Cycling Together with Kristin & Steve

Kristin and Steve hold a mirror up to Steve's own bicycle purchasing decisions as they discuss something they've observed in the Shop – riders who have really (really) nice bicycles and gear, who may not spend quite as much on their partner's bike. What may seem like "rational thinking" can often lead to a spouse or partner failing to embrace cycling, or giving up quickly,...

E-mountain bikes are on the rise, and according to some industry insiders, e-bikes will soon represent more than half the bikes on the trail one day. But should we, as Outside Magazine asks, “just submit to our eMTB future?” After breaking down the different classes of e-bikes, Kristin and Steve unpack their biases before digging deep into the growth; drawbacks including raising the bar to entry a...

The best way to extend the life of your bike and it's components, which in turn will save you money, is to keep it clean! We share how we clean our personal bikes, our "must have" equipment, why it's important to always dry your chain, and how to know if you have "toxic" sweat. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future...

Kristin is getting a new mountain bike - a custom built BC40 from Allied Cycle Works. In addition to discussing why Allied is a good fit for the Shop, we discuss types of mountain bikes (cross-country, down country, all trail) as well as some of the component choices they are making while building the new bike.  Speaking of components, we discuss why dropper posts have become "required"...

Before Jackie bought a new mountain bike in 2021, the last time she had ridden a bicycle was when she was a teenager.  But as Hale Education's Director of Camp and Community Programs worked with the organization's growing mountain bike community, she soon found herself taking up a new hobby. A few years and three bikes later, Jackie has grown as a rider, leader and ride organizer, using...

There is still a lot we don't know about the new tariffs, but experts all appear to agree – the costs of new bikes, as well as parts, accessories and everything else are likely to increase. Steve and Kristin sit down to discuss how tariffs may be already affecting purchasing decisions for manufacturers, supplies and retailers, as well as what you can do to save in the short term whether you h...

Spring is here, and our thoughts turn towards getting bikes ready to ride. But does your bike "need" a tune up? Steve and Kristin talk about what is (generally) included in a service package, what can you do to care for your bike to extend it's life, and how to ensure you get what you pay for when bringing your bike to the bike shop. Steve also shares why he's excited for the a...

A technical glitch got us on the last episode!  While visiting the San Lee Gravity Bike Park in Sanford, North Carolina, we recorded a spontaneous segment about the fun that is gravity parks. We discuss some gravity park basics, and why no jumping is required - just control your speed. We also do a deep dive on mountain bike suspension inspired by a couple of questions Kristin spotted while scroll...

We're home after our two week van trip - but there is no rest for the weary! Before we put up our feet and unpack the van,  we discuss our trip, including how we travel with our dog, meal prep when the fridge is broken, working through bad wifi and other frequently asked questions. We also share details details about our self-built Sprinter van – a 2021 160 High Roof – including why she is li...

Kristin and Steve report in the first week of a two-week road trip designed to get them out of the New England cold. Planning an extended trip that includes riding, sightseeing, resources for working and accommodations for the van, and dog, is no easy feat. Kristin and Steve share where they have traveled, what's gone right (and wrong) as well as some of the resources that Steve used to plan...

When mountain biking should you ride on clipless (clip-in) or flat pedals? While there are many “experts” with very strong opinions (which they are not afraid to share), Kristin and Steve discuss the truth which is – there are advantages and disadvantages to each. They start with a look back at the evolution of the “clip-less” pedal, and the rise in popularity of flats, as well as discuss why it’s...

Beyond the bike, kids and teenagers racing mountain bikes need additional gear to round out their "kit." Kristin and Steve discuss the options for mountain bike jerseys, shorts, pedals, shoes, hydration, helmets and more. We also circle back to bikes briefly to talk about dual suspension options as well as best bikes for little racers in grades K to 4.  Before wrapping up with tech talk...

Whether you have a child thinking about joining NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association); NEYC (New England Youth Cycling) or racing solo, it starts with getting them the "right" bike. But the choices can be overwhelming, particularly for parents that may not be familiar with mountain bikes and mountain bike equipment. Inspired by a recent Open House and Information Session we...

Inspired by an opinion piece in Mountain Bike Action, we're talking about proper mountain bike etiquette. We discuss who has priority on shared use trails, how to pass another mountain biker whether traveling in the same or opposite directions, and rules that are specific for group rides. Following the "rules" not only ensures safety of all trail users, creates a more welcoming envi...

Everyone's road (or trail) to cycling has a different start, as well as twists and turns. On this episode, Kristin and Steve are looking back and digging deep into the photo archives to share how they each started cycling, the bikes that have come (and gone), and how their cycling has evolved since they started cycling together. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Leave a comment, question or t...

If you want to mountain bike outside during the winter (and still have a day job) there is a very good chance you will be riding at at night, in the cold.  Inspired by a recent ride with "Friday Night Ride (FNR)" friends, Kristin and Steve share how riding at night gives a new perspective on your favorite trails, while also making new trails a bit more challenging. We also discuss the ge...

The snow is falling, and our thoughts turn towards dusting off our fat bikes! Kristin and Steve roll back to the early days of the Shop when the introduction of fat bikes and our then-partnership marked an important turning point. During our conversation we talk about our bikes – a Surly Wednesday and Surly Ice Cream Truck – as well as share information about bikes, components, tubeless tires and...

Shorter days and colder temperatures have forced us inside and onto our trainers. And while we aren't entirely happy about it (we always prefer riding outside), there are plenty of good reasons to get on the trainer. We share some of the tactics (and gear) we use to make the most of "riding miles, going no where." Send us Fan Mail Support the show Leave a comment, question or topic...

At the start of the New Year while some are making resolutions, Kristin and Steve are planning their ride schedule!  For this, the first episode of Cycling Together, Kristin and Steve share some of their past ride experiences, what factors they consider when deciding on rides, and what rides are on their list for 2025. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion...