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RIDER: JAMES HALL
PHOTOGRAPHER: NICK WAYGOOD

It’s Whistler time. Nick Waygood
followed James ‘Cannonball’ Hall
down the mountain in the prime
summer time conditions.

9

RIDER: JAMES HALL
PHOTOGRAPHER: NICK WAYGOOD

Are you even riding Whistler
if you’re not pushing your
limits?

10

11



Content
ISSUE #198

FAST TRACK 50 6 OF THE BEST EMTB DESTINATIONS
What makes one area better than another for
15 Editorial riding e-bikes? We asked the likes of National
16 News eMTB Champion Josh Carlson and some of
24 New Products our regular writers, to get their take on
26 Subscriptions where they rate, and why.
28 Calendar
31 X-Factor 60 MULTITOOL GROUP TEST
32 Gravity Check You don’t need to be Macgyver, but having
35 Trail Talk the right multitool on hand to suit your bike
36 Sustainability in MTB can make or break a ride. Georgina put 15
multitools to work to see how they stack up.
FEATURES

38 MADE IN AUSTRALIA  FRAMESKIN AND
DIRTSURFER
Alan Vogt has made protecting bikes a precise
art. Frameskin started with a big push for
exports, and this homegrown product is popular
around the country.

40 SUSPENSION 104: COIL VS AIR
In this last installment, we delve into the finer
differences between coil springs and air springs,
and provide a glossary so you can navigate
through any suspension guide with ease.

42 MAKE SURE NEW BIKE DAY IS AWESOME COVER: Ben Morrison let’s the Stumpjumper
We all know how good new bike day is, and Nev EVO loose
Jemson has some tips to make sure it all goes as Photographer: Nick Waygood
smoothly as possible.
This image: Mike Ross gets moving in the
44 MOUNTAINS OF CHANGE Crankworx Innsbruck Speed and Style
The past two years have seen many of us Photographer: Piper Albrecht
reevaluate whether we live to work, or work to
live. Georgina von Marburg caught up with 3
riders who prefer the latter.

ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCE

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Editorial enquiries [email protected] AUSTRALIANS TAKE
Editor Mike Blewitt
Deputy Edtitor Georgina von Marburg THE WORLD COMES
Art Director Allan Bender TO AUSTRALIA

WORDSMITHS WORDS MIKE BLEWITT PHOTO PIPER ALBRECHT
Anna Beck, Mike Blewitt, Josh Carlson, Daisy Day,
Gracie Elvin, Fiona Herron, Neville Jemson, Adam Slowly but surely, life is returning to a World Cup Downhill and the Enduro
Macbeth, Georgina von Marburg, Craig Meinicke, new normal after over two years World Series – and sometimes both.
Ben Morrison, Chris Panozzo, Jared Rando, Will feeling cooped up. If you haven’t And this says nothing of riders like
Shaw, Imogen Smith, Hayden Wright, Zoe Wilson noticed, Australian mountain bikers Connor Fearon and Troy Brosnan who
have hit a new level riding on the are contenders in any start gate, or our
PHOTO GURUS world stage in 2022. Bec McConnell National Champion Ellie Smith. The
Piper Albrecht, Tim Bardsley-Smith, Mike Blewitt, has lead the XCO and XCC World Cup Downhill Team for World
Jack Fletcher, Chris Herron, Neville Jemson, for the first half of the series, and Championships in Les Gets is packed
Gerard Lagana, Georgina von Marburg, Sven enters the World Champs as a handful full of fast Juniors, both men and
Martin, Andy Rogers, Matt Rousu, Alan Vogt, Nick of outright favourites. With Sam Fox women, ready for their taste of the
Waygood, Bartek Wolinski edging towards the top 10 in U23 XC World Championships.
and Zoe Cuthbert doing the same in
ADVERTISING U23 women, the next generation is And then there’s the realm of
National Advertising Manager ready to go. And that says nothing of freeride and slopestyle riding, with
Damian Martin the other riders like Izzy Flint, riders like Harriet Burbidge-Smith,
[email protected] Katherine Hosking, Cam Ivory, Holly Caroline Buchanan, Mike Ross and
0417 168 663 Lubcke, Dom Paollili and more who more hitting excellent results at
have been banging bars in XCO Crankworx and other events. And now
Associate Publisher Daniel Findlay this year. – they’ll get to do it on home soil at
Advertising Traffic Georgia Sutton Cairns, as Crankworx lands in the
Production Manager Peter Ryman But what about the gravity scene? tropics this October.
GM Consumer Publishing Carole Jones Both Remy Meier-Smith and his
brother Luke seem to go from one So many riders have grabbed 2022
Managing Director Arek Widawski break out ride to the next, with Dan with two hands and got right in, and
Booker, Ryan Gilchrist, Jackson Davis global mountain bike events are now
Subscriptions www.mymagazines.com.au and more also setting top results in returning. First Crankworx – but
what’s coming next?
Toll free 1300 361 146 or +61 2 9901 6111
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AMB (AUSTRALIAN MOUNTAIN BIKE) is published
by nextmedia Pty Ltd ACN: 128 805 970, Level 8,
205 Pacific Highway, St Leonards, NSW 2065
© 2022. All rights reserved. No part of this
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Printed by IVE Group, Sydney, distributed in
Australia and New Zealand by Are Direct.

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www.ambmag.com.au 15

fast track

JOIN US AT THE AMB 100 THIS SEPTEMBER!

After a forced sidelining in 2021, the AMB 100 is back in 2022, Miler is an option. This event has a pre-dawn start and tackles 5 laps.
returning to home turf at Stromlo Forest Park on September 18th. The It may not actually be 100 miles, but trust us, it feels like it.
long-standing marathon lets you choose what distance you want to
challenge yourself with, providing something for those looking for a You can expect all the fun of a Rocky Trail Entertainment event, with
couple of hours on the dirt, through to those chasing an all-day pumping tunes, a good vibes only event policy, and simple event
challenge. logistics – all along with the great setup at Stromlo Forest Park. Just
about everything you need is onsite, so all you need to do is grab some
Rocky Trail Entertainment set the course based on what trails are friends, enter the distance that matches the challenge you want, and
running the best. It’s usually about 25km or so, taking in a bunch of make sure you’re there ready to go on September 18. It’s a great time
the favourites at Mt Stromlo, with a start and finish near the main to be in Canberra, so why not make the trip and make a weekend of it?
trailhead. Then it’s up to you to choose the 1 lap, 2 lap or 3 lap option.
Of course, for those who like a long ride or who may have their eyes See you on the start line – or at the Handle Bar post race!
on the 24 Hour National Championships at the end of the year, the
rockytrailentertainment.com

2023 NORCO FLUID FS

The Norco Fluid FS has had a revamp for Coming in aluminium, pricing starts at
2023, bringing with it the suspension $3199 for the update to Norco’s most popular
kinematics, tuning and fit guides previously trail bike, and they should be landing at
only available on Norco’s top bikes. Norco dealers this spring. Norco say the new Fluid
have upped the travel to 140/130mm for this FS brings high end performance and
29er trail bike, given the geometry a thorough suspension to a mid-range price point. We
redesign, and added the Ride Aligned design say, when can we borrow one?
and tuning, to make sure anyone on S-XXL
has the same fit and ride performance. norco.com

16

fast track

CRANKWORX and we have some exciting plans for our course Our most recent Crankworx success stories
builds. Being the first World Tour stop in a Tropical include a series of medals at Innsbruck this year.
COMES TO CAIRNS Rainforest setting, it brings some unique Harriet Burbidge-Smith is on the forefront of the
opportunities to what we can do.” women’s freestyle movement and showed this
When it comes to mountain bike festivals, they with a bronze medal at the increasingly competi-
don’t get much bigger or badder than Crankworx. Not only is the natural setting of the highest tive Whip-offs, while Mike Ross also claimed a
At the core of this festival is elite competition, quality, Smithfield itself has already played host to bronze medal in the Speed & Style. Caroline
rounding up the best downhill and freestyle riders three World Cups and two World Championship. Buchanan proved why she remains one of
as it traverses across the globe to different and Suffice to say, this network of trails is of the Australia’s finest exports, taking both a silver
stunning locations. The focus is unapologetically highest of international standards. This is where medal in the Pump Track Challenge and a bronze
on the extreme end of the mountain biking Loic Bruni won his first World Cup, and Aussie in Speed & Style. Aussie junior sensation Remy
spectrum – think slopestyle and downhill. But Cameron Wright donned the rainbow jersey. Meier-Smith claimed a silver in the Downhill
Crankworx is also about the spectators, drawing during a short break between World Cup rounds,
thousands of avid mountain bike and sports fans It’s also where local downhill legends Tracey and Canberra junior Mario Baldwin brought home
alike to this spectacular show. and Mick Hannah were raised as they honed their some silverware in the Dual Slalom. With local
world class skills. “Crankworx is a festival that talent this expansive, Aussies should be flocking to
Hosting Crankworx is a privilege consigned to embodies the mountain bike culture that is so Cairns this year to share in the celebrations.
the most epic destinations, hence why Whistler strong in Far North Queensland,” said
(Canada), Innsbruck (Austria), and Rotorua (New Mick. “Cairns has hosted international mountain The fun at Crankworx is not exclusive to elite
Zealand) have hosted multiple renditions of the bike events since the early 90s and has always athletes. The CWNEXT category caters to those
festival. When it was announced that Crankworx been one of the places to challenge the limits of buddying amateurs who want to test themselves
would be travelling to Aussie shores this October, what can be done on a bicycle. Back then what we on the world stage. There’s even a kid’s category
some of us were almost caught off guard. Which now know as freeride was just mountain biking in (Kidsworx) for those groms ready to soak up the
location could showcase some of the best Cairns and now we have the highest level of big stage, or just practice their skills in a safe
descending trails against a jaw-dropping freeride coming to Cairns.” environment.
background, while catering to thousands of riders,
teams, and spectators? The answer was none Crankworx is not just one event, but rather a The event will run over 5 days, with Early Bird
other than Cairns, Queensland. series of them. The competitions include spectator passes starting from $30 for a single
slopestyle, downhill, whip-offs, dual slalom, speed competition, or $110 for the full week of heckling.
On October 5th – 9th 2022, Cairns will join the & style, and pump track. Athletes have a choice as Athletes will need to register to race by September
Crankworx World Tour. With a luscious rainforest to which competitions they enter; some will 30th, and Elite and U19 categories will require a
on one side, and the Great Barrier Reef on the choose to focus on one or two, while others will 2022 UCI License.
other, Smithfield Mountain Bike Park is the ideal embrace the entire smorgasbord.
venue for this special event. This magical trail Whether you’re a budding freestyle rider or a
network is sandwiched between two World retired fan, Crankworx is here to entertain
Heritage Areas. You’d be silly not to pack your everyone. If you’ve been to a Crankworx
snorkel, extend your stay, and take in all the elsewhere, or patiently listened to a friend rant
beauties this tropical paradise has to offer. Cairns about their marvelous mountain biking holiday
has taken on the unofficial endearing name – and all the selfies they took with their idols, you
“Crankworx – Paradise Edition.” will know what a unique experience it is. And it
will be even more unique for Aussies this year,
Nathan Bassett is the Event Director for Cairns, being able to compete and cheer on home soil
and recently attended Crankworx Innsbruck. beneath the Queensland sun.
“Preparation is moving ahead in leaps and bounds,
crankworx.com

2023 PIVOT SHUTTLE SL

Mid power is the new black, and the latest popular DW-link suspension delivers 132mm
iteration of the Pivot Shuttle SL sees the of travel, and the bikes will be equipped with
popular eMTB shed weight, torque and battery 140mm Fox 34 forks, or 150mm Fox 36 forks,
size to gain benefits in handling and perfor- depending on the model you choose. And the
mance. The full carbon framed 29er trail bike weight? As low as 16.5kg. Get all the details
uses the new Fazua 60 motor, with 60Nm of on AMBmag.com.au – or go beat down the
torque that runs drag free when turned off or door of your local Pivot dealer.
over 25km/h. There’s a 430Wh intube battery
with an option for a range extender. Pivot’s pivotcycles.com.au

17

fast track

CRANKWORX become the soul.” But the elite competition at Crankworx is just
Only the most epic locations are bestowed with one part of this massive celebration of the power
ROTORUA of the bike. The AirDH, Downhill, and Pump Track
the honour of hosting Crankworx, and Rotorua Challenge all offer up huge opportunities for
The Crankworx World Tour is back in full force was the first ever selected outside the northern amateurs to test their mettle on the same
in 2022, and the final stop in Rotorua is set to hemisphere, hosting in 2015 and, over the hallowed ground as the pros in the CWNEXT
be the most epic of them all. After ripping it up following years, witnessing some of the most category, and Kidsworx gives the pros of
in Innsbruck, followed by Whistler and Cairns, epic, high-flying moments of the tour. tomorrow the chance to ride the trails of their
the travelling spectacle of the world’s best idols. All this takes place around a pumping
extreme riders will go out with a bang in the Coming hot on the heels of the Cairns round of village centre with non-stop entertainment like
towering redwoods of Rotorua, New Zealand in the World Tour should give Aussie and Kiwi fans demo bikes for you to take out on the trails,
a huge week of stunts and thrills between plenty to watch. Caroline Buchanan will be interactive product displays, riding demos,
November 5–13. looking to improve on her silver and bronze music, competitions, and plenty of room to chill
medals in the pump track and slopestyle, as will out and soak up the vibe.
Since its inception at Whistler in 2004, Harriet Burbidge-Smith, who added a bronze in
Crankworx has celebrated the extreme stoke the whip-offs to her trophy cabinet, but will be While you’re in town, don’t miss a trip to the
that comes with riding extreme heights, extreme on the hunt for more. Mike Ross and Remy Skyline Rotorua bike park, tackle the Rainbow
speed, and extreme skill. The headline events: Meier-Smith will likewise be looking to step up Mountain ride, and of course ride the hundreds
AirDH, Downhill, Slopestyle, Speed and Style, to the top of the podium. For the Kiwis, Samuel of kilometres of trails the Redwoods have to
Dual Slalom the Whipoff, and the Pump Track Blenkinsop will likely be in full flight in the offer. Further afield, you can ride the spectacular
Challenge – give spectators a chance to see the Downhill, as will George Brannigan, who also trails around Lake Taupo, and whether you fly
world’s best riders duke it out for the chance to came away with a silver medal at Innsbruck’s into Auckland or Wellington, it’s worth spending
be crowned King and Queen of Crankworx – an Dual Slalom event. Robin Goomes, the time on the trails elsewhere in the North Island..
honour that will be bestowed on the final day of 24-year-old wunderkind, supports her riding by Off the bike, don’t forget to visit the geyser, and
the Rotorua festival. driving shuttles in Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa take some time to soak off the day’s riding in the
forest, so has an intimate, home track advantage natural hot springs. Tickets are on sale at
In the words of Crankworx World Tour in the Redwoods. The first woman to land a fantastic early bird rates, with five day passes for
Managing Director Darren Kinnaird, “If Whistler backflip in a Crankworx competition dazzled at adults just $49, kids $29, and families $99.
has historically been considered the heart of the Innsbruck, taking gold in the Speed and Style
Crankworx World Tour, then Rotorua, with its and Whipoff events, will be in form and ready to crankworx.com
rich heritage of Maori Culture has certainly wow her local crowd.

18

DEMO

DESTINATIONS

Book and test-ride flagship carbon MTB wheels

XMC 1200 SPLINE® 30 XRC 1501 SPLINE® ONE EXC 1501 SPLINE® ONE

Follow us for demo store locations,
announcements, and more.

@dtswissaustralia

FULL RANGE + 6/6/22 12:05 pm
WHERE TO BUY

apollobikes.com/accessories/dt_swiss

amb_apollo_dt_swiss_demo_destn_final.indd 1

KinetiCore redefines what’s possible around cyclist protection and performance. lazersportau

A series of tiny blocks which we call Controlled Crumple Zones protect your
head in the event of a crash; redirecting impact energy away from your brain
and into the helmet. The stripped-back design and reduced amount
of plastics used lowers the helmet’s weight and its carbon footprint.

Ingenuity Built-In. Not Added On.

For more info and the full product range, check lazersport.com/kineticore

*Used in manufacturing compared to previous comparable models in the Lazer range.

fast track

THUMBS UP you’ve been on the bike for a couple of satisfaction of finishing one of the world’s
FOR CAPE hours – Margaret River has it dialled for top 4-day mountain bike stage races as well.
TO CAPE social hangs. Race it in pairs, or do your own thing solo –
but believe the hype, Cape to Cape is a huge
Western Australia has missed you, but The last stage returns to Cape Naturaliste, event that’s well worth making the trip for.
they’re waiting with open arms – and a with a fast 34km of coastal singletrack on
bunch of new trails to ride. If you missed the menu. Imagine rock slabs, pea gravel capetocapemtb.com
our Road Trip feature from summer, you and sandy loam. And think about the
might not be aware that while their
borders were closed, trail building
exploded. So why not kick off your visit to
the mighty west with Cape to Cape, one of
the biggest mountain bike events in the
Southern Hemisphere?

Cape to Cape rolls out from Cape
Leeuwin on October 20, 2022, with 39km of
trails to get things started. The next two
stages are around Margaret River and
Cowaramup, where you’ll get to ride some
of the new trails in and around the
Margaret River area. With wineries,
breweries and gin distilleries all around
Margaret River, this is probably the pick of
the places to stay for the event. There’s
plenty of other stuff to do as well, but if
you want to catch up with mates and

A KÜAT TRANSFER
V2 3-BIKE RACK!

Transfer V2 3-bike
rack to giveaway
to one lucky AMB
reader. The
Transfer V2 series

post-ride snacks. The Küat Transfer V2 WIN!
can fold down for boot access, even
when loaded, and fold up against the A KÜAT TRANSFER V2 3 BIKE
back of your car when it’s not in use. RACK WORTH $829

All you need to do to be in ENTER AT
for a chance to win is head to AMBMAG.COM.AU/WIN
AMBmag.com.au/WIN and tell us:
What’s the wheelbase maximum for Entries close
the Küat Transfer V2 3-bike rack? 16 October 2022

21

Every vote counts, and you can vote
to decide the winner for every
category in the 2022 AMB Photo
Awards presented by Shimano,
including the Best Young
Photographer Award. Head to

photoawards.ambmag.com.au

and vote for your favourites from the
short lists compiled by our judges.

22

2022 Supported by

cat egori es WOMEN WHO RIDE

Supported by

raw reels BLACK & WHITE

Supported by

g r eat ou tdoors ACTION

JaLuvhacasafahzntrlveuoadbernmeyadcCtveoVfaaoungitttrlnoeilg$ne5wi4fgsnu7i,silona9tylf-a!oaTfvrTauebechscanreaehartfs!hieneleeadtiylnthmineorfealeonmwttr,i,negts

23

fast track

You know what they say, new gear, new you. Here's a look at
some fresh bits landing in Australia.

LAZER CAGE PIRELLI SMARTSEAL

The Lazer Cage is an all-new SCORPION SEALANT
full-face helmet designed for
the demands of modern We knew it was coming,
enduro and downhill riding but we didn’t expect
and racing.While the Lazer Pirelli’s sealant range to
Cage will provide thorough be so thorough, with
protection for gravity racing, different products for road,
it also suits eMTB riding and gravel and mountain bike
trail riding. The helmet uses use. Pirelli have tailored
Lazer’s new KinetiCore the sealants to suit the
construction, which uses the pressure ranges and
EPS foam with crumple demands placed on the
zones to create more tyre and tubeless systems.
ventilation and to have The sealant is ammonia
rotational impact protection and latex free for less
built into the helmet – not damager to your rims, and
added. The Cage is said to your skin. It won’t set into
offer not just the safety a sticky mess, but is said
benefits of a 5-star Virginia to have an operating
Tech safety rating, but low temperature of -20C to
weight and great ventilation 70C! You can buy the
as well. The helmet weighs sealant in small packs
820g and comes in XS-XL through to workshop size,
sizing. It’s available in four all via your local Pirelli
different colours, keep an dealer. We’ve got some
eye out for a review in our setup for testing right now.
next issue.
$24.99 (240mL)
$459
FEsports.com.au
lazersport.com

THULE HELIUM PLATFORM XT 2

Thule’s empire never sleeps, and the Platform XT 2 is a new
addition that matches light weight to a hitch mount, and adds
in compatibility with long wheelbase bikes. The rack weighs
under 20kg and expands to fit into the hitch mount, and locks
into place. The two arms push over each wheel for frame free
contact, fitting tyres upto 3” wide. The trays can accept
1320mm wheelbase bikes, with a bike weight limit of 20.5kg,
for a maximum 41kg rack capacity. It folds up against the car
when not in use, or back to access the car. There are also
integrated locks to lock the bikes on. There’s no lights or a
plate mount, so you’ll need to rig up an aftermarket light
board each time you load and unload. This super light rack is
being test right now.

$1599
thule.com

24

fast track

ÖHLINS RXF34 M.2 SILCA ULTIMATE
TUBELESS
The latest from the SEALANT
Swedish suspension
gurus is an updated This new sealant has
120-130mm travel fork bold claims, with Silca
with 34mm legs and stating that the
renowned Öhlins tuning. foaming latex formular
This new model replaces mixed with chopped up
the RXF34. It hits the carbon bits has an
scales at 1698g, with a incredible sealing
new air spring and ability – even at higher
damper that have been pressures. High
designed for the pressures can be the
demands of downcoun- Achilles heel of
try riding. The ITX18 sealants, and while it’s
damper is built on the not usually an issue
design of the TTX18 for mountain bikes, if a
damper in Öhlins’ bigger sealant acts faster,
forks, but built lighter we’re in! The 6, 9 and
and optimised for lighter 12mm lengths of
bikes and fluid riding. carbon fiber are
There’s 15 clicks of low reclaimed from old
speed compression and bike parts and even
rebound adjustment, cars and aircraft!
plus 3 clicks for high What’s interesting is
speed compression. The that Silca state that by
air spring has a using a replenisher
self-adjusting negative every 3 months, you
air chamber and the can get a year of
option to add volume service from their
spacers. Want to know Ultimate Sealant. More
more? Watch this space! to come.

$1695 (TBC) $45.95 (473mL)
echelonsports.com.au
NSdynamics.com.au
25

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XC/XCM AND THE REST

Want to race? Don’t know what, 24-28 August MTB World Championships Les Gets, FRA uci.org
don’t know where? Well we’ve got all 10 September Cycle Epic Grandchester, QLD hiddenvaleadventurepark.com.au
the details for you right here. Got an 10 September Dwellingup 100 Dwellingup, WA dwellingup100.com.au
event coming up that’s not listed here? 18 September AMB 100 Stromlo, ACT rockytrailentertainment.com
Send it to [email protected]. 15 October Convict 100 St Albans, NSW convict100.com.au
15 October Shimano MTB GP Blores Hill, VIC rockytrailentertainment.com
15-16 October NSW State XCO Championships Nowra, NSW auscycling.org.au
15-16 October QLD eMTB State Championships Kooralbyn, QLD auscycling.org.au
20-23 October Cape to Cape Margaret River, WA capetocapemtb.com
21-23 October Whaka 100 Rotorua, NZ whaka100.co.nz
23 October The Willo Wingello, NSW rockytrailentertainment.com
29 October Shimano MTB GP Haunted Hills, VIC rockytrailentertainment.com
29-30 October Wagga Wagga XCO Wagga Wagga, NSW auscycling.org.au
4-12 November Crocodile Trophy Cairns, QLD croctrophy.com
3-4 December 24hr National Championships Rydal, NSW auscycling.org.au
25 February Otway Odyssey Forrest, VIC rapidascent.com.au
26 February Great Otway Gravel Grind Forrest, VIC rapidascent.com.au

CALENDAR GRAVITY MTB World Championships Les Gets, FRA uci.org
SA Downhill Championships TBC, SA auscycling.org.au
24-28 August Gravity Enduro SA Series Eagle Bike Park, SA gravityenduroasa.com
3-4 September Rocky Trail Superflow Stromlo, ACT rockytrailentertainment.com
11 September Crankworx Cairns Smithfield, QLD crankworx.com
24 September QLD Gravity Enduro Championships Gold Coast, QLD auscycling.org.au
5-9 October Rocky Trail Superflow Jolly Nose, NSW rockytrailentertainment.com
9 October Gravity Enduro National Championships Red Hill, VIC auscycling.org.au
15 October QLD Downhill Championships Kooralbyn, QLD auscycling.org.au
22-23 October WA Downhill Championships Nannup, WA auscycling.org.au
29-30 October Women’s only Enduro O’Halloran Hill, SA gravityendurosa.com
29-30 October Crankworx Rotorua Rotorua, NZ crankworx.com
30 October Ignition MTB Festival Falls Creek, VIC ignitionmtb.com.au
5-13 November Rocky Trail Superflow Falls Creek, VIC rockytrailentertainment.com
18-20 November Cannonball MTB Festival Thredbo, NSW thredbo.com.au
10 December
14-18 February

28





INCLUSION IS NOT A DIRTY WORD,
BUT IT BELONGS ON THE DIRT!

WORDS GRACIE ELVIN PHOTO NICK WAYGOOD

Pride month and NAIDOC week have even worse, “hey boys…. and girl!”) to “hey entries to the trail network and some trails
come and gone for 2022 along with many everyone!”, or if you really want to make them wide enough for custom paracycling bikes.
other days that give a platform to feel good try “hey legends!”. There are plenty of
minority groups, but how can we make sure fun words that are not bound to any gender Better yet, you can ask someone like me to
that inclusion in sport is maintained for all the and everyone wants to be thought of as a give some extra advice on best inclusion
other months of the year? legend! practices! The AIS has run a fantastic program
called Thrive with Pride, and ambassadors
As riders we can take for granted some of our Now how about some things that take a little such as myself have been given the tools to be
tail winds that allow us to participate in this more effort. Speak up when you hear someone able to give presentations to teams, clubs, and
sport. It’s quite an expensive and intimidating using derogatory language, especially if it’s in a federations. AusCycling is also developing a
activity to enter and maintain, and the barriers casual setting. Blatant and direct racism and strong framework around Inclusion and
to entry are invisible to some and very concrete homophobia may seem to be the worst kind, Diversity which will be valuable to all groups
to others. but it’s the insidious and thinly veiled jokes that and individuals in cycling.
can do the worst damage. Take that person
It’s easy to block out the campaigns around aside and let them know it’s not ok, as a public Another great way to get more people on
Pride and NAIDOC week because if we are not shaming will usually only make it worse. bikes, and this is something many clubs do well
part of those communities, it may be hard to already, is to donate bikes and equipment to
relate to the issues they are highlighting, or it Would you like to take action but don’t know the club for people to loan if they want to try it
feels too hard to know what the right thing to where to start? I recommend talking to one of out but cannot afford the upfront costs of
do or say is – so we do nothing at all. Instead of the club committee members and joining one of buying a bike and all the extras. There are
thinking we must make drastic changes to their regular meetings where you can suggest dozens of kids (and adults for that matter!) that
ourselves and to the world, some of the best ideas. It can be things like including an would love to give mountain biking a go but
impact you can make is with the small things. Acknowledgement to Country at the start of just don’t have the opportunity to do so.
races; it can be including a pride logo on the
Let’s start with some of the easy changes we website with a note about how the club values There are so many people in the mountain
can all have a go at. Using inclusive language inclusion and welcomes all prospective biking community already making a difference,
is not as “woke” or as difficult as you may think. members to a safe and friendly environment; or but there is always room for more! I would love
The next time you roll up to your mates before it can be making sure there are accessible to hear from anyone that is trying to make their
taking to the trails, try changing “hey boys” (or riding community a great place for everyone.

www.ambmag.com.au 31

AN ODE TO DUST

WORDS CHRIS PANOZZO PHOTO BARTEK WOLINSKI

Here’s the thing about dust: It does actually exist you know. You may Although here’s a shocker. Me, I’m a winter a guy. Weird as that sounds
be forgiven for thinking that it doesn’t, and fair play to you given the having spent quite a few years bouncing between summers in my
circumstances we currently find ourselves in. Our normally sun soaked adolescence, then again second time round racing the EWS. Summer
nation feels sunk, both in body and spirit these past months, everyone’s here, summer over there as the saying goes, but even I can appreciate
gaze lies across the pond to Europe with its 35 degree summer days. I’m those hazy days where the dust lingers so long in the air you think
writing this article in stark contrast, across from a boiling hot fireplace physics itself decided to take a vacation. I used to love summer riding and
deep in the Victorian High Country, while it again snows more than half a everything it had to offer, my suitcase would consist of half a dozen T
meter watching an early morning replay of the Andorran World Cup. shirts, a few pairs of shorts, pluggers and a helmet. The tyres on my bike
Which, I’d like to point out, is still available free on Red Bull TV. So if at outside of a race weekend were often bald. Not much grip was needed
any point you feel the nostalgia about dust hanging a little too thick in the considering there was always a fine amount of pea gravel separating the
air, just give it a few weeks and we’ll be back here talking about the times tire and the concrete like ground that was always baked to a crisp.
we used to watch the Downhill on TV for free.
After watching the winning runs from Andorra, it feels impossible for me
Oh Andorra, its summer glow reflecting off the dust that still lingers in not to head straight out the door and get some riding in myself, but with
the air after yet another fierce World Cup round. The dust seemed almost each layer I put on to stop the inevitable feelings of frostbite coming at
afraid to come back down to earth, fearing yet another full-on assault me, I begin to lose that enthusiasm in equal measure. Each piece of warm
from riders chasing the fastest time against the clock. Isn’t it strange at clothing feels like a boxer taking a swing at me, I manage to avoid each
times how precise Downhill runs have become, even in the presence of so jab as the layers go on, but by the end of the round I’m already exhausted
much of that elusive dust, that each decision on track is dissected, and I haven’t set foot outside yet. Another quick temperature check shows
discussed, and made well before the run itself. Timing has become that it’s still subzero, rookie mistake as that could have easily been the
everything, each little input from a rider, braking, or not braking for knock out blow that sees me floored. Its tempting to take the fall too,
example, can have major repercussions, sometimes good, sometimes bad. given that our dog has finally given up the floor space in front of the fire,
But here’s the thing about timing, to be on time you have to be early, which is very rare indeed. It’s perhaps only by coincidence, although
because if you’re not early, you’re late. So where do all those seconds go secretly I hope it’s loyalty to me, it seems even our pooch has heard
while you’re waiting to be on time? Do people have spare seconds these enough of La Marseillaise so far this year. Umm what is La Marseillaise
days? Or are the prepared just content to savour those precious seconds you ask? That would be the French National Anthem. Podium ceremonies
in between big decisions? Summer in Andorra? I could think of worse are on the broadcast now and four of out five Downhill wins so far this
places to be waiting. year have gone their way. Bravo, but dust or no dust. I’m out the door.

32 www.ambmag.com.au

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WHY SO BLUE?

WORDS CRAIG MEINICKE PHOTO MIKE BLEWITT

W orking within the mountain bike trail industry is an awesome of blue trail to cater for the majority of riders.
job, getting to work with landowners, trail builders, clubs, Another reason is the risk appetite of our land managers. More difficult
and riders to create new riding experiences and to provide
frameworks to renew existing trail networks is rewarding in many ways. trails equal more risk, more risk equates to heightened vigilance and
higher risk sensitivity. Ultimately trail risks sit with the land manager,
We are in a golden period of trail development, driven largely by federal some are happy to provide more challenging trails while others are not.
and state government funding to build trail networks on public lands, or
through local governments recognising the social and economic benefits This brings me back to private parks, and how they are essential in
that go hand in hand with mountain biking. In parallel we have also providing the high-end riding experiences that often cannot be provided
seen growth of privately funded, owned, and operated mountain bike on public lands. Private parks can manage access onto their trails, they
parks across the country. In my opinion, the development of public trails can stipulate what protective gear you wear, they get you to sign your life
in parallel with private parks is critical to ensuring all types of riding away before you start riding, and they clearly highlight trail difficulties
experiences are available. and significant risk features. Private parks can provide higher end riding
experiences because they can ring-fence risk and have mechanisms for
We tend to have too much blue trail in our networks and not enough riders to acknowledge that they are willing to accept those risks.  
true green trail and true black and double black trail. I say ‘true’ because
we still have issues with the standardisation of trail classification, the new Understanding the constraints associated with building trails on public
Australian Trail Difficulty Rating System goes a long way to solving this lands is essential to understanding why we have the trail mix we do. These
however there is still some local interpretation that confuses things. constraints are also why private parks will continue to be developed and
gain popularity for riders seeking high end riding experiences.
There are several reasons for the volume of blue trail in our networks, if
you plot all rider’s skill levels as a bell curve, the majority of riders will sit While there is a general expectation that we should be able to ride for
in the blue zone, and a large percentage of those riders are happy to stay free on most trail networks, we need to recognise that we may need to
there because the trails are fun and there is a good risk / reward balance hand over our hard-earned coin every now and then to experience what a
on blue trails. So, it makes sense that there should be a large percentage private park has to offer.

Safe trails.

www.ambmag.com.au 35

TRAIL FAIRIES

WORDS DAISY DAY PHOTO MIKE BLEWITT

I ’ll take a wild guess that those of you reading AMB know a thing or two often using existing ‘unplanned’ networks as trail footprints, the team tries
about enjoying mountain bike trails – in fact, you’re probably experts at to avoid eating into ‘untouched’ land. However, if new lines are created,
it. You might frequent world renowned epics, or find yourself more often previous lines get revegetated, breaking the hardened surface and ensuring
than not hitting up your “local” trails after work. ground cover – “to let nature do its thing” says Andy. The idea being, that
in a few months-time there would be no sign that the previous line ever
Lately, as I’ve been twisting and turning around the Dentist along the existed. Andy says that the advantages of planned trails networks is their
Yarra, or shitting myself on the predominantly off-camber trails of the “consideration of habitat, execution by professionals, [using] a master plan
“Norge’” (if you know, then you know), I’ve got to thinking about the work of trail linkages, and ability levels in mind”.
that goes on behind these trails.
Importantly, planned trial networks consider liability. Because trails will be
The area around the Plenty River in Victoria, which holds a not used – whether or not they are planned. Creating well-thought out networks
insignificant amount of singletrack, is known fondly as the Norge’. I grew up can offer ways for trail newbies, young ones, and pros to have a good time
in that region, and have seen first-hand the lack of care of those reserves, on their bike. It also provides ways to sequentially progress abilities through
state parks, and aqueduct trails. Think 15 year olds on Peewee 50s, bong-y alternative lines, giving users a guide to what they can safely try – without
booze ups and lighting fires that wasted the time of the local Fireys’. Riding rolling themselves off a cliff, and not knowing who to sue.
and running along the extensive trails quite often, I didn’t actually think
about who made them, I was just hoping to avoid said bong-smoking, fire- I asked Andy whether he thought unplanned trails – like those the TF are
starting, Peewee 50s boys. Were these trails just magically there? Some creating and maintaining – could have this level of environmental, social,
kind of natural phenomenon of fully groomed singletrack? and safety consideration. “Yes. If a community group had the same vision
and expertise, it’s possible that the two products could be of the same
Funnily enough, there actually was a “trail fairy” taking care of it behind quality and have the same environmental outcomes.”
the scenes. The Trail Fairies (catch them at the Trail Fairies Patreon)
have slowly and steadily been improving the area, working to provide Importantly, the “sustainability” of trails isn’t only about the
“environmentally-friendly access for all to the Plenty Gorge”. These Trail environmental. Enhancing social factors is a huge part of the sustainability
Fairies (TF) actively maintain trails, working with police to deal with illegal picture. I asked Andy the ways in which he feels that well thought-out, safe,
dumping, removing graffiti, rubbish, and dealing with the issues that arise and maintained MTB trails can help build community capacity. “Personally,
after severe weather events. All labour is given freely, with no funding by some of my best friends are those I’ve been involved with in trail building
local government. TF just hope that their continued works “benefit the local and maintenance. ‘Rad Dads’ sharing the importance (and fun!) of outdoor
community in mind, body and spirit by providing non-impactful access to time with their kids.”
the parks native flora and fauna”.
Finally, I asked Andy if he has any tips to help out the trail fairies that exist
While these trails are officially considered ‘unplanned’, or in some people’s behind the scenes of all MTB trails. “Take a note from the Scout’s handbook,
words, ‘barely legal’, it’s undeniable that they’ve put A LOT of time and effort ‘leave a place better than you found it’. If every rider took home one piece
into creating and maintaining trail access in the area. of garbage, or dealt with a trail issue when they saw it - the weight of
maintenance on the Trail Fairies would be so much lighter! Hell, I challenge
I was curious about the sustainability differences between ‘planned’ and anyone reading this to take that on-board next time they ride, regardless of
‘unplanned’ trail networks, so I asked my buddy Andy about his experience the location”. We here at AMB wholeheartedly agree.
building trails with the MTB Trail Team at Yarra Ranges Council. Quite

36 www.ambmag.com.au

Untitled-24 1 8/08/2022 8:44:02 AM

DE IN
MA
A

LIA
A USTR

FRAMESKIN workshop using traditional tracing and pattern
WORDS WILL SHAW / PHOTOS WAYGOOD, VOGT, BLEWITT making techniques. It’s a particularly hands on
craft.
T his Australian Made features an developing custom patterns for bicycles is
Australian company who were the global painstakingly detailed and that took time and To design a kit for a new model of bike normally
pioneers of custom frame protection. patience to perfect. Bikes are so much more takes a day for a simple design, to two days for a
Founded in 2007 by Alan Vogt in Canberra, complex than cars or motorbikes. more complicated design, and then a half day
Frameskin has provided fully custom frame again for each additional frame size for that
protection for over 15 years. If the name sounds In 2009, I began to get serious and devote space model. I don’t charge for design as this is part of
familiar, Alan is also a key figure within the in my house to Frameskin. In many respects I developing an inventory. Once I’ve got the kit
Kowalski Brothers volunteer trail building group, started off custom frame protection for bikes as it designed and ready for output, I take about 3-4
so he’s not afraid of a busy schedule! wasn’t being done at the time, which is something hours on average to install a kit onto a bike. I am
I’m proud of.’ fastidious about fit.

AMB: What was the motivation to begin AMB: There are many more frame protection In terms of keeping on top of new models and
brands now; do you think having over 15 years’ sizes, I’ve got long standing relationships with
Frameskin? experience is an asset for Frameskin? shops, and there’s also a plethora of customers
Alan: ‘Frameskin started by accident. I designed who come to me. I am constantly going to and
Alan: ‘Experience is essential, as is an eye for from bike shops as I develop kits for the latest
a frame protection kit for my pride and joy (a detail and a passion for quality. New models of models.
carbon Ibis Mojo) and was chuffed with the bikes are being released constantly and new bike
results. I posted photos on an MTBR forum and brands too, so the demand to develop new I don’t generally have the time to be proactive
immediately began receiving messages from designs is relentless. I’m not daunted though, with new brands, but the kind of customer who’s
people asking if they could buy a kit for their bike. because the design principles I’ve used for 15 an early adopter and has just bought the latest
Clearly what mattered to me in terms of years produces consistently excellent results.’ brand or model is absolutely a Frameskin
protecting my bike mattered to lots of other customer. They’ve done the research on the bike
riders out there, so Frameskin began as a pure AMB: With new bikes and brands constantly they’ve just bought, and they want to protect their
internet business and my first customers were in coming out, how do you go about creating investment. More often than not they’ve begun to
North America.’ custom kits for each individual bike, and how reach out before I’ve heard of that new brand or
long does it take to create a single Frameskin latest release model.’
AMB: Were you able to get started with the product?
AMB: Tell us a bit about Frameskin’s Australian
equipment you had, or did you need to invest to Alan: ‘I wouldn’t expect any brand to share 3D
models of their products as that’s their closely Made credentials, is the entire process onshore?
get things up and rolling? held IP. Anyone hoping for that would be quickly Alan: ‘All of Frameskin’s kits are designed and
Alan: ‘I did buy equipment specific for my disappointed. For me, the process of designing
frame protection starts with having a bike in my manufactured by me, so without doubt we are
workflow, but the software was what I’d been Australian made. We aren’t connected to an
using for 15-20 years as a graphic designer offshore company from an intellectual property
anyway. The craft of hand tracing shapes and or production perspective either so there are no
fees, commissions, or franchise style
arrangements at play here. Our domain name
(frameskin.com) has confused people at times,
but that all stems from my very first customers

38

being in North America, and it never hurts to doorhandle away from doing some work. A public bike because they have customers’ needs that
present bigger than you are! holiday, a workday, and a weekend all look the are exacting and perhaps they’re not comfortable
same to me. I squeeze rides and sneaky trail to do it themselves, or I’m close and can pick up
The premium paint protection films (PPFs) used sessions in and around my work.’ and drop it back when I’m done. I offer a pickup
in the industry aren’t made in Australia so I and drop off fitting service for local stores so they
source my roll stock from specialist AMB: Tell us about the custom order jobs you do, can focus on what they do best.’
manufacturers in the United States. I’d love to how frequent are these and what do they offer
use an Australian Made base material (like with the customer additional to your regular kits? AMB: Are you nervous with these frames that
my Dirtsurfer products), but in the absence of
that I’ll keep sourcing premium products from Alan: ‘Every frame kit we make is a detailed are sent to you to meet the customers’ high
suppliers I’ve used for many years, as that way I custom kit but if I’m installing it as well the
can be assured of highest quality and customer generally wants the full protection standards?
performance. Frameskin is a premium product, service which includes a kit for the frame, forks Alan: ‘No. I’ve always maintained the view that
so I will only buy the highest quality products. I’m and cranks, crank boots and often a classy
not comfortable sourcing from Asia as quality Dirtsurfer out front. Occasionally, people wish to every kit I design has to be the best I have ever
products and reliable supply are quite variable. I change the colour of the logos on their bike or made. I think this is something that’s stood me in
simply won’t risk it.’ add some kind of graphic flourish, which I can good stead across my working career. When I
also help with, but it isn’t my core business. They was delivering mtb events, our philosophy was to
AMB: You also run another brand, Dirtsurfer, tell do look cool when I do them though!’ make sure the event was the best people had
experienced, that the trails they rode were mint
us a bit about that and its Australian Made AMB: What can people look forward to from and the course they travelled was fresh and
Frameskin in the future? memorable. I look at it from the customer’s
credentials? perspective and ask myself ‘would I be happy
Alan: ‘I launched Dirtsurfer in 2018 after closing Alan: ‘I’ve developed a range of graphic frame with this standard of work if it was my own bike.’
protection products for retail distribution, so a bit The answer must be ‘yes’ every single time. Of
operations on some large mountain bike events of a departure from the traditional ethos of course, it doesn’t hurt that I have designed and
I’d been running since 2008 (Mont 24 and seamless, optically clear, invisible frame installed thousands of kits since 2007.’
Kowalski Classic). It’s a related but quite different protection. It’s a response to the fact that
business to Frameskin. Dirtsurfer products are increasingly bike owners want to personalise AMB: What is your proudest moment with
all about colour, personalisation, and branding. their bike. The key difference between my graphic
One size will fit any bike. protection range to custom-shaped products is Frameskin to date?
that they will be a one size fits most style kit. Alan: ‘Offering a consistently high-quality
Dirtsurfer was a very deliberate exercise in Full graphic custom-shaped kits would be way
developing high quality Australian Made, too niche!' product for my customers is a constant source of
environmentally friendly products, and I’m very pride. Seeing peoples’ reaction to the exquisite
proud of that.' AMB: Can customers buy Frameskin for their detail and seamless finish of the installed kit
new bike through their local bike shop? when I hand their bikes over never gets old. In
AMB: Juggling both Frameskin and Dirtsurfer 2015/2016 I did win a couple of export awards, at
Alan: ‘Yes, but not really from the hook. I have the time 40 percent of my sales were exports.
must be a huge workload for you, how do you dealer shops who will order a kit and install it for That has pulled back now as there are a number
the customer before they collect their new bike. I of frame protection companies in different
manage it? also have some shops who send me a frame or countries nowadays, but there were none when I
Alan: ‘Like all things there’s an ebb and a flow began. So, I’m also quite proud to have pioneered
this industry segment when I started in 2007.’
to working for yourself. I have a 50 square metre
workshop on the side of my house that’s custom
built for Frameskin, so I’m only ever one turn of a

39

suspension 104
Air vs. Coil

WORDS HAYDEN WRIGHT / PHOTOS GERARD LAGANA

T hrough the first three parts of our series on mountain the same adjustments, they can feel very different when
bike suspension we have delved into the worlds of riding. Coil shocks are easily identified by their wound steel or
servicing, eMTB setup and shock tuning with some of titanium springs, mounted over the damper body (sometimes
Australia’s perennial experts in their respective fields. In this also referred to as a coil-over-damper or coilover). These
fourth and final part of the series, we catch up with Joshua springs typically have a set stiffness for the entirety of their
Mclnerney who is a suspension technician at NS Dynamics. stroke, although some brands, such as Cane Creek and DVO
Josh, a mechanical engineer by training loves all things offer progressive rate springs.”
suspension and given his technical background we thought
who better to quiz on the question of air versus coil. While we “Progressive springs give an option to have one stiffness at
appreciate that you could easily fill this entire magazine from the start of the stroke that gradually increases as they reach
cover to cover discussing this inflamatory subject, we’d prefer the end of their stroke. Coil shocks, by their linear nature, do
to let someone like Josh who has both the theoretical require a frame designed with a progressive leverage curve,
knowledge and practical experience designing, servicing and so some bikes may not suit a coil shock as well as others.”
riding both spring types do the talking. Typically, air shocks have a naturally rising rate, and many
frames have been designed for one type of shock or another
“Many modern bikes give riders the option of choosing – but that is changing.
between a coil sprung or air sprung suspension system, each
have their own advantages and draw backs,” stated Josh “The disadvantage of a coil shock is that to change the
when we pulled up at his workbench. “While they might have spring rate a different spring is typically required. Sprindex
have linear rate adjustable springs, allowing for

40

approximately a 10% change in stiffness through tool-free the shock particularly at the beginning of the stroke.”
adjustment.” One of the big factors between both options is weight.

Coil shocks are often known to have minimal stiction, and Unsurprisingly, air shocks are lighter – but times are
Josh explains it’s all to do with the seals involved. changing according to Josh.

“Coil shocks tend to have only a small number of dynamic “Modern metallurgical techniques in producing low weight
seals inside the damper, resulting in reduced seal drag steel springs are bridging the weight gap. While it may not
friction. By reducing the friction, combined with the low be noticeable in all conditions it is worth noting that the
loads required to begin depressing the coil spring, coil environment that an air shock is operating in can have an
shocks tend to track the ground better and are more able to impact on the air spring, in particular as the shock is
absorb small, fast bumps. Coil shocks area often described compressed multiple times the damper converts some of
with words like “supple”, “ground hugging”, “predictable”, this motion into heat to dissipate the impact, this heat, if not
and “composed” thanks to how the reduced stiction feels.” managed properly can raise the pressure of the air,
increasing spring rate as it heats up. For most users this
“In contrast, air shocks are much simpler to get the correct effect may be negligible, but if you are someone who often
spring rate, as all that is required is a shock pump to change rides in a bike park, or a racer who sets their suspension on
the spring pressure. With greater freedom to adjust the a cool morning before riding during a warmer part of the day
suspension’s firmness, as well as the option to tune the this may be noticeable.”
shocks spring characteristics with volume reducers, air
shocks represent a more adjustable and tuneable option.” There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the
choice between air and coil springs. They both have their
Ease of adjustment is one of the best features of an air distinct advantages and disadvantages. In summary, riders
shock – and also spring rate range. Some big eMTBs may who are looking for a damper which prioritises weight over
need a spring rate that doesn’t readily exist, depending on performance, particularly at the beginning of the stroke, will
the rider aboard the bike. Another important factor is the go with an air spring. Similar assumptions can be made to
role the shock plays in the frame design. riders who prioritise traciton and heat management over all
alse tending to prefer coil springs. That is not to say that it’s
“Air shocks also prove as a stiffer option than their coil uncommon to see a long-legged downhill bike with an air
counterparts, thanks to the much larger main shaft making spring, or a 120mm trail bike with a coil unit. If you are
up the shock body. With this larger shaft diameter and the looking to replace or upgrade the suspension on your ride,
extra sealing requirements of the air spring comes increased the best thing to do is call your local bike shop or suspension
seal friction and as such air shocks tend to lack the ultimate tuning store and ask their opinion. They will be able to help
sensitivity of coil shocks. To combat this and reduce the you pick the component that best suits your specific needs.
initial spring rate of the air spring a negative chamber is
included in the shock with the pressure acting to compress

Suspension Glossary

DAMPER: A device used to oppose motion, PACKING: An increase in the SHOCK LENGTH / EYE TO EYE
typically paired to a spring (may be a coil suspension’s stiffness resulting from LENGTH: The uncompressed
or an air spring) to provide increased multiple compressions that the distance between the shock eyelets,
control of the motion of a system. suspension can not return from in time measured from the centre of the
for the next impact (overdamped), the eyelets.
COMPRESSION: Reduction of available suspension becomes too stiff to
travel due to cornering loads, bumps, and function effectively, the correct spring SHOCK STROKE: The distance that
body inputs. rate, and reducing rebound damping the shock can compress, this can be
will help mitigate this. calculated by measuring the shocks
COMPRESSION DAMPING: Compression eye to eye fully extended, then
damping refers to the slowing of the shock BUCKING/KICKING: The tendency of subtracting the measurement made
as it moves through the compression a rear shock that has too little rebound at full compression.
stroke. This is used to stabilise the damping (underdamped) to control the
system. Some dampers have high and low return of the shock, resulting on AIR VOLUME: For air shocks the
speed controls, this refers to the speed the weight being transferred to the front of volume of the air can has a significant
damper is compressing, not the speed the the bike and a potential loss of control. effect on the feel of the shock, with a
bike is traveling. higher volume typically feeling more
PRELOAD: Refers to the loading of a linear and coil like, while a smaller
REBOUND: Extension of the suspension coil spring when at rest, increasing the volume will increase the ramp of the
as load is removed from the bike. force that needs to be applied to it air spring to help resist bottom out.
before it begins to move. Note; a
REBOUND DAMPING: Rebound damping common misconception is that preload SAG: The measurement of the
controls the rate that the suspension can increases the spring rate, this is not compression of the suspension under
return to its resting position after a bump. correct. the rider’s weight when static on the
Some dampers have high and low speed bike. This is most commonly used as
controls, this refers to the speed the SHIM STACK: inside the damper the the baseline for setting up spring
damper is returning, not the speed the shim stack is an array of thin washers rate on a bike.
bike is traveling. (shims) that restrict the flow of the
damping fluid, creating the damping LOCKOUT: A device for closing the
BOTTOM OUT: Reaching the end of the forces that work in opposition to the compression damping circuit,
available travel due to compression, the spring. resulting in a firming up of the
shock is unable to be compressed any suspension. Most shocks will still
further. SPACERS: Used in air shocks to adjust allow some movement when “locked
the volume of the shock, adding out” to prevent damage to the shim
TOP OUT: Reaching the end of the spacers reduces the volume and stack or other components due to the
available travel when rebounding, the increases the force required to bottom large forces generated by impacts
shock is unable to be extended any out the shock. Removing spacers has when the shock is in the locked
further. the opposite effect. position.

41

Y ou do your research, you stay up late in bed Pick the right bike for categories like Down Country, All Mountain or
scrolling forums and chat rooms until you drop your riding, not for even Down Duro. So something to keep in
your phone on your face at midnight on a looks. mind if you’re riding your new bike and
Tuesday. You’ve looked at geo charts, you’ve asked thinking, “geez, my previous bike didn’t act
the local bike shop for their opinion, you do more Firstly, are you buying a particular bike just this way on a trail” - these days bikes are
research and watch every bike review on YouTube. based on its looks/brand/colour or even just to almost designed to ride in a specific terrain.
You compare the specs of other bikes, then compare impress your friends? If you are and you’re For example, when riding a really slack bike
a few bikes against each other. Once you think you’ve aware of that, then that’s totally fine and you on a flat trail, you might notice that the front
narrowed it down, you go back to the bike shop or can probably stop reading here. But if you wheel wants to push through corners a lot.
brand website and find out about availability. You’ve choose to buy a triple crown, high pivot, That’s because your weight on the bike is set
drooled, you’ve done your homework, you’ve been 200mm coil-sprung descending beast to ride a lot more rearward than a bike with a
patient and now it’s time to pull the trigger! Now XC loops then maybe it’s time to go back to the steeper head angle. It comes back to
comes the waiting game, you patiently wait… and drawing board. You need to understand the “different horses for different courses”. So
wait… and then the delivery day finally comes, only basics of what style of bikes are good for what you could find that your previous bike rode a
to be hit with stock or manufacturer delays... type of riding. Be honest with yourself about particular way as it was designed for a
Eventually, new bike day arrives! what type of riding you’ll actually be doing as different type of riding than your new one.
opposed to dreaming of riding World Cup
Mountain bikes have developed at a rapid rate, and downhill courses that you watch on RedBull TV. Have you followed the
making new bike day as awesome as possible can setup guide, and done
require a bit of adjustment for the bike, and for you. Are your previous and a bike fit?
new bikes the same
New bike day can bring puzzles and problems along style of bike? Bike manufacturers spec components for the
with excitement. There are so many factors that come “average” person, but these days the shape
into play with how bikes perform and how they can In the past 3 or more years, bikes have become and size of people are anything but average.
compare to other models, other brands and even the marketed for very specific purposes with You might have long arms and a short torso
previous bikes we’ve owned. Here are some tips to
make sure the experience is everything it should be.

WORDS AND PHOTO NEVILLE JEMSON
42

or long legs and T-rex length arms, so the back real-world comparisons so you can feel build suddenly isn’t that attainable anymore..
original components may not suit you straight how all of these tweaks and adjustments can The shape or length of components may feel a
off the showroom floor. But there are ways to drastically affect how your bike can and will bit alien or the quality of the component
fit better on a bike when you’re shaped like perform. It does take a bit of time but it’s material is different and this takes time to
this before you look at things like stem and absolutely worth it to get the most out of your adjust to.
crank lengths. new bike.
If you get the majority feeling good but can One of the biggest questions I keep coming
Tinker with the setup of what you’ve got first hone down to a specific component letting the back to is - do you purchase a bike that is
before jumping to conclusions or buying new team down, then maybe seek out an expert in perfect for the local trails and what you’ll ride
parts as maybe it’s possible to achieve that area. If it’s suspension, start a 85% of your year but might be under-gunned
what you want without any extra costs. conversation with a tuning expert to see what when you do get to have one of your few
Simple things like adjusting the seat post can be done with what you have as opposed to yearly bike trips to Thredbo or Bright? Or do
height, sliding the saddle forward or back on throwing money at a completely new part you buy the bike that’s perfect for these yearly
the rails and even bar width and roll can help which might not even solve the issue. trips, but have to slug and suffer on every
to change your body position on the bike and weekly group ride with your buddies?
help you get more comfortable. Better yet Understand how
– pay for a proper bike fit. components and bikes There’s always a trade-off with any bike,
have changed maybe it climbs great but is a bit unstable on
Performance-based adjustments can be steep rough descents. No bike will tick all the
anything from tilting your brake levers up or If you were riding a bike that was a couple of boxes and has the best of both worlds and this
down, sliding your controls further inboard, years old, or a bike that was a decade old, the is where we need to be completely honest with
and playing with air pressure in your tyres to difference to a new one will be vastly different. ourselves and buy a bike that actually suits
find the perfect level of grip and rolling The cost of bikes and components has changed our needs.
resistance. Dedicate a whole ride to setting up significantly and the new version of your
your suspension. Experiment with the 10-year-old bike that was running a full XTR New bike day is always great, but with a
different flip chips and headset cups if your little time, tinkering with setup and tweaking
bike comes with them. Do all of the back-to- of components, you can make sure it’s
absolutely epic!

43

Mountains
of changE

WORDS GEORGINA VON MARBURG PHOTOS GEORGINA VON MARBURG, TIM BARDSLEY-SMITH, NICK WAYGOOD

A pparently, you’re not a “local” in the Victorian High by natural beauties (or vice versa). And this is exactly what
Country unless you were born here or until you die tree change destinations like Bright and surrounds provide.
here. It’s a strict and fiercely guarded criteria, aimed at Of course, this area is littered with recently built world-
preserving a sense of respect for the heritage of the area class trail networks; in this way, it’s similar to the Derby
and those who established themselves before the term boom. But riders and adventure seekers have been moving
“tree change” became a popular phrase to idealise country to the High Country for decades, and it’s not only for the
life. trails.

Regardless of your opinion on the “local” debate, there’s I myself moved to Bright in Autumn 2021. However, it
something inherently brilliant about leaving the big smoke wasn’t to escape a Covid-ridden capital city; I grew up in the
for the mountains – especially if you’re a mountain biker. NSW/VIC border town of Albury, an hour from Bright, and
The Covid-induced mountain bike boom (can we please frequented the High Country for camping and snow-play as
create a short-hand term for this already?) certainly a kid throughout school holidays. In many ways, moving to
catalysed an influx of residents to Victoria’s High Country. In Bright felt like coming home. But this time, I was arriving
some ways, this has been to the detriment of the with a fully-fledged passion for mountain biking. I was
established communities – the ratio of homes to workers to leaving behind an excellent job and a close group of friends;
holiday makers is temporarily at crisis levels. But that’s a but I was almost too comfortable in Canberra. I moved to
story for another day. Bright without any serious job prospects or housing, and by
some miracle have landed emphatically on my feet. As it
The fact is, as these interviews will tell, this migration was turns out, I took the leap of faith many have taken before
occurring well before Covid. It’s an organic progression for me, and here are their stories.
those who enjoy mountain biking to enjoy being surrounded

44

Nick Vlahandreas

Originally from the Eastern suburbs on life. That got me involved in the community can I live an hour from the snow, and with
Melbourne, Nick Vlahandreas moved to the more than mountain biking, because mountain awesome trails at my door?”
High Country in 2001. If he’s not mountain biking was so small back then.”
biking with his daughters, you’ll find him hiking Now living his dream lifestyle, Nick has some
the snowy backcountry of the mountains with While trail building is now an established wise words for those scared to take the plunge.
his split board. He’s runs a successful industry, Nick was part of a core group of Like many of us who moved to the country,
town-planning business from their home in the amateur builders in the Mansfield region many there is an inevitable trade-off between career
peaceful valley village of Wandiligong, a 10 years ago. The group included Gerard McHugh and lifestyle. “It’s never been about the money,
minute drive from Bright. (now the General Manager of World Trail), moving up here. If I wanted to earn money, I’d
Shannon Rademaker (the brains behind High be in Melbourne working for a big company.”
But Nick’s current lifestyle wasn’t always so Line MTB Festival, and the owner of All Terrain But forgoing a chunky paycheck could mean the
idyllic, and he’s an exemplar of forging your Cycles and Gravity Oz Mountain Biking), and blossoming of an enviable lifestyle. “You’ve
own path in life. His passion for mountain Alex “Chumpy” Pullin (Olympic Snowboarder). always got to take a punt, and you’ve got to let
biking began as a kid en route to Blackburn “We’d get out there at any opportunity and those opportunities come to you… If you don’t
primary school each day, where he would build. We didn’t have the same processes that make change, change isn’t going to happen in
mountain bike through the local bushland we do now. It was all just old school: hand tools your lifestyle.”
reserve. “I reckon that was my connection to and wooden ramps over logs,” he laughs.
the bush… I’d go on these massive all-day When asked if he has plans to move again,
missions from Blackburn South all the way to Now settled with his family in Wandiligong, Nick’s answer (like most interviewees) is an
the Dandenong Ranges.” Nick has turned his attention to his two emphatic No. “We’re really entrenched in this
daughters. The fourteen-year-old has embraced community, we love it. And the kids love the
But in his adulthood, his friends didn’t share downhill, while the six-year-old is still growing environment that they’re in. We’ve definitely got
this same adventurous zeal. As a university into her Commencal. But apart from enjoying no aspirations of moving.”
student, he’d trade Melbourne for weekend the trails of Mystic Bike Park, Nick is happiest
excursions in the High Country, and usually by on their acreage outside town. “Since moving to
himself. “I always had in my head at uni, that I Wandi 4 years ago, I’ve become a bit of a
never wanted to work in the city… There were recluse. I don’t come into Bright that often,
two places I wanted to go: Mansfield and because Bright has become too busy.” And with
Bright.” In the early 2000s, mountain biking his business flourishing from home, Nick has no
was still in its infancy in these towns, so Nick need to come into the overflowing tourist town.
joined the local AFL teams. “As a 21 year-old I “It has been tempting to sell up everything,
started playing football for the first time in my cash in, and move elsewhere. But where else

45

46

Lynn Freirechs

Hailing from spectacular Canada, you might not expect However, riding in the High Country also presented new
someone from that magical land to settle for a tiny historic challenges for Lynn. “The people that are here ride a lot. I
Victorian town. But that’s exactly where self-titled “Canalian” remember the first time that I went on the local women’s ride,
Lynn has found her forever home. And of all the times to move, and I threw up twice,” Lynn fondly recalls. “I remember being
Lynn and her husband embraced Beechworth during the absolutely blown away by these women who were super fast
harrowing bush-fires of 2019/2020. uphill and technically downhill – they were amazing.” The
sheer variety of trails across Beechworth, Mount Beauty, and
“We spent a few years in a caravan, and while we were Bright is partly responsible for the quality of riders produced
travelling, we fell in love with Beechworth and the people in this region. “You need different skills to ride here - we don’t
here.” Before their travels around Australia, Lynn had moved have any ‘flow’ trails… There’s so much to be said for the
from a small Canadian community of 200 people to the sunny uniqueness and off-camber corners created by hand.”
and bustling Gold Coast. “I never wanted to live in a town that
small ever again – and thankfully Beechworth isn’t that small,” But when asked if her son has inherited their passion for the
she laughs. Having worked in Zambia, Peru, and Japan, Lynn sport, the early exposure hasn’t quite manifested in the way
arrived on Aussie shores as a scholarship recipient at the they hoped. “We rode everywhere with him [aboard the Mac
University of Queensland. It speaks volumes for the town of Ride]. We did double blacks, we did absolutely everything. But
Beechworth, that such a well-travelled person would settle now when he has to actually pedal – I don’t think he likes it
upon this quaint, gold-rush era town. that much!” In any case, Lynn confident he will find his own
way. “All I pray is that he doesn’t play cricket.”
The reason for moving to Beechworth was twofold. “We
didn’t want to raise our child on the Gold Coast – that was In her advice to prospective migrants to the High Country,
pretty obvious for us. The culture didn’t fit us at all.” But Lynn emphasises the importance of community as the
mountain biking also played a pivotal role in their move. And centrepiece. “As an adult, it can sometimes be really hard to
while a part of her misses the trails of Nerang, her family was find your ‘people.’ But I feel like I found that within the first few
warmly welcomed by the local Beechworth mountain bike club. days [in Beechworth].” It’s these people that make this region
“The culture of the mountain bikers here is just so inclusive the permanent residence for Lynn and her family. “Get
and absolutely wonderful. It’s really a special community of involved with the local clubs, and you’ll find your people. We’re
mountain bikers here.” all a little bit different, but we all have so much to offer.”

Apart from the Beechworth Chain Gang Club – of which Lynn
is now the President – they were also attracted by the promise
of the Indigo Epic Trail. Its development took longer than
anticipated, but this truly unique experience is opening this
summer. “The places that it takes you to, places that were
totally hidden and inaccessible since mining went through
here – now we’ll be able to see them. There’s this beautiful
waterfall with these giant ferns – it’s just so beautiful.”

AMB_044-48_Vic tree change.indd 47 47

4/08/2022 8:07:18 PM

Photo credit:  Jean-Pierre Ronco

Chris McKnight

Having grown up in Whistler with a how everyone looks out for each
family home on the North Shore – other.” But these friendships expand
Chris has seen some quality trails. further than just other cyclists, and is
But skiing was Chris’s first and a stark contrast to that of city life.
foremost sport, having been an elite Ironically, there is a greater sense of
racer himself before finding work community in a lightly populated
with Australia’s national ski team. town than a dense metropolis. “Living
When he wasn’t travelling to ski in Surry Hills [Sydney], the front door
events around the globe, Chris found was only a metre and a half from my
himself in Sydney with mediocre neighbour’s front door. And for 3-4
trails surrounded by a barrage of years I never knew them.” Meanwhile
traffic. He knew the city life was not in Beechworth, the surrounding
for him, and desired to return to his neighbours are half the reason Chris
mountainous roots. would never leave the area. “They’re
just great people, honest and really
“Living in Sydney, I really didn’t helpful.”
enjoy throwing the bike in the car and
driving for 45 minutes for something And while Sydney offers an endless
pretty average.” After being array of eating choices and activities,
introduced to the Victorian High these luxuries are belittled by the
Country through the ski team camps, comforts of daily life in the country.
Chris was inspired by the lifestyle Chris now works for Tourism North
and outdoor enthusiasts in the region. East, developing gravel biking
“We were based in Bright at the infrastructure; aside from a job
Bright Chalet, so sometimes I’d bring immersed in cycling, TNE is also
my bike. It got me thinking about the based locally in Beechworth. “I walk 5
fact that I’m not a city person.” minutes to work, and I come home
every day at lunchtime to put a log on
Throughout the next few years, the fire.”
Chris found himself constantly drawn
back to the High Country, for work Of course, this lifestyle is not for
and pleasure. “I’d fly into Albury and everyone. But for many mountain
instantly – I was relaxed. We’d be at bikers and lovers of the great
training camps in New Zealand and outdoors, it’s an ideal setup. “I’ve met
[on days off] I would fly to Melbourne, so many people who, because of the
drive up, and do a cyclocross event at lockdowns, have moved from
Sam Miranda.” Melbourne to here and say it’s the
best thing they’ve ever done.” But
In 2018, after house hunting and while lockdowns are an obvious
deliberating from hotel rooms, Chris negative to escape from, Chris is
bought his home in Beechworth. He another example of a pre-Covid
was leaving little behind, given the wanderer who settled in the High
seasonal nature of friendships across Country for all the right reasons.
the winter Olympic cycle. But the avid Whether he’s chasing the snow,
cross-country racer and gravel trails, or an epic gravel ride, he’ll
grinder made friends with local riders forever call these mountains his
instantly in his new town. “The home.
Monday night gravel group is unreal,

48

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AMB’S TOP 6 PLACES TO RIDE YOUR EMTB IN AUSTRALIA

WORDS GEORGINA VON MARBURG, JOSH CARLSON PHOTOS JACK FLETCHER, NICK WAYGOOD, TBS, GEORGINA VON MARBURG

Riders invest in
eMTBs for a multitude of
reasons; whether new to the sport,
switching disciplines, or just wanting to
keep up with their mates, a little bit of
pedal assistance will change the way you view
riding. While we hope the world never goes so
far to label trails “e-bike specific,” there are
plenty of qualities that make existing trails and
trail networks particularly fun on eMTBs.
We’ve compiled a handful of areas that play
to the strengths of eMTBs, allowing
riders to go further, faster, and
experience trails in a way few

analogue bikes can.

Jos Carlso ’ pick

MOUNT BULLER, VICTORIA

AND MAYDENA, TASMANIA

‘My favourite trail network in Australia on the E-bike at the

moment would have to be the Mt Buller Bike Park,’ National

eMTB Champion Josh Carlson told us. ‘A recent riding trip there

with the Will Ride E-bike crew from Adelaide really showcased the

potential that bike park has on an E-bike. The ‘Stonefly’ loop in

particular was a fantastic experience on an E-bike and made for

multiple and enjoyable laps rather than having to plan out the mega

loop on a regular bike. Being able to access so many parts of the

mountain and hit them up multiple times on my E-bike really stoked

me out and left me frothing to go back.’

We have often been told that kilometres at Buller feel different, networks

and that’s often to do with the work put in for the prime trail. around Australia are

So Carlso’s take that it suits an eMTB rings true! also super fun on an E-bike like

‘Contour Works has reinvigorated the classic trails the Maydena bike Park. Known for its

Buller has always been known for and an E-bike shuttles and gravity style trails, there is

is the perfect tool to appreciate them all also a wicked fun climbing trail straight up the

and have a great time. Many middle where you can easily access the mid line

other trail point and a huge amount of trails. Not to mention

the ‘Outer Limits’ loop which is mega fun on its

own. Kick starting your day with the climbing trail

to Outer Limits and then into some ‘Natures

Nectar’, ‘Funky Cold Maydena’ and ‘Billy Bob’

will surely wet your appetite for a couple of

hours before parking up for a feed and a

recharge, and getting ready for

some arvo shuttles or more

pedal laps.

50