A group of 45 riders made their way up to Chattanooga, TN from Atlanta, GA over the weekend to enjoy some of the best single track in that area…Raccoon Mountain. This ride was held by the Roswell/Alpharetta chapter of SORBA, RAMBO, so we knew there was going to be some great riding with incredible food afterward.

CLIX Systems, Inc. has introduced a revolutionary new wheel release system, called CLIX™. For the first time ever, riders are able to install and lock their front wheel with no cam adjustment, and with only one hand. The traditional quick release was invented in 1927 and is a safe and effective system when operated correctly. However, correct operation is not inherently obvious to all riders.

As “Fall 2008” grows closer, we are getting more teasers out of the SRAM camp on the new front shifting mechanism called “HammerSchmidt.” This update included several videos that almost show you the testing and final product. They do a great job at being humorous about “almost” showing the front cranks/shifting.

It is truly amazing to watch some of these guys ride. They have the best bike handling skills in the industry. Not too long ago, I did a post on how important practicing your balance is on a bike. These guys have made it an art form.

I know…it sounds funny, but who better to tell you how to wreck a mountain bike other than 198? If you have clicked the “About MTB by198” link above, you already know that I am very qualified to explain how to wreck, but more importantly, how NOT TO WRECK.

Yesterday, Jenn and I went on the 19th annual, July 4th Cartecay ride with what looked like over 50 of my closet biking friends at the Tanasi trail system. It was a great day full of riding and socializing. Jenn and Kristen did a 9 mile adventure around some of the lower trails to really get a feel for mountain type riding.

This is the first day off I have had from my job in a long time. So what am I going to do with all of the free time? Hopefully, I get everything on my list done in time to get some riding in…if not, get ready for Tanasi.

Many people think of one thing when it comes to cycling, those tight spandex shorts, wondering “do I have to wear those shorts if I want to get serious about cycling?” Well people you are in luck. Bike clothing manufacturers are making baggy bike shorts for those of us that want to be comfortable on the trails and not self conscious.

A friend of mine and I are working on some businesses that will hopefully have me self employed by the end of the year. I have a goal in mind that the prize is going to be a Whistler trip. So needless to say, Whistler is on the mind a lot lately.