Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast

MTB Tech Climbing is Alive and Well on National Trail on South Mountain! [RNL S1, Ep 43]

Challenging technical climbs on analog mountain bikes is alive and well at the famous National Trail at South Mountain! What's the difference jumping steep "Dirt-Jumper Jumps" vs. "Mountain Bike Jumps" and should you significantly raise handlebar height to boost confidence in the air?

This week the guys discuss the joys of technical climbing on mountain bikes.  Is it better to practice jumping a smaller BMX/Dirt-Jump bike on steep (and scary!) jumps or to practice jumping the 'humps' at the local pump track? Will raising the handlebar height on a dirt-jumper make it feel more like a mountain bike?  Can an e-bike get us in trouble by attempting a climb that's too steep!?  Join us for a fun conversation about all things mountain biking!

MTB Gratitude of the Week

Sage: Sennheiser Profile Microphone!  After some listener comments about the Ride & Laugh Podcast sounding 'professional,' Sage appreciates how our Sennheiser microphones do a great job for our mountain bike podcast.  Technology is awesome and we appreciate our equipment which allows the Ride & Laugh podcast to happen! Sennheiser Profile Microphone: https://www.sennheiser.com/en-us/catalog/products/microphones/profile-usb-microphone

Dan: Troy Lee A3 Helmet!  Dan has found the Troy Lee Designs A3 Helmet to fit exceptionally well.  The helmet looks nice, stays secure and has MIPS protection. A comfortable helmet is appreciated in mountain biking!  Troy Lee A3 Helmet: https://troyleedesigns.com/collections/bike-helmets

MTB Tip of the Week:

When/if your bike isn't shifting correctly or staying in gear, stop & get off the bike.  Check to make sure your bolts are tight!  The bolt that secures the derailleur to the bike may be loose!  Also, make certain your rear wheel is on tightly so check that rear thru-axle!  In fact, check that both your wheels are on tight before each ride! 

Additional Links:

Ninja MTB Ramp: https://ridelikeaninja.com
MTB Q&A: https://www.youtube.com/@MTBQandA
Be More Bikes (Mega Tall Stem) https://bemorebikes.com/rr-stem.html
National Trail at South Mountain: https://www.trailforks.com/trails/national-14939/
Giant Fathom 1: https://www.giant-bicycles.com/us/fathom-1-2022
Action Ride Shop: https://www.actionrideshop.com/
Desert Trails Bike Park: https://www.trailforks.com/region/desert-trails-park/

The video version of this episode is also available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/CvGaN-WGFOw

The Ride and Laugh podcast is hosted by Dan @the_ride_abides and Sage @TrailSage.  Join us as we discuss all things mountain biking!  Riding technique, MTB gear, bikes, nutrition, fitness, mindset and more! Feel the gratitude. Flow on the trails, Flow in life!  Please enjoy the content then like and subscribe.  Join the Ride & Laugh community in the comments and/or rideandlaugh1@gmail.com.  

#MTB #MountainBike #MTBPodcast #MTBtips

The INFINITY Dirt Jumper - Is This The Best Way to Learn How to Jump Mountain Bikes? [RNL S1, Ep 42]

Unlock more flow, confidence and skill on your mountain bike by learning to jump on a smaller "Dirt Jumper" bike!  What are the different techniques needed to ride/jump on a Dirt Jumper and how might those skills translate to your MTB Progression!? 

The guys may be struggling to feel confident jumping their dirt jumpers, but they have a strong feeling, this progression will be very worthwhile come bike park season!  Also discussed this week are more cold weather riding tips, jumping fat bikes, Cushcore benefits, BMX vs. DJ, butt buzzing on steeps and getting back into the flow after a tumble.  We are all unlimited!  Anything is possible! Let's do this!

MTB Gratitude of the Week

Sage: Max at Main Line Cycles! - Max went above and beyond to custom fit a cush core tire insert into Sages's Carbo-Beast Fat Bike!  Sage was hesitant to ride his fat-bike at low PSI on rocks but now with Cushcore rim protection, the fat bike is unleashed in all conditions!  Thank you Max and Main Line Cycles!  https://www.instagram.com/mainline.cycles/

Dan: SpurCycle Bike Bells! - Dan has gratitude for this proper bicycle bell.  Hikers respond with positivity and friendliness when they hear a bell.  SpurCycle is a high-quality bell with an excellent chime.  Thank you SpurCycle! https://www.spurcycle.com/

MTB Tip of the Week

Get your confidence back after a fail or a crash.  Sage instructs us how to stack wins after a MTB fail to get you back in the flow state.  Flow on the bike, Flow in Life! 

Additional Links:

Brian: https://www.instagram.com/brian_on_a_bike/
JeffJackson MTB: https://www.instagram.com/jeffjacksonmtb/
Ryan: https://www.instagram.com/wrolb/
CushCore Tire Inserts: https://cushcore.com/
Phoenixville Bike Park: https://www.phoenixville.org/2861/Phoenixville-Bike-Park
Carver Carbo’Beast: https://carverbikes.com/frames/carbobeast/

The video version of this episode is also available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/D2_CHRXGD7o

The Ride and Laugh podcast is hosted by Dan @the_ride_abides and Sage @TrailSage.  Join us as we discuss all things mountain biking!  Riding technique, MTB gear, bikes, nutrition, fitness, mindset and more! Feel the gratitude. Flow on the trails, Flow in life!  Please enjoy the content then like and subscribe.  Join the Ride & Laugh community in the comments and/or rideandlaugh1@gmail.com.  

#MTB #MountainBike #MTBPodcast #MTBtips

Single Speed Mountain Bike Can Jump and MTB Enduro Course Prep at Hawes! [RNL S1, Ep41]

Sage proves that a good rider can make any mountain bike look good as he sends big jumps on his 'old geo' single speed.  Dan is stoked to see how Enduro racers prepare for a race on a double black tech trail at Hawes Trail System in Arizona! 

The guys discuss their experiences riding with pro-level and super high level riders.  Try applying the "J-Hop" technique to your next jump session and unlock more confidence and height in the air!  Realize that everything happens for you and all those frustrating falls turn into beneficial lessons.  Sharing our trails and lines with friends feels great!  Mountain bikers are the best! 

MTB Gratitude of the Week

Dan: Dan has so much gratitude for riding with both of his daughters this week.  We visited Desert Trails Bike Park in Arizona.  It was a great day with family on bikes!  Desert Trails Bike Park: https://www.trailforks.com/region/desert-trails-park/

Sage: TrailSage Patreon members!  Sage finished a fantastic ride with his TrailSage Patreon Member, Steve Vrabel and he has so much gratitude for his Patreon Members.  Each TrailSage Patreon member supports Sage's MTB YouTube channel.  Sage delights in meeting his supporters and appreciates everyone's efforts to keep his MTB dreams alive!  Thank you TrailSage Patrons!!  https://www.patreon.com/c/TrailSage

MTB Tip of the Week

When approaching a steep lip jump utilize the j-hop technique.  Compressing into the ramp and releasing through the lip will provide the perfect arch and take your jumping to the next level.

Featured Riders:

Steve Vrabel: https://www.instagram.com/srvrabel/
JeffJackson MTB - https://www.instagram.com/jeffjacksonmtb/
Sean (17 year old): https://www.instagram.com/saguarosingletrack/
AJ: https://www.instagram.com/aj_steeber/
Steven: https://www.instagram.com/oldmanbagby/
Vaughn: https://www.instagram.com/spencespins85/
Jeff W. https://www.instagram.com/jwinsor20/

Additional Links:

Hawes Trail Alliance: https://www.instagram.com/hawestrailalliance/
Mt Penn: https://www.trailforks.com/region/mount-penn-preserve
Phoenixville Bike Park: https://www.phoenixville.org/2861/Phoenixville-Bike-Park

The video version of this episode is also available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/kc8asC0ZMSw

The Ride and Laugh podcast is hosted by Dan @the_ride_abides and Sage @TrailSage.  Join us as we discuss all things mountain biking!  Riding technique, MTB gear, bikes, nutrition, fitness, mindset and more! Feel the gratitude. Flow on the trails, Flow in life!  Please enjoy the content then like and subscribe.  Join the Ride & Laugh community in the comments and/or rideandlaugh1@gmail.com.  

#MTB #MountainBike #MTBPodcast #MTBtips

Top 18 Tips for Winter Mountain Bike Riding! – Gear, Insights, and Advice [RNL S1, Ep40]

Embrace the cold, enjoy the frozen trails and ride your mountain bike all winter long!  Discuss the top 18 Tips to keep you warm, comfortable and totally stoked on winter MTB rides!

In many parts of the hemisphere, we're preparing for winter.  Ride over?  No way!  Join the guys as they discuss all the tips and tricks they've learned for riding mountain bikes in all sorts of cold weather.  What are the joys of winter riding, and would you be better off with an indoor trainer?  Join the discussion on this episode as we discuss all the tips, joys, ups and downs of riding MTB in the cold weather!

MTB Gratitude of the Week

Sage: Carver Carbo’Beast Fat Bike!  Sage's fat bike has traction for days.  This fat bike is perfect for snowy or muddy trails.  But it's also super fun on dirt! Sage has so much gratitude for this unique and fun bike.  Thank you Carver and Thank you Fat Bikes!  https://carverbikes.com/frames/carbobeast/

Dan: Dan: Snowboard Helmet!  As a bald guy, Dan quickly learned that a well ventilated MTB helmet only caused his head to freeze.  Dan appreciates his snowboard helmet for keeping his head safe but also warm!  Highly recommended for us bald dudes! Inexpensive Snowboard Helmet: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CFZXBTKQ

MTB Tip of the Week

When the weather is well below freezing on your MTB ride, use a "Runner's Soft Flask."  You can fit the soft flask in a waist pack that you keep next to your body.  This keeps the water from freezing!  Brilliant!  Salomon Soft Flask 500ml/17oz - https://www.salomon.com/en-us/shop/product/sflask-500-17-std-42.html

Winter Riding Tips:

1. Cold weather riding Cheat Sheet! Keep notes of what you wear at what temperature.
2. Start/park at the bottom of a climb.
3. Lightweight windbreaker
4. Wool socks
5. Fall/winter Shoes a little big (or thin socks) to let the heat circulate.
6. Bring extra gloves & cap to change into
7. Get ready in the car. Put your shoes & gloves under the heat in the car on the ride to the trail.
8. Don't use cotton - get a technical base layer.
9. Shorts! Legs don't get cold!
10. Wear sunglasses
11. Insulated water bottle
12. Insulated hose for hydration pack
13. Keep the water moving in the tube
14. Put your jacket over your hydration pack to keep your water warmer
15. Frozen Trails are the FASTEST!
16. Bar Mitts
17. Indoor trainer
18. Gator/Balaclava

Additional Links:

BUFF Neck Gaiter - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BJ3N9MF
CamelBak Insulated Tube - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MA6SWEA
CamelBak Insulated Water Bottle - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WKMTRQC
Fox Racing Ranger Wind Jacket - https://www.foxracing.com/product/ranger-wind-jacket/33766.html
Woolie Boolie Socks: https://defeet.com/collections/woolie-boolie/products/woolie-boolie-4-d-logo-charcoal
Hot Hands - Hand & Toe Warmers: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06ZYW6HDK

The video version of this episode is also available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/wA_pdaWuM_0

The Ride and Laugh podcast is hosted by Dan @the_ride_abides and Sage @TrailSage.  Join us as we discuss all things mountain biking!  Riding technique, MTB gear, bikes, nutrition, fitness, mindset and more! Feel the gratitude. Flow on the trails, Flow in life!  Please enjoy the content then like and subscribe.  Join the Ride & Laugh community in the comments and/or rideandlaugh1@gmail.com.  

#MTB #MountainBike #MTBPodcast #MTBtips #WinterRiding

The Antidote to MTB "Survival Mode!" - You're Not the Rider You Think You Are! [RNL S1, Ep39]

That moment when you realize that you're not the mountain biker you thought you were... you're better!  Mountain bike trails featuring jumps, drops, steeps, slabs, skinnies and more can be so intense it compels us to stay present. And in this present moment you are more than good enough.  Move from 'survival mode' into confidence and flow.  Flow on the bike, flow in life! 

In honor of Halloween, the guys discuss what 'scares' them on the trails.  Agonizing over a feature gives it more power.  Learn to let it go and transmute that energy into positive momentum for your next ride and for your life!  Dan & Sage also talk more about Red Bull Rampage, favorite mountain bikers, Dirt Jumpers and much more!  As always, there's plenty of laughs and high vibes!  Thanks for listening! We appreciate you!   

MTB Gratitude of the Week

Sage: Gratitude Journal - Sage explains how the gratitude journal has changed his life. The simple act of finding gratitude and writing it down changed Sage's perspective for the better.  Life is good and getting better!  Thank you Gratitude Journal! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BJ34MZ1J    

Dan: OptiPlus Anti Fog Pre-Moistened Cleaning Wipes - Dan is grateful to these wipes for adding an anti-fog element back to his favorite mtb sunglasses!  Use these wipes to clean your glasses or goggles before or during a ride and enjoy all the anti-fog features! Easy fix for foggy glasses! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B085VDQYS4

MTB Tip of the Week

Zip Ties!  Zip ties are so inexpensive and light it's easy to carry a few on each ride. They come in handy in so many ways! Carry zip ties and see how they can save a ride!

Additional Links:

Redbull Rampage - https://www.redbull.com/us-en/events/rampage
Redbull Hardline - https://www.redbull.com/us-en/event-series/red-bull-hardline
Megavalanche - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZfwwz-i1vg

Remy Metailler - https://www.instagram.com/remymetailler/
Goeff Gulevich - https://www.instagram.com/geoffgulevich/
Mathias Flückiger - https://www.instagram.com/mathflueck/
Dangerous Dave - https://www.youtube.com/@ddangerousddave
Jeff Lenosky - https://www.youtube.com/@JeffLenoskyTrailBoss
Wayne Devingo - https://www.instagram.com/waynedevingo/
Steve Mongold - https://www.instagram.com/stevemongold/
Rob Charbonnet - https://www.instagram.com/wissrider/

The video version of this episode is also available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/xPyV4gafo24

The Ride and Laugh podcast is hosted by Dan @the_ride_abides and Sage @TrailSage.  Join us as we discuss all things mountain biking!  Riding technique, MTB gear, bikes, nutrition, fitness, mindset and more! Feel the gratitude. Flow on the trails, Flow in life!  Please enjoy the content then like and subscribe.  Join the Ride & Laugh community in the comments and/or rideandlaugh1@gmail.com.  

#MTB #MountainBike #MTBPodcast #MTBtips

Hello E-bike! Goodbye Fitness? - Are Mountain Bikers Missing the Joy of Peak Fitness!? [RNL S1, Ep38]

Once upon a time, fitness was a prerequisite for trail fun on a mountain bike! E-bikes have changed the MTB game, but is that a good thing?

Join the guys for a conversation about the benefits of cardio fitness on our mountain bikes.  Since e-bikes have eliminated the need to 'earn your turns,' is fitness still necessary?  What are the reasons and benefits to train hard for your analog bike?  Does riding an e-bike make rocky/technical trails easier?  How should beginners learn mountain biking?  Pump tracks!  We also discuss more techniques like “torso tracking" and dynamic riding that you can take to your next ride! 

MTB Gratitude of the Week

Sage: Road bike!  2014 Giant TCX Pro - Sage has appreciation for his trusty road bike.  The road bike allows Sage to walk out his door and train for mountain biking.  Intense road riding prepares Sage's legs, lungs & body for an intense day of riding and climbing on his mountain bike.  Thank you road bike!   

Dan: TrainerRoad "AI FTP Detection" - Dan has so much appreciation for the elimination of the dreaded "FTP Test" on the indoor trainer. FTP or "Functional Threshold Power" is the baseline often used for cardio fitness. Utilizing the "AI FTP Detection" means no more incredibly difficult FTP Tests, more training and an accurate FTP! https://www.trainerroad.com

MTB Tip of the Week

Save your old mountain bike parts.  Sage was able to help a friend with a broken jockey wheel with parts from an old derailleur.  So, think twice before you discard your old gear, you never know when it might come in handy.

Additional Links:

TrainerRoad MTBers instructed by Lee Likes Bikes:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GAaheigvgg

Mountain Bike Academy video on Torso Tracking:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4eEG9n0XNgc

The video version of this episode is also available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/LUqYHFpMCi4

The Ride and Laugh podcast is hosted by Dan @the_ride_abides and Sage @TrailSage.  Join us as we discuss all things mountain biking!  Riding technique, MTB gear, bikes, nutrition, fitness, mindset and more! Feel the gratitude. Flow on the trails, Flow in life!  Please enjoy the content then like and subscribe.  Join the Ride & Laugh community in the comments and/or rideandlaugh1@gmail.com.  

#MTB #MountainBike #MTBPodcast #MTBtips

What's Going On With Red Bull Rampage? And How Do We Deal With Pressure On The MTB [RNL S1, Ep37]

Mountain Biking Red Bull Rampage is the pinnacle of big mountain riding. What lessons can we learn from Rampage to lock in, focus and ride with full intention? 

This week, the guys discuss how awesome it was to watch women compete in Red Bull Rampage this year as well as some of the awesome runs by the male riders.  We break down a mountain bike intuition marker called, "The Rule of Three" and why this works so well.  Gratitude to mountain biking for all the challenges and lessons we learn.  Flow on the bike, flow in life!

MTB Gratitude of the Week

Sage: Local Shredder - 9 Year Old Lucas!  After weeks of trying to complete the intermediate jump at Phoenixville Bike Park, 9 year old Lucas not only has completed the intermediate jumps, but this week he completed the full expert line of jumps!  Sage has been encouraging Lucas at PHXBP for the past few weeks & seeing him unlock jumping and is awesome!  His little sister, Mia, 7 years old is also shredding and having fun on mountain bikes!  Mountain bikers are awesome!   

Dan: Ride & Laugh Podcast!  Gratitude for all of our listeners, listener feedback, high vibes and life lessons!  The podcast has been so fun to record, work on and listen to.  Sage and I have enjoyed everything about the Ride & Laugh Podcast and appreciate all our personal growth since we started!  The podcast raises vibes while adding stoke, progression and inspiration to listeners and to us!  Thank you to everyone who watches and/or listeners. You are unlimited!! 

MTB Tip of the Week

When riding a new feature, make it easier for your brain by setting up visual cues.  Mark a rock on the ground or pick a tree in the distance as your target.  This will help you know the 'line' and add confidence for the full commitment you need!

Additional Links:

Dennis: https://www.youtube.com/@DennyJannettyMTB 

Red Bull Bike – Redbull Rampage 2024
Mens: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9-L3njfe4g
Womens: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAMg-XEygfA

Phoenixville Bike Park:
https://www.phoenixville.org/2861/Phoenixville-Bike-Park

The video version of this episode is also available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/B55tk5EaMyw

The Ride and Laugh podcast is hosted by Dan @the_ride_abides and Sage @TrailSage.  Join us as we discuss all things mountain biking!  Riding technique, MTB gear, bikes, nutrition, fitness, mindset and more! Feel the gratitude. Flow on the trails, Flow in life!  Please enjoy the content then like and subscribe.  Join the Ride & Laugh community in the comments and/or rideandlaugh1@gmail.com.  

#MTB #MountainBike #MTBPodcast #MTBtips

Static vs. Dynamic Riding: Unlock MORE MTB Confidence! - MTB Body Position [RNL S1, Ep36]

As your mountain bike skills level up on the trail, we need to move from static to dynamic body position on the bike.  Learn the benefits of being dynamic on your mountain bike and why this type of intuitive riding will level you up!  You are unlimited!! 

Listen along this week as the guys discuss their evolution on riding slabs, the 'attack' MTB position, why we lean back on the bike & what to do about it.  Shift from "Technique to Instinct," and gain more confidence, more traction and more flow!  Of course, enjoy all the usual jokes, laughs, ride stories, high vibes and high stoke as always on Ride & Laugh podcast! 

MTB Gratitude of the Week

Sage: Completely finishing FULL Skyline Trail!  After riding Mt. Penn trails for at least 14 years, our summer of jumping has leveled up our jump skills.  Completing the full Skyline jump trail was an amazing feeling.  Gratitude to this experience and all the trails and people along the way.  We are all unlimited!  Anything is possible and Sage & Dan clearing all of Skyline is proof positive!!

Dan: Keswick Cycles Paoli!  Dan appreciates the assistance and expertise of the all the employees at Keswick Cycles.  The people are top notch and totally understand the high stoke aspects of mountain biking.  Support your local bike shop!  https://www.instagram.com/keswickcycle.paoli/

MTB Tip of the Week

Trailstand Technique!  The trailstand is a key MTB skill to stay still on the trail while navigating difficult features.  The guys recommend practicing the trailstand should be practiced safely on a slight incline.  Add pressure to your pedals and add this awesome skill to your MTB rides!  

Additional Links:

Skyline Trail on Trailforks: https://www.trailforks.com/trails/skyline-53365/
Phoenixville Bike Park: https://www.phoenixville.org/2861/Phoenixville-Bike-Park

The video version of this episode is also available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/3RNVyFCojZU

The Ride and Laugh podcast is hosted by Dan @the_ride_abides and Sage @TrailSage.  Join us as we discuss all things mountain biking!  Riding technique, MTB gear, bikes, nutrition, fitness, mindset and more! Feel the gratitude. Flow on the trails, Flow in life!  Please enjoy the content then like and subscribe.  Join the Ride & Laugh community in the comments and/or rideandlaugh1@gmail.com.  

#MTB #MountainBike #MTBPodcast #MTBtips