Latest mountain bike news

Two mountain bikes are displayed side by side, both featuring an olive green frame. The bike on the left showcases a classic design with a prominent suspension system, while the bike on the right has a more modern frame and streamlined features. Both bikes are equipped with thick, rugged tires suitable for off-road terrain.
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A mountain bike featuring a bronze-colored aluminum frame, front suspension fork, and knobby tires suitable for off-road terrain. The bike is shown from a side angle, displaying its gear system and disc brakes.
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A close-up of a person smiling while holding a hand of playing cards, showing an Ace, King, and a pair of eights in hearts, with a blurred natural background.
A bright green bicycle frame with a distinctive design, featuring a rear shock absorber and branded with the name "Morewood." The frame is angled to highlight its structure against a gradient black background.
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Two SRAM double-tap shifters in silver with black accents, featuring a curved lever design, displayed on a counter. Cables are attached, and part of a bicycle component is visible in the foreground.
A group of mountain bikers competing in a race, captured in motion as they accelerate across a grassy field. Several participants are wearing colorful jerseys and helmets, with numbers displayed on their bikes. Spectators can be seen in the background, watching the race. Trees line the background, suggesting an outdoor event.
A man wearing a black 'LIVESTRONG' t-shirt with a yellow logo, looking slightly to the side with a focused expression. The background is plain and uncluttered.
A streamlined, futuristic vehicle speeding along a deserted road with mountains in the background, showcasing a vast, open landscape. The vehicle features a smooth, aerodynamic design with a white upper half and a black lower half, suggesting a focus on efficiency and speed.
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A mountain biker riding through a lush green meadow, with a background of tall trees and snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky.
A dog wearing a black helmet, showcasing its profile and floppy ears.
A group of cyclists and spectators gathered at a mountainous location, with some individuals holding a banner that reads "Powered by Chipotle." The scene captures the enthusiasm of cycling fans, with colorful flags and team jerseys visible, as they cheer on participants in a cycling event.
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Map of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, showing marked trails, scenic areas, and surrounding roads. The map highlights various points of interest and includes symbols for amenities and features within the area.
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A silhouette of a person riding a bicycle on a hill against a backdrop of a dusk sky filled with soft clouds and tree outlines.
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Image of two mountain bikes side by side on a white background. The left bike has a more robust frame and thicker tires, while the right bike is sleeker with narrow tires. Above the bikes, there is a green map outline of the United States.
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A green vintage bike with wide tires and a unique curved frame is positioned on a wooden surface. The bike features a distinctive handlebar design, a spring seat, and is set against a backdrop of wooden panels and a closed door.
A humorous illustration comparing four political figures to different types of bicycles, with each figure accompanied by a bike that symbolically represents them. The top features one figure pairing with a red road bike, the second with a black commuter bike, the third with a vintage penny-farthing, and the fourth with a children's tricycle.
Aerial view of a tranquil lake surrounded by lush green forests, with a sandy beach and boats along the shore. The scene captures the clear blue water transitioning to lighter shades near the shoreline, framed by rocky outcrops in the foreground.
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Two mountain bikers navigate a dirt track during a competitive race. One rider, wearing a blue helmet and black and yellow gear, leans into a turn, kicking up dust, while the other biker, dressed in black and white, closely trails behind. Spectators can be seen in the background, enjoying the event under a clear blue sky.
A sleek, minimalist bicycle with a shiny gold frame, featuring a brown leather saddle and handlebars. The wheels have striking gold accents, set against a dark background that highlights the bicycle's design and elegant curves.
A mountain bike race scene featuring two cyclists navigating a turn. One cyclist in a blue jersey and helmet is leading, while another in a red and white jersey trails closely behind. Spectators are on the sidelines, including a woman taking a photo. The background shows a blue sky and a fence with a Hyundai advertisement.
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If you're like me, you're always looking to upgrade your mountain bike gear. Here on singletracks we let you keep a wish list of the mountain bike stuff you want and today I thought I'd share some of the "most wished for mountain bike items" of 2008. If you're looking for a gift to give a mountain biking friend this holiday season or if you just need to finalize your list for Santa, this should get you thinking ;)

<strong>#1 High end mountain bikes</strong>

<img alt="mountain-bikes.jpg" id="image1400" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/mountain-bikes.jpg" />

Always a popular choice, though I don't know that Santa can fit one of these in his sleigh. The most wished-for item here on singletracks is the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Santa%20Cruz/Blur-LT/37.html">Santa Cruz Blur LT</a> and clearly this is a pretty amazing bike. With 135mm of rear travel this cross country mountain bike will make anyone feel like a kid again. Coming in at a close second is the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Specialized/Stumpjumper-FSR-Comp/59.html">Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Comp</a>, a pretty sweet deal at just over $2,000. Who said dreams had to be unattainable?

<strong>#2 GPS units</strong>

<img alt="garmin-edge.jpg" id="image1401" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/garmin-edge.jpg" />

Admittedly we feel a bit responsible for the GPS mountain biking mania but fortunately this gift doesn't have to break the bank. The Garmin Edge series is truly the best choice for mountain bikers and two Edge models, the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Garmin/Edge-305/195.html">305</a> and <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Garmin/Edge-705/602.html">705</a>, are tops on mountain bikers' wish lists this year. Unless you're a Rockefeller, I say skip the 705 and go for a 305. The Edge 305 may not have a color screen but it can do 75% of what the Edge 705 does. These puppies are rugged, reliable, and a huge upgrade over your basic cycling computer - just get one, you'll thank us.

<strong>#3 <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Fox/32-Float/207.html">Fox 32 Float Suspension Fork</a></strong>

<img width="148" height="296" alt="fox-float-32.jpg" id="image1402" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/fox-float-32.jpg" />

This lightweight fork is air sprung with 140mm of travel and 140 miles of awesomeness. Getting a brand new suspension fork for your bike will transform your ride and make it feel new again. Good thing too - the '09 Fox 32 Floats will cost you more than $500!

<strong>#4 <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Diadora/Rove-/706.html">Diadora Rover MTB Shoes</a></strong>

<img width="241" height="138" alt="diadora-rove.jpg" id="image1403" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/diadora-rove.jpg" />

We're not really sure how a pair of mountain bike shoes made it so high on people's wishlists this year but we suspect it has something to do with Bombardier's glowing recommendation. The sporty look belies the fact that these stiff soled shoes are actually money in tricky hike-a-bike spots. If you're riding with mountain bike shoes that are more than 18 months old it's probably time for some new kicks - do yourself a favor with the Roves.

<strong>#5 Pedals: Shimano M424 and Crankbrothers Eggbeater SL</strong>

<img alt="mtb-pedals.jpg" id="image1404" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/mtb-pedals.jpg" />

Pedal choice really comes down to personal preference and singletracks wish list users seem to be evenly divided between chunky and svelte. The <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Shimano/M424/288.html">Shimano M424 pedals</a> offer a large platform SPD-compatible pedal that is perfect for downhill and cross country riders and is a good choice for folks looking to make the switch to clipless. The <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Crank-Brothers/Eggbeater-sl/272.html">Eggbeater SL pedals</a>, on the other hand, are super lightweigh, elegantly simple in design, and the choice of many experienced riders. Can't decide? How about getting both this holiday season...

<strong>#6 VioSport Adventure Cam II</strong>

<img width="198" height="198" src="http://www.singletracks.com/images/gear/574-1189902694.jpg" />

I don't think these video cameras aren't being made anymore but singletracks riders really want 'em. If you can't find a <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Viosport/Adventure-Cam-II/574.html">VioSport Adenture Cam</a> this holiday season, check into getting a camera from GoPro instead. The <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/GoPro/Helmet-HERO/1024.html">Helmet Hero</a> is a pretty solid camera and the new wide-angle model is supposed to be a huge improvement over the original. Bikes, camera, action!

<img src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/wishlist1.jpg" />

If you want to get in your two cents on our most wished for mountain bike items, start your own gear wish list today. We even have a forum set up where you can <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/forum2/viewtopic.php?t=2574">tell us what you want</a> and we promise to pass all requests on to the fat guy in the red suit before December 25!

For those who prefer to take matters into their own hands, <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=117839&amp;u=242429&amp;m=7588&amp;urllink=&amp;afftrack=">check out JensonUSA this weekend</a>* thru Sunday - free shipping on orders over $100. I'm told this is a rare event so take advantage of it while it lasts...

<em>* Full disclosure: singletracks benefits from your purchase through our relationship with JensonUSA.    </em>
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A sleek, modern mountain bike featuring a black and red frame, front suspension, and advanced gear components. The bike is positioned against a plain white background, highlighting its design and features.
Image alt tag: A promotional poster for the Pixie Cross World Championship featuring two cyclists racing on 16-inch bicycles in a colorful, lively environment. The poster includes event details such as the date (Saturday, July 12th), location (Downtown Downieville, next to the fire station), and a description of the open class event. Graphics include the WTB logo and striking typography.
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A cyclist sitting on a folding chair in a natural outdoor setting, with a mountain bike leaning against the chair. The cyclist, wearing a colorful biking outfit, appears contemplative as the sun sets in the background, illuminating the surrounding landscape.
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A group of four mountain bikers wearing helmets and numbered jerseys ride along a dirt trail through a grassy field, with spectators in the background. The scene captures a competitive cycling event, showcasing the riders focused on their performance.
A mountain biker in a blue and black outfit stands next to a white 2009 GT Avalanche 1.0 bike, while another cyclist in an athletic outfit sits on the ground in a wooded area. The scene depicts a trail with greenery surrounding them.
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A mountain biker in a red and white jersey rides through a rocky terrain at night, illuminated by bike lights. The image features the text "24 Hours of Moab" and mentions the race's significant cash prizes, celebrating its 13th year.
A cyclist riding a mountain bike along a rocky trail, with a scenic view of a valley and distant mountains in the background. The landscape features sparse vegetation and is characterized by earthy tones and rocky terrain under a partly cloudy sky.
A dirt path winding through a lush forest of evergreen trees, with rolling hills and a cloudy blue sky in the background.
A businessman in a suit and tie poses confidently while sitting on a bicycle, with his arms crossed. The background is plain white, highlighting his professional attire contrasted with the casual nature of the bike.
A person wearing a red helmet and a pink tank top stands next to a mountain bike in a rocky, desert landscape. The background features dry shrubs and hills under a clear blue sky.
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If you're like me, you're always looking to upgrade your mountain bike gear. Here on singletracks we let you keep a wish list of the mountain bike stuff you want and today I thought I'd share some of the "most wished for mountain bike items" of 2008. If you're looking for a gift to give a mountain biking friend this holiday season or if you just need to finalize your list for Santa, this should get you thinking ;)

<strong>#1 High end mountain bikes</strong>

<img alt="mountain-bikes.jpg" id="image1400" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/mountain-bikes.jpg" />

Always a popular choice, though I don't know that Santa can fit one of these in his sleigh. The most wished-for item here on singletracks is the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Santa%20Cruz/Blur-LT/37.html">Santa Cruz Blur LT</a> and clearly this is a pretty amazing bike. With 135mm of rear travel this cross country mountain bike will make anyone feel like a kid again. Coming in at a close second is the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Specialized/Stumpjumper-FSR-Comp/59.html">Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Comp</a>, a pretty sweet deal at just over $2,000. Who said dreams had to be unattainable?

<strong>#2 GPS units</strong>

<img alt="garmin-edge.jpg" id="image1401" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/garmin-edge.jpg" />

Admittedly we feel a bit responsible for the GPS mountain biking mania but fortunately this gift doesn't have to break the bank. The Garmin Edge series is truly the best choice for mountain bikers and two Edge models, the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Garmin/Edge-305/195.html">305</a> and <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Garmin/Edge-705/602.html">705</a>, are tops on mountain bikers' wish lists this year. Unless you're a Rockefeller, I say skip the 705 and go for a 305. The Edge 305 may not have a color screen but it can do 75% of what the Edge 705 does. These puppies are rugged, reliable, and a huge upgrade over your basic cycling computer - just get one, you'll thank us.

<strong>#3 <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Fox/32-Float/207.html">Fox 32 Float Suspension Fork</a></strong>

<img width="148" height="296" alt="fox-float-32.jpg" id="image1402" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/fox-float-32.jpg" />

This lightweight fork is air sprung with 140mm of travel and 140 miles of awesomeness. Getting a brand new suspension fork for your bike will transform your ride and make it feel new again. Good thing too - the '09 Fox 32 Floats will cost you more than $500!

<strong>#4 <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Diadora/Rove-/706.html">Diadora Rover MTB Shoes</a></strong>

<img width="241" height="138" alt="diadora-rove.jpg" id="image1403" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/diadora-rove.jpg" />

We're not really sure how a pair of mountain bike shoes made it so high on people's wishlists this year but we suspect it has something to do with Bombardier's glowing recommendation. The sporty look belies the fact that these stiff soled shoes are actually money in tricky hike-a-bike spots. If you're riding with mountain bike shoes that are more than 18 months old it's probably time for some new kicks - do yourself a favor with the Roves.

<strong>#5 Pedals: Shimano M424 and Crankbrothers Eggbeater SL</strong>

<img alt="mtb-pedals.jpg" id="image1404" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/mtb-pedals.jpg" />

Pedal choice really comes down to personal preference and singletracks wish list users seem to be evenly divided between chunky and svelte. The <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Shimano/M424/288.html">Shimano M424 pedals</a> offer a large platform SPD-compatible pedal that is perfect for downhill and cross country riders and is a good choice for folks looking to make the switch to clipless. The <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Crank-Brothers/Eggbeater-sl/272.html">Eggbeater SL pedals</a>, on the other hand, are super lightweigh, elegantly simple in design, and the choice of many experienced riders. Can't decide? How about getting both this holiday season...

<strong>#6 VioSport Adventure Cam II</strong>

<img width="198" height="198" src="http://www.singletracks.com/images/gear/574-1189902694.jpg" />

I don't think these video cameras aren't being made anymore but singletracks riders really want 'em. If you can't find a <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Viosport/Adventure-Cam-II/574.html">VioSport Adenture Cam</a> this holiday season, check into getting a camera from GoPro instead. The <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/GoPro/Helmet-HERO/1024.html">Helmet Hero</a> is a pretty solid camera and the new wide-angle model is supposed to be a huge improvement over the original. Bikes, camera, action!

<img src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/wishlist1.jpg" />

If you want to get in your two cents on our most wished for mountain bike items, start your own gear wish list today. We even have a forum set up where you can <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/forum2/viewtopic.php?t=2574">tell us what you want</a> and we promise to pass all requests on to the fat guy in the red suit before December 25!

For those who prefer to take matters into their own hands, <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=117839&amp;u=242429&amp;m=7588&amp;urllink=&amp;afftrack=">check out JensonUSA this weekend</a>* thru Sunday - free shipping on orders over $100. I'm told this is a rare event so take advantage of it while it lasts...

<em>* Full disclosure: singletracks benefits from your purchase through our relationship with JensonUSA.    </em>
  2
A red helicopter flying above a rocky cliff, with a group of people gathered near a Red Bull-flavored archway at the top. The sky is clear blue, and the scene appears to be part of an event or competition, showcasing the excitement of outdoor sports.
A split image featuring two scenes from a mountain biking event. The top section shows several riders in action on a rugged trail, with trees and shrubs in the background. The bottom section displays a close-up view of a group of cyclists racing side by side on a dirt path, each wearing colorful jerseys and racing numbers.
A purple bicycle with cream-colored tires, featuring a camera mounted on the handlebars and solar panels alongside a control panel on the rear. The bike is positioned against a light-colored wall.
A man with short hair, wearing a black athletic shirt, looks over his shoulder with his tongue slightly visible between his lips. A second man stands nearby, partially in the background, with a neutral expression. The setting features a light-colored wall with a floral pattern.
Two mountain bikers riding on a forest trail, wearing helmets and focused on their path. The image includes a logo for SORBA (Southern Off-Road Bicycling Association) in the corner.
Close-up of a bicycle's drive train, showing a chain, derailleur, and part of the frame. A section of the chainstay is visible, with protective tubing on it. The background appears to be a concrete surface.
A group of people watching a bicycle competition in a gravel area, where a cyclist is attempting to ride under a low bar while balancing on a small bike. Some participants are cheering, and there's a tent in the background with bicycles and equipment.
Alt text: Promotional poster for the 3rd Annual Triangle Fat Tire Festival, scheduled for October 4, 2008, from 9 AM to 9 PM at Lake Crabtree County Park in Morrisville, NC. The poster features a bicycle graphic and details about events including "Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day," bike demos, and an endurance race titled "Curse at the Crab."
A tangled pile of black rubber hoses resting on a dry, reddish-brown surface.
A mountain bike displayed on a stand at a trade show, with a digital screen in the background showing a similar bike. The bike features a sleek black frame with red accents, distinct tires, and a modern design.
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Close-up view of a bicycle's drivetrain, showcasing a titanium frame, a red rear hub, a black chainring, and a blue belt drive. The intricate details of the components, including the cranks and gears, are visible against a dark background.
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A display of colorful bicycle rims at a trade show, with several people examining the display in the foreground. The rims are arranged in rows, showcasing a variety of colors, including red, blue, green, and yellow, among others. Various banners and signage can be seen in the background.
Mountain bike on display at an exhibition, featuring a green and black frame, prominent suspension, and sleek tires. The background includes blurred figures and other bicycles.