Does Crashing NEED to be Part of Mountain Biking? MTB Coaching, eMTB update and more [RNL S2, Ep 51]

Do mountain bikers NEED to crash to improve, or can the right MTB skills, coaching, and trail intuition help prevent serious injuries? In this episode of the Ride & Laugh MTB Podcast, Dan and Sage dive into the hidden lessons, gratitude, confidence, and personal growth that come from returning to the trails after an MTB injury.

Join us as we discuss eMTB progression, whether a coil shock upgrade is worth it, MTB torque specs, loose cranks, creative ways to level up on familiar trails, and why Yellowjackets might be the scariest thing on the mountain!

Have you ever come back stronger after an MTB crash or injury, or do you think crashing is just part of mountain biking? Join the conversation and leave your comments below or email us at rideandlaugh1@gmail.com

MTB Gratitude of the Week:

Sage: Dan - Sage gives gratitude to his friend Danny for offering honest advice and a fresh perspective. Great friends help us see what we can't always see ourselves—whether it's improving our mountain biking skills or growing in life. When we're open to listening, a different perspective can unlock confidence, progression, and better riding.

Dan: Orbea Wild - Dan is incredibly grateful for his new Orbea Wild eMTB from Emigos Bike Shop. The bike makes every ride feel like the best parts of mountain biking, with more downhill laps, more progression, and more fun. Huge thanks to Orbea and Emigos for helping to make this such an exciting time to be an MTBer!Emigos Bike Shop - https://www.instagram.com/emigosbike

MTB Tip of the Week:

When climbing a steep, technical trail, slide your hips forward on the saddle to match the angle of the climb and improve rear tire traction. This position also makes long, steep climbs feel more comfortable. For short, punchy climbs, lower your dropper post, stand up, and power through the climb.

Featured Riders:

Rob Drew - https://www.instagram.com/therobdrewDennis - https://www.instagram.com/dennyjannettymtbSteve - https://www.instagram.com/sjbell/Dave Davidson at MTB Academy - https://www.instagram.com/mountainbikeacademyCurtis Miller - https://www.instagram.com/curtismiller948Josh at Slanted Ground - https://www.instagram.com/slantedgroundNino Schurter - https://www.instagram.com/nschurterDale Stone - https://www.instagram.com/dalestonemtbCole Gregg - https://www.instagram.com/adventuresbycoleKyle Wood - https://www.instagram.com/kylewood_917Ryan Butler - https://www.instagram.com/butlerdoesit76Shelly - https://www.instagram.com/o.hey.shellBrian on a Bike - https://www.instagram.com/brian_on_a_bikeJosh Rozenboom - https://www.instagram.com/jerozen

Additional Links:

Keswick Cycles Paoli - https://www.instagram.com/keswickcycle.paoliRide Dialed MTB Tune Shop - https://www.instagram.com/ride_dialedOrbea - https://www.instagram.com/orbeamtb_Adventure Meraki - https://www.instagram.com/merakiridesRock Creek Park - https://www.instagram.com/riderockcreekThe Loam Wolf - https://www.instagram.com/theloamwolfTrailSage Coaching https://trail-sage.com/coaching/Andy at DirtSmart MTB Coaching - https://www.instagram.com/dirtsmart_mtbBC Bike Race - https://www.instagram.com/bcbikeraceRNL Costa Rica Trip adventuremeraki.com/service-page/join-ride-laugh-podcast-in-costa-rica