chillindrdude

sorry, but the "DHer's 29r" bike has already been taken by the Evil Following....

Stop trying to confound the issue to suit your argument, with the word "assisted". BS. Does it have a motor? Yes. Then it's motorized, period. That definition doesn't depend on how that motor is activated, be it via a twist throttle or turning the cranks. I would go further and say, these are electric motorcycles. We can tell the bicycle corporations to go F off by voting with our wallets.

I don't understand why folks can't grasp the concept. A bicycle + motor (which puts power into propulsion) = motorcycle, period. It's not an "e"-mountain bike(cycle)...or "pedal-assist" bike(cycle). it's a motorcycle...period. If you aren't allowed to ride a motorized anything on your trails, then you aren't allowed to ride an "e-mtb"....or whatever convoluted term you want to coin. Just because you could, doesn't mean you should.

It's ironic that there is a sizeable number of "mountain bikers" that don't see an issue or distinction between a bicycle and a motorized bike, but nearly all US land managers do.

We are all diminished by Steve's passing. Rest easy Chainsaw.

IMBA can go eatadik. They oppose STC because it could possibly usurp their power as the voice of "responsible" mountain bikers. Their sustainability mantra is "horsesh!t" (pun intended). Nearly every IMBA-supported/managed trail is a smooth dirt track. A snoozefest of a time, similar to just riding an indoor trainer. And any interesting features are neutered and watered down to cater to the lowest possible denominator, devoid of any progression. I oppose IMBA.

It is obvious to say but suspension design and geometry has allowed 120mm travel bikes to be competent descenders. The right progressivity with the right valving can make the bike feel planted and bottomless. Whereas you may give up tenths (or even a second or so) in the downhills, the efficiency of a short travel bike makes that back up in spades on the flats or climbing. I'm no fan of climbing, but giving me a faster overall speed, allowing to ride longer, faster IS appealing to me. The terrain near me also dictates my choice of bike. I think if I lived in the Pacific Northwest or BC, a 150-160mm travel bike would make more sense. The terrain I ride daily just isn't as technical or downhilly. I owned an Enduro 27.5 but it was just too much travel, hence I sold it and got an Evil Following. I am still amazed by its composure when it gets steep and rough. TL;DR I agree with the article. In my case, all that's needed for me is my Evil Following and a DH bike and that will cover 99% of the riding I do/enjoy.