Alright, story time—what’s the sketchiest thing that’s ever happened to you on a ride? I’ll go first: last summer I was bombing a trail, came around a corner too hot, and there was a full-blown cow standing in the middle of the line. Locked it up, almost went over the bars, somehow stayed up—but my heart rate was maxed for the next hour. Stuff like that always makes the ride more memorable (after the fact, anyway). So what’s your story? Could be a close call, a crash, or just something funny that went sideways. Let’s hear ’em.

Before you head out this weekend, give your bike a once-over. It sucks finding out something’s wrong when you’re already halfway down the trail or loading into the gate. Here’s what I usually check: - Tire pressure (takes 30 seconds, can save your whole day) - Chain tension + lube - Brake pads/fluid - Gas topped off - Helmet/goggles/gear all packed It’s simple stuff, but skipping it can turn a ride into a headache real quick. What’s on your pre-ride checklist? Anything you always double-check before you roll out?

Probably not the most exciting topic, but it’ll save your motor: clean your air filter. Dust, sand, and dirt eat engines alive, and it happens way quicker than most people think. If you’re riding in dry, dusty spots—you should be cleaning that filter almost every ride. At minimum, give it a check. Couple quick tips: - Always have a couple spare filters ready to swap. Way easier than waiting for one to dry. - Use the right oil—don’t just spray WD-40 and call it good. - Make sure the rim of the filter seals tight with a coat of grease; that’s where most dirt sneaks in. A $20 filter can save you from a $2,000 rebuild. Easy trade. When’s the last time you cleaned yours? Be honest. 😅

Riding in the heat will drain you faster than you think. I’ve seen people fade halfway through a session just because they didn’t prep right. A couple things that actually help: - Hydrate before you ride. If you’re already thirsty at the track or trailhead, you’re late. - Electrolytes > water alone. Gatorade, LMNT, even a pinch of salt in your water bottle goes a long way. - Light gear colors. Blacked-out kits look sick, but they cook you in the sun. - Take shade breaks. 10 minutes in the shade can reset your whole day. - Cooling towels/vests. Sounds soft until you try it—game changer on triple-digit days. - Don’t be the guy who overheats and has to pack it in early. Take care of your body so you can actually enjoy the ride. 🤘 What’s everyone else’s go-to trick for riding in the heat?

Your chain is one of the cheapest parts on your bike—but if you ignore it, it’ll cost you big time. A stretched or dry chain can kill your sprockets, snap mid-ride, or even mess with your wheel bearings. Here’s a quick checklist to keep it dialed: - Clean it often: If you’re riding dirt, clean it every couple rides. Mud and sand turn your chain into sandpaper. - Lube it right: Spray on chain lube after rides (not before). That way it soaks in overnight instead of just flinging off on your pants. - Check your slack: Most bikes want 1.5–2 inches of play. Too tight = stress on bearings. Too loose = chain slap and wear. - Look for wear: Sharp or hooked teeth on your sprockets mean it’s time for a new set. Always replace sprockets and chain together. A few extra minutes in the garage = a smoother ride and way less money spent down the road. 🤘 What’s your go-to chain lube or method? Curious what everyone’s running.