Independent field notes
Suspension of Disbelief is a practical and entertaining guide to recreational mountain biking. It covers riding techniques, bike setup, suspension, maintenance, safety, essential gear, trail etiquette, and the lessons learned from climbs, descents, and the occasional unplanned dismount.
Jake HollowayHey there I'm Jake. I'm a mountain biker who enjoys technical challenges, long climbs, fast descents, and the satisfaction of keeping a well-used bike running smoothly. I write practical guides about riding skills, suspension setup, maintenance, safety, gear, and the lessons learned from occasionally choosing the wrong line.
Spring pollen can turn an enjoyable ride into a miserable one, depending on timing, route, clothing, hydration, and recovery. I’ll explain how these pieces work together so riders with seasonal allergies can plan more comfortable outings without ignoring breathing or safety concerns.
Read articleI’ll clarify how to plan a mountain bike ride when public transit determines your start, finish, and turnaround time, including bike-access rules, transfers, last departures, route direction, and backup options for urban and suburban rides.
Read articleI’ll help you turn a fixed shuttle departure into a realistic ride plan by accounting for climbing, descent time, loading delays, and usable backup options. You’ll finish with a schedule that protects your riding time without gambling on the last vehicle home.
Read articleI’ll show you how to turn a changing weather forecast into clear ride decisions, from storm and heat thresholds to trail-condition checks. You’ll also learn how adjusting timing, routes, and post-ride care can reduce avoidable wear on your bike.
Read articleI’ll clarify how to plan a mixed-ability mountain bike ride without turning the strongest riders into impatient guides or the least experienced riders into a deadline. You’ll learn how route choice, regrouping, communication, and bailout options reduce risk while keeping the day enjoyable.
Read articleWhen a short trail includes steep climbing, rough terrain, or frequent stops, its mileage can mislead you. I’ll show you how to choose a realistic ride time and build a first loop around it.
Read articleDesert rides become difficult when a freezing start turns into a hot, exposed return with little water available. I’ll show you how to plan layers, hydration, timing, equipment, and recovery options around those temperature swings.
Read articleI’ll clarify why a short ride can require a serious packing plan when the trailhead is distant, terrain is slow, or help is hard to reach. You’ll learn how to balance useful backup equipment against the weight and clutter that can make riding less enjoyable.
Read articleA warm start can become a cold, wet finish when mountain weather shifts. I’ll explain how to choose layers, food, lights, and emergency essentials so your pack supports a changing forecast without becoming unnecessarily heavy.
Read articleYou can pace repeated climbs by feel instead of chasing heart-rate data or expensive sensors. I’ll show you a simple effort scale that helps beginners judge sustainable intensity, recover between efforts, and finish a ride with more control.
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