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.

 
Close-up image of a rugged bicycle tire showcasing its textured tread pattern, with dirt and small debris visible on the surface. The background is softly blurred, emphasizing the tire's details.
  1
A black mountain bike with distinctive red and green accents stands upright in a workshop. The background includes machinery and tools, indicating a fabrication environment. The bike features wide tires and a modern frame design, showcasing its rugged build suitable for off-road cycling.
  3
Close-up view of a pink mountain bike's shock absorber and rear suspension system, showcasing the bike's intricate components, including the chain and derailleur. The image highlights the bike's design and engineering details against a blurred natural background.
Two pairs of outdoor shoes are displayed side by side on a bed of natural mulch. The left shoe is black with visible dirt, while the right shoe is a solid olive green. Both shoes feature a circular logo near the heel and have a sporty design suitable for outdoor activities. Green foliage can be seen in the background.
A mountain biker wearing a helmet and protective gear is skillfully maneuvering down a dirt slope, kicking up dust and dirt. The rider leans into the turn, showcasing dynamic movement against a backdrop of a natural setting with trees in the distance.
A person standing on a mountain trail, holding a mountain bike, looking out at a scenic landscape with rolling hills and a partly cloudy sky. The figure is wearing a helmet and athletic clothing, surrounded by tall green trees.
  2
A close-up view of the drivetrain components of a mountain bike, featuring the crankset, pedals, and rear suspension system. The bike is positioned on a snow-covered ground, indicating a winter riding environment.
  11
Close-up view of a rugged tire tread, showing detailed patterns and dirt accumulation, with a blurred background.
  4
A modern cycling helmet featuring a streamlined design, predominantly black with olive green accents, showcasing ventilation openings and adjustable straps for a secure fit. The helmet is displayed at a slight angle against a light background.
A modified rally car with a black and red exterior featuring the "Crosstrek" logo parked on gravel, with a backdrop of snow and trees in a mountainous area. The vehicle has racing modifications, including a low front bumper and specialized tires, indicating its purpose for off-road competition.
  3
A cluttered cabinet shelf displaying various tools and supplies, including tubes of lubricant, a red toolbox, glass jars filled with small tools, and various other containers and items.
  2
Close-up view of a green mountain bike frame featuring the brand name "Orange." The frame is equipped with a FOX Float shock absorber and includes orange and black accessories secured with a strap, resting on a grassy background.
A grid of detailed close-up images showcasing various bicycle components, including brake systems, gear mechanisms, and handlebars. The images highlight intricate designs and mechanical features, with some components set against natural and urban backgrounds. Each photo captures the engineering details and textures of the parts, emphasizing their functionality in cycling.
  5
Close-up view of a bicycle wheel with a black rim, partially obscured by a yellow fork and surrounded by green foliage and brown mulch.
  3
A black mountain bike with distinctive yellow and purple accents, showcasing thick tires and a sturdy frame. The bike features a suspension system and is positioned on a flat, wet surface with a textured brick wall in the background.
A close-up view of a mountain bike with a bright red front fork and a white helmet hanging from the handlebars. The bike is positioned against a textured gray wall, partially covered in green ivy, with sunlight filtering through the trees in the background.
  4
A mountain biker navigating a twisting dirt trail in a forested area, wearing a helmet and protective gear. The biker is focused as they approach a rocky section, with trees lining the path in the background.
Close-up of a bicycle wheel rim with a thin metallic spoke and a blue tool resting on top, set against a blurred, patterned background.
  17
Close-up of a cyclist's foot in a green and blue mountain biking shoe resting on a silver pedal, showcasing dirt on the sole and the shoe's design features. A bicycle's chain and crankset are visible in the background, along with hints of greenery.
  2
A transparent plastic storage box containing various small metal and rubber parts, neatly organized into compartments, on a wooden surface.
  4
A close-up image of a mountain bike wheel splashing through water while navigating a muddy trail, surrounded by lush greenery.
Close-up image of a bicycle brake caliper, showcasing its metallic structure with bright yellow accents, along with surrounding components of the bicycle's wheel and brake system.
  8
Close-up view of a mountain bike's handlebars, showcasing grips, brake levers, and cables, with raindrops on the matte black surface. The bike frame is partially visible, with the word "Madonna" printed on it against a blurred natural background.
  1
A person with long hair wearing a helmet and a light jacket sits on a bicycle, gazing out over a sandy beach and ocean under a partly cloudy sky. The bike is equipped with bags for storage, and the surrounding area features green grass and rocky formations.
  1
A mountain bike is stored vertically on a wooden wall-mounted bike rack, showcasing its front wheel and handlebars. The bike is black with an orange accent on the front fork. A black strap hangs beside the bike, securing it to the wall. The backdrop features a warm-toned wooden panel, emphasizing a modern and organized storage solution for biking equipment.
  3
A high-quality image of a Santa Cruz mountain bike in Maritime Grey color, featuring a full suspension design, alloy frame, and Maxxis tires. The bike is displayed against a neutral gray background, showcasing its modern geometry and components, including a prominent fork and drivetrain. Ideal for trail riding and mountain biking enthusiasts.
A view from the handlebars of a mountain bike, looking down a narrow dirt path through a lush green forest. Tall trees surround the path, with a mix of grass and fallen leaves on the ground. A digital device is mounted on the handlebars, displaying information about the ride.
  8
A mountain biker in a red jersey and black shorts is skillfully navigating a dirt trail surrounded by trees. The cyclist is performing a jump on their bike, with both wheels off the ground, showcasing athleticism and focus. Dust is kicking up from the trail, adding to the dynamic atmosphere of the outdoor racing event.
  4
A mountain bike is positioned on a rocky surface against a backdrop of mountains and a dramatic sunset. The bike features a sleek black frame, prominent tires labeled "Maxxis," and a raised seat. The sky is filled with clouds and vibrant colors from the setting sun, highlighting the rugged terrain.
  1
A woman in a blue Velocio Anorak jacket stands confidently outdoors, with a forested background. She is gripping the collar of her jacket and appears thoughtful, surrounded by natural greenery and trees.
A close-up of a bicycle wheel positioned upright on a bed of moss and rocks, with a solid green background. The wheel features a black tire with a textured tread and a prominent brake disc at the center.
A person riding a mountain bike down a rocky trail in a forest, surrounded by tall trees and scattered autumn leaves. The rider is wearing a helmet and glasses, dressed in a long-sleeve shirt and capris, demonstrating skill as they navigate the terrain.
  1
A close-up image of a black and gold adjustable roller for muscle recovery, positioned on a wooden surface. The device features a series of blue rubber rings and numerical markings, indicating different tensions or adjustments. The setting is well-lit, highlighting the texture and design of the equipment.
  9
A pair of black outdoor gloves resting on a bicycle seat, set against a soft-focus green background. The gloves feature padded areas and fastening straps, highlighting their suitability for biking or outdoor activities.
  10
Two young cyclists wearing helmets ride along a dirt trail through a lush green forest. One rider is smiling and appears to be in the foreground, while another cyclist is positioned slightly behind. In the background, additional individuals are standing along the trail, surrounded by trees and foliage. The scene captures the excitement of outdoor biking activities in nature.
  10
Close-up view of a metallic bike pedal resting on a bed of green grass and small pink flowers, with part of a bike frame visible in the foreground. The pedal features a sleek design with distinct shapes and textured surfaces for grip.
Close-up of a bicycle pedal resting on grass, showcasing the textured surface and silver crank arm. The pedal features a black frame with a geometric design and is partially obscured by blades of grass.
A person is seen using a bike rack to load two mountain bikes onto the back of a white SUV in a parking area. Snowy terrain is visible in the background, suggesting a cold environment. The person is wearing a gray jacket and shorts, with a cap, and is actively securing the bikes before setting off.
A high-performance mountain bike featuring a sleek frame with a red and black color design. The bike is positioned against a textured red wall, highlighting its modern design, prominent tires, and gear system. The image showcases the bike's lightweight structure, ideal for off-road cycling.
  7
A close-up image of a metal cutting tool with a blue and black rubber grip, resting on a textured stone surface. The tool features a curved blade, a spiral spring mechanism, and a pointed end, suggesting it is designed for use in gardening or pruning tasks.
  9
A modern mountain bike featuring a silver frame with orange accents, front suspension, and rugged tires. The bike is positioned at a slight angle, showcasing its design and components against a gray background.
  14
Close-up view of a bicycle's handlebar, headset, and stem, showcasing a matte black finish and intricate cable routing. The background is soft and blurred, providing focus on the bike components.
  3
A female mountain biker in a competitive racing uniform leans forward intensely on her bike as she navigates a dirt trail. She wears a helmet and sunglasses, and her focus is evident as she powers through the course. In the background, spectators are gathered, providing support for the racers. The atmosphere is energetic, highlighting the excitement of the event.
A mountain biker in action, performing a jump on a dirt track surrounded by trees, colorful flowers, and race markers. The biker is wearing a helmet and protective gear, and the bike features orange and black colors. The scene captures the thrill of downhill biking in a forested environment.
A mountain biker riding along a rocky, winding trail surrounded by lush green vegetation and blooming pink flowers, with tall trees and clouds visible in the background.
A hand holding a Blackburn digital air gauge, checking the pressure of a bicycle tire. The gauge displays a blue light, and parts of the tire tread are visible in the background.
  43
A digital air pump with a display screen showing pressure readings, placed on a textured surface beside a black drawstring bag with the logo "Fanttik" visible. The background features blurred green grass.
  1
Close-up of a muddy mountain bike frame showcasing the rear suspension system, including an orange shock absorber, chain, and drivetrain components. A water bottle and tool kit are attached to the frame, with a blurred background of green grass and a tree.