Riding the Sync’r the past couple of weeks reminded me that bikes don’t make me happy, but getting out and riding does. Sure, I know there’s a difference between a $750 bike and a $9,000. But since I’m not clearing 30-foot gaps or racing on the EWS circuit, why do I think I need some hot commodity of a high-end bike? It certainly won’t make me happier, nor mean I enjoy riding more. No, this is not some anti-consumerism rant. Instead, it’s a reminder of the fun we can have out on the trail regardless of what kind of bike we have … even if it’s a budget bike.
Race season is well underway. Whether we’re talking about local races sponsored by the area bike shop or international race series sponsored by Red Bull, riders all over the world are grinding away to not only make the podium, but to see their dreams come true. We catch up with Loam Coffee Team Rider Malene Degn and get the scoop on the latest in her world as she is in the throes of her race season. We hear more about her new team, her new bike, and what is before her this season.
We thought we'd catch up with Brandon Porter of The SingleTrack Life, a freeride/race team here in Portland that we sponsor and partner with, to see what steed he is throwing his leg of of late. (Warning: contents of this post may cause dizziness, want, excessive internet searching for smokin' deals, and discontent with your bike.)
