Michael started riding trails in 2007 and moved to the mountain bike paradise of Asheville, NC in 2013. He works at a local outdoor shop called
Gearu and when not maintaining the fleet of rental bikes, he can be found riding up hills or kayaking the local whitewater.
The Fox Dropframe helmet and Enduro pro knee guards are protective gear that’s comfortable and unobtrusive enough to actually wear while pedaling a mountain bike.
on Mar 10, 2020
This winter riding kit from Fox includes a jacket, jersey, and gloves to keep mountain bikers warm throughout the ride.
on Feb 5, 2020
A bike transportation bag like the Dakine Bike Roller Bag can make taking your mountain bike on a plane more affordable than renting at your destination.
on Sep 28, 2019
6 tips for successful mountain bike stage racing learned at the Pisgah Stage Race.
on Jun 18, 2019
The Mach 6 Carbon is Pivot
on Jun 11, 2019
The Industry 9 Enduro 310c mountain bike wheel set gives riders a blend of precise control and calculated compliance, with near-instant engagement from Hydra hubs.
on Jun 7, 2019
Michael Welch learns the good, better, and best lessons on stage racing in Pisgah.
on May 10, 2019
The Pisgah Stage Race is already well known for five days of riding the best mountain bike trails in Pisgah. Key changes for 2019 seek to make the 11th edition the best one yet.
on Apr 2, 2019
The Wahoo KICKR is a direct drive, smart bike trainer that lets mountain bikers train indoors using apps and services like Zwift.
on Dec 18, 2018
Looking for a bright light to bike at night? We test and compare some of the brightest bike lights, including two claiming at least 6000 lumens of brightness!
on Oct 1, 2018
Pisgah National Forest is known for challenging mountain bike trails. These are 4 of the most technical rides in the area around Brevard, NC.
on Aug 3, 2018
Do not underestimate the new Weed Patch Mountain trail located southeast of Asheville, NC. The climb is tough, but the views from the top are incredible.
on Aug 1, 2018
A basic primer on mountain bike suspension designs.
on Jun 27, 2018
Before upgrading your mountain bike with a longer fork, consider how increased travel will affect handling, geometry, and frame durability.
on Jun 19, 2018
This trail bike buyer's guide helps mountain bikers understand frame geometry, suspension travel, tire sizes, and more. Read this before you buy your next trail bike.
on Jun 15, 2018
These aggressive hardtail mountain bikes are designed for trail riding and beyond, and each offers at least 120mm of front suspension travel.
on Jun 4, 2018
Get these enduro mountain bike races on your calendar for 2018. Enduro races are happening all over North America, from North Carolina to Arkansas, and New Mexico to British Columbia.
on May 16, 2018
The Lezyne Micro Floor Drive trail mini pump for mountain biking is shockingly light, not too expensive, and compact, yet it offers unique features like a 24" hose that make airing up tires on the trail an absolute breeze.
on Mar 9, 2018
The Osprey Raptor 10 hydration pack has plenty of mountain bike-optimized features that proved to be very useful on the trail.
on Feb 23, 2018
Here are 5 great tips and tactics for completing your mountain bike mileage goal next year.
on Dec 12, 2017
