Gerow

Gerow started as a freelance writer for Singletracks and was a full-time staff member from 2019 to 2022. His areas of expertise include component tech and tires, suspension setup, gravity riding, bikepacking, repair, and maintenance. A mountain biker since 1986, Gerow continues to contribute compelling and expert mountain bike and component reviews.

"If not riding then I'm writing, or quite possibly cooking something. I play bass with nine-and-a-half fingers, eat vegetables and fruit, and prefer movement as frequently as possible. I find discomforts and challenges more useful than most things, particularly what emerges from them. If I died and could return as anything I would choose a camp fire."

Author snapshot

  • Instagram: @ribbonsinsticksmedia
  • Location: Bellingham, Washington
  • Previous location: Torino, Italy and Florence, Italy

MTB experience

  • Mountain biking since 1986
  • Current bike stable: Raaw Madonna (160mm) and a Kona Unit (rigid)
  • Favorite place to ride: Jamniza, Slovenia

Writing experience and education

  • Other publications: Craft MTN and various Italian blogs
  • Masters of Sociology
  • Firefighter 2 Certification, EMT, Hazmat Operations, Rope Rescue

If not riding then I'm writing, or quite possibly cooking something. I play bass with nine-and-a-half fingers, eat vegetables and fruit, and prefer movement as frequently as possible. I find discomforts and challenges more useful than most things, particularly what emerges from them. If I died and could return as anything I would choose a camp fire.

 
A mountain biker in protective gear prepares to start a downhill course, with dramatic mountains and lush greenery in the background. A clear "START" sign marks the beginning of the trail, framed by winding course markers on the terrain. The sky is partly cloudy, adding to the scenic beauty of the location.
A blue mountain bike with black and orange accents, parked on grass. The bike features wide tires, a front suspension fork, and a modern frame design. In the background, there are natural elements, including rocks and a wooden fence.
A group of young girls in cycling gear gathers around a woman dressed in a blue and red cycling outfit as she inspects a bicycle tire. The scene is set in a sunny park with trees in the background, creating a cheerful atmosphere for a cycling event. Each girl is wearing a helmet and some have name tags on their bikes.
A mountain biker performing a jump over a dirt ramp in a forested area, surrounded by tall trees and misty mountains in the background. The rider is wearing a helmet and riding gear, showcasing dynamic movement and skill in a serene outdoor setting.
A bright turquoise mountain bike with orange accents, set against a backdrop advertising "Backcountry Lifeline 139." The bike features a full-suspension frame, chunky tires, and is displayed on a flat surface, showcasing its components and design.
Close-up of a mountain bike frame featuring a black water bottle holder attached to the side, with a partially visible clear water bottle above it. The bike has textured tires and a mint green frame, set against a wooden background.
  6
A mountain biker navigating a sandy trail near the ocean, wearing a helmet and protective gear, with cliffs and the sea visible in the background. The scene captures an adventurous outdoor activity under a clear blue sky.
A close-up of a brown and white sign nailed to a wooden post, stating "NO E-BIKES" and "NO PEDAL ASSIST," with a blurred natural background of green foliage.
  32
Mountain biker preparing to descend on rocky terrain, surrounded by a group of spectators enjoying the view of a lush valley and hills under a clear blue sky.
Close-up view of a blue bicycle frame featuring a disc brake and rear gear assembly. The image shows the detailed components, including the brake caliper and chain, set against a blurred background of a cycling event.
  9
A mountain biker navigating a rocky trail on a grassy hillside, surrounded by lush trees and dramatic mountainous landscapes under a blue sky with fluffy white clouds.
Close-up view of a modern mountain bike frame featuring a combination of black and red paint, with decorative gold accents. The image showcases the bike's suspension components and the drivetrain, including the chain and gears. In the background, there are visible product labels in red and green. The surface is textured, indicating it may be part of a display at a bike show or exhibition.
A mountain biker navigating a rocky terrain, captured in black and white. The rider is leaning forward, wearing protective gear and a helmet, while skillfully maneuvering their bike down the steep, uneven rocks surrounded by sparse vegetation. The image conveys a sense of adventure and excitement in outdoor sports.
  1
Close-up of a turquoise mountain bike, featuring the Syncros Hixon iC rse handlebar-stem combo, and seat, positioned in front of a stone wall with engraved text. The bike shows signs of use, with dirt on the frame, and has a distinctive design with a yellow seat.
"Two people sitting on a chairlift, with mountain scenery and blue sky in the background. Wildflowers and a wooden fence are visible in the foreground."
  2
A bright red bicycle helmet with black and gray accents, showcasing a sleek design with ventilation slots. The helmet rests on a dark wooden surface.
A person on a mountain bike, illuminated by a bright light, stands on a gravel surface at night. In the background, a ski lift pole and chairlift glow softly against a starry sky. The scene captures a sense of adventure and exploration under a clear, star-filled night.
A sleek black and red bike helmet displayed on a pedestal, featuring ventilation slots and the text "Wear Before Flight" on the top. The interior shows red padding for comfort. The design includes the brand name "Cébé" and "RockGarden" along the side.
  1
A custom mountain bike with a light blue and gray frame, featuring a green saddle and large, knobby tires. The bike has a front suspension with orange and black accents and a rear gear assembly visible on the rear wheel. The background shows a blurred asphalt surface.
  2
A person stands next to a mountain bike on a pathway surrounded by greenery. They are wearing a dark hoodie, turquoise pants, and a beanie, holding a black helmet in one hand. The bike, prominently displayed, features a sleek design with visible branding and specialized tires suitable for outdoor terrain. A stone bridge can be seen in the background, adding to the outdoor setting.
  3
A modern mountain bike displayed at an event, featuring a white and black frame with thick tires, showcasing its high-performance capabilities. The bike is positioned on a wooden stand with informational materials nearby. In the background, other bicycles are visible along with people at the event.
A display of mountain bikes at an outdoor event, featuring a prominent silver bike with a distinctive frame at the forefront. Other bikes in various colors, including blue and orange, are visible in the background. Several people are observing and interacting with the bikes, with a wooden backdrop displaying the brand name "Orange." The setting is lively, showcasing the latest in cycling technology.
Alt text: Close-up view of a mountain bike's handlebars, including grips and brake levers, with a black and silver frame and forks in the background. A blurred wheel is visible behind, and a logo on the bike's frame is partially shown.
Maxima lever internals
An olive green mountain bike with black and orange accents, featuring wide tires and a full-suspension frame, is leaned against a gray corrugated wall. A hand is gently touching the rear wheel, highlighting the bike's details.
  1
A mountain biker in protective gear rides a teal bicycle on a rocky trail, surrounded by lush green hills and towering mountains under a blue sky with clouds.
  3
A black mountain bike parked on a textured surface. The bike features a lightweight frame, thick tires with Maxxis branding, and a prominent suspension system, making it suitable for off-road terrain. The bike's design includes a sleek seat and handlebars for an ergonomic riding experience.
Two mountain bike shock absorbers mounted on a wooden wall. The shock on the left has a bright orange coil spring, while the one on the right features a black design. Both are labeled with the brand "MRP."
A vibrant turquoise mountain bike hanging on a display in front of a wooden wall, showcasing its detailed design, including wide tires and a high-performance gear system. Two people can be seen reflected in the window behind the bike.
Three bike dropper posts are displayed against a blurred natural background, showcasing their sleek, black design with blue accents. The posts are mounted vertically, highlighting their adjustable heights and intended use for mountain biking.
The individual cog range of the 13 speed, 10-52t is: 10,11,12,13,14,15,17,19, 22, 26, 31, 37, 44, 52
  3
Close-up of a cyclist's foot wearing a black and blue biking shoe with a patterned sock, positioned on a bike pedal in front of green foliage.
A mountain biker riding along a winding dirt path through a lush green landscape, with stunning mountain ranges and a blue sky in the background.
  2
A hand holding a multi-tool with an orange center section and various screwdriver tips, placed next to a bicycle's handlebar. The background features a textured rock surface and a bicycle tire, indicating an outdoor setting.
  2
Four mountain bikers pose for a photo in a street setting, wearing matching team jerseys with bright colors and designs. The background features an ambulance and various event tents, indicating a biking competition or festival. The group displays cheerful expressions and camaraderie, showcasing their equipment and team spirit.