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.
Chain wear affects shifting, cassette life, and whether a ride is sensible to continue. I’ll show you how to measure it, recognize failure signs, and make a calm decision before worn parts turn a trail problem into a drivetrain repair.
Read articleLowering tire pressure can help on loose rock, but too little support creates new problems. I’ll explain the first adjustments to make for traction, pedal timing, line choice, and controlled recovery on dry Southwestern climbs.
Read articleI’ll help you compare a suspension upgrade with a new tire so you can spend money on the change that addresses your actual limitation, rather than masking poor setup or choosing the more expensive option by default.
Read articleI’ll clarify how dust, mud, riding frequency, and suspension design affect lower-leg and air-can service timing, including when manufacturer intervals matter more than a simple hour count and which warning signs justify earlier attention.
Read articleA rubbing rotor may be bent, but it may also be a caliper or wheel-seating problem; I’ll show you how to tell the difference, straighten minor bends safely, and keep braking surfaces clean during the repair.
Read articleI’ll help you isolate rotor rub after a wheel change, starting with the simplest seating and alignment checks before moving to a bent rotor, caliper problem, or worn component. The sequence is designed for a home mechanic with basic tools.
Read articleAfter a muddy ride, your brakes may squeal briefly—or signal contamination, glazing, poor alignment, or worn parts. I’ll help you identify the likely cause, clean and inspect the system, and decide when adjustment or replacement is the sensible next step.
Read articleI’ll compare the simplest ways to stay loose, breathe steadily, and slow down when rough trail arrives unexpectedly, helping you decide which adjustments cost nothing, which require practice, and when changing your line or stopping is the sensible choice.
Read articleMost trail mechanical problems can be handled with a few compatible tools, spares, and a way to carry them securely. I’ll explain how those pieces work together, what they can realistically fix, and which bulky items you can leave behind.
Read articleFork sag is the starting point for balancing comfort, traction, and control. I’ll explain how gear, riding position, air pressure, and measurement fit together so you can create a sensible baseline without guessing.
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