Journal

Hot Wax vs. Chain Lube

March 13, 2025

If there's one thing every cyclist obsesses over (besides leg hair and donuts), it's drivetrain efficiency and making your bike silent. A clean, smooth-running chain can make or break your ride, and the battle between hot waxing and traditional chain lube is hotter than a mid-July crit race. As someone who has spent too much time in the garage tinkering with my drivetrain, I've tested both methods for years and wanted to share my findings.

Yeti ASR Review: The New Standard for XC Bikes?

September 12, 2024

While the new Yeti ASR looks very similar to other cross-country offerings on paper, it's a different story on the trails. When Yeti Cycles revived the ASR for 2024, their goal to put the "X" back in XC. The ASR climbs like a mountain goat while still being able to descend like a true full suspension mountain bike.

2 Flaanimals - 2 Staff Builds | Rodeo Labs Flaanimal 5.0 Breakdown

June 20, 2024

I convinced my co-worker that purchasing a steel Rodeo Labs Flaanimal frame would be a good idea, and we both built up something unique and purposeful. This "review" will cover what we put on our bikes and why. Then provide our thoughts on the bike.

Why Shorter Cranks May Be Worth the Upgrade

June 14, 2024

In the ever-evolving world of mountain biking, every component plays a role in your performance and enjoyment on the saddle. An endless array of companies want you to shell out your hard-earned cash on useless bike components, but shorter crank arms are here to stay. Shorter cranks offer several compelling advantages, from improved pedal clearance and efficiency to better knee health and increased maneuverability.

Santa Cruz Heckler 2023 Review

November 09, 2023

While E-bikes are relatively controversial in the mountain bike space it's safe to say that they are here to stay for better or for worse. Being new to the electric mountain bike space, I wanted to toss a leg over some of the best options on the market and write my thoughts on my favorites. In this review, we'll explore what makes the Heckler a force to be reckoned with in the world of e-MTBs.

Air Shock vs. Coil Shock: Which is Right for Your Mountain Bike?

November 02, 2023

Trying to decide if you want to ride an air or coil shock on your mountain bike? This article helps breakdown the pros and cons of each shock and help you narrow down your decision.

Road Bikes VS Gravel Bikes: Which is Right for You?

April 04, 2023

Road bikes and gravel bikes are two popular types of bicycles that are designed for different purposes. Road bikes are specifically designed for speed and efficiency on the tarmac, while gravel bikes are built for versatility and durability on unpaved roads and mixed terrain. In this article, we will compare and contrast road bikes and gravel bikes to help you decide which one is right for you.

SRAM vs Shimano MTB Brakes: Which is Best?

March 07, 2023

When it comes to mountain biking brakes, two of the most popular brands are SRAM and Shimano. Both companies offer high-quality products, but there are a few differences between them that may influence which one you choose to put on your cockpit.

Hayes Dominion A4 Brake Review | The Best Mountain Bike Brake | Thread+Spoke Journal | Santa Cruz Tallboy

Hayes Dominion A4 Brake Review | The Best MTB Brake?

August 31, 2022

As an avid mountain biker, it can seem that the quest to find the perfect brake can be a never-ending task. Too much bite sends you over the bars. Too little, and you’ll find yourself at the bottom of the cliff. Well, I think I may have found the perfect brake and it’s a bit out of the ordinary... In my opinion, the Hayes Dominions are the best mountain bike brake on the market.