Rantings

The definitive (and simple) guide to mountain bike tires in the PNW

Posted by Justin Vander Pol · June 21, 2021

Tread pattern, sidewall, compounds, durometer, size, bead technology. Over 45 variants just for the Minion DHF. Holy crap it's confusing! Which tire to run is the most important gear decision you'll make - by a long shot. He're the fool proof guide to picking the right tires for trail riders in the PNW.

Is Hot Waxing Your Chain Worth It for Mountain Bikes?

Posted by Justin Vander Pol · September 13, 2020

Is hot waxing your chain worth it on a mountain bike? I'm testing it out in Seattle conditions on both my road whip and MTB to find out. So far, it's been great on the road, but only lasts a handful of rides in sloppy MTB conditions. I'll still use it, at least on new chains. Find out why...

Maxxis Dissector Review - 2.4 3C MaxxTerra EXO

Posted by Justin Vander Pol · September 12, 2020

The Dissector rolled faster than the DHRii, and gripped wet roots better than the Aggressor. Perfect, right? Yeah... for about two weeks.

The ultimate guide to enjoying wet, winter and night riding in the PNW

Posted by Justin Vander Pol · October 13, 2019

We live in one of the best places for year-round riding if you're prepared. It doesn't rain hard here, but it does rain freakishly often during the wet season, which is half the year. Here's everything you need to know to enjoy winter riding in the PNW.

Project Cascadia - Mountain Bikes and Components from PNW Companies

Posted by Justin Vander Pol · August 30, 2019

A list of all the mountain bike and MTB component companies with offices in the PNW. This is a project to build up my Transition Patrol with as many parts from local, rider-owned brands as possible.