History of Mountain Biking – an academic approach

‘Today bikes are completely different from the first mountain bikes. Most of the bikes now have suspension added.  “In its short lifetime, mountain biking has seen more technological quantum leaps than any other branch of cycling.  From carbon fiber and titanium frames, to hydraulic disc brakes and internal gearbox transmissions, the quest for lighter, faster brakes has fueled huge innovation. “‘
Click here for the whole piece.

Cyclefest 2008

- Mill Valley, CA
On the 8th of November, NorCal High School Mountain Bike Racing League put on a swanky dinner combined with a handmade bike show, celebrity pileup, and live auction as a fund raiser for the League. I’ve coached with the League for 2 years, but this is the first time I was able to attend.

As you might tell from some other posts here, this was a big date for mountain bike events. The mountain bike community is growing fast, and still maintaining its niche. I had either heard of or knew practically every person at this event. It looked like the omnivores enjoyed themselves with the catering, at each table named after local trails. Mountain Bike Hall of Famers Tom Ritchey, Joe Breeze, Michael Kelley sat at one table, while League coaches and school teachers joined Levi Leipheimer, whom also happened to be speaking later in the evening with interviewer Bob Cullinan, who was relentless in trying to coerce Levi into exposing his strategy for the upcoming Tour of California. El Cerrito’s teammate, John Bennett, also gave a well-prepared speech about his experience competing at Junior XC World Championships in Val di Sol, earlier this year with the support of the League. Corral Honey-Costa also gave a highly charismatic presentation about her transition into the world of collegiate racing.