Are You Over-Biked? MTB Suspension Travel and Sage’s Rear-Wheel Steering Theory [RNL S2, Ep 52]

How much suspension travel do we REALLY need on a mountain bike? Dan and Sage dive into the “over-biked” debate, asking whether less suspension travel can actually mean more fun, more responsiveness, and a more dynamic riding experience. Plus, Sage reveals his new “back tire steering/turning” technique - using the rear wheel like a rudder to help change direction - and wants to know: is this actually a thing?!

The guys also talk MTB jump technique, body position, short-travel trail bikes, airbag jump training, MTB cross-training, and the never-ending quest to ride better, safer, and with more confidence.

What do YOU think: Are most mountain bikers over-biked, and have you ever used your rear wheel to help steer through a turn? Let us know! Join the conversation and leave your comments below or email us at rideandlaugh1@gmail.com

MTB Gratitude of the Week:

Sage: Heather Pasqualino - Sage gives a huge shoutout to Heather and her youth mountain bike team, the SOL Riders! He’s grateful for the awesome coaches and young riders who are helping grow the next generation of mountain bikers. Sage also celebrates all MTB youth coaches who share their skills, passion, and love of riding. Heather also played a big role in creating PHXBP, an amazing place for kids, riders, and the entire MTB community!Sol Riders - https://www.instagram.com/sol_riders/

Dan: Keswick Cycles - Dan is grateful to Keswick Cycles in Paoli for the awesome mountain bike demo! The team at Keswick Cycles gets it—they’re helpful, professional, knowledgeable, and always bringing the high stoke. Supporting great local bike shops makes the MTB community stronger!Keswick Cycles Paoli - https://www.instagram.com/keswickcycle.paoli

MTB Tip of the Week:

How do you share MTB knowledge and riding tips without being “that guy”? Notice the effort. Are they trying hard and showing signs they’re open to advice? Compliment first. Give them some positive feedback and see how they respond. They may naturally ask a question. Share the stoke! Offer tips to riders who are open to receiving them. Open to Give. Open to Receive. That’s how we keep the MTB community positive, supportive, and growing!

Featured Riders:

Seth at Berm Peak - https://www.instagram.com/sethsbikehacksDani Wilson - https://www.instagram.com/bigcrazeedSean at Sticks & Stones - https://www.instagram.com/sticksandstonestrailcoRobin Dunn - https://www.instagram.com/skiphreaknjRyan Butler - https://www.instagram.com/butlerdoesit76Gary - https://www.gbrunning.com/Jeff Fields - - https://www.instagram.com/fields_of_indulgenceDave Davidson at MTB Academy - https://www.instagram.com/mountainbikeacademyWill at Keswick Cycles - https://www.instagram.com/will_costa_25

Additional Links:

Pheonixville Bike Park - https://www.instagram.com/phoenixvillebikeparkKeswick Cycles Paoli - https://www.instagram.com/keswickcycle.paoliOrbea - https://www.instagram.com/orbeamtb_Ibis - https://www.instagram.com/ibiscyclesSpecialized - https://www.instagram.com/iamspecialized_mtbPivot Cycles - https://www.instagram.com/pivotcyclesBAMBA - https://www.instagram.com/berksareambaBerks Trail works - https://www.instagram.com/berkstrailworksRNL Costa Rica Trip adventuremeraki.com/service-page/join-ride-laugh-podcast-in-costa-rica