I don’t ride with a rigid fork right now like some of you, but I still like the simplicity of a hardtail SS. I really like it here in DFW, where it helps make these trails more interesting and fun. My SS has been my primary bike here, where in California, it wasnt. I also enjoy the art of reading the trail and trying to keep momentum at key places with the one gear.
One bike is rigid, the Middlechild is all about rowdy, play and, and Trials, so a Pike is indeed a need.
Heinz used the correct word. Anticipation, is makin' me ride! Looking ahead and knowing that what is coming requires a bit of momentum just lets more endorphins and adrenaline loose for that really awesome buzz that no other drug has ever replicated! Holy s h i t!! Gettin high on riding is soooo awesome!
And to mention the last sentence in your post, let out your inner V8, you got this!
This is a really good point. Think about what humans had to endure even 200 years ago... we have it very easy now. Of course a fancy lightweight bicycle is also 'having it easy', but doing away with of all the technology which has been developed to make mountain biking easier sure does make it more rewarding!
We are coddled, spoiled brats by comparison to 200 years ago. The return to a one speed automatic has been the finest experience in bikes over the last few years.
every ride is a workout.
less parts to break.
and yes, the reactions of the riders that you passed hahaha
Workout, my ass! It happens to be the best of times! Passing a 29'er fully with gears on the ascent has never been so satisfying, evar! Passing em on the descent, key out, engine off is even more satisfying. Leaves em confused and asking, "wut jus happon?". 😁
I like that I get out what I put in. No gears or suspension to bail me out. It's a more visceral and direct experience. It's just me and the trail, no worries about "what if I was in this gear instead, do I need to tune my suspension?" Just make do with what you have.
I also have a FS, so I do like tuning suspension, having gears, hammering thru a trail, letting the bike do a lot of the work. It is good to have different riding experiences.
One word... Participation! Too many want that instant gratification, we would rather do it the old fashioned way, earn it!