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.
Hot, humid rides make sock choice a balance between drying speed, cushioning, and secure fit. I’ll help you prioritize those trade-offs so your feet stay cooler, reduce blister risk, and remain comfortable when the trail and weather both feel relentless.
Read articleLong seated climbs expose every weakness in a pair of mountain bike shorts, from slipping waistbands to damp liners. I’ll explain which features deserve priority so you can ride farther with fewer distractions and prevent common fit mistakes.
Read articleI’ll explain how saddle shape, width, padding, clothing, and riding position contribute to numbness, so you can avoid choosing a soft-looking saddle that worsens pressure. You’ll also learn how to test fit without assuming one model suits every rider.
Read articleI’ll compare route choices for short winter days, from familiar loops to conservative out-and-backs, and explain how daylight, cold, mud, and surface conditions affect both your ride and your bike’s long-term reliability.
Read articleI’ll clarify how mountain bike pedal pin height, layout, and replaceability change grip, foot repositioning, and shoe wear, so you can choose a platform that supports confident riding without turning your favorite shoes into consumables.
Read articleA brighter light isn’t always a better light on a shared trail; beam control, runtime, and mounting matter just as much. I’ll help you choose an efficient setup that illuminates the path without wasting battery or blinding other riders.
Read articleGlasses can fog, shift, or press painfully under a helmet just when a trail gets demanding. I’ll help you compare fit, retention, ventilation, visibility, and compatibility so your eyewear and helmet work together instead of competing for space.
Read articleI’ll help you compare grip diameter, rubber compound, surface pattern, and lock-on designs so you can reduce hand discomfort and keep reliable control when rain, sweat, and wet gloves make your handlebars harder to manage.
Read articleI’ll help you choose mountain bike gloves that balance ventilation, rain protection, grip, and blister prevention, so changing conditions don’t force you into numb hands or avoidable discomfort.
Read articleWet lubricant handles rain but attracts grime, while dry or wax options stay cleaner in dusty conditions. I’ll help you weigh climate, ride frequency, drivetrain cleanliness, and maintenance tolerance before choosing a mountain bike chain lubricant.
Read article