I’ve got to thank you man. I’ve been watching your channel for a bit and I was preoccupied with the idea of making a fool of myself out on the trails (hadn’t ridden a bike since I was a kid) and I’ve been looking for another way to get outside and improve on the cardio. Your videos made it seem approachable enough that I finally got out to a place named Greer ranch recently and had a blast. Thought I was gonna die because you guys make pedaling look like such a breeze but despite that I’m all in now! Your enthusiasm for biking and seemingly life in general really encouraged me to just go, and I just wanted to say thanks and that I enjoy your videos.
Every time a new type of bike comes out, trail bike, enduro whatever, I always see comments, "That's not real mountain biking." Wrong. Mountain biking is whatever you want it to be. And if you're having fun, who cares?! Be happy, ride lots
I never question why I'm into mtb. The things that ruin it for people is the ebike culture, send it culture, and the best bike competition or competing with others. Just an FYI having a nice bike does make a difference and the experience is different. Riding a 300 bike on a familiar trail vs a 4k bike on the same trail makes a difference and tuning it enhances the difference. In no way does a more expensive cheat you out of riding. Now choosing the right type of bike can change the trail. If you ride a 200mm travel dh bike on a simple blue trail of course it's going to feel less of a gnarly trail vs riding a 100mm xc bikes. Same trail different ecperience.
100% truth sir. Mountain biking is mountain biking. Overinflated ego and justification of how much your bike cost can lead so many away from this amazing sport. Thank you for staying humble and sharing that with everyone else
I cant justify the cost of my bike, but having gotten to racing levels, i at least know that my bike is what brings me the most fun in exchange for money
Mountain biking is a lot like skiing. If all you've ever seen are Warren Miller movies with extreme skiers bombing down extreme slopes you might never try skiing. MTB is the same. Lots of bunny slopes, intermediate terrain and you can progress with time and practice if you choose to. I've been mountain biking since 1986, before full suspension was a thing. I was happy to be in the woods on my bike. My riding progressed and I can do black diamond trails and hit the bike park a few times per year on my full sus enduro bike, but mostly I like to ride in the woods on techy, flowy trails. I don't have to be "full send" to have fun. Now, I am 62 years old and my air time on bikes is getting dialed WAY BACK (I don't bounce like I used to). Point is, go out, have fun and not worry about what other people are doing. Ride, your ride, the way you want and have fun.
Yeah every time I go to Keystone I never hit the double Black diamond I always just do the green and blue trails. I get 7 runs a day in with over 10k feet of descent. Top 20 spots on a lot of DH sections on my hardtail 26". Making full sus riders think I'm cheating 😂
You are so right! I watched Warren Miller movies long before I ever tried skiing, because I thought it was all extreme stuff. I was scared to try it. Once I learned that it wasn't all just hucking yourself off cliffs, skiing in shoulder-deep powder, or bombing down near-vertical descents, I tried it. I've loved every minute of it.
I’m more or less a road rider and if I ever get a MTB it will likely be a hard tail. I’m only interested in riding flat trails and maybe some mild hills.
@@cycologist7069 that's what I do now. Though I have two MTBs, I've since set them up as ATBs, or all terrain bikes. I have semi slick tires on them, and the most extreme terrain I ride them on now are the local canal towpaths.
Your experience with mountain biking sounds like my experience with BMX jumping until I was a teenager. As a middle-aged adult, I just like going for long bike rides out in nature for mostly the meditative effect. I feel no need to jump anymore, and that's totally fine. The key is to keep riding a bike until you can't anymore.
@@viperdemonz-jenkins At 51, I like climbing the most, which I would've never thought a few years ago. I enjoy challenging myself and keeping my fitness level in check. And with every good climb, there's usually a nice view and descent. I hurt myself enough on my skateboard in my 40s, that I shifted to bikes and I'm trying to keep out of the hospital again if I can help it. :)
YES! Thank you for speaking aloud. There's something wrong: If you ride the road you don't need the best Lycra outfit, you don't need to be the fastest. The regular T-shirt and granny's pace is fine. Same on gravel. It doesn't have to be 100 miles. Same on mountain bikes. It doesn't have to be rocky, you don't need to jump. The egos are wrong.
This is what mountain biking used to be about. Literally XC riding with a hard tail or short travel full suspension. Almost no trails were flow trails or had berms. From time to time there were some tech obstacles that would be thrown in the way. Today it’s nothing but tech and flow.
Great video Matty. I'm 62, used to race Mx back in the 80s. My wife laid down the law and I'm not allowed anymore dirt bikes. However after a hip replacement, kidney cancer then a heart condition I'm determined not to give up doing what makes me happy. I was made medically redundant so decided I'd treat myself to an emtb and it's fantastic. I don't do jumps (to scared to risk my hip) but I can climb where I would normally just give it a miss. Exploring is such great satisfaction and I've got an extended lease of life with bikes again. We'd all love the newest thing but your right, just being out there and taking in the nature is soooo good. Keep it up Matty, I'm glad you're still cycling.
HEY I LIKE YOUR STORY I AM ALSO TOO 62 AND WANTING AND GETTING OUT EMOUNTAIN BIKING IN THE WOODS MY FAVORITE RECREATION SPORT. MY THING IS NOT HAVING ENOUGH TIME CAUSE THIS JOB 9 HOUR KITCHEN WORK STUFF. IM IN REMISSION OF CANCER TOO AND A LITTLE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE BUT STILL HAVE ENERGY TO MOVE ABOUT.
A person gets to a point where they don't feel the need to prove themselves to others or seek other's approval on that other person's terms. You're an athlete, used to proving yourself constantly against the average, against others, against yourself. Part of it is just simply de-programming a little and letting yourself breathe. You've found the way you like to ride, now you can probably use some of those other bikes in the way YOU like as opposed to challenging yourself to max out what they can do. Or you can move them along to others and free up some space both in your house and mentally as well. All that equipment can be a burden as well as a blessing. I'm happy for you that you found your lane!
Great comment MATT, I’m 62 and it took me a long time to realize exactly what you said here, broke my back 9 yrs ago riding above my skill level, now I ride my ride even if that means riding solo, I’ll never stop, I believe it truly is the secret to longevity!
It's not well said. Kids aren't being influenced by the bike industry. Kids do what they enjoy. When they grow up and have their own money they mountain bike because that's their personality.
Thanks Matty for your practical approach to mountain biking. I bought my first Trek Marlin 6 based on your recommendation and had a blast this past season mountain biking. I read a RUclips comment that said that the coming generation of newcomers to cycling, including mountain biking, grew up with video games and smart phones. They did not grow up with an attachment to bicycles and the outdoors. Therefore, I think your channel has great potential to attract this new generation. You're make cycling very approachable, which unfortunately most cyclists do not. Your focus on enjoying the outdoors and its capacity to improve mental health is something that I think the coming generation will be drawn to, since there's so much dysfunction that has come from our "technology" age. I hope you really take off this year and the coming years. If bicycling brands/companies are smart, they'll get behind you and your approach to mountain biking!
Moving through nature under your own power on a bike that's comfortable on dirt. THAT is the heart of mountain biking. I'm so glad you're illustrating that point with your videos.
After 6yrs off a bike, used to race track and crits, I am now getting back and this time around with a inexpensive bikesdirect full rigid singlespeed 29er. I actually built the bike up almost two years ago but never took it out until a month ago and I'm loving it. Sure I'm slow but all I care about right now is just having fun. I've taken it to the local singletracks and having so much fun. It's like being a kid all over again in my late 30's. Thanks for this video Matty!!!!
@@scottl8469It’s just a different style that isn’t hard on the joints if done correctly. You obviously have to slow down and get out of the saddle and use your legs as suspension. I keep a loose grip which seems counterintuitive. Tire pressure is even more important on a rigid bike. It’s not for every one of course. I also enjoy more full suspension.
@@Tim9460-o9t, yep, I rode rigid SS for years. Destroyed my shoulder 35 years ago, severe arthritis, no labrum left, and I just separated same shoulder at Thanksgiving. At 61, Going with a suspension fork from here.
@@Tim9460-o9t yeah I've had multiple bikes from there. As long as you repack the headset and bearings on the hubs before riding then you're good. The higher price bikes should come with sealed cartridge bearings though.
i’ve been mtn biking since to 80s and have been through more than my share of insanely expensive bikes and “extreme” riding/racing over the years. But my favorite mountain biking is on my single speed hard tail on my local trails when i get out and ride to enjoy the sites, sounds, smells of nature and relax. it is sad that people can’t see the simplicity of the sport and fixate on the marketing and media hype. The sport definitely needs more supporters like you!
Spot on man 🤘 I've been mountain biking since the early 90s and things have changed so much, bike parks, trail centres, harder lines and more capable bikes needed to ride them. I enjoy a long easy trail ride in the summer with good friends just as much as trying to push myself. For anyone getting into the sport in the last 5 years social media would have you believe you need an enduro bike just to even start riding and that unless you're clearing 40 foot doubles you're rubbish. Marketing departments and social media have a lot to answer for, put simply going for a ride should be fun, not some macho 'I'm rowdier than you' contest. 🤘
So many good points. Honestly, the less time I spend online, the more time I spend on my bike. That’s what I’ve learned. Instagram distorts the view of anything. My wife is a daily commenter (I work from home) and we cross 2 ravines to get from our community to downtown. I just stopped driving. Now my mountain bikes are my cargo bikes, my gravel bikes, my road bikes and my fun bikes. I work in marketing, so I understand the pressures put on those teams to sell stories. It’s a factor of a mature marketplace, that they cater to the most profitable areas. Extreme sports sell better than hybrid bikes any day-remember those? 😅
I've had similar experiences mountain biking. I used to enjoy group rides up until a few years ago. Now these days, it seems like most people I ride with are peacocking about their fancy expensive e-bikes and how that's the only way to enjoy the sport. They don't seem to understand there's more to mountain biking than the equipment they buy.
Glad you said this. I was headed down that path... thinking I needed the best kashima coated fork, shock, and dropper, etc. I stopped myself before I went off the deep end
Matty, as usual, some great insights into the mountain biking scene. Thanks for pointing out how varied mountain biking can be and how enjoyable it can be for anyone who rides.
Thanks for saying what isn't said enough. Just getting out, exploring trails, being in nature, exercising and having fun is how we all started. Having the freedom to discover the great outdoors is what should be advertised and marketed more strongly.
@@ceb4382was just about to say the same thing to Steven. I love my 2 bike quiver. Jones swb and Rocky Mt element full sis with moto inspired riser bars. For multi surface riding and old guy mtb riding, I doubt there’s anything more that I’ll ever need.
I’ve been riding XC mountain bikes since 1992 when I purchased a Raleigh M50 with Shimano Alivio group set and a rigid fork. So many years later; My bike of choice is my 2017 Trek Procaliber hardtail with RockShox SID fork - I don’t BOMB down anything gnarly, I take my time and ride with finesse, I do logovers and at least ride 6 times per week in Philadelphia’s Belmont and Wissahickon trails. I’ve never been interested in these “analog dirt bikes” and hucking off gnarly cliffs. Singletrack XC is the most beautiful and rewarding off road cycling f there is! Great video!
Where I'm from, people on the trails are so obsessed with speed and their times, they get very annoyed if you ride slowly enjoying the ride and holding them up. They have this notion that they must be going fast to have fun or beat someone else's time to be the best, really annoying.
@@lakaldrak that's the thing. Same story driving on the roads. Everyone's complaining about the "speeding maniacs" until they get stuck behind that one old guy who drives everywhere at 50.
Pretty much on point maddie, I have spent a lot of money on bikes that were Way beyond my capabilities on the bikes. I have my Roscoe 9 which was an expensive bike and I have upgraded it extensively but I do everything on that bike. It is literally my daily Rider when I go on bike rides with my wife and daughter. I use it for all my local trails and I'm looking forward to getting up towards Jared's place with it
This video epitomizes what TRUE mountain biking is all about. Just getting out there and enjoy nature and enjoy the scenery. Thanks for putting this out there. Love it!
I feel like you and I have a lot in common. I love the sport but I hate the industry. I quit a long time ago and only got back into it last year when my circumstances allowed me to. You're absolutely right, you don't need to spend thousands of dollars on the latest gear to have a good time, all you need is a dirt track and whatever bike you can get your hands on. I wish I'd realised that sooner. Keep up the great work 👍
This video kind of amuses me because I had the exact opposite view of mountain biking when I started. I thought all anyone rode was these pretty calm, not too steep trails. The more I got into it the more I realized that I had absolutely no idea how crazy people could get with this sport! I've been biking for about 7 years and I've never ridden a jump or a drop. Can't even do a manual, and I still love getting out on the trail and just enjoying nature. Lovely message man, hope it inspires some people to get out there!
It is refreshing to hear your message. I'm 58 and have been riding a bike since I was four. I got burned out for a while with riding. What brought back the joy for me was buying a fatbike a couple years ago. That bike reminded me how fun riding can be and I ride it anywhere. It is my go to bike and last year I bought a 29" wheelset for it which made it even more flexible for what I can do with it. I hope more people watch your video and realize what it's all about!
I totally relate to what you are saying! I have been pushing my limits the past 6 years on the bike and just "sending it" which has resulted in a broken collarbone (2021) and a broken arm 4 months ago! I don't need to prove anything to myself any longer and just want to ride my bike outdoors!
Matty, I'm really glad I came across your videos on mountain biking because I really recognise how you feel about it. I bought a full suspension mountain bike in 2018 and freaking loved it, took it out for a ride every weekend, looking for the most difficult trails and features I could find! But being in college then, I also got an old steel city bike that I totally restored to use as my general get-around-town bike. I soon discovered that it was totally possible to take that old city bike with skinny slick tires on half the paths I would previously take my full suspension mountain bike on and discovered I was having WAY more fun because it was a much more meaningful challenge! I still have my mountain bike in the garage, but I don't really ride it anymore. These days when I wanna be out in a quiet place I take my steel road bike out in the countryside and I'll still ride whatever unpaved sections I come across which is a super fun challenge. Context tho: I don't have a car because I don't want one, so whatever I'm riding is at my doorstep or whatever I can get to from the train station. I also live in Belgium and in my side of the coutry there are practically no places where you can ride uninterrupted unpaved trails. Riding on the road to connect sections of trail always felt kinda sluggish and I didn't really enjoy that on my mountain bike. Now on my road bike I feel like I have so much more freedom because I can cover so much more distance. I love quiet backroads so much now because it's just smooth and quick and it's generally a lot more fun to take out that steel road bike than a completely overkill mountain bike. If I was being rational I should sell my mountain bike but it's old and not worth much anymore and I'm still emotionally attached to it. It's also a total moneypit because my fork needs a major service, my rear suspension pivot bearings are all shot and my rear shock is at the end of its life and spending that money to get it all fixed is just not worth it at all for me.
I really appreciate your take on MTB riding. This is exactly how I approached it with my daughter when she was 6 and wanted to ride trails with me. We had so much fun cruising on the low intensity trails like the one you rode at the end. I sometimes did the small jumps while riding behind her and never pressured her to try any. Then when she was 7 she tried a small kicker on her own, wiped out, got up and brushed off, and asked me if she could go back up the trail to try again. I was so proud and impressed! Now she's 10 and having a blast on pump tracks and more technical trails like at the beginning of this video, while her little brother is 6 and just starting out. She loves to encourage him and have him follow her on the easier trails. You are absolutely right that this sport is so much more than jump parks and downhill bombing. It has enough variety that there's something for everyone!
It’s definitely social media hyping the expensive bikes and insane jumps. I’ll admit I have nice bikes, but I don’t buy into the jump lines and Red Bull style riding….I’m happiest on the old school single track that’s mainly natural lines. There is a place for nice bikes, but just don’t focus on that being the only reason it’s fun or the only way you can get out and ride…. You are saying this loud and clear! Thanks for keeping up the fun content
I’d love to have a short video starting around the 5 minute mark, where you’re really speaking to people that I can post most people aren’t going to watch the whole way through and if we can get your AWESOME message to more people to get out there. THANK YOU
Great video!! The cycling industry promotes a “you need this to do that” marketing approach in order to sell products. In reality, it’s not the case for most of the consumer population. I used to ride local trails in Pasadena, CA on a Specialized Hard Rock. lol. Other folks had far more technical rigs but I still had a great time! Ride what you have and enjoy!!
@RealMTBAddict - To each their own… In watching all sorts of cycling content here on YT often times a lot of the equipment being pedaled (pun intended) is for bikes that cost thousands of dollars. I get that there’s a difference between $1k and $8k but there are people who don’t have that kind of money to get into the sport (even at the lower “value bike” endorsed price points).
@@llamont2336 Ok. My first bike was a rigid steel Raleigh, I didn't care about getting a nice bike until I was 25. You're supposed to start small with any sport. I didn't have a nice bike until I was 30. Even after moving to Colorado I ride a steel 26" hardtail. It's worth $5k but only because I chose the toughest parts, not the lightest. In my opinion anything over $5k is a waste unless you're doing pro level races. I have over 100 top 10 spots from downhill in Keystone to flat segments in Florida against the fastest out there. I've ridden with people that had more expensive bikes than me, but they can't keep up. And eventually they quit riding with me because of the shame.
I'll never be Jeff Kendall or Keegan Swenson, and I'm cool with that. I bought a super sweet bike that I wanted (Specialized Epic HT) and it is far more capable than I am. I love my bike and I'm glad that I bought it, it's super quick and maneuverable, and I'll probably never buy a "bigger bike " for these little eastern NC trails do not require it. Good work on what you do and how youve accomplished your mtb journey. Stay stoked.
I tried this last summer to get into mtb because I love adrenaline filled activities and my husband is a mountain biker. His co-workers are really good and advanced so I didn't listen to my husband when he was saying what you're saying here and I tried too hard to become "advanced". It made me *hate* the sport. After he explained to me that I can take any trail I want and not do the jumps etc, just do what is comfortable and fun for me, I am very excited to start riding again after winter. Thank you so much for this video and your channel, you really explain things well and make me want to bike more too. You have an instant subscriber in me!
Great video. I admit I fell into the same mindset of wanting the best to enjoy mountain biking. I recently realized it's about being outdoors, enjoying everything around you, and savoring the time you have out there.
This is a great take. Sort of highlights the problem with any kind of content creation -- the assumption that what will get the most views is the pinnacle of whatever that is, whether it's gaming, mountain biking or some other sport or hobby. The thing is, although that logic is somewhat sound, a lot of viewers tune in for the person, no matter what they're doing. I totally get wanting to ride the gnarliest stuff out there, but for me it's a matter of how much risk I'm willing to face before it starts to eat away my enjoyment of simply riding my bike.
All facts sir,great video. Thank you for keeping it real,ride a bike that makes you happy,not one that spends more time on a bike stand than on a trail. I grew up in Colorado and we had some wild trails back in the day , some right in the city!! I used to notice that when we would go to bike parks and get dirty looks from more serious riders that like to pre judge you off of your bike and some even off your gear! It wasn’t fun anymore . What got me back on bikes was an event called the Denver cruiser weekly rides. You had every type of bike imaginable out there just cruising along having fun! To me that’s what it’s all about! I think the bike industry needs to get back to the simple idea of buy our bike,put air in the tires and ride.once again great video brother!
My first mountain bike was very inexpensive, probably made in Taiwan or something. But I loved it and had tons of fun on it. I rode it everywhere. One day I bent one of the front gears (the cheap ones are pretty thin and flimsy, I'll admit). I took it to this fancy, big-name bike shop in town where I worked, and they turned their snooty noses up at it and said "We don't work on low-end bikes here." I went to another shop - a local mom-n-pop bike neighborhood shop, and the guy happily fixed my bike. I told him about the other shop and he said "There's no such thing as a "bad" bike. This bike got you into the sport of mountain biking, so it's a GREAT bike."
I mountain biked when i was kid going into my early 20's, then just stopped due life changes, work, school, and just wanting to party lol. But after coming across your channel it inspired me to get back out and enjoy what i love about it. Thanks Matty for the inspiration. Now in my 40's with a new Roscoe 7 I feel my passion again. PS my first Mountain bike was an early 90's Raleigh Discovery( rigid bike) , then a Raleigh Serengeti with front suspension, which i still have and will be restoring one day 😁
Hi Matty, great video and very relaxed. I started mountain biking in 1988. Never quite fell into the trap. Now that I'm older, it's "just" a nice way to get around in the great outdoors on trails that don't get me down... Greetings from Austria 😊
This was a great video thank you for putting out there. I have a lot of friends that I try to get into mountain biking and this is the perfect introduction for them to see.
Thanks for promoting those idea! I agree that all we ever see or hear about is gnarly downhill and huge jumps these days. At nearly 50, i have been riding mountain bikes for nearly 40 years, 99% had been trails like you showed with 2 tires on the ground. I do like a short travel, lightweght, full suspension bike just to take the edge off and make my body a little less sore, but it is absolutely not necessary. Most of the trails here in the Midwest are old school, relatively flat singletrack. I love it, and hope to continue riding for many more years. Cheers!
Totally agree. I've been mtb'ing almost continuously for over 35 years solid. Been down the whole path of fancy bikes, chasing progression blah.. but I never really liked those bigger bikes to ride and was always harking back to the early style of mtb. Now am more than happy on smooth flowy trails, enjoying the outdoors, chilling on a nice hardtail or gravel bike. This way I find I've had fewer rides that end up with an unexpected trip in a heli straight to A&E, and am better for it.
Likewise. Got my first full rigid in 1993. For years, I spent way too much $$$ chasing the mtb dragon but sold my fs a decade ago and now ride only a steel or emtb ht, staying safe and enjoying nature on the easy trails.
I started MTB a couple years ago. I was 60. I was not new to outdoor sports though and I quickly realized the heart of it was just riding through the woods covering a lot of ground and enjoying being out. The RUclipsrs need to pitch something a lot more exciting than that though! This video is spot on. Seth, berm peak, recently was in crested butte and as I watched the video all I could think was, man I can ride those trails and they are so beautiful! Very inspiring. I’d love to see more intermediate riding content from these channels. That would reach a ton us us average riders.
Beautifully put! Sometimes it’s so easy to get wrapped up on what we think mountain biking should be instead of just taking a step back and just enjoying the little things within the ride! Great video!
You make some great points. i can only imagine the further one dips into "the industry", the more it SEEMS like you have to embody the rad mtb lyfestyle... I'm glad you saw through it! The first few videos I saw with you hitting bigger and more rowdy stuff, I keep thinking, "This brother is not ready for this and he's going to get broke off!" I hope you avoided serious injury and I truly am glad you're cutting your own path in mtb.
I love this message. Almost all my mountain biking these days is on smooth dirt paths, green trails, dirt roads, etc. Learning skills to ride harder stuff can be fun, but so is just getting out there. And truthfully, you can a better, more sustainable workout without killing youself up steep climbs on easier trails.
Awesome positive video! I'm 52 years old and live in Netherlands close to a famous dune/forest MTB trail. I've done long climbs and downhills in places like the German black forest, the Belgian Ardennes and Lake Garda in Italy. These were all on old Giant, Cannondale and Koga hardtail bikes with front suspension. Had so much fun. Only the last (second hand) bike was a Specialized Stumpjumper Pro with Fox front/rear suspension and disc brakes. This one was more comfortable, but I cannot recall having had more fun with that thing. Now it's time to replace it to be able to pick up mountainbiking again and this video made me contemplate. The only reason I am looking at a Full Suspension is the fact that my back hurts quickly and this will prevent that a bit better. But for the trails here it's actuallu not a requirement....maybe I will switch to a hardtail after all...
I feel this video. I recently got a trek marlin 6 and started mountain biking. Iv been athletic my entire life skating biking rollerblading hiking everything. And the more i started seeing social media made me feel like i needed a fully suspended 12k bike. I appreciate this video.
I grew up rocking the trails in Horsetooth and Lory State Parks to the north in CO. All about the XC trails back then, and now for me 35 years later in the PNW (loam, baby! so smooth). I'm in it to enjoy, get an occasional lil' jump, and just get in the flow. I don't need to send massive airs and end up in the ER. Ain't nobody got time for that! Keep going man, love your thoughts and stay active sir.
100% - Every time I watch one of your videos I hear what I've been thinking for years. A mountain bike is whatever gets you out and puts a smile on your face. Gravel bikes (or hardtails or full rigids) on dirt is more smiles per miles than technical riding.
Great one and you are 100% correct. I'm going to be 50 this year and I spend allot of time on 2 wheels, I don't even own a car anymore. I always put more miles on my bicycles then my motorcycle throughout the year. It's my therapy and my best friend, I do like riding with people but I am generally alone with my thoughts. I don't jump or drops anymore but I've still managed to hurt myself from time to time. Just get out there and enjoy the outdoors, enjoy the fresh air and ride your bike.
I like your message....and yes to all you're saying, something we all need to be reminded of. Been biking for twenty plus years and coming off a year of burnout. Getting back into biking with the same attitude....basics, get outside and enjoy. The crazy stuff.....is just that, crazy.
I started mountain biking during the first Covid lockdowns with my girlfriend on two Specialized Rockhoppers that we got for $700. I’ve put $700 worth of upgrades on them and the biggest difference makers have been tires that are more suited to what we ride, pedals that our feet don’t slip off as easy, and dropper posts. Everything else has been completely negligible.
Dropper posts are the best invention since the wheel itself! I use mine constantly. Even on level terrain, I find that periodically adjusting the height of my seat, even just a few centimeters, saves me from a lot of knee pain.
Tx Matty! As an old timer I just got back into mtn biking last year and having just turned 60 I still love it. I mostly ride around our country town on the roads, on my 10yr old Giant Boulder claptrap, but really love getting off the beaten track and seeing some nature as well. We don't have a lot of steeps down under anyway, so most of the bush tracks are fairly flat anyway, and I enjoy the flats, light downhill and uphills equally!
The first time I ever went trail riding in the '80s, I did it on a 1970s steel Huffy 10-speed road bike. I had not thought of that in years until this video. Good call Matty.
Thats a very humble view you have, its not all about the adrenaline kicks every time you ride. Its more to do with getting fresh air, change the scenery and just being outdoors away from the TV.
Been watching you for a long time. Your kid like enthusiasm just to ride a bike, any bike and it was refreshing and fun to watch. I've always rode as an escape to nature and it allowed me to unplug and do something for me. I like to watch the talented riders at rampage and other events just like I watch F1 racing, but I don't want to drive the way they do. Thanks for sharing your view and I agree with you. Ride for you at the level you're comfortable riding. Keep on riding @mattyactive
Bravo! Getting into the woods or trails is the real pull for MTB. I also got sucked into the extreme - but the green and butterballs are where it’s at. Thanks for this video!
Well said, thank you. I totally agree. What is portrayed on social media most often is not the only version of mountain biking. I went from a full squish to a hardtail XC bike and love the responsiveness, lightweight and quick handling. I also ride my cyclocross bike on my local singletrack and although I once owned 6 bikes, I am leaning towards getting on drop bar gravel bike with two sets of wheels/tires. One versatile bike to do it all.
Wonderful to see you uploaded this. I was talking to a girl this weekend who is riding an entry level Salsa Rangefinder. She though she needed a new bike to do things when all she needed was new tires. I live in the PNW and have a very capable bike that I can do anything I want on it. I also have family and friends who live near Atlanta, and they just have basic hardtails. They can ride any green or blue trail they want and have a wonderful time riding together and enjoying nature. It makes me enjoy time riding my bikes doing simple things with husband and son as a family.
Great point about tires. I think the industry really holds itself back by selling mid-level bikes with the worst, most plasticy tires (and thin grips and rock hard seats and tiny plastic pedals) so that riders starting out or wanting to try a new type of cycling feel super squirrely on the new bike. Front tires especially make such a big difference in confidence on any surface.
You are so right. This is what riding looked like in 80's and 90's! And has anyone noticed the trails for most of the video look like what are now referred are to as "gravel trails" for which you need a "gravel bike". The vintage bikes of years ago were less expensive, simpler and lighter than anything available today.
Awesome video man! This is how I ride. I rode power sport(snowmobile, dirt bikes, 4 wheelers ect) from 7 tears old and up but moved to a big city with only bike and mountain bike trails so in my mid 30's I started mountain biking but my day of big air sand no fear are behind me I just go out have fun and see the sights. It's so worth it im so glad I made the choice to start!
AMEN, Brother! My first MTB was a 1999 Raleigh M30 rigid; I still have it and enjoy it to this day. Though I now have five bikes in my fleet, that Raleigh rigid will be one of the two I'll keep forever; as long as I'm drawing breath on this Earth, I'll be hanging onto my rigid MTB and vintage Marukin M-420 road bike. Why? One, they've gone through life with me. Two, I've had epic rides on both bikes, rides that I'll remember forever. Just looking at them downstairs brings back those memories. The other thing about rigids is that they teach you how to really ride. You have to think about what you're going to do, how to do it, when, and so on. When you don't have any suspension to soak up your mistakes, you're more careful about line selection and negotiation. Plus, as you pointed out, all your energy gets put to the ground. I wish rigids were still made; it's a crime that they aren't! Everything is either a hardtail or double boinger these days, and the world of MTBs is poorer for it.
I was actually on the board of directors for a non-profit mountain bike organization. At that point, I had been mountain biking for 35 years. I've had pretty nice bikes over the years, but couldn't tell you much about them (gearing, for example). It was never about the bike or the more extreme features as it was being with friends out in nature and just enjoying a nice ride. But most of the folks at the non-profit were all about steep single track and any trail project that wasn't extreme to some degree wasn't considered "fun." That's why I left. And that's why others my age left. For me, it's a win just to get new folks out on trails and enjoying being outside. And, I think there's a larger group of potential enthusiasts out there who need that message. I think it's really important to promote the sport from the "get out and ride and enjoy nature" angle instead of from the spend a bunch of money and ride technical trails angle.
We may never meet Matty but all the way from Zambia, Africa you inspire me to take out my 29" GT Karakoram hardtail that seems to be outdated in the small biking community here. It's not fancy, not flashy but it shifts when I got up and stops when I go down. I feel happiest when I ride alone most times.
100% correct. I got caught up on the fs high-end bike. Don't get me wrong, I had fun on the bike, but when I was riding it, I would always think about going back to an HT. I have more fun on an HT. I'm in my 50yrs old and I don't need to ride the hardest trails or need to flex because I'm riding an high end fs mtb. Just need to get out and ride , have fun, and enjoy nature.
Great video and content. I've been mtn biking since 1980 when there were no suspension bikes. It got me off of the roads with traffic and openned up a lot more riding opportunities. It doesn't have to be about speed, technicality, or any other aspect. It's about your definition of fun. And, the excersize and scenery is extra bonuses.
Excellent video. Thanks for putting it out there. I have a 1997 Rocky Mountain Blizzard hard-tail with 26" tires that I upgraded with a 2023 RockShox Recon fork and a SRAM GX Eagle 1x12 groupset. I'm rockin' V-brakes, too, and they stop me with no issues. I don't go on the crazy, gnarly trails that are popular these days and I don't want to but there are a lot of beautiful trails that I can ride and that I love to ride, like the ones you mentioned in this video. My bike works well and makes me smile every time I ride it. Just get out on the trails, enjoy nature, and ride. Don't believe the lies. You don't need carbon. You don't need full suspension. You don't need disc brakes. You don't need a new bike.
I generally agree with you and your points are valid about the essence of mountain biking activities. From my perspective, having a technical understanding and knowledge of mountain biking can help you enjoy more and stay safer. If we want to pursue this sport professionally, we need to consider upgrading our bikes and skills while we enjoy the experience itself. Unfortunately, when a sport activity gets combined with commercial competition, there will be many misconceptions like those you mentioned in the video. Market does not think about maximizing our happiness, it tries hard maximize the financial benefits. That is not in line with the values and principles that we look for in a sport activity. Thanks for the video.
Thanks Matty, I appreciate your perspective on our sport. It’s nice to get away from the gatekeeping bros and hear the message that anyone can do this.
Just got back from some really nice easy blue and green trails. I couldn't agree with you more. I always have more fun on trails that don't have a high like likelihood of putting me in the hospital if I make a mistake. Great ride you got going there .
This is exactly why I love winter fatbiking more than any other season. I'm not out there trying to set any fast times or attempt any new features. It's just nice to be out for a pedal, get some fresh air and mentally unwind
Absolutely LOVE this message. The image that’s presented of MTB via most media and especially RUclips is the extreme end of it. And it’s exclusionary in a way. I live on the east coast. The closest actual mountains are hours away. But I still go mountain biking. It’s my favorite outdoor activity besides the beach. And I really wanna see more people that show this side of it. I mean I love watching the extreme stuff. Like I’m a big Sam Pilgrim fan. But that’s not all there is to it.
Excellent sir. You've given us 'nobodys' a reason to just ride. Don't care for speed or results, just out enjoying nature, life. Ditch the tech, just ride.
I think the whole ATB concept fully embraces the simple conceit of what mountain bikes once were. Don’t get me wrong, modern mountain bikes are crazy fun. Having started in the mid 80’s I got to see a real evolution of the sport and all the big hits, gnarly lines, super capable bikes as impressive as they are kind of removed me from what I most loved about the sport initially. Just carving up some singletrack in the backcountry and the experience over the equipment and if man made trail challenges.
Awesome video and even better message. Those of us who are at advanced levels need to remember what got us there and to pass that on. In the end it's just enjoying two wheels on dirt
back when I started mtb'ing, the tech trails that turned you off were hike-a-bike sections - nobody could ride over that stuff on rigid 26'ers, so we rode on trails we could ride. Kinda like the chill trails you ride on your gravel bike. That kinda riding was always there waiting as a baseline and still gives that 'mountain biking' zen people enjoy.
I've ridden up and back down Pikes Peak on Barr trail on a hardtail 26", twice. Only 60 others have done it in Strava, none of them did it on a 26" hardtail.
Good observations. Totally agree with your thoughts. The bike simply enables. The rider decides what they want to do. In the UK, many riders criticise the trails as being boring and not captivating or interesting enough. They’re missing the point quite often I feel as the enjoyment should be being out in the fresh air, the sights, the landscape, the freedom, simple exercise. Plenty of good, budget friendly, capable bikes out there for experiencing the outdoors without breaking the bank or some bones in the process.
I had a similar moment this past year Matty. I crashed while preparing for a relay race, and it threatened my ability to do long endurance road rides, which I truly love. It made me second guess why I was even racing at all. I had to remind myself that, for me, MTB is a chill trail ride. I was getting drawn in to the thrill of extreme and losing sight of what I really loved about riding trails.
This is a great message. I just had this conversation with my brother. I've done some intense trails on Oahu and in Truckee but I also enjoy the mellow rides I do by the ocean, just enjoying the peace and quiet. i am trying to convince him to buy a hard tail and ride the trails in Virginia where he lives. Great video, Matty.
This is such a powerful message. I am an old man and take longer to recover from injuries than I did in my teens or 20's. I think my days of bombing crazy descents and jumping stuff are behind me. I still like to go for a nice pedal in nature though.
🎯 💯 I love how you explained this!! I love riding to ride. Don’t get me wrong…I do enjoy a good challenging trail every now and then. BUT. it’s so much more fun when ridjng with others, regardless of skill level, bike components, etc. The real joy of mountain biking for me is exactly about being out in nature and soaking it all in, which can be hard to do if constantly white-knuckled and hyper focused. I believe that any trail can be as challenging as you want to make it. The ultimate fun for me is when i get to share it with others and being able to throttle back so they can enjoy it too. That trail looks fantastic! Thank you for posting this video!!
I love everything about this video. As a guy who been mountain biking for 10+ years I completely concur with this message. One of the things that was said to me early on when I was beginning to mountain bike by skilled mountain bikers who had Full Suspension bikes was they recommended you start of with a simple hardtail (no rear suspension just front) and learn to ride with skill on one of those because the full suspension bikes actually allow you to not be as skilled in riding over rocks and bumps and in turns etc. where if you learn how to navigate these different types of surfaces with out a rear suspension you will be a better rider already if you go to full suspension. I use mountain biking to get healthy - body mind and emotion.
Don’t let people tell you what is needed to go mountain biking. Pick up your bike and just go and enjoy.
This! 100% this!!!
Fact.
I’ve got to thank you man. I’ve been watching your channel for a bit and I was preoccupied with the idea of making a fool of myself out on the trails (hadn’t ridden a bike since I was a kid) and I’ve been looking for another way to get outside and improve on the cardio. Your videos made it seem approachable enough that I finally got out to a place named Greer ranch recently and had a blast. Thought I was gonna die because you guys make pedaling look like such a breeze but despite that I’m all in now! Your enthusiasm for biking and seemingly life in general really encouraged me to just go, and I just wanted to say thanks and that I enjoy your videos.
Every time a new type of bike comes out, trail bike, enduro whatever, I always see comments, "That's not real mountain biking." Wrong. Mountain biking is whatever you want it to be. And if you're having fun, who cares?! Be happy, ride lots
I never question why I'm into mtb. The things that ruin it for people is the ebike culture, send it culture, and the best bike competition or competing with others. Just an FYI having a nice bike does make a difference and the experience is different. Riding a 300 bike on a familiar trail vs a 4k bike on the same trail makes a difference and tuning it enhances the difference. In no way does a more expensive cheat you out of riding. Now choosing the right type of bike can change the trail. If you ride a 200mm travel dh bike on a simple blue trail of course it's going to feel less of a gnarly trail vs riding a 100mm xc bikes. Same trail different ecperience.
"you can never go wrong being out in nature on your bike" that right there, is the essence of mountain biking for me.
Bears
I love just being outdoors riding through the woods. No hurry. No kit or special shoes. Just whatever I have on. I have just as much fun.
thats one cool thing about flats is that my special shoes are just normal 5.10s. theyre just another pair of sneakers
Yeah that's true.
That's me, I just cruise. Bought an e-bike and it's a game changer.
100% truth sir. Mountain biking is mountain biking. Overinflated ego and justification of how much your bike cost can lead so many away from this amazing sport. Thank you for staying humble and sharing that with everyone else
That and the dude bro gatekeeper culture.
I cant justify the cost of my bike, but having gotten to racing levels, i at least know that my bike is what brings me the most fun in exchange for money
🤦♂️
YES!
@@epaquette06 you can't justify the cost?
You don't NEED to, is the way I see it! 😂
I’m all about the “nature hikes on wheels” on my hard tail.
Correct - love it nature hikes on wheels
oh man, that's a great way to look at it!
That's me, I just wanna hike on a bike.
Same here, this is my kind of mountain biking, and I still have my XC hardtail from 2019😅
Matty, you’ve transcended just being another MTB channel. You are a Zen Guru and I’m here for it.
The best bike is the one you ride.
Best bike and best trail are the ones you like being on
Absolutely true. All summed up in a dozen words.
Mountain biking is a lot like skiing. If all you've ever seen are Warren Miller movies with extreme skiers bombing down extreme slopes you might never try skiing. MTB is the same. Lots of bunny slopes, intermediate terrain and you can progress with time and practice if you choose to. I've been mountain biking since 1986, before full suspension was a thing. I was happy to be in the woods on my bike. My riding progressed and I can do black diamond trails and hit the bike park a few times per year on my full sus enduro bike, but mostly I like to ride in the woods on techy, flowy trails. I don't have to be "full send" to have fun. Now, I am 62 years old and my air time on bikes is getting dialed WAY BACK (I don't bounce like I used to). Point is, go out, have fun and not worry about what other people are doing. Ride, your ride, the way you want and have fun.
Yeah every time I go to Keystone I never hit the double Black diamond I always just do the green and blue trails. I get 7 runs a day in with over 10k feet of descent. Top 20 spots on a lot of DH sections on my hardtail 26". Making full sus riders think I'm cheating 😂
You are so right! I watched Warren Miller movies long before I ever tried skiing, because I thought it was all extreme stuff. I was scared to try it. Once I learned that it wasn't all just hucking yourself off cliffs, skiing in shoulder-deep powder, or bombing down near-vertical descents, I tried it. I've loved every minute of it.
I’m more or less a road rider and if I ever get a MTB it will likely be a hard tail. I’m only interested in riding flat trails and maybe some mild hills.
As a man the same age as you, I FEEL YOU! Back in 1986, a high tech MTB was a 26er with thumb actuated friction shifters with a 3x6 drivetrain... 😁😁
@@cycologist7069 that's what I do now. Though I have two MTBs, I've since set them up as ATBs, or all terrain bikes. I have semi slick tires on them, and the most extreme terrain I ride them on now are the local canal towpaths.
Your experience with mountain biking sounds like my experience with BMX jumping until I was a teenager. As a middle-aged adult, I just like going for long bike rides out in nature for mostly the meditative effect. I feel no need to jump anymore, and that's totally fine. The key is to keep riding a bike until you can't anymore.
I’m pushing 40 myself and I just enjoy the ride being out in nature as corny as that sounds it’s the best part
as a 49 year old dude that still rides heck yea. but I do like jumps and downhill going fast more than flat trails.
@@viperdemonz-jenkins At 51, I like climbing the most, which I would've never thought a few years ago. I enjoy challenging myself and keeping my fitness level in check. And with every good climb, there's usually a nice view and descent. I hurt myself enough on my skateboard in my 40s, that I shifted to bikes and I'm trying to keep out of the hospital again if I can help it. :)
@@biosfearmag heck yea.
YES I AGREE ALSO GETTING UP IN MY AGE 62 PLUS.
YES! Thank you for speaking aloud. There's something wrong: If you ride the road you don't need the best Lycra outfit, you don't need to be the fastest. The regular T-shirt and granny's pace is fine. Same on gravel. It doesn't have to be 100 miles. Same on mountain bikes. It doesn't have to be rocky, you don't need to jump. The egos are wrong.
This is what mountain biking used to be about. Literally XC riding with a hard tail or short travel full suspension. Almost no trails were flow trails or had berms. From time to time there were some tech obstacles that would be thrown in the way. Today it’s nothing but tech and flow.
Great video Matty. I'm 62, used to race Mx back in the 80s. My wife laid down the law and I'm not allowed anymore dirt bikes. However after a hip replacement, kidney cancer then a heart condition I'm determined not to give up doing what makes me happy. I was made medically redundant so decided I'd treat myself to an emtb and it's fantastic. I don't do jumps (to scared to risk my hip) but I can climb where I would normally just give it a miss. Exploring is such great satisfaction and I've got an extended lease of life with bikes again. We'd all love the newest thing but your right, just being out there and taking in the nature is soooo good. Keep it up Matty, I'm glad you're still cycling.
HEY I LIKE YOUR STORY I AM ALSO TOO 62 AND WANTING AND GETTING OUT EMOUNTAIN BIKING IN THE WOODS MY FAVORITE RECREATION SPORT. MY THING IS NOT HAVING ENOUGH TIME CAUSE THIS JOB 9 HOUR KITCHEN WORK STUFF. IM IN REMISSION OF CANCER TOO AND A LITTLE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE BUT STILL HAVE ENERGY TO MOVE ABOUT.
@@mrd6093 Caps off please; no need to shout like an old man at clouds. TY!
A person gets to a point where they don't feel the need to prove themselves to others or seek other's approval on that other person's terms. You're an athlete, used to proving yourself constantly against the average, against others, against yourself. Part of it is just simply de-programming a little and letting yourself breathe. You've found the way you like to ride, now you can probably use some of those other bikes in the way YOU like as opposed to challenging yourself to max out what they can do. Or you can move them along to others and free up some space both in your house and mentally as well. All that equipment can be a burden as well as a blessing. I'm happy for you that you found your lane!
Great comment MATT, I’m 62 and it took me a long time to realize exactly what you said here, broke my back 9 yrs ago riding above my skill level, now I ride my ride even if that means riding solo, I’ll never stop, I believe it truly is the secret to longevity!
Well said Matty! I fell into this, kept trying harder trails, upgraded my bike. Still enjoying it but really didn’t need to upgrade.
It's not well said. Kids aren't being influenced by the bike industry. Kids do what they enjoy. When they grow up and have their own money they mountain bike because that's their personality.
Nothing beats the feeling of clearing a gnarly section with a shit bike and look at your overbiked friends struggle on the same section 😂
Thanks Matty for your practical approach to mountain biking. I bought my first Trek Marlin 6 based on your recommendation and had a blast this past season mountain biking.
I read a RUclips comment that said that the coming generation of newcomers to cycling, including mountain biking, grew up with video games and smart phones. They did not grow up with an attachment to bicycles and the outdoors. Therefore, I think your channel has great potential to attract this new generation. You're make cycling very approachable, which unfortunately most cyclists do not.
Your focus on enjoying the outdoors and its capacity to improve mental health is something that I think the coming generation will be drawn to, since there's so much dysfunction that has come from our "technology" age.
I hope you really take off this year and the coming years. If bicycling brands/companies are smart, they'll get behind you and your approach to mountain biking!
Moving through nature under your own power on a bike that's comfortable on dirt. THAT is the heart of mountain biking. I'm so glad you're illustrating that point with your videos.
After 6yrs off a bike, used to race track and crits, I am now getting back and this time around with a inexpensive bikesdirect full rigid singlespeed 29er. I actually built the bike up almost two years ago but never took it out until a month ago and I'm loving it. Sure I'm slow but all I care about right now is just having fun. I've taken it to the local singletracks and having so much fun. It's like being a kid all over again in my late 30's. Thanks for this video Matty!!!!
Nice-if your joints are good, you’re setup is as good as it gets!
@@scottl8469It’s just a different style that isn’t hard on the joints if done correctly. You obviously have to slow down and get out of the saddle and use your legs as suspension. I keep a loose grip which seems counterintuitive. Tire pressure is even more important on a rigid bike. It’s not for every one of course. I also enjoy more full suspension.
I’ve looked at those bikes. Any good?
@@Tim9460-o9t, yep, I rode rigid SS for years. Destroyed my shoulder 35 years ago, severe arthritis, no labrum left, and I just separated same shoulder at Thanksgiving. At 61, Going with a suspension fork from here.
@@Tim9460-o9t yeah I've had multiple bikes from there. As long as you repack the headset and bearings on the hubs before riding then you're good. The higher price bikes should come with sealed cartridge bearings though.
i’ve been mtn biking since to 80s and have been through more than my share of insanely expensive bikes and “extreme” riding/racing over the years. But my favorite mountain biking is on my single speed hard tail on my local trails when i get out and ride to enjoy the sites, sounds, smells of nature and relax. it is sad that people can’t see the simplicity of the sport and fixate on the marketing and media hype. The sport definitely needs more supporters like you!
Spot on man 🤘 I've been mountain biking since the early 90s and things have changed so much, bike parks, trail centres, harder lines and more capable bikes needed to ride them.
I enjoy a long easy trail ride in the summer with good friends just as much as trying to push myself.
For anyone getting into the sport in the last 5 years social media would have you believe you need an enduro bike just to even start riding and that unless you're clearing 40 foot doubles you're rubbish.
Marketing departments and social media have a lot to answer for, put simply going for a ride should be fun, not some macho 'I'm rowdier than you' contest.
🤘
So many good points.
Honestly, the less time I spend online, the more time I spend on my bike. That’s what I’ve learned. Instagram distorts the view of anything.
My wife is a daily commenter (I work from home) and we cross 2 ravines to get from our community to downtown. I just stopped driving. Now my mountain bikes are my cargo bikes, my gravel bikes, my road bikes and my fun bikes.
I work in marketing, so I understand the pressures put on those teams to sell stories. It’s a factor of a mature marketplace, that they cater to the most profitable areas. Extreme sports sell better than hybrid bikes any day-remember those? 😅
I've had similar experiences mountain biking. I used to enjoy group rides up until a few years ago. Now these days, it seems like most people I ride with are peacocking about their fancy expensive e-bikes and how that's the only way to enjoy the sport. They don't seem to understand there's more to mountain biking than the equipment they buy.
Glad you said this. I was headed down that path... thinking I needed the best kashima coated fork, shock, and dropper, etc. I stopped myself before I went off the deep end
Matty, as usual, some great insights into the mountain biking scene. Thanks for pointing out how varied mountain biking can be and how enjoyable it can be for anyone who rides.
Thanks for saying what isn't said enough. Just getting out, exploring trails, being in nature, exercising and having fun is how we all started. Having the freedom to discover the great outdoors is what should be advertised and marketed more strongly.
A basic/inexpensive rigid mountain bike is the gateway to happiness, improved mental and physical health, adventure and discovery.
And sore wrists and lower back but I LOVE IT!❤
Rigid specific geometry with plus tires and a suspension dropper post is choice. Check out Jones bikes for this 👍
@@ceb4382was just about to say the same thing to Steven. I love my 2 bike quiver. Jones swb and Rocky Mt element full sis with moto inspired riser bars. For multi surface riding and old guy mtb riding, I doubt there’s anything more that I’ll ever need.
I’m gonna plug the Kona Honzo ESD here fam. Give it a look.
Well said, 100% agree
I’ve been riding XC mountain bikes since 1992 when I purchased a Raleigh M50 with Shimano Alivio group set and a rigid fork. So many years later; My bike of choice is my 2017 Trek Procaliber hardtail with RockShox SID fork - I don’t BOMB down anything gnarly, I take my time and ride with finesse, I do logovers and at least ride 6 times per week in Philadelphia’s Belmont and Wissahickon trails. I’ve never been interested in these “analog dirt bikes” and hucking off gnarly cliffs. Singletrack XC is the most beautiful and rewarding off road cycling f there is! Great video!
I 100% agree with you as I ride the same way and also the same trails as I am from Delaware County, stay safe out there!
Where I'm from, people on the trails are so obsessed with speed and their times, they get very annoyed if you ride slowly enjoying the ride and holding them up.
They have this notion that they must be going fast to have fun or beat someone else's time to be the best, really annoying.
You should hear what they have to say about you! 😂
Idk whats the problem. Let them pass and enjoy😂 . If he wants to go faster why not. U are to slow for him make him pass everyone happy.
@@lakaldrak that's the thing. Same story driving on the roads. Everyone's complaining about the "speeding maniacs" until they get stuck behind that one old guy who drives everywhere at 50.
You're referring to XC mtbers. 😂
Pretty much on point maddie, I have spent a lot of money on bikes that were Way beyond my capabilities on the bikes. I have my Roscoe 9 which was an expensive bike and I have upgraded it extensively but I do everything on that bike. It is literally my daily Rider when I go on bike rides with my wife and daughter. I use it for all my local trails and I'm looking forward to getting up towards Jared's place with it
This video epitomizes what TRUE mountain biking is all about. Just getting out there and enjoy nature and enjoy the scenery. Thanks for putting this out there. Love it!
I feel like you and I have a lot in common. I love the sport but I hate the industry. I quit a long time ago and only got back into it last year when my circumstances allowed me to. You're absolutely right, you don't need to spend thousands of dollars on the latest gear to have a good time, all you need is a dirt track and whatever bike you can get your hands on. I wish I'd realised that sooner.
Keep up the great work 👍
This video kind of amuses me because I had the exact opposite view of mountain biking when I started. I thought all anyone rode was these pretty calm, not too steep trails. The more I got into it the more I realized that I had absolutely no idea how crazy people could get with this sport!
I've been biking for about 7 years and I've never ridden a jump or a drop. Can't even do a manual, and I still love getting out on the trail and just enjoying nature. Lovely message man, hope it inspires some people to get out there!
It is refreshing to hear your message. I'm 58 and have been riding a bike since I was four. I got burned out for a while with riding. What brought back the joy for me was buying a fatbike a couple years ago. That bike reminded me how fun riding can be and I ride it anywhere. It is my go to bike and last year I bought a 29" wheelset for it which made it even more flexible for what I can do with it. I hope more people watch your video and realize what it's all about!
I totally relate to what you are saying! I have been pushing my limits the past 6 years on the bike and just "sending it" which has resulted in a broken collarbone (2021) and a broken arm 4 months ago! I don't need to prove anything to myself any longer and just want to ride my bike outdoors!
I agree.I don't even any longer consider what the industry has been promoting as MTBing over the last 10 years as cycling.
Thanks!
Thank you Paul! I really appreciate your contribution to the channel. It means A LOT!!
Matty, I'm really glad I came across your videos on mountain biking because I really recognise how you feel about it.
I bought a full suspension mountain bike in 2018 and freaking loved it, took it out for a ride every weekend, looking for the most difficult trails and features I could find! But being in college then, I also got an old steel city bike that I totally restored to use as my general get-around-town bike. I soon discovered that it was totally possible to take that old city bike with skinny slick tires on half the paths I would previously take my full suspension mountain bike on and discovered I was having WAY more fun because it was a much more meaningful challenge!
I still have my mountain bike in the garage, but I don't really ride it anymore. These days when I wanna be out in a quiet place I take my steel road bike out in the countryside and I'll still ride whatever unpaved sections I come across which is a super fun challenge.
Context tho: I don't have a car because I don't want one, so whatever I'm riding is at my doorstep or whatever I can get to from the train station. I also live in Belgium and in my side of the coutry there are practically no places where you can ride uninterrupted unpaved trails. Riding on the road to connect sections of trail always felt kinda sluggish and I didn't really enjoy that on my mountain bike.
Now on my road bike I feel like I have so much more freedom because I can cover so much more distance. I love quiet backroads so much now because it's just smooth and quick and it's generally a lot more fun to take out that steel road bike than a completely overkill mountain bike. If I was being rational I should sell my mountain bike but it's old and not worth much anymore and I'm still emotionally attached to it. It's also a total moneypit because my fork needs a major service, my rear suspension pivot bearings are all shot and my rear shock is at the end of its life and spending that money to get it all fixed is just not worth it at all for me.
I really appreciate your take on MTB riding. This is exactly how I approached it with my daughter when she was 6 and wanted to ride trails with me. We had so much fun cruising on the low intensity trails like the one you rode at the end. I sometimes did the small jumps while riding behind her and never pressured her to try any. Then when she was 7 she tried a small kicker on her own, wiped out, got up and brushed off, and asked me if she could go back up the trail to try again. I was so proud and impressed! Now she's 10 and having a blast on pump tracks and more technical trails like at the beginning of this video, while her little brother is 6 and just starting out. She loves to encourage him and have him follow her on the easier trails. You are absolutely right that this sport is so much more than jump parks and downhill bombing. It has enough variety that there's something for everyone!
It’s definitely social media hyping the expensive bikes and insane jumps. I’ll admit I have nice bikes, but I don’t buy into the jump lines and Red Bull style riding….I’m happiest on the old school single track that’s mainly natural lines. There is a place for nice bikes, but just don’t focus on that being the only reason it’s fun or the only way you can get out and ride…. You are saying this loud and clear! Thanks for keeping up the fun content
I’d love to have a short video starting around the 5 minute mark, where you’re really speaking to people that I can post most people aren’t going to watch the whole way through and if we can get your AWESOME message to more people to get out there. THANK YOU
A truly realistic and sane perspective. Thank you, Matty!
I just started ripping trails on my gravel bike. So much fun and completely changed my view on what mtn biking could be. Just flowy and chilllll
Great video!! The cycling industry promotes a “you need this to do that” marketing approach in order to sell products. In reality, it’s not the case for most of the consumer population. I used to ride local trails in Pasadena, CA on a Specialized Hard Rock. lol. Other folks had far more technical rigs but I still had a great time! Ride what you have and enjoy!!
Who is promoting that? I've never seen those ads.
@RealMTBAddict - To each their own… In watching all sorts of cycling content here on YT often times a lot of the equipment being pedaled (pun intended) is for bikes that cost thousands of dollars. I get that there’s a difference between $1k and $8k but there are people who don’t have that kind of money to get into the sport (even at the lower “value bike” endorsed price points).
@@llamont2336 Ok. My first bike was a rigid steel Raleigh, I didn't care about getting a nice bike until I was 25. You're supposed to start small with any sport. I didn't have a nice bike until I was 30. Even after moving to Colorado I ride a steel 26" hardtail. It's worth $5k but only because I chose the toughest parts, not the lightest. In my opinion anything over $5k is a waste unless you're doing pro level races. I have over 100 top 10 spots from downhill in Keystone to flat segments in Florida against the fastest out there.
I've ridden with people that had more expensive bikes than me, but they can't keep up. And eventually they quit riding with me because of the shame.
I'll never be Jeff Kendall or Keegan Swenson, and I'm cool with that. I bought a super sweet bike that I wanted (Specialized Epic HT) and it is far more capable than I am. I love my bike and I'm glad that I bought it, it's super quick and maneuverable, and I'll probably never buy a "bigger bike " for these little eastern NC trails do not require it. Good work on what you do and how youve accomplished your mtb journey. Stay stoked.
I tried this last summer to get into mtb because I love adrenaline filled activities and my husband is a mountain biker. His co-workers are really good and advanced so I didn't listen to my husband when he was saying what you're saying here and I tried too hard to become "advanced". It made me *hate* the sport. After he explained to me that I can take any trail I want and not do the jumps etc, just do what is comfortable and fun for me, I am very excited to start riding again after winter.
Thank you so much for this video and your channel, you really explain things well and make me want to bike more too. You have an instant subscriber in me!
Great video. I admit I fell into the same mindset of wanting the best to enjoy mountain biking. I recently realized it's about being outdoors, enjoying everything around you, and savoring the time you have out there.
This is a great take. Sort of highlights the problem with any kind of content creation -- the assumption that what will get the most views is the pinnacle of whatever that is, whether it's gaming, mountain biking or some other sport or hobby. The thing is, although that logic is somewhat sound, a lot of viewers tune in for the person, no matter what they're doing. I totally get wanting to ride the gnarliest stuff out there, but for me it's a matter of how much risk I'm willing to face before it starts to eat away my enjoyment of simply riding my bike.
All facts sir,great video. Thank you for keeping it real,ride a bike that makes you happy,not one that spends more time on a bike stand than on a trail. I grew up in Colorado and we had some wild trails back in the day , some right in the city!! I used to notice that when we would go to bike parks and get dirty looks from more serious riders that like to pre judge you off of your bike and some even off your gear! It wasn’t fun anymore . What got me back on bikes was an event called the Denver cruiser weekly rides. You had every type of bike imaginable out there just cruising along having fun! To me that’s what it’s all about! I think the bike industry needs to get back to the simple idea of buy our bike,put air in the tires and ride.once again great video brother!
My first mountain bike was very inexpensive, probably made in Taiwan or something. But I loved it and had tons of fun on it. I rode it everywhere. One day I bent one of the front gears (the cheap ones are pretty thin and flimsy, I'll admit). I took it to this fancy, big-name bike shop in town where I worked, and they turned their snooty noses up at it and said "We don't work on low-end bikes here." I went to another shop - a local mom-n-pop bike neighborhood shop, and the guy happily fixed my bike. I told him about the other shop and he said "There's no such thing as a "bad" bike. This bike got you into the sport of mountain biking, so it's a GREAT bike."
I mountain biked when i was kid going into my early 20's, then just stopped due life changes, work, school, and just wanting to party lol. But after coming across your channel it inspired me to get back out and enjoy what i love about it. Thanks Matty for the inspiration. Now in my 40's with a new Roscoe 7 I feel my passion again. PS my first Mountain bike was an early 90's Raleigh Discovery( rigid bike) , then a Raleigh Serengeti with front suspension, which i still have and will be restoring one day 😁
Hi Matty, great video and very relaxed. I started mountain biking in 1988. Never quite fell into the trap. Now that I'm older, it's "just" a nice way to get around in the great outdoors on trails that don't get me down...
Greetings from Austria 😊
Matty Active, you nailed it. Most honest video of a rider I’ve seen or heard. God bless you for your candid honesty and your love for riding.
This was a great video thank you for putting out there. I have a lot of friends that I try to get into mountain biking and this is the perfect introduction for them to see.
Thanks for promoting those idea! I agree that all we ever see or hear about is gnarly downhill and huge jumps these days. At nearly 50, i have been riding mountain bikes for nearly 40 years, 99% had been trails like you showed with 2 tires on the ground. I do like a short travel, lightweght, full suspension bike just to take the edge off and make my body a little less sore, but it is absolutely not necessary. Most of the trails here in the Midwest are old school, relatively flat singletrack. I love it, and hope to continue riding for many more years. Cheers!
Totally agree. I've been mtb'ing almost continuously for over 35 years solid. Been down the whole path of fancy bikes, chasing progression blah.. but I never really liked those bigger bikes to ride and was always harking back to the early style of mtb. Now am more than happy on smooth flowy trails, enjoying the outdoors, chilling on a nice hardtail or gravel bike. This way I find I've had fewer rides that end up with an unexpected trip in a heli straight to A&E, and am better for it.
Likewise. Got my first full rigid in 1993. For years, I spent way too much $$$ chasing the mtb dragon but sold my fs a decade ago and now ride only a steel or emtb ht, staying safe and enjoying nature on the easy trails.
I started MTB a couple years ago. I was 60. I was not new to outdoor sports though and I quickly realized the heart of it was just riding through the woods covering a lot of ground and enjoying being out. The RUclipsrs need to pitch something a lot more exciting than that though! This video is spot on.
Seth, berm peak, recently was in crested butte and as I watched the video all I could think was, man I can ride those trails and they are so beautiful! Very inspiring. I’d love to see more intermediate riding content from these channels. That would reach a ton us us average riders.
Beautifully put! Sometimes it’s so easy to get wrapped up on what we think mountain biking should be instead of just taking a step back and just enjoying the little things within the ride! Great video!
You make some great points. i can only imagine the further one dips into "the industry", the more it SEEMS like you have to embody the rad mtb lyfestyle... I'm glad you saw through it! The first few videos I saw with you hitting bigger and more rowdy stuff, I keep thinking, "This brother is not ready for this and he's going to get broke off!" I hope you avoided serious injury and I truly am glad you're cutting your own path in mtb.
I love this message. Almost all my mountain biking these days is on smooth dirt paths, green trails, dirt roads, etc. Learning skills to ride harder stuff can be fun, but so is just getting out there. And truthfully, you can a better, more sustainable workout without killing youself up steep climbs on easier trails.
Awesome positive video! I'm 52 years old and live in Netherlands close to a famous dune/forest MTB trail. I've done long climbs and downhills in places like the German black forest, the Belgian Ardennes and Lake Garda in Italy. These were all on old Giant, Cannondale and Koga hardtail bikes with front suspension. Had so much fun. Only the last (second hand) bike was a Specialized Stumpjumper Pro with Fox front/rear suspension and disc brakes. This one was more comfortable, but I cannot recall having had more fun with that thing. Now it's time to replace it to be able to pick up mountainbiking again and this video made me contemplate. The only reason I am looking at a Full Suspension is the fact that my back hurts quickly and this will prevent that a bit better. But for the trails here it's actuallu not a requirement....maybe I will switch to a hardtail after all...
I feel this video. I recently got a trek marlin 6 and started mountain biking. Iv been athletic my entire life skating biking rollerblading hiking everything. And the more i started seeing social media made me feel like i needed a fully suspended 12k bike. I appreciate this video.
I grew up rocking the trails in Horsetooth and Lory State Parks to the north in CO. All about the XC trails back then, and now for me 35 years later in the PNW (loam, baby! so smooth). I'm in it to enjoy, get an occasional lil' jump, and just get in the flow. I don't need to send massive airs and end up in the ER. Ain't nobody got time for that! Keep going man, love your thoughts and stay active sir.
100% - Every time I watch one of your videos I hear what I've been thinking for years. A mountain bike is whatever gets you out and puts a smile on your face. Gravel bikes (or hardtails or full rigids) on dirt is more smiles per miles than technical riding.
Great one and you are 100% correct. I'm going to be 50 this year and I spend allot of time on 2 wheels, I don't even own a car anymore. I always put more miles on my bicycles then my motorcycle throughout the year. It's my therapy and my best friend, I do like riding with people but I am generally alone with my thoughts. I don't jump or drops anymore but I've still managed to hurt myself from time to time. Just get out there and enjoy the outdoors, enjoy the fresh air and ride your bike.
man this is so real. Glad someone posted something reflective on this sport I've loved since 2010
I like your message....and yes to all you're saying, something we all need to be reminded of. Been biking for twenty plus years and coming off a year of burnout. Getting back into biking with the same attitude....basics, get outside and enjoy. The crazy stuff.....is just that, crazy.
I started mountain biking during the first Covid lockdowns with my girlfriend on two Specialized Rockhoppers that we got for $700. I’ve put $700 worth of upgrades on them and the biggest difference makers have been tires that are more suited to what we ride, pedals that our feet don’t slip off as easy, and dropper posts. Everything else has been completely negligible.
Dropper posts are the best invention since the wheel itself! I use mine constantly. Even on level terrain, I find that periodically adjusting the height of my seat, even just a few centimeters, saves me from a lot of knee pain.
Tx Matty! As an old timer I just got back into mtn biking last year and having just turned 60 I still love it. I mostly ride around our country town on the roads, on my 10yr old Giant Boulder claptrap, but really love getting off the beaten track and seeing some nature as well. We don't have a lot of steeps down under anyway, so most of the bush tracks are fairly flat anyway, and I enjoy the flats, light downhill and uphills equally!
Hey Matty, try tracklocross, or fixed gear mtb. Makes all those easy trails fun again. Simplest of the simple minded!
The first time I ever went trail riding in the '80s, I did it on a 1970s steel Huffy 10-speed road bike. I had not thought of that in years until this video. Good call Matty.
Thats a very humble view you have, its not all about the adrenaline kicks every time you ride. Its more to do with getting fresh air, change the scenery and just being outdoors away from the TV.
Been watching you for a long time. Your kid like enthusiasm just to ride a bike, any bike and it was refreshing and fun to watch. I've always rode as an escape to nature and it allowed me to unplug and do something for me. I like to watch the talented riders at rampage and other events just like I watch F1 racing, but I don't want to drive the way they do. Thanks for sharing your view and I agree with you. Ride for you at the level you're comfortable riding. Keep on riding @mattyactive
Bravo! Getting into the woods or trails is the real pull for MTB. I also got sucked into the extreme - but the green and butterballs are where it’s at. Thanks for this video!
Well said, thank you. I totally agree. What is portrayed on social media most often is not the only version of mountain biking. I went from a full squish to a hardtail XC bike and love the responsiveness, lightweight and quick handling. I also ride my cyclocross bike on my local singletrack and although I once owned 6 bikes, I am leaning towards getting on drop bar gravel bike with two sets of wheels/tires. One versatile bike to do it all.
Wonderful to see you uploaded this. I was talking to a girl this weekend who is riding an entry level Salsa Rangefinder. She though she needed a new bike to do things when all she needed was new tires.
I live in the PNW and have a very capable bike that I can do anything I want on it. I also have family and friends who live near Atlanta, and they just have basic hardtails. They can ride any green or blue trail they want and have a wonderful time riding together and enjoying nature. It makes me enjoy time riding my bikes doing simple things with husband and son as a family.
Great point about tires. I think the industry really holds itself back by selling mid-level bikes with the worst, most plasticy tires (and thin grips and rock hard seats and tiny plastic pedals) so that riders starting out or wanting to try a new type of cycling feel super squirrely on the new bike. Front tires especially make such a big difference in confidence on any surface.
You are so right. This is what riding looked like in 80's and 90's! And has anyone noticed the trails for most of the video look like what are now referred are to as "gravel trails" for which you need a "gravel bike". The vintage bikes of years ago were less expensive, simpler and lighter than anything available today.
Awesome video man! This is how I ride. I rode power sport(snowmobile, dirt bikes, 4 wheelers ect) from 7 tears old and up but moved to a big city with only bike and mountain bike trails so in my mid 30's I started mountain biking but my day of big air sand no fear are behind me I just go out have fun and see the sights. It's so worth it im so glad I made the choice to start!
AMEN, Brother! My first MTB was a 1999 Raleigh M30 rigid; I still have it and enjoy it to this day. Though I now have five bikes in my fleet, that Raleigh rigid will be one of the two I'll keep forever; as long as I'm drawing breath on this Earth, I'll be hanging onto my rigid MTB and vintage Marukin M-420 road bike. Why? One, they've gone through life with me. Two, I've had epic rides on both bikes, rides that I'll remember forever. Just looking at them downstairs brings back those memories.
The other thing about rigids is that they teach you how to really ride. You have to think about what you're going to do, how to do it, when, and so on. When you don't have any suspension to soak up your mistakes, you're more careful about line selection and negotiation. Plus, as you pointed out, all your energy gets put to the ground. I wish rigids were still made; it's a crime that they aren't! Everything is either a hardtail or double boinger these days, and the world of MTBs is poorer for it.
I was actually on the board of directors for a non-profit mountain bike organization. At that point, I had been mountain biking for 35 years. I've had pretty nice bikes over the years, but couldn't tell you much about them (gearing, for example). It was never about the bike or the more extreme features as it was being with friends out in nature and just enjoying a nice ride. But most of the folks at the non-profit were all about steep single track and any trail project that wasn't extreme to some degree wasn't considered "fun." That's why I left. And that's why others my age left. For me, it's a win just to get new folks out on trails and enjoying being outside. And, I think there's a larger group of potential enthusiasts out there who need that message. I think it's really important to promote the sport from the "get out and ride and enjoy nature" angle instead of from the spend a bunch of money and ride technical trails angle.
We may never meet Matty but all the way from Zambia, Africa you inspire me to take out my 29" GT Karakoram hardtail that seems to be outdated in the small biking community here. It's not fancy, not flashy but it shifts when I got up and stops when I go down. I feel happiest when I ride alone most times.
100% correct. I got caught up on the fs high-end bike. Don't get me wrong, I had fun on the bike, but when I was riding it, I would always think about going back to an HT. I have more fun on an HT. I'm in my 50yrs old and I don't need to ride the hardest trails or need to flex because I'm riding an high end fs mtb. Just need to get out and ride , have fun, and enjoy nature.
Great video and content. I've been mtn biking since 1980 when there were no suspension bikes. It got me off of the roads with traffic and openned up a lot more riding opportunities. It doesn't have to be about speed, technicality, or any other aspect. It's about your definition of fun. And, the excersize and scenery is extra bonuses.
Excellent video. Thanks for putting it out there. I have a 1997 Rocky Mountain Blizzard hard-tail with 26" tires that I upgraded with a 2023 RockShox Recon fork and a SRAM GX Eagle 1x12 groupset. I'm rockin' V-brakes, too, and they stop me with no issues. I don't go on the crazy, gnarly trails that are popular these days and I don't want to but there are a lot of beautiful trails that I can ride and that I love to ride, like the ones you mentioned in this video. My bike works well and makes me smile every time I ride it. Just get out on the trails, enjoy nature, and ride. Don't believe the lies. You don't need carbon. You don't need full suspension. You don't need disc brakes. You don't need a new bike.
I generally agree with you and your points are valid about the essence of mountain biking activities.
From my perspective, having a technical understanding and knowledge of mountain biking can help you enjoy more and stay safer.
If we want to pursue this sport professionally, we need to consider upgrading our bikes and skills while we enjoy the experience itself.
Unfortunately, when a sport activity gets combined with commercial competition, there will be many misconceptions like those you mentioned in the video.
Market does not think about maximizing our happiness, it tries hard maximize the financial benefits. That is not in line with the values and principles that we look for in a sport activity.
Thanks for the video.
Thanks Matty, I appreciate your perspective on our sport. It’s nice to get away from the gatekeeping bros and hear the message that anyone can do this.
Just got back from some really nice easy blue and green trails. I couldn't agree with you more. I always have more fun on trails that don't have a high like likelihood of putting me in the hospital if I make a mistake. Great ride you got going there .
This is exactly why I love winter fatbiking more than any other season. I'm not out there trying to set any fast times or attempt any new features. It's just nice to be out for a pedal, get some fresh air and mentally unwind
Absolutely LOVE this message. The image that’s presented of MTB via most media and especially RUclips is the extreme end of it. And it’s exclusionary in a way. I live on the east coast. The closest actual mountains are hours away. But I still go mountain biking. It’s my favorite outdoor activity besides the beach. And I really wanna see more people that show this side of it. I mean I love watching the extreme stuff. Like I’m a big Sam Pilgrim fan. But that’s not all there is to it.
Love this message dude! A lot of people missing out on a great sport. Love the extreme side of MTB, but in reality mtb is whatever ride you desire
Excellent sir. You've given us 'nobodys' a reason to just ride. Don't care for speed or results, just out enjoying nature, life. Ditch the tech, just ride.
You nailed it with this video. I ride the same trails you do on a rigid fat bike and have a ton of fun doing so.
I think the whole ATB concept fully embraces the simple conceit of what mountain bikes once were. Don’t get me wrong, modern mountain bikes are crazy fun. Having started in the mid 80’s I got to see a real evolution of the sport and all the big hits, gnarly lines, super capable bikes as impressive as they are kind of removed me from what I most loved about the sport initially. Just carving up some singletrack in the backcountry and the experience over the equipment and if man made trail challenges.
Awesome video and even better message. Those of us who are at advanced levels need to remember what got us there and to pass that on.
In the end it's just enjoying two wheels on dirt
back when I started mtb'ing, the tech trails that turned you off were hike-a-bike sections - nobody could ride over that stuff on rigid 26'ers, so we rode on trails we could ride. Kinda like the chill trails you ride on your gravel bike. That kinda riding was always there waiting as a baseline and still gives that 'mountain biking' zen people enjoy.
I've ridden up and back down Pikes Peak on Barr trail on a hardtail 26", twice. Only 60 others have done it in Strava, none of them did it on a 26" hardtail.
@@jokermtb I still ride a 26er, it is a quality Yeti that was ahead of its time and it fits what I ride.
What an amazing and honest message! Thank you for putting this out there
Good observations. Totally agree with your thoughts. The bike simply enables. The rider decides what they want to do. In the UK, many riders criticise the trails as being boring and not captivating or interesting enough. They’re missing the point quite often I feel as the enjoyment should be being out in the fresh air, the sights, the landscape, the freedom, simple exercise. Plenty of good, budget friendly, capable bikes out there for experiencing the outdoors without breaking the bank or some bones in the process.
Appreciate your honesty and humility in these videos. Thank you sir
I had a similar moment this past year Matty. I crashed while preparing for a relay race, and it threatened my ability to do long endurance road rides, which I truly love. It made me second guess why I was even racing at all.
I had to remind myself that, for me, MTB is a chill trail ride. I was getting drawn in to the thrill of extreme and losing sight of what I really loved about riding trails.
This is a great message. I just had this conversation with my brother. I've done some intense trails on Oahu and in Truckee but I also enjoy the mellow rides I do by the ocean, just enjoying the peace and quiet. i am trying to convince him to buy a hard tail and ride the trails in Virginia where he lives. Great video, Matty.
Love your content and positivity. Keep up the great work!!
This is such a powerful message. I am an old man and take longer to recover from injuries than I did in my teens or 20's. I think my days of bombing crazy descents and jumping stuff are behind me. I still like to go for a nice pedal in nature though.
You're a wise , good human being. 😊
🎯 💯 I love how you explained this!! I love riding to ride. Don’t get me wrong…I do enjoy a good challenging trail every now and then. BUT. it’s so much more fun when ridjng with others, regardless of skill level, bike components, etc. The real joy of mountain biking for me is exactly about being out in nature and soaking it all in, which can be hard to do if constantly white-knuckled and hyper focused. I believe that any trail can be as challenging as you want to make it. The ultimate fun for me is when i get to share it with others and being able to throttle back so they can enjoy it too. That trail looks fantastic! Thank you for posting this video!!
I love everything about this video. As a guy who been mountain biking for 10+ years I completely concur with this message. One of the things that was said to me early on when I was beginning to mountain bike by skilled mountain bikers who had Full Suspension bikes was they recommended you start of with a simple hardtail (no rear suspension just front) and learn to ride with skill on one of those because the full suspension bikes actually allow you to not be as skilled in riding over rocks and bumps and in turns etc. where if you learn how to navigate these different types of surfaces with out a rear suspension you will be a better rider already if you go to full suspension. I use mountain biking to get healthy - body mind and emotion.