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.
You can attack a switchback with speed or try to muscle around it slowly, but neither choice solves every problem. I’ll show you the minimalist essentials—approach, body position, pedal timing, and line choice—for climbing tight turns cleanly.
Read articleWhen a small drop suddenly feels steep, your timing matters more than pulling harder. I’ll explain how to approach, preload, release, and land a step-down with balanced control instead of a stiff-armed front-wheel impact.
Read articleOn a steep, loose descent, the usable braking zone may end before the trail looks difficult. I’ll explain how to slow down early, read the remaining traction, and choose a line that gives you the best chance of recovering when correction room disappears.
Read articleA hidden exit turns a steep chute into a decision about control, not courage. I’ll explain what to prioritize—sightlines, speed, body position, and a safe fallback—so you can choose a controlled ride or a sensible walk.
Read articleI’ll compare the main ways beginners approach small roots—rolling straight through, lightening the front wheel, or changing the line—and explain when each choice keeps your arms relaxed and your bike predictable on Eastern and Pacific Northwest trails.
Read articleI’ll explain how to avoid the common mistake of treating a shared trail like a private downhill run, with practical habits for managing speed, communicating clearly, and passing hikers, horses, and cyclists safely.
Read articleI’ll help you avoid the common mistake of treating the group’s pace as your responsibility, with clear ways to set expectations, communicate delays, choose sensible limits, and keep a mixed-ability ride enjoyable and safe.
Read articleRock gardens become more manageable when your eyes guide the bike toward open space instead of fixating on each obstacle. I’ll explain how to scan ahead, choose a workable line, control speed, and stay relaxed without relying on expensive upgrades.
Read articleWildlife-rich trails require more than courtesy: distance, quiet decisions, and respect for movement routes protect animals and riders alike. I’ll explain what to prioritize before and during a ride in sensitive mountain habitat.
Read articleOff-camber trail sections pull your tires downhill through body position, tire loading, speed, and line choice. I’ll explain how those pieces work together so you can improve control with technique before spending money on new tires or suspension parts.
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