An Amusement & Diversion for The Genteel Cyclist. Daily.

Thursday, July 5, 2007

Our brand of grump


Generally speaking, we like the cut of this guy's jib. He uses too damn many words and not enough tawkin' pitchers, if you know what we mean, but still.

Today's rant about the fool's errand of trying to make your bike into an ass-cradling chariot is a good one, especially as regards suspensions on mountain bikes.

If the biggest drop you’re going to encounter on your ride is the one from the running board of your SUV, you may not need the long-travel double-boinger.


True enough. But lookit: We are almost out of patience explaining this very simple proposition, so listen up. (You too, bikesnob; we realize you New Yorkers don't have any real understanding of riding dirt.) Suspensions on authentic mountain bikes are NOT designed to keep your butt or spine, or neck, or any other part of your body comfortable, though they may have that happy consequence. They are designed to keep your tires in contact with the trail.

For failed paradigms, look up "shockpost," "slingshot bike," and those goofy shock-absorbing cantilevered necks from circa 1990.

No comments: