Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Cycling Together with Kristin & Steve
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| So you want to buy a used bicycle | 26 May 2026 | 01:02:23 | |
As an experienced bike shop owner once told us - everyone rides a used bike! Steve and Kristin discuss what to look for (or look out for) when purchasing a pre-owned road or mountain bike, with a special focus on the things that are most expensive to replace, and how to know how much is "too much" to repair a used bicycle. Kristin even surprises Steve with a few real marketplace listings for evaluation and explanation. Also in this episode... Kristin also shares how a podcast from the Women's MTB Network on bike fit for women has swayed her on the need for women's specific saddles, they discuss why you should replace your helmet ever 3 to 5 years, Steve explains Shimano Cues and Microshift components, and they share news about the 5th year of the Shop's summer MTB ride series for women. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| What You Need to Know About Bike Fits | 11 May 2026 | 01:06:13 | |
Whether its to maximize your efficiency or to increase your comfort and time in the saddle, being "fit" by a professional bicycle fitter can offer riders a lot of value. Steve breaks down the basics of a bike fit, including adjustments you may be able to make to get you into your "gray zone." They also discuss Kristin's Everwild weekend at Hale Education and the value of mountain bike clinics to improve your skills as well as the recent backlash against the industry's ongoing push towards 32" wheels. Steve then answers a couple of follower questions about Rock Shox Flight Attendant before they discuss the issue of sales reps and influencers commenting on new technology without disclosing their relationship with the brands. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| Do we need women specific bikes? | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:49:52 | |
An article in Cycling Weekly has Kristin and Steve discussing the rise and fall of women's specific bikes and whether we "need" bikes built for women, or more options for all riders? Kristin also shares her experiences at New England Youth Cycling's Girls of the League Day, and Steve answers questions about flat top chains and Flight Attendant from Rock Shox. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| So you want to join a group ride | 14 Apr 2026 | 01:00:56 | |
Group rides - whether informal gatherings of riders or organized events - are a great way to meet new friends, discover new routes and have a most enjoyable time on your bike. But joining your first group ride, be it road, mountain or gravel, can be a intimidating if you don't know what to expect. Kristin and Steve use their experiences both participating in, and leading, group rides to share how to know which group ride is right for you, as well as some of the etiquette and skills you will need to stay safe and have fun. Steve also shares some updates on 32" mountain bike wheels as well as name changes for mtb groupsets from SRAM. And we answer our first listener voicemail - talking about waxing your chain. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| Simple Upgrades That Can Make a Big Difference | 01 Apr 2026 | 01:19:52 | |
We're pulling Steve out of the weeds of last episode to give a high level review of some simple bike upgrades that can make a difference. From front to back, top to bottom, we cover a little bit of everything. Kristin and Steve also discuss recent reactions to video shorts and why the hot takes and strong opinions make cycling feel intimidating. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| Bike Upgrades That Give The Most Bang For Your Buck | 17 Mar 2026 | 01:19:15 | |
Upgrading the parts and components on your bicycle can be a great way to improve comfort and performance – but what are the upgrades that will give you the best "bank for your buck" and when is the "juice not worth the squeeze." Kristin and Steve discuss what to look for when buying a bike including what can (and can't) be easily upgrade. They also discuss the Ozark Trail from Walmart, a new line of low cost, better quality bikes which promise to get more people on bicycles, and take a moment to say good-bye to a member of our cycling community, Anthony Moccia. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| Oh the Places We Rode | 03 Mar 2026 | 00:44:22 | |
As Kristin and Steve wrap up the second week of traveling by van, they are taking a look back at all the places they rode including popular mtb destination, Santos Trails in Ocala, Florida. They share highlights from the trip, lessons learned, as well as the tools Steve packed "just in case." Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| Comments, Questions, Complaints, Corrections & Clarifications | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:58:25 | |
Kristin and Steve are taking a look back, addressing comments, questions and criticisms on a variety of topics including where to buy used parts online; New Jersey's new ebike laws; dork disks; finding the "right" mtb tires for New England XC riding and.... Erg Mode (hopefully for the last time). Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| How NEYC Gets More Kids on Bikes | 26 Jan 2026 | 01:21:53 | |
We are joined by Kelly Catale, Executive Director of New England Youth Cycling (NEYC) a "youth" development organization that supports racing and riding for kids in grades 5-12, plus a development riding program serving grades K-5. During our conversation, we discuss the basics - teams, practices, equipment - as well as how NEYC is helping kids and families build community and find the joy in racing and riding. We also discuss the roll advocacy organizations such as MassBike play in the development of reasonable bike laws and how cyclists can help those efforts to avoid legislative overreach. Thank you JTracy for the cover photo, and JTracy & Steve the Photographer for photos in the video version. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| So You Want to Try Zwift | 12 Jan 2026 | 01:18:07 | |
Riders who are "Zwift-curious" - this (very long) episode is for you! Kristin and Steve discuss the basics of Zwift, the popular virtual training app that gamifies indoor riding (and makes it slightly less miserable, or maybe even fun). Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| Wrapping up a year of riding and podcasting | 29 Dec 2025 | 00:52:38 | |
We are marking the end of a year of riding, and our first year of podcasting – reviewing the rides that were, as well as some of our goals for 2026. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| The Worst Gifts for Cyclists | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:57:07 | |
'Tis the season for "listicles" of gift ideas for cyclists from every publication from Bicycling Magazine to Good Housekeeping looking to sell you something or make a buck through affiliate links. Steve and Kristin go through lists from several, discussing why some seemingly obvious choices actually make for terrible gifts (unless you KNOW it's what someone wants), as well as share some of their favorites as well as those from the STBG Cycling Team. We also discuss feedback received on a recent clip about ebikes ruining mountain biking, and share news from the Shop including new waterbottles and the new Spider from Intense. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| About Bike Computers and Phone Apps | 18 Nov 2025 | 00:59:32 | |
As both riders and bike shop owners, Kristin and Steve get a lot of questions about bike computers as well as bicycle tracking phone apps. We share our experiences using examples from the Garmin ecosystem, to discuss the features and drawbacks of each as well how to decide what will work for you and your priorities. We also revisit the question – are e-mtbs ruinining mountain bikes – and share an announcement from the Shop.... Steve the Bike Guy is now an Intense dealer. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| Planning a Mixed Terrain Route | 04 Nov 2025 | 01:04:49 | |
Each year, Kristin and Steve organize the "Hallowed Groad" a self-supported, mixed-terrain scavenger hunt adventure ride designed to introduce riders to the trails in our area as well a local "sites" that may be missed by most. They discuss what goes into planning a route, as well as how they market the event. The change in season also has them sharing some of their favorite "shoulder season" gear. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| About PMC Unpaved | 21 Oct 2025 | 00:55:28 | |
For the fourth year, Steve and Kristin joined riders and volunteers at PMC Unpaved, the Pan-Mass Challenge's annual gravel fundraiser which benefits Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Lenox, Massachusetts. In addition to reflecting on another amazing experience, we share our experiences, advice, tips and insights as well as thoughts for next year. During this episode we also discuss the proposed tariffs on the aluminum and steel content of bicycles, and answer listener comments and questions (including how did Steve turn a Raleigh Technium into an ebike). Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| What Your Bicycle Frame is Made From | 01 Oct 2025 | 01:15:55 | |
Hold on tight – We are letting Steve dive deep into the bicycle geekery with this episode! Inspired by not one, but two, titanium frames which had to be returned to their manufacturers for repair, we're talking about about what bike frames are made of (steel, aluminum, titanium, carbon, oh my), including the pros and cons as well as care and repair. You also may be surprised by the material Steve thinks more bikes should be made from. We also share an update on our PMC Unpaved fundraising (thank you), the benefits of wearing a helmet (even on the rec path), as well as a few favorite articles seen while scrolling. Visit SteveTheBikeGuy to see photos of some of the bikes mentioned. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| So You Want to Try Cyclocross | 09 Sep 2025 | 00:46:49 | |
Inspired by our recent cyclocross activities – lending a hand at two introductory clinics, as well as supporting racers at Midnight Ride of Cyclocross – Kristin & Steve are sharing information about this most peculiar, but welcoming, type of bicycle racing. We discuss cyclocross race features and skills, as well as equipment options including bike and tire choices. We also share recent experiences with Lyme, how Steve got caught buying something on Amazon, and what is his recommended gearing for gravel bikes. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 25. CX, D2R2 & Cycling with Sophie | 26 Aug 2025 | 01:01:51 | |
For our 25th episode we welcome our college age daughter, Sophie, to the show! A listener comment about cyclocross has reminiscing about our racing days, and learning how to embrace the very embarrassing situations that can happen during a race. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 24. A Cacophony of Clicks.... or How Jeff Started Riding & Racing | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:59:48 | |
We enjoyed speaking with Jeff so much - we had him on twice! Jeff shares how he started riding with an epic race on a rented bike, and how the "cacophony of clicks" keeps him coming back to racing, events and group rides. We also discuss why cyclocross is the ultimate niche sport, but with the most welcoming community of riders, and a ew generation of riders on gravel bikes, the time might be now for growth. Kristin and Steve also discuss rules of the road for riders (and why we are our own worst enemy) and the potential consequences of the UCI's possible decision to ban 32" mountain bike wheels, and Kate Courtney's record setting time winning the Leadville Trail 100. Photo credit: Steve the Photographer - Treehouse CX Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 23. The Rift Iceland, Pan-Mass Challenge Support and Post-Event FOMO | 04 Aug 2025 | 01:01:17 | |
If FOMO is the "Fear of Missing Out" then what is the term for when you know you missed out because you can't do all things all the time? With help from our friend Jeff we talk about their "guys trip" to take on The Rift in Iceland, and Steve shares his five tips for those who want to ride The Rift. Kristin and Steve also talk about some of the most common repairs made for Pan-Mass Challenge riders from our unsanctioned tent, as well as one of our most unusual problems; how tariffs are impacting prices at your local bike shop and why to keep an eye out for counterfeit parts, and Steve admits that maybe more people wear cycling caps than he realized. Photo credit: The Rift Iceland, Jon Halldor Unnarsson Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 22. How to Take Your Bike on a Plane | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:59:17 | |
Days after recording, Steve was on a flight to Iceland to take on “The Rift” with friends and customers. Inspired by the trip, Kristin & Steve talk about how to travel with your bicycle, specifically on a plane. We share when to consider renting bikes vs bringing your own, and options for packing your bike (bags vs boxes). Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 21. How Alex & Jason Started Cycling | 08 Jul 2025 | 01:20:09 | |
Kristin and Steve welcome their best friend, and original members of the STBG Cycling team, Alex and Jason to share how they each started cycling. From Jason's teenage years, to Alex's introduction through triathlon, through their time racing cyclocross to today, we discuss their cycling evolution, couples rules and why we riders like to do "hard things." Separately Kristin and Steve discuss what percentage time time a mountain biker is out of their saddle, as well as if e-bikes threaten to destroy QOM/KOMs on Strava. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 20. Underrated But Essential Bike Handling Skills | 23 Jun 2025 | 01:01:44 | |
On our 20th episode of Cycling Together, Kristin and Steve, with help from members of the STBG Cycling Team, share some of the "underrated but essential" bike handling skills. Inspired by two recent bicycle events, we discuss skills to benefit road and gravel riders, whether riding alone, with a friend or in a big group. On our list... taking your hands off your handlebars; walking your bike; starting (and stopping) with intention; drafting and pace lines; turns and pedal position as well as riding on dirt and other “light” mountain bike skills. During our conversation we go on a bit of a tangent about ride etiquette (can we buy an “on your left.”) as well as discuss the new UCI rules for handlebar widths and why women riders are not happy with the new ruling. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 19. Why Your Wife Needs The Better Bike | 10 Jun 2025 | 01:10:00 | |
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, due to discomfort, discouragement and failed expectiations. Using personal experience, they discuss how a "better" bike or components can lead to a better experience and, hopefully, a happier rider. They also discuss Steve's first impressions of Kristin's new BC40 (speaking of better bikes); Shimano's new wireless XTR Di2 drivetrain and while answering a viewer a question about chain lube on new chains, also discuss chain wax. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 18. Are E-Mountain Bikes (EMTB) Inevitable? | 27 May 2025 | 01:03:18 | |
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 and costs of maintenance, dangers related to bad batteries as well as the potential issues and the etiquette. We also recognize we have a lot to learn, and that our attitudes and opinions may change as we give e-mountain bikes a try. Seen while scrolling: Articles in Road.cc and Bike Radar inspire a conversation about cross-chaining and whether it is really an issue. Reader question: Steve shares how to care for a slightly rusty chain and when to know if your chain has “too much” rust. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 17. How to Clean Your Bicycle | 12 May 2025 | 01:16:07 | |
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. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 16. New Mountain Bikes, Dropper Posts and Mechanic Answers | 28 Apr 2025 | 01:07:50 | |
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" equipment (and why we don't think that's a great idea) as well as answer questions from listeners and the internet on topics including mountain bike suspension, hooked and hookless rims, and bike gearing. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 15. How Jackie Started Cycling | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:48:46 | |
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 her platform and personal experience to create and cultivate experiences designed to welcome more girls and women to the sport. On this episode, Jackie joins Kristin to share her development and discoveries as she started riding and what her goals are for the future. They also discuss her passion project, Everwild, a day of clinics and rides for women which is held at Hale on International Women's Mountain Bike Day. Steve and Kristin wrap up the episode discussing where people can find good quality information and reviews about bikes and equipment, and what it means when we say shift "up" or "down." Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 14. Managing the Chaos and Costs of New Tariffs | 07 Apr 2025 | 01:00:01 | |
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 have a bike, or need/want a bike. We also discuss the beautiful red SID Ultimate Flight Attendant RockShox fork spotted during this past weekend's UCI World Cup in Araxá, and the "ken-energy" of certain naming conventions. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 13. (Almost) Everything You Need to Know About Bike Tune-Ups | 01 Apr 2025 | 01:05:28 | |
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 announcements from SRAM including the new Eagle Mechanical Transmission and, but not so impressed by the 32" tires coming out 2025 Taipei Cycle Show, Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 12. Gravity Parks and Questions About Mountain Bike Suspension | 24 Mar 2025 | 00:48:51 | |
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. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 11. Lessons from our van trip | 17 Mar 2025 | 00:51:37 | |
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 lighter than your average Sprinter build out (but certainly not light), what we have planned and why the “side wind assist” was incredibly helpful on the trip home. We wrap up with our “Seen While Scrolling” segment with Steve sharing the potential of Intense’s “Frame First” program. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 10. Planning a Van Trip for Riding & More | 10 Mar 2025 | 00:41:54 | |
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 for our first extended van trip. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 9. Should you MTB on clipless or flat pedals? | 03 Mar 2025 | 00:55:51 | |
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 okay to hold back on offering unsolicited advice to riders, regardless of what is on their feet. Special thanks to Justin for allowing us to share the perfectly perfect picture of him jumping his mtb with toe clips. They also share why you don’t need to use a blow torch to fix your brakes (unless you want to ruin them), and the most recent article from Consumer Reports regarding helmet safety. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 8. How to Buy MTB Gear for Speedy Kids & Teens (Part 2) | 17 Feb 2025 | 00:56:34 | |
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 inspired by the first images of new SRAM Motive brakes spotted on brujulabike.com while scrolling, Steve answers Kristin's questions about the reverence for, and history of, Campagnolo. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 7. How to Buy a Mountain Bike for Speedy Kids & Teens (Part 1) | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:49:21 | |
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 hosted at the Shop for our local NEYC, the Dover Demons, in the first in a two-part series we break down what to look for in a mountain bike for a “speedy” teen or child. We discuss the minimum you should plan on spending (retail) as well as what your kid needs (vs what their teammates might tell them) including dual-suspension vs hardtail; aluminum vs carbon frames; tubeless vs tubes; dropper posts, and the value of high quality components. With used bikes being a great option to get a high quality bike, we also discuss what to look for, and what to avoid. During the second part we will be discussing the other gear kids need (or don't) as well as answering other questions. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 6. Don't be a jerk - About mountain bike etiquette | 04 Feb 2025 | 00:57:17 | |
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 environment for new riders, and preserves trail access. We also introduce a new, as yet to be named segment where Steve shares some wisdom from the bike shop. This week, Steve uses Cannondale's entry level mountain bike, the Trail 1, to share an issue when product managers decide to save money by choosing alternative chains, rather than the one that is decided for the drive train. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 5. How We Started Cycling | 28 Jan 2025 | 00:49:06 | |
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. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 4. Mountain Biking When It's Cold AND Dark | 21 Jan 2025 | 00:50:36 | |
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. Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 3. Fat Bikes are Fun | 14 Jan 2025 | 00:41:47 | |
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 riding fat. We also share listener comments and questions related to indoor riding, as well as the first in a segment we are calling "Doom or Boon - Spotted while scrolling." Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 2. Indoor Training – Riding Miles, Going Nowhere | 09 Jan 2025 | 00:40:33 | |
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." Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||
| 1. Planning our cycling schedule | 04 Jan 2025 | 00:37:15 | |
At the start of the New Year while some are making resolutions, Kristin and Steve are planning their ride schedule! Leave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes. Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version. You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve. | |||