braking… now I’m turning.’ Each move is deliberate with pauses in between.
This rhythm allows for better management of each skill.
What happens to skills at higher speeds?
At higher speeds, moves start to connect with each other, resulting in continuous action with no rest between moves.
This creates a feeling of flow and is essential for riding on moderate trails.
What does it mean to find your style in mountain biking?
Finding your style involves practicing key moves and then applying them in a way that feels natural to you, such as:
* Compact like a road racer
* Upright like a motocrosser
* Staying low or going for big air
It’s about discovering the riding style that works best for you.
What is the significance of overlapping skills?
Overlapping skills allows for more fluid riding. For example, you might brake while rolling down a rock or hop while cornering.
This is essential for riding at higher speeds and on more technical trails.
List some examples of double skills.
Examples of double skills include:
* Braking while rolling down a steep rock face
* Pedaling while lunging over a root
* Carving a flat turn while pumping through a rut
* Transferring from one jump line to another in the air
Mastery of double skills leads to smoother transitions on the trail.
What are triple-skill moves in mountain biking?
Triple-skill moves involve executing three skills at the same time, such as:
* Turning a tight switchback while coasting down a steep pitch and dropping off a ledge
* Hopping up a vertical rock face while sprinting and cornering
These moves require a high level of skill and coordination.
What is the process of skill learning as described?
The process involves:
* Learning subskills
* Mastering basic skills
* Overlapping and combining skills
This progression leads to faster, easier, and more enjoyable riding.
What precautions should be taken when mountain biking?
Precautions include:
* Riding within your abilities
* Wearing proper protective gear such as a helmet and gloves
* Considering additional protection like elbow and knee pads
Safety is crucial, as mountain biking can be dangerous.
True or False: Mountain biking is an instant skill to master.
False
Becoming a great rider is a long-term process that requires patience and practice.
Fill in the blank: At the highest level, all skills _______.
converge
This means that advanced riders seamlessly integrate multiple skills into their riding.
What does it mean to ride your bike as an extension of your body?
It refers to the experience of Flow, where the lines between you, your bike, and the trail start to blur.
What is the importance of choosing the right bike?
A bike that fits your body and riding style enhances enjoyment and performance.
How does better equipment impact mountain biking?
It allows for faster speeds, better grip, and the ability to navigate challenging terrains.
What should you consider when deciding on a bike?
Customer service, shop proximity, value for money, suspension system, and specific angles.
Why is it recommended to buy from a local bike shop?
Local shops can help with selection, fit, and maintenance of your bike.
What are the benefits of top-level bike components?
They work better, feel better, and last longer than lower-end options.
Fill in the blank: A shorter stem can dramatically improve _______.
handling, confidence, and safety.
What are the advantages of full suspension bikes?
They provide more comfort, control, and allow for faster riding on rough terrain.
What is a hardtail bike?
A bike without rear suspension, typically lighter and cheaper than full-suspension bikes.
What are some advantages of hardtail bikes?
- Lower weight
- Simplicity
- Better performance on smooth trails and dirt jumping.
List the pros of mountain bike suspension.
- Smooths the ride
- Improves control
- Improves braking
- Absorbs greater impacts.
What are the potential drawbacks of using suspension on a bike?
- Increased weight
- Increased complexity
- Lost energy
- Higher maintenance costs.
What is the FSR Link suspension design known for?
It reduces chain and brake feedback while maintaining a constant chain length during shock stroke.
True or False: Hardtails are always preferred for cross-country racing.
False. Full-suspension bikes are commonly chosen due to their improved performance.
What is the best terrain for a single pivot bike design?
Smooth trails or downhill-specific riding.
What does the VPP suspension design do?
It uses multiple links to move the rear axle in an S-shaped curve for better pedal efficiency.
What are the recommended upgrades for a bike?
- Shorter stem
- Proper-length handlebars
- Dropper post
- Comfortable saddle
- Suitable tires.
What bike features are essential for riding pump tracks or rhythm-style dirt jumps?
A hardtail bike is ideal for these types of riding.
Fill in the blank: The Ellsworth Rogue 60 is recommended for _______.
most riders in most areas.
What is the impact of tire size on hardtails and rigid bikes?
Larger tires make hardtails and rigid bikes more tolerable and fun.
What should you do if you prefer online bike buying?
Develop a relationship with your local bike shop for support and maintenance.
What is the main benefit of maintaining top-level parts on a bike?
They can last indefinitely with proper maintenance.
What is the recommended practice when selecting a mountain bike?
Test-ride bikes at your local bike shop and pick a design that suits your terrain and riding style
Getting the best model you can afford and tuning the suspension is also advised.
What wheel sizes are currently common for adult mountain bikes?
- 26 in. (559 mm)
- 27.5 in. (584 mm)
- 29 in. (622 mm)
26-inch wheels are becoming rare, while 27.5 and 29-inch wheels are more prevalent.
What are the basic tire width ranges?
- Regular: 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) or less
- Plus: 2.8 to about 3.2 inches (7 to 8 cm)
- Fat: 3.5 inches (8.9 cm) or more
Four inches (10 cm) is common for dirt and packed snow; hardcore winter and sand riders use up to 4.8 inches (12 cm).
What is the effect of a larger wheel on riding?
A larger wheel rolls over bumps more easily and can feel like having more suspension
It accelerates more slowly but carries speed better, known as the freight train effect.
True or False: A smaller wheel is generally lighter and accelerates more quickly.
True
However, it has less ability to carry speed compared to larger wheels.
What is a recommended wheel size for taller riders?
29-inch wheels
The frame will be proportional to the wheels, providing a better fit.
What are the advantages of wider tires?
- Allow lower air pressure
- Provide more cushion in bumps
- Offer more traction on most surfaces
A wider, softer tire can absorb bumps better than suspension.
What is the trade-off when choosing tire width?
Wider tires are heavier, making them more sluggish
Rotating weight is significant; heavier tires can impact performance.
What is the current trend for 26-inch bikes?
They are almost dead, with 27.5 and 29-inch bikes dominating the market
Most holdouts are in dirt-jump, pump track, slopestyle, and slalom bikes.
What is the diameter of a 27.5 x 2.3 tire?
706 mm
This is part of the current standard for ‘fun’ bikes.
What is a 26 fatbike used for?
It is a proven solution for snow, sand, and loose surfaces
Riders can use a 4-inch tire in summer and go as big as 4.8 inches in winter.
What are the benefits of 27.5-inch wheels compared to 29-inch wheels?
- Accelerate faster
- Easier to maneuver
- Allow for designs not possible with bigger wheels
They carry more momentum and provide better traction compared to 26-inch wheels.
What makes 29-inch wheels a preferred choice for cross-country race bikes?
They deliver easy rolling with the light quickness of a narrower tire
A skilled rider can handle small bumps effectively, while larger bumps are absorbed by the rider.
What defines a 29 Plus wheel?
A 29er rim with a plus-size 3-inch tire
It has become popular among cross-country and expedition riders for easy rolling and high traction.
Fill in the blank: A larger rear wheel reduces the size of the _______.
cockpit
This can affect riding comfort, especially on steep terrain.
What is a disadvantage of heavy tires?
They can make the bike feel sluggish
Heavy tires affect performance due to their position in the rotating mass of the wheel.
What is the most meaningful measurement for rim width?
Internal rim width: the distance between the inside edges of the rim flanges.
What is the typical internal rim width range for cross-country to aggressive riding?
Cross-country: about 20 mm; Aggressive riding: about 25 mm.
What was the internal rim width of the Sun Rhyno Lite downhill rim?
22 mm.
What is the internal width of the top Specialized Purgatory tire on a Roval rim?
38 mm.
What are the current guidelines for rim widths?
- Old normal: 20-25 mm
- New normal: 25-30 mm
- Plus: 30-50 mm
- Fatbike: 50-100 mm
What are the pros of wider rims?
- Lower tire pressure for more cushion and traction
- Broader, flatter tire profile increases rubber contact
- Ability to run wider tires
What are the cons of wider rims?
- Increased weight due to more material
- Higher rolling resistance
- Greater risk of rim damage in rocky terrain
What should you consider when choosing tires for rims?
Consult the rim manufacturer for compatibility.
What is Brian’s ideal tire profile for grip and speed?
WTB 2.5 Convict light or high grip front and WTB 2.4 Trail Boss light or fast rear.
What is Lee’s preferred tire shape?
A crowned shape like the Specialized Ground Control 27.5 x 3.
What is the recommended approach for rim selection?
Choose the widest rim that fits your tire and is light enough for enjoyment.
What are the criticisms Brian had about 29ers?
- They don’t accelerate as quickly as smaller wheels
- Not as easy to bunny hop
- Don’t change direction as quickly
- Not as easy to throw around in the air
What are the advantages of 29ers according to Brian?
- Roll fast once moving
- Roll over rough terrain better
- Better traction
- Increased braking grip on the front tire
What is the range of tire widths compatible with a rim width of 30 mm?
1.85-3.5 inches.
Fill in the blank: The internal rim width of the bottom Purgatory tire is on a rim with a _______ inner width.
30 mm.
True or False: Alloy rims are considered better than ever.
True.
What should you consider when choosing a mountain bike?
Pick one that suits your typical rides
The choice becomes more confusing as the number of options increases.
What are Cross-Country Hardtail Bikes known for?
Covering the entire performance spectrum from entry-level to high-end racing machines
Perfect for smooth-course racers and those riding on pavement with occasional smooth trails.
What is the travel range for Cross-Country Suspension Bikes?
3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10 cm)
Designed for off-road speed and efficiency.
What defines Plus Hardtail Bikes?
Quick, light, affordable, and efficient with 3-inch (7.6 cm) tires
Suitable for beginners and provides a smooth, comfy ride.
What is the travel range for Cross-Country Trail Bikes?
4 to 5 inches (10 to 13 cm)
They are versatile and great for all-around trail riding.
What characterizes Plus Suspension Bikes?
Plus tires (typically 2.8 to 3 in. or 7 to 8 cm wide) with moderate suspension
They offer comfort and grip without the inefficiency of long-travel machines.
What is the typical travel range for Enduro Bikes?
150 to 170 mm
They are designed for stability on steep and rough terrain.
What are Downhill Bikes optimized for?
Flowing down rough trails with 8 or more inches (20+ cm) of travel
They are ideal for speed and racing.
What are Dirt-Jump Hardtails designed for?
Dirt-jumping, urban riding, and pump tracking
They are burlier and slacker compared to XC hardtails.
What features do Slalom Suspension Bikes have?
Slack geometry, 3 to 5 inches (7.6 to 12.7 cm) of travel, low bottom brackets
They provide increased traction and error margin for racers.
What is a key characteristic of Fatbikes?
4.0- to 4.8-inch (10 to 12 cm) tires
They allow exploration of new trails, especially in snowy areas.
What is a common misconception about BMX bikes?
They are not suitable for gnarly singletrack
However, they are excellent for improving bike-riding skills.
What are common features of women-specific mountain bikes?
Shorter top tubes, lower stand-over heights, and narrower handlebars
Designed to accommodate the average female body structure.
What is the formula for determining optimal crank length?
Optimal crank length = inseam length × 0.216
Important for achieving a smoother, stronger pedal stroke.
Fill in the blank: Women’s saddles tend to be _______ to fit their wider-set pelvic bones.
wider
True or False: Most women-specific bikes are designed primarily for aesthetics.
False
They focus on performance advantages rather than just color.
What is the first recommended upgrade for adapting a man’s bike for a woman?
Well-fitted saddle
A well-fitted saddle is crucial for comfort and proper positioning.
List three upgrades to improve bike fit for women.
- Shorter stem
- Narrower bars
- Low-profile grips
What type of brake levers are suggested for better fit?
Short-reach brake levers
Short-reach brake levers are designed for smaller hands.
What is the benefit of using shorter cranks?
Improved fit and comfort
Shorter cranks can help accommodate different leg lengths.
Fill in the blank: Let air out of your tires. If you weigh 30 percent less than your male riding partners, you can ride with about _______ percent less air.
30
What effect does reducing tire air pressure have on riding?
Smoother ride and better cornering traction
Lower tire pressure can enhance grip and comfort.
True or False: A narrower handlebar can help in adapting a man’s bike for a woman.
True
What is the effect of head angle on a bike’s ride?
The head angle number has the biggest effect on the way your bike feels. Higher numbers indicate a steeper head angle, while lower numbers indicate a slacker angle.
What is considered a steep head angle for a cross-country bike?
70 degrees
What is considered a slack head angle for a downhill bike?
63.5 degrees
What is trail in relation to bike geometry?
Trail is the distance of your front tire’s contact patch behind the steering axis.
How does trail affect bike stability?
More trail feels more stable at high speeds but more sluggish at low speeds.
What two factors determine trail?
- Head angle
- Fork offset (or rake)
What is the standard fork offset for 26” wheels?
42 mm
What is the standard fork offset for 27.5” wheels?
46 mm
What is the standard fork offset for 29” wheels?
51 mm
What is the effect of combining a slack head angle with extra fork offset?
You get a bike that’s magically stable yet more nimble.
What type of handling do steep bikes provide?
Steep bikes feel nimble, are easy to steer, and are easier to keep on track while climbing.
What is the downside of steep bikes?
They can feel sketchy on steep descents.
What does bottom bracket height determine?
The amount of ground clearance and how low your weight is hung below your hubs.
What is the relationship between bottom bracket height and cornering?
The lower your center of gravity, the better your bike will corner.
What should you consider when selecting a bottom bracket height?
Choose the lowest bottom bracket that suits your style and terrain.
How does chainstay length affect bike handling?
Short stays increase pumping power and make a bike feel more playful, while longer stays create a more balanced feel and stability at speed.
What is a steep seat tube angle beneficial for?
It places you on top of your pedals for optimal pedaling.
What is a traditional relationship between head angle and seat angle?
Both were steep for cross-country bikes and slack for downhill bikes.
What is the new compromise seen in modern enduro bikes?
Slack head angles (66 to 68 degrees) for descending and steep seat angles (73 to 74 degrees) for pedaling.
What can affect your ability to pedal well on a bike?
The seat tube angle has an enormous effect on the way you pedal your bike.
How can you adjust your saddle position for better pedaling power?
Push the saddle forward and tilt the nose down to align more directly over the bottom bracket.
True or False: Lower bottom brackets are better for all types of terrain.
False
What is the primary benefit of a dropper seatpost?
Allows adjustment of saddle height on the fly
A dropper seatpost enhances riding comfort and performance by enabling the rider to lower the seat during descents and technical sections.
What stem length is considered typical for modern trail bikes?
60 to 80 mm
Shorter stems improve handling without negatively affecting pedaling efficiency.
True or False: A dropper seatpost can help lower your center of gravity.
True
Lowering the seat enhances cornering ability and stability on steep descents.
What are the benefits of dropping your seat while riding?
- Lower center of gravity
- Easier cornering
- Improved ability to ride steep sections
- Better jumping and bunny hopping
- Ability to touch the ground with feet flat when stopped
What kind of handlebars should be chosen for a bike?
They should fit the rider’s anatomy
Handlebar width is often matched to riding style, but comfort and fit should take precedence.
How do lighter tires affect a bike’s performance?
They make the bike feel quicker
Tire choice can significantly alter the bike’s handling and speed characteristics.
What is the advantage of lighter wheels?
They make any bike feel quicker
Lighter wheels are a cost-effective upgrade for improved acceleration.
What is crucial for great brakes?
They must be powerful, controllable, and consistent
Reliable brakes increase rider confidence in various conditions.
What type of drivetrain is recommended for general riding?
A single ring with a wide-ratio cassette
This setup simplifies gear selection and improves reliability.
What is the effect of increasing fork travel?
Slackens geometry, increases stability, and provides a plusher ride
Most riders prefer to increase travel for better performance on rough terrain.
What are the differences between air and coil forks?
- Air forks are lighter and better for uphill
- Coil forks provide a plusher ride and are better for downhill
The choice between air and coil depends on the intended use of the bike.
What is the benefit of getting custom suspension tuning?
It improves ride quality for riders outside the average size or speed
Custom tuning can address specific needs based on rider weight and riding style.
What are some brands known for high-end suspension systems?
- FOX
- RockShox
- X-fusion
These brands offer a variety of options for tuning and performance enhancements.
Fill in the blank: Great brakes are worth their weight in _______.
gold
What drivetrain setup is preferred for downhill and enduro riding?
Single ring with a chain guide
This setup is favored for its simplicity and reliability during aggressive riding.
What is a key advantage of adjustable travel in forks?
Allows for tuning based on riding conditions
Riders can optimize their fork settings for climbing or descending.
True or False: Stiffer forks with thicker stanchion tubes provide less precise handling.
False
Stiffer forks enhance handling precision, especially in aggressive riding conditions.
What is the purpose of a shake-down ride?
To dial in the bike setup by making adjustments during the ride.
Shake-down rides involve testing and adjusting components like seat height, brakes, and suspension.
Why is it important to take time during shake-down rides?
To ensure the bike is properly adjusted for the trails you will regularly ride.
Adjustments may include tire pressures, suspension settings, and more.
How can you tell your bike is dialed in?
When the ride feels effortless, you float through rough sections, flow through turns, and find traction.
A well-set bike enhances rider confidence and performance.
What should be considered when adjusting brake lever placement?
Proper placement for maximum control with minimal effort.
Many new bikes have brake levers set incorrectly.
What is the correct finger to use for braking?
Index finger.
Using the index finger allows for better leverage and control.
What angle should brake levers be positioned at for moderate braking on flat terrain?
About 45 degrees from level.
This position aligns the forearm, wrist, hand, and finger.
What should you do if your shifters are not easily reachable after adjusting brake levers?
Move the shifters to the outside of the brake levers.
Proper reach to shifters is critical for effective control.
What is the most sensitive touch point on a bike?
The saddle.
Saddle comfort is crucial for an enjoyable ride.
What is the key factor in saddle fit?
The saddle should support your sitting bones (ischial tuberosities).
Correct saddle width prevents discomfort and allows for movement.
What should you avoid when selecting a saddle?
Choosing the narrowest saddle just because it is fashionable.
Comfort should take precedence over style.
What companies offer devices to measure sitting bone width?
Specialized and Bontrager.
These devices help find the correct saddle width for comfort.
Fill in the blank: Your ideal saddle supports your _______ so your weight doesn’t press on soft tissue.
sitting bones.
Proper support prevents painful or numbing experiences.
What is the design purpose of the Specialized Phenom?
Designed for easy movement and powerful pedaling
What is the main feature of the Sonoma Gel saddle?
Wider and more padded for casual riding
What can excessive soft padding in bike seats lead to?
Increased contact and friction can slow you down
What happens with very little padding in bike seats?
All weight rests on sitting bones, which can be uncomfortable
What type of saddle is preferred for mellow rides?
A soft saddle
What type of saddle is preferred for hard pedaling?
A firmer saddle
Why are cycling shorts important?
They prevent chafing and saddle sores
What does the chamois in cycling shorts do?
Supports sitting bones, cushions from shock, and wicks away moisture
True or False: You have to wear tight-fitting Lycra shorts to cycle comfortably.
False
How should the saddle angle be set for most riding?
Level, with front and back at the same height
What adjustment is suggested for climbing?
Point the nose of the saddle down
What adjustment is suggested for downhill riding?
Point the nose of the saddle up
What is the traditional fore-aft saddle positioning guideline?
With pedal at 3 o’clock, knee bone should be above pedal spindle
What does a seat positioned farther forward emphasize?
More quads and knees
What does a seat positioned farther back emphasize?
More glutes and hips
How does seat position affect climbing and descending?
- Seat forward feels better on steep climbs
- Seat back gives more room for descending
What is crucial for powerful and comfortable pedaling?
Correct seat position
What is suggested for riders who switch between bikes?
Position saddles identically on all bikes
What should you do to match saddle positions across bikes?
Use a plumb bob test to record distance and direction from knee to pedal spindle
What is the maximum adjustment distance suggested before needing a layback seatpost?
1/2 inch (1.3 cm)
What is a layback seatpost?
A seatpost that is bent toward the rear
What was the gear range of early mountain bikes?
Three front gears and about six gears in back, totaling 18 gears.
What is a One-By (1x) drivetrain?
A drivetrain that uses one gear in front, usually with 28 to 32 teeth, and a very wide-range cassette in back.
What is the most common cassette range for One-By drivetrains?
10 to 42 teeth.
What are the benefits of a One-By drivetrain?
- Simplicity of one front ring
- No front derailleur
- Reduced weight
- Less fiddling by the rider
- Lots of ground clearance
- Easier for manufacturers to design bikes
What is a disadvantage of One-By drivetrains?
The gear range is smaller than with multiple chainrings.
How can you make a One-By setup more versatile for climbing?
By adding a small chainring back onto a triple crankset.
What is a Gravity One-By drivetrain?
A drivetrain used in downhill and gravity bikes, featuring bigger front rings and smaller rear cassettes.
What is a Two-By (2x) drivetrain?
A drivetrain that uses two chainrings in front, allowing for a greater gear range.
What are the pros of a Two-By drivetrain?
- More gear range
- Security from chain throws
- Practicality for climbers
What is a con of Two-By drivetrains?
You have to manage two shifters.
What is a Three-By (3x) drivetrain?
A drivetrain that uses three chainrings, offering the ultimate gear range.
What is the primary advantage of a Three-By drivetrain?
Ultimate gear range, suitable for various terrains.
What is a disadvantage of Three-By drivetrains?
Increased weight and complexity.
What is a Single Speed (1x1) drivetrain?
A drivetrain with only one gear, focusing on simplicity and low-speed torque.
What gear ratio do most single speed bikes run?
A 2:1 gear ratio, typically 36 in front and 18 in back.
What terrain is ideal for Single Speed bikes?
- Moderately steep terrain
- Jump, park, or pump bikes
What is the Gates belt drive?
A drive system that is stronger, quieter, and more reliable than traditional chains.
True or False: Single Speed bikes are known for their complexity.
False.
Fill in the blank: One-By drivetrains are becoming the standard for _______.
[trail, enduro, plus, and fatbikes].
What is the primary function of a chain guide?
To keep the chain in control and prevent it from falling off the chainrings.
Chain guides are especially beneficial for aggressive riders or those without clutch derailleurs.
When might a rider need a chain guide?
If they ride very aggressively, throw their chain, or need a bash guard.
Riders without a clutch derailleur should consider upgrading to one before using a chain guide.
What is a simple top guide best suited for?
1x trail shredders.
An example is the Woolftooth Gnarwolf Chainguide.
What does an ISCG top guide with bash guard provide?
Next-level protection for 1x trail riders.
It attaches to ISCG mounts and helps with chain retention while protecting the chainring.
What is the function of an ISCG top and bottom guide?
To prevent the chain from unwrapping from the bottom of the chainring.
This setup is specifically for 1x configurations.
What is a dual-ring bottom guide with bash guard used for?
To support two chainrings while providing a bash guard.
It works best with a clutch rear derailleur for versatility.
What does a single-ring guide with bash guard offer?
Maximum security for downhill riding.
An example is the Gamut USA P Series.
What should a rider consider when choosing how much guide they need?
Weight concerns and the need for chain retention.
Start with the lightest guide and upgrade as necessary.
True or False: Clutch derailleurs eliminate the need for chain guides for all riders.
False.
Aggressive riders or those throwing chains may still require a chain guide.
Fill in the blank: A chain guide is often recommended for _______ riders.
aggressive
What type of chain guide is best for riders who bash into obstacles?
ISCG top guide with bash guard.
What should be the only connection you have with the ground?
Your tires
This emphasizes the importance of tires in biking.
What are the three ideal characteristics of tires?
- Light enough to drag uphill
- Durable enough to hold air
- Grippy enough to keep you stable
These characteristics are essential for optimizing performance.
What is the trade-off when using soft rubber compounds?
Improves cornering traction but increases rolling resistance
This highlights the need to balance performance and efficiency.
What type of casing improves durability and reduces pinch flats?
Thick casings
However, they add extra weight.
What type of tire profile is best for beginners and cautious riders?
Round profile tires
These tires have evenly spaced treads for better stability.
What do round-profile tires provide on hardpacked surfaces?
Feel secure and reliable
Ideal for pump tracks, dirt jumps, and bike parks.
What is a squircle profile in tire design?
A mathematical shape with properties of a square and circle
Useful for riders who need versatility in traction.
What do square-profile tires require from expert riders?
Aggressive leaning in turns
These tires are designed for advanced handling.
What type of knob spacing is associated with bigger knobs?
Usually spaced far apart
This allows them to penetrate loose surfaces.
What is the relationship between dirt type and knob size?
Looser dirt requires bigger knobs; harder dirt allows smaller knobs
This affects tire performance on various terrains.
Fill in the blank: If picking a tire is one of your major life challenges, you’re a _______.
lucky person
This suggests that having such choices is a privilege.
What are the three descriptive terms used to categorize riders?
- Round
- Squircle
- Square
These terms replace the traditional beginner, intermediate, and expert classifications.
What do squircle-profile tires offer to mountain bikers?
Good traction at all angles and moods
They are suitable for varied trail conditions.