Mechanical disc brakes on drop bar bikes are a funny thing.  As much as the big brands would like you to believe that hydraulic brakes are the only way to roll, there are still plenty of people rolling on cable-actuated stoppers. 

It’s easy to forget that before Sram and Shimano released fully integrated hydraulic brake and shifter systems for road and gravel bikes, there was a period where riders were beginning to open their eyes to the advantages...

Read more

After a two year Covid hiatus our 200k ride series is BACK.

The last time we did these rides (all the way back in 2019) we rode the 6 Rivers, West Point, and Jamestown Nocturnal 200.   This year all three are back (with some fun updates) and we’re kicking things kick off with the 6 Rivers 200.

Read more

Last Saturday we managed to convince around 40 fellow bike-nerds to drive from Richmond down to Lacrosse to ride the inaugural Old Dirty South Hill mixed-surface “road” ride.

Last Saturday we managed to convince around 40 fellow bike-nerds to drive from Richmond down to Lacrosse to ride the inaugural Old Dirty South Hill mixed-surface “road” ride.   The route was 72 miles long with...

Read more

It’s easy to just write off kids' bikes as a toy.  Chances are if you're reading this, that it’s been a while since you were running around a playground like a maniac at recess with plenty more energy to burn on the weekends.

As an adult, it’s pretty easy to grasp why better quality equipment makes for a better experience.  For a bike that generally means fit, ride quality, efficiency, and weight.  Those are all pretty straightforward to optimize.  A frame that fits works better because you are more comfortable and better

Read more

Several years ago Marin released the original Marin Nicasio.  Since then it has become one of our best selling bikes and for good reason.

In the past, most entry-level road bikes were just that, ROAD bikes.  Affordable, but not exactly versatile.  Rim brakes and little room for larger tires made for bikes with a very limited range...

Read more