I don't disagree with your points above or below. But let's remember that this wasn't a single isolated test session and one of my points (perhaps not made clearly enough) is that an important element of the test process (there are many stages and elements) is long term testing in an environment where the product is properly challenged. There are trails on Seymour that are some of the best in the world for testing long-travel trail bikes. That makes it convenient for brands as well as media to test stuff there. And a test rider needs to log a lot of laps in order to pass on valuable feedback. Expecting a tester to play cat and mouse day after day is not realistic unless, again, you want the cost of many testers to be covered by the cost of your next bike. I get the consumer viewpoint here, but take a longer view and imagine repercussions a bit more carefully. There's a reason why most testers aren't full time employees: that would be a lot of extra salary for a brand to absorb.
If you spend a little time getting to know the local riders - which includes a ratio of industry people that is disproportionately high compared to most riding hot spots (other than places like Squamish, Whistler, Bellingham, California, Colorado, certain places in Scotland, Italy, France, NZ, etc) it shouldn't be hard to connect dots: as a bike nerd you have an opportunity to cozy up and eventually get your own private inside line. OR you can make a bid for fleeting fame TMZ-style but risk outcast status. If you're a true mtb nerd it's an easy decision in my view. The first and second time you walk up and introduce yourself you may feel awkward but despite the implied clique vibe people may perceive, the riders here are super friendly and everyone loves bullshitting about gear, especially if the question asker can establish an appreciation for discretion.
I understand the motivation but it shows a real lack of vision and anticipation. It's a small, tight industry. If you want to be a part of it in one way or another, a little bit of discretion goes a long way. Failing that, watch the industry close ranks and get used to the feeling of the cold shoulder.
Feb. 26, 2021, 8:37 p.m. - Pete Roggeman
I don't disagree with your points above or below. But let's remember that this wasn't a single isolated test session and one of my points (perhaps not made clearly enough) is that an important element of the test process (there are many stages and elements) is long term testing in an environment where the product is properly challenged. There are trails on Seymour that are some of the best in the world for testing long-travel trail bikes. That makes it convenient for brands as well as media to test stuff there. And a test rider needs to log a lot of laps in order to pass on valuable feedback. Expecting a tester to play cat and mouse day after day is not realistic unless, again, you want the cost of many testers to be covered by the cost of your next bike. I get the consumer viewpoint here, but take a longer view and imagine repercussions a bit more carefully. There's a reason why most testers aren't full time employees: that would be a lot of extra salary for a brand to absorb. If you spend a little time getting to know the local riders - which includes a ratio of industry people that is disproportionately high compared to most riding hot spots (other than places like Squamish, Whistler, Bellingham, California, Colorado, certain places in Scotland, Italy, France, NZ, etc) it shouldn't be hard to connect dots: as a bike nerd you have an opportunity to cozy up and eventually get your own private inside line. OR you can make a bid for fleeting fame TMZ-style but risk outcast status. If you're a true mtb nerd it's an easy decision in my view. The first and second time you walk up and introduce yourself you may feel awkward but despite the implied clique vibe people may perceive, the riders here are super friendly and everyone loves bullshitting about gear, especially if the question asker can establish an appreciation for discretion. I understand the motivation but it shows a real lack of vision and anticipation. It's a small, tight industry. If you want to be a part of it in one way or another, a little bit of discretion goes a long way. Failing that, watch the industry close ranks and get used to the feeling of the cold shoulder.