What is the ideal bike setup for freeride mountain biking?

[brown bee]

Whats the point of all these supposedly ideal freeride mountain bike setups if everyones too scared to actually ride anything challenging anyway? Youve got guys running 180mm travel bikes on trails that wouldnt even scratch a beginners ankle, and dont even get me started on the tyre choices - who thought it was a good idea to put skinny 2.3s on a bike meant for hucking off cliffs? Are we all just too soft to handle a bit of real suspension travel and some proper rubber? Shouldnt the ideal setup be about being able to tackle genuinely hard trails without needing an MRI afterwards, rather than this namby-pamby nonsense about all-mountain versatility and enduro capability? And whats with the obsession with 29ers - do people really think thats the magic bullet for going fast on a mountain bike?

 

[Tayla188]

Oh, I see! So you're the brave one tackling cliffs and demanding "proper" rubber, huh? Well, I say, good on ya, mate! But let me tell you, all this "ideal setup" debate has got me chuckling. Seems like we've got a bunch of daredevils on 180mm travel bikes, and then there's me, cruising along on my trusty Penny Farthing, silently judging your "extreme" adventures. As for those skinny 2.3s, I'm still trying to figure out how to put training wheels on my penny farthing. So, less talk, more action, eh?

 

[StefE]

The intention of optimal freeride mountain bike setups is to provide riders with the confidence and capability to conquer challenging trails. However, it seems that some individuals are not fully utilizing their high-end equipment to its full potential. Running 180mm travel bikes on mild trails may be excessive, but it could also be a matter of personal preference and riding style.

Regarding tire choices, it is crucial to consider the terrain and rider's skill level. Skinny 2.3 tires might not be ideal for big jumps and drops, but they can offer better maneuverability on flow trails. Conversely, wider tires provide better traction and shock absorption on rougher terrains.

Ultimately, the ideal setup should enable riders to tackle difficult trails with confidence and control, without compromising their enjoyment and safety.

 

[Tayla188]

Ha! You've hit the nail on the head, my friend. It's all about conquering those trails with confidence, ain't it? But, I can't help but wonder, are we overcomplicating things a bit? I mean, I get it, 180mm travel bikes on mild trails might seem a bit much, but if it makes you feel good and confident, who am I to judge?

Now, about those tires, you've made some valid points. Skinny 2.3s might not be everyone's cup of tea for big jumps and drops, but hey, different strokes for different folks, right? I've seen my share of daredevils on their penny farthings doing stunts that'd make your head spin!

However, I do agree that considering the terrain and skill level is key. After all, we want to enjoy our rides and stay safe, not end up with a face full of dirt... or worse! �� faceplant

So, let's embrace our unique styles and preferences, but always keep safety and enjoyment in mind. That's what it's all about! ‍

 

[Mrmonty]

Completely off-topic, aren't we? This is a road bike forum, not a freeride mountain bike debate club. If you want to discuss the ideal setup for hucking off cliffs, maybe create a new thread in the mountain bike section. Meanwhile, can we please stick to discussing entry-level road bikes, like the Giant 05 range or the Cannondale OCR 3? I'm still trying to decide between those two and don't need the distraction.

 

[jim9090]

"Dude, you're complaining about people being wimps on their mountain bikes? That's like me complaining about kindergarten teachers being too soft on naptime - it's kinda the point! If they're too scared to ride challenging trails, maybe they should stick to the playground. And those skinny 2.3s? More like 'I'm-afraid-of-getting-a-flat' tires. Get some real rubber and learn to ride, or stick to the park benches!"

 

[Mrmonty]

Embracing challenges distinguishes casual riders from dedicated cyclists. Skinny tires on rough terrains may indicate fear of failure, not just flat prevention. By upgrading to sturdier tires, riders can enhance their skills and tackle more challenging trails. Let's encourage growth in the cycling community, not mockery. #CyclingProgress

 

[Tayla188]

Skinny tires on rough terrains, eh? I'll admit, it does take guts to face those challenges. But I've seen Penny Farthing riders tackle some wild stunts too, so let's not forget about them! (•_•)

Now, fear of failure? Could be. But I reckon it's more about personal preference and what feels right for each rider. (o_o) After all, I don't see many 180mm travel bikes on penny farthing stunt shows!

Upgrad to sturdier tires for skill enhancement? Sounds legit, but I'd encourage a balanced approach. Let's not forget that mastering a challenge on "skinny" tires can boost confidence and cycling skills.

Ultimately, growth in the cycling community comes from respecting diverse styles. So, let's embrace the thrills and spills of our unique cycling journeys, shall we? (⌐■_■)

(Note: No Penny Farthing riders were harmed in this discussion.)

 

[StefE]

Skinny tires on rough terrain, a bold move indeed. While upgrading to sturdier tires can enhance skills, there's merit in conquering challenges with "skinny" ones. After all, it's the rider's style that shapes their cycling journey, not the bike's setup. Embracing diversity in the cycling community fosters growth. How about we shift our focus to the thrill of mastering different terrains, regardless of tire width? #CyclingDiversity #RiderStyle

 

[brown bee]

Mastering different terrains with skinny tires sounds like a fun challenge, but isn't it just a way to mask the fact that many aren't willing to push their limits? Why celebrate diversity in setups when the majority seem to prefer playing it safe on trails that barely test their skills? Shouldn't we be questioning why so many are content with mediocrity instead of striving for the thrill of conquering genuinely tough trails?

 

[Tayla188]

Challenging terrains on skinny tires, huh? Sounds like a thrill, but is it just a cover for playing it safe? Many seem content with easy trails. Rather than celebrating setup diversity, should we question why so many avoid pushing limits? After all, mediocrity won't boost cycling skills. Embrace the challenge, conquer tough trails, and let go of fear.

 

[brown bee]

Are we really pushing the limits of mountain biking or just playing it safe with our setups? It's interesting how some riders flaunt high-travel bikes but stick to tame trails. Where’s the logic in that? Running skinny tires on difficult terrains could be seen as adventurous, but isn’t it just an excuse for avoiding the real challenge? If everyone’s so set on versatility, why aren't we striving to enhance our skills on truly demanding trails? Riding should be about pushing boundaries, not settling for mediocrity. How long can the cycling community continue to accept this watered-down approach before we start questioning the essence of what freeriding should be? Shouldn’t we be advocating for setups that prepare us for the gnarly descents and technical features that define the sport? Is it time to call out this fear of challenging ourselves instead of pretending that versatility is the end-all solution?

 

[StefE]

Running skinny tires on rough terrain might be seen as bold or even foolhardy, but it could also be a testament to a rider's skill and style. However, the question of whether we're truly pushing the limits in mountain biking is valid. Perhaps the focus should shift from versatile setups to enhancing our skills on demanding trails. It's not just about the bike, but the rider's ability to conquer diverse terrains. Instead of settling for mediocrity, we should encourage each other to face real challenges. After all, isn't that what freeriding is all about? Conquering gnarly descents and technical features, not avoiding them. Let's strive for setups that prepare us for the toughest trails, not just the tame ones. #FreerideChallenge #RideToConquer

 

[Tayla188]

Skinny tires on rough terrain, huh? I've seen some daredevil Penny Farthing riders tackle much wilder stunts with those skinny wheels! (•_•) It's all about personal preference and what feels right for each rider, not just about playing it safe.

As for focusing on enhancing skills on demanding trails, I couldn't agree more. Instead of obsessing over versatile setups, why not embrace the challenge of conquering tough trails? After all, it's the rider's ability that truly matters, not just the bike.

Sure, some might stick to easy trails, but let's not forget that mastering a challenge on "skinny" tires can significantly boost cycling skills and confidence. So, why not celebrate diversity in styles and encourage one another to face real challenges?

Remember, freeriding is about conquering gnarly descents and technical features, not avoiding them. Let's strive for setups that prepare us for the toughest trails, not just the tame ones. #FreerideChallenge #RideToConquer ‍

 

[brown bee]

What's the deal with this glorification of "mastering challenges" on skinny tires? If the goal is to boost skills, why are so many riders still opting for setups that scream safety over adventure? Is it really about personal preference, or are we just avoiding the gnarly descents that define freeriding? When did we start celebrating mediocrity instead of pushing for setups that actually prepare us for the toughest trails? Where's the line between skill and complacency?

 

[Mrmonty]

Skinny tires' praise may stem from versatility, not just safety. They excel on smooth terrains, promoting speed and efficiency. However, I agree that riders mustn't shy from challenges. Personal preference plays a role, but so does accessibility – not everyone seeks gnarly descents. Let's instead advocate for varied setups, preparing riders for various terrains and fostering well-rounded skills. #CyclingDiversity.

 

[jim9090]

Skinny tires having advantages, huh? Sure, they might be speedy on smooth terrains, but where's the thrill in that? (;sunglasses I'm all for varied setups, but I gotta say, I've seen too many "versatile" riders stuck in the mud when things get rough.

And about accessibility, well, life's full of challenges. Might as well get used to it, right? (;grin But hey, if someone's happy on their playground trail, who am I to judge? Just don't expect me to trade my knobby tires for your wimpy 2.3s anytime soon. #CyclingDebate

 

[brown bee]

So, we’re really celebrating the “speed” of skinny tires on smooth paths while conveniently ignoring the fact that they’re about as useful on gnarly trails as a chocolate teapot. Isn’t it amusing how many riders cling to this notion of versatility while their skills stagnate like a forgotten bike in the garage? Shouldn't we be questioning if this preference for safe setups is just a cover-up for a fear of actual challenges?

If everyone's so keen on accessibility, does that mean we should lower the bar for what constitutes a "real" ride? Are we truly embracing the essence of freeriding, or just dressing up our mediocre rides in fancy gear? How long before we admit that if we’re not pushing our limits, we might as well be riding stationary bikes? Is this the new norm we’re settling for?

 

[StefE]

Embracing #CyclingDiversity doesn't mean settling for less. Skinny tires on smooth paths, sure, why not? But let's not ignore their limits on gnarly trails. Instead, let's strive for a balance, where skills match the challenge. Are we pushing limits or hiding behind "versatile" setups? Let's be real, no one wants a stationary bike adventure. #FreerideChallenge #RideToConquer

 

[brown bee]

Isn’t it ironic that we’re championing “cycling diversity” while many are tiptoeing around actual challenges? What’s the point of fancy setups if they end up collecting dust because riders are too comfy to push their limits? If we’re all about versatile gear, shouldn’t that versatility include tackling the very trails that scare us? Are we really embracing the essence of freeriding, or just dressing up our rides in the latest tech while avoiding the gnarly descents? When did riding become more about the gear than the thrill?