Jeff Barber

Jeff co-founded Singletracks with his wife Leah in 1998 and has been dedicated to sharing the mountain bike information that inspires others to take epic adventures ever since. He started mountain biking in high school and served in the US Air Force before devoting himself full time to Singletracks in 2007.

Though formally educated as an engineer, Jeff began writing stories at an early stage, inspired by his mother who is a longtime accomplished author. He enjoys covering the world of mountain biking from every possible angle, whether it's trails or gear or skills. His goal for every story: that readers learn at least one new thing.

Author snapshot

MTB Background and expertise

  • Riding experience: Trail, XC, and bikepacking.
  • Mountain biking since: 1992
  • Number of products reviewed: ?. I think my first product review for the site was this one for a plastic wallet.
  • Current stable: Canyon Neuron, Orange P7 hardtail, and Scott Fun XC

Education and writing experience

  • Bachelors of Science in Engineering, Duke University
  • Masters of Business Administration, Duke University
  • Other publications: Panther Press (Lakeside High School - Augusta, GA), CitySearch.com
 
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Cannondale 29er 4 Test Ride
Feb 21, 2008
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Research: Serious mountain bikers have abnormal scrotums (!)
Feb 20, 2008
  3
Culture
Proposed MTB trail from Eldorado Canyon to Walker Ranch (Boulder, CO)
Feb 19, 2008
  3
Mountain Bike Trails
Weekend Ride Report: Sumter National Forest
Feb 18, 2008
  1
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Community
Great Divide Mountain Bike Route Turns 10
Feb 15, 2008
Community
The biggest 24-hour MTB race in America plus free Trek bikes for Ripon College freshmen
Feb 14, 2008
A motorcycle helmet decorated with a blue mohawk design, featuring a sleek black and silver exterior with checkered accents. The background is a vibrant gradient of pink and green.
Culture
How to look like a mountain bike rockstar
Feb 13, 2008
Community
Olympic mountain biking without the mountains
Feb 12, 2008
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Can a bike be a lemon?
Feb 11, 2008
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Garmin GPSMap 60Cx review
Feb 8, 2008
  1
MTB Tips
Comparing mountain bike trails
Feb 7, 2008
  1
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Bikochondriacs
Feb 6, 2008
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Garmin MapSource Review
Feb 5, 2008
Mountain Bike Trails
Dauset Trails Ride Report
Feb 4, 2008
Community
Sea Otter Classic is world's largest cycling event?
Jan 31, 2008
A DVD cover featuring a woman in cycling apparel, smiling and positioned on an exercise bike. The title reads "Cycle - All Terrain with Brooke Hayward," and the logo for Softride is displayed at the bottom. The background is a gradient, enhancing the focus on the cyclist.
Culture
All Terrain Cycling becomes Mountain Biking
Jan 30, 2008
  1
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Lance Armstrong loses mountain bike race
Jan 29, 2008
  1
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
West Virginia faces loss of bike trails in wilderness bill
Jan 25, 2008
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Community
Snow MTB racing in Maine
Jan 24, 2008
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
24-hour mountain bike racing: Solo!
Jan 24, 2008
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Beret Helmet
Jan 23, 2008
  1
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Winter MTB News Round-up
Jan 22, 2008
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Mountain biking in January is rough
Jan 21, 2008
Community
MLK Day of Service: Trail work
Jan 17, 2008
Close-up of a newspaper article titled "Money &amp;," featuring a vintage style and sepia tones. The text suggests a focus on financial news and market trends.
Culture
Mountain Bike Investments: Stocks for 2008
Jan 16, 2008
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
MTB News Round Up: January 15, 2008
Jan 15, 2008
Community
Thomson Appreciation Day: This Saturday, January 19
Jan 14, 2008
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Mountain bikes: More expensive than a dirt bike
Jan 11, 2008
A black cylindrical device with a sleek design, featuring the text "VidiR" on its surface. It has two horizontal slots and an orange indicator. The device is likely a type of camera accessory or mount.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Bike tech at CES this week
Jan 10, 2008
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Riding across Asia on a mountain bike
Jan 10, 2008
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Green mountain biking
Jan 9, 2008
  4
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Community
Trips for Kids to Host Tenth Annual "Brews, Bikes and Bucks" Event
Jan 8, 2008
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
MTB Tips
Setting goals: Epic rides in 2008
Jan 7, 2008
  2
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Vacuum-sealed MTB shoes AND riding at night without lights
Jan 4, 2008
  1
Culture
Find a trail, buy a helmet - On your phone!
Jan 3, 2008
  1
Mountain Bike Trails
Stonewall Falls Ride Report
Jan 2, 2008
  2
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Bike from the dead
Dec 31, 2007
  2
A mountain biker in a blue outfit leans into a turn on a dirt trail, showcasing dynamic movement on a rocky path. In the background, spectators watch from the sidelines amidst a forested setting.
Community
MTB Predictions for 2008
Dec 28, 2007
  1
Community
Mountain biking in 2007: A review
Dec 26, 2007
Image alt text: Promotional poster for the Baja Epic Mountain Bike Race, scheduled for November 5-8, 2008, in Baja California, Mexico. The poster features an athlete on a bicycle with the number 608 displayed on the bike.
Community
Baja Epic Multi-stage Mountain Bike Race
Dec 24, 2007
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Rear-view camera for your bike
Dec 21, 2007
Two mountain bikers riding along a dirt path surrounded by greenery. One rider is wearing a blue jersey and white shorts, while the other is further up the path in a black shirt. There are signs and foliage lining the trail.
MTB Tips
Mountain biking for fitness in 2008
Dec 20, 2007
  1
Community
Singletracks is all better now
Dec 20, 2007
A person riding a mountain bike on a dirt trail. They are wearing a helmet, sunglasses, and a dark jacket, with shorts and gloves. The background features dry grass and trees, indicating an outdoor setting.
Culture
Ride along with the Prez
Dec 19, 2007
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
SF mountain biker finalist for National Hero Award
Dec 18, 2007
Mountain Bike Trails
Liberty University to develop mountain bike trails
Dec 14, 2007
Yesterday I got my first chance to ride a 29er mountain bike over at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/shop.php?shop=1">Roswell Bikes</a> and I thought I'd share what I learned from my (brief) test drive. The bike was a hard tail <a href="http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/08/cusa/model-8FS294.html">Cannondale 29er 4</a> and despite the awkward name it seemed well constructed, especially compared by my 1999 model Trek ;) Although I was only able to take the bike for a spin in the parking lot, I got a real sense for the speed and power in the larger 29" wheels. Cornering seemed just slightly more difficult but I suspect part of that could just be my own comfort and experience with the larger wheels. Getting the bike up to speed seemed easy and I really didn't notice any of the drawbacks of big wheel inertia I've read about in other 29er reviews. But again - parking lot riding is a bit different from trail riding so I'll withhold my final judgment. Back in the shop I got the low down on 29ers from some of the guys, one of whom recently made the switch to 29ers and says he'll never go back. He claimed that the 29er was actually better at cornering and that his tech skills jumped the moment he started riding the new bike. I was also told that buyers will generally go down a frame size when transitioning to a 29er mountain bike due to the higher stand over height afforded by the bigger wheels. One interesting note about the Cannondale 29er 4 in particular that you may find surprising: the components don't match. The shifters are SRAM X-5 Triggers but the front derailleur is Shimano Deore. Apparently this is fairly common these days but it seems a little strange to me. I was told that the SRAM shifters are only compatible with SRAM rear derailleurs but that they can be used with Shimano front derailleurs. This got me wondering: Is Cannondale just trying to save a few bucks or do the SRAM front derailleurs suck that much? Anyway, now I'm convinced that I need a 29er but the question is, which brand? Hard tail or FS? Single speed or regular? So many choices... <img id="image720" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Mountain Bike Trails
No such thing as a Free Lunch - until now!
Dec 12, 2007
A man sitting on a rocky surface under a bridge, wearing a red sweatshirt and gray pants, with a blue bicycle leaning against a wall beside him.
Culture
Bike shop helps out homeless man with new mountain bike
Dec 11, 2007