Lee, I am in need of a new bike and was about to write off 29ers because I want the most versatile bike for the bucks. When you endorse 29ers for pump and jump I’m back on the fence. I own an old copy of Mastering MTB Skills and it really helped to improve my riding. Here is the clincher Brian Lopes is not impressed with 29ers but you highly recommend them. If you are racing them in DH/DS events that require considerable technique I can only assume that they are up for the task. Is Lopes just set in his ways or is it that the level that he operates at demands a 26” bike.
Billy

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Our colleague EJ has questions. I have answers (or at least opinions).

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Sunday on the Enduro, Monday on the Stumpy.

How can any bike feel better than this?

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The 29er adventure officially begins when all the parts arrive and coalesce.

Tires are covered in a big way.

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Hey Lee!

What do you think about using flat pedals for high level XC and Enduro DH racing? I have been a clipless guy for years but have recently made the switch back and have found that I prefer flats, mostly because they are just more fun. It seems like everyone (literally) racing expert level Enduro is on clips. Do you think it’s possible to be competitive on flats?

Thanks. -Markus

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Lee,
Have you given any thought to a 29er version of Captain America? How do you think a do-it-all bike with 29er wheels would go for occasional pump and jump?

Thanks, Ben from Melbourne, Australia

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Hi Lee!

First of all : Best wishes for You and Your Family in 2012 !

Just short question. Enduro racing, terrain is something like Superenduro in Italy or Trans Provence. One day race, total distance about 30 miles.

Which tyre is better: 2,35 or 2,5 from Maxxis ? Both are Minion 2ply (lots of rocks, don’t wanna puncture at all) 2,35 is slightly lighter and I think it’s rolling easier. 2,5 may provide better traction ? Rims are en 321 form Mavic. Which one would You choose ?

Thanks and (as always) greetings from Poland

Szczepan

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In Bike for Texas (and other) trails?, Scott asked about switching from a Stumpy 29 to a Camber 29 for the rocky trails in Austin, TX. I told him I enjoyed the Camber on his terrain, and that he should give one a try.

Well, he did.

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Hi Lee—since reading your skills book I’ve been working on my pedal stroke on my commute. I’m in Chicago and I’m thinking of switching my single-speed to a fixed gear for more control in snow and ice. Any advice on how this will affect pedal stroke or what to focus on? Would using foot retention hamper pedaling improvement? Any other advice on working on braaap skills during the city commute (about 3.5 miles each way)?

Thanks!
Allen

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Dang, just when I was about to get “29” tattooed on my chest, in came a set of high-end SRAM carbon 26er trail wheels.

Never has my Stumpy felt so alive.