pnwpedal

so true. $1 each at a grocery store, $3+ at a gas station.

@poozank: I can agree with that. Stay within their closed environment, you know you'll get something that works and works well. No need to shop around outside their brand if you don't want to. Just like Apple, not the best quality nor the best value, but no need to shop around and nerd out on tech specs if that isn't your thing.

Cool, even more reasons to dislike Specialized and continue my stance to avoid purchasing any product from them. Even without this B-to-C shift... Do they sell good products? Absolutely. Do they sell the best products? Nope. Do they sell any products that are a better value than other brands' products? Nope. Specialized's only real benefit is that someone could walk into a shop with little to no knowledge or market research, buy Specialized branded bikes and kit and gear and parts, and know they are getting something good. Not the best, not the best deal, but good. Without the LBS support Specialized is just another generic brand.

Even our descending/shuttle trails have some flatter pedal sections that require my dropper to go up-down-up-down pretty quickly. There's no way in hell I'm taking one hand off the bars multiple times to reach under my crotch and flip this lever to hopefully end up in the right position out of three. My saddle is set for optimal climbing at max extension and it's perfect 95% of the time. "Nose up" might look cooler when the saddle is lowered but until that action is tied into the lever actuated dropper movement like the WU post it's a non-starter for most riders.

@guillaumecommencal: haha it's absolutely down to each individual, but everything I've seen for behavioral science is that women tend to be more risk averse than men. For better or worse.

It's interesting to see you get downvoted for this, as it's glaringly obvious that women aren't willing to ride the course. I'm sure many are able and I guarantee that any proven female rider who expressed interest would be encouraged to ride. Granted... Statistically, women take fewer risks than men and this event is about as risky as it gets.

Part of me never understood the brand, but I just realized that the website is freaking hilarious. We need more brands who are all about having a good time.

I checked the manufacturer's website as I was preparing to rag on their lead times, but then saw that these frames have a June delivery date. That's honestly really damn impressive these days. It looks to be a killer bike for 90% of the riding that we actually ride.

Bellingham locals: "We don't want more people coming to ride our trails! Parking lots are too full! Trail work isn't appreciated and can't keep up!" Also Bellingham locals: "Look at this 6 event public race series we are holding! It's so cool! But don't actually come ride here!" :D :D :D