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.
I’ll compare the practical choices that make a mountain-bike ride safer during hunting season, from route and timing decisions to visibility, communication, and respectful behavior near active hunting areas. You’ll also learn what local information to verify before rolling out.
Read articleA route file alone won’t help much when your phone can’t connect; a complete plan includes exits, check-ins, and backup navigation. I’ll show you the first steps for building a realistic emergency plan before riding remote trails.
Read articleMore suspension travel isn’t the only way to reduce fatigue on rough descents; tire support and riding technique often matter first. I’ll show you the simplest hardtail setup changes to try before spending money or chasing a full-suspension feel.
Read articleWhen a corner tightens or the exit disappears behind a berm, I’ll show you how to use your eyes, entry speed, and body position together so flat and bermed turns become more predictable rather than reactive.
Read articleI’ll clarify how to handle chain lube, tubeless sealant, packaging, and broken bike parts when a mechanical stop happens on the trail, so you can make a repair, protect the riding surface, and leave with nothing behind but tire tracks.
Read articleRolling around an obstacle is usually safer than lifting over it, but a small, controlled wheel lift can build useful trail skills. I’ll show you how to progress from unweighting the front wheel to clearing low obstacles without turning practice into a crash test.
Read articleA mountain-bike crash becomes more useful when you separate injury checks, contributing choices, and the next manageable riding step. I’ll show you how to review what happened, spend effort where it matters, and rebuild confidence without rushing back to the same risk.
Read articleWhen a tight switchback opens onto dry, loose soil, the front tire can drift before you have room to react. I’ll explain how speed, body position, vision, braking, and line choice work together to keep the exit controlled.
Read articleChoppy descents punish loose foot placement and rushed corrections, while level pedals help you stay balanced and reduce damaging strikes. I’ll explain how to set the position early, move with the bike, and protect your pedals, cranks, and rear wheel from unnecessary impacts.
Read articleWhen a used bike looks clean but its history is unclear, small defects can turn a bargain into an expensive project. I’ll show you how to inspect the frame, suspension, drivetrain, wheels, and paperwork before you commit.
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