As you may have already noticed, things have changed a little bit here at Bike198.com. This week, we went live with a new design that has been in the works that has drastically changed the look and feel of the site. The goal…make all of the content easier to access and easier to read with less distraction. After going live with the design and getting initial feedback from you guys…I believe we accomplished that goal.
With the design change, I wanted to check in to give you a heads up on what you can expect from Bike198 in the coming months. Much of this will go live pretty quickly and some of it is already making its way on the site.
Bike198 Reader Reviews
Bike198 is known for providing reviews from our review team, but we want to hear what you think about the products you are using on the trail. We are in the process of building out a reader reviews section where you will be able to rate your bikes, components and accessories on Bike198.
Bike198 and YouTube
With helmet cams like the GoPro continuing to increase in popularity, we are seeing a ton of trail videos make their way to YouTube. We have a Bike198 YouTube Channel that we like to favorite videos from around the world, but we also wanted a way to show our favorite videos on the site. Simple solution…when we favorite a video, it is now going to show up on our Videos page. Start sending us your Vimeo and YouTube links so you can see your video on Bike198 and get more views!
T-Shirt Lineup
We have had great success and feedback with the 29er Size Does Matter Tee (it stock and now shipping). We are looking to expand that lineup in 2011 and offer some different designs for other segments of mountain biking. Be on the lookout for these as we head into 2011.
Product Reviews
We are working with top name and smaller companies throughout the industry to get in more product to review here on Bike198.com. If you have any specific bikes, components or gear that you want to see reviewed, let us know and we will do our best to get it on the pages of Bike198.
E-Books
Also in the works are some more eBooks that are going to focus on items like at home bike maintenance.
Looking Back at 2010
As the crew here at Bike198 looks back at 2010, we have accomplished a lot during this calendar year. We officially broke past the 10,000 subscriber mark, released our first premium eBook (Ramped Riding), released the 29er Size Does Matter tee, released the new Bike198 kits that benefit the Livestrong Foundation and continued to crank out content relevant to mountain bikers around the world. However, none of this would have been possible without you guys and we are greatly appreciative of the support. As we head into this holiday season and new year, it is a time to be thankful…and we are extremely thankful for the support of the Bike198 readers. Without you…none of this is possible.
Live the ride,
Robb Sutton
rsutton@bike198.com