YungSquab profile

Do any unsponsored, non-dentist types buy this stuff? When I think of components that actually make or break my ride enjoyment, none of them are related to my drivetrains. Shifting is a sporadic activity that doesn't impact dynamic bike handling. I buy XT, set it, forget it, and the apply all my bike nerd energy to suspension, tires, geometry, and cockpit tweaks that meaningfully impact dynamic weight distribution. Once you dial in components you like, you stick with those systems and buy frame-only. Who has time or cash to buy complete bikes with an extra $4k of unproven, undesirable crap to dump on craigslist?

In my experience, high end alloy wheels ride better than low end carbon wheels. I've been running the $750 i9 Enduro S 1/1's for two years and they feel so much more solid and confidence inspiring than comparably spec'd LightBicycle/Noble wheels (which cost 50% more). Also, I prefer the crisper engagement of a i9 1/1 hubs over a 54T DT350, even if the latter is easier to service.

In the spirit if super aggressive short travel rigs, I rebuilt my Spur with a 130mm Helm MKII Air and a DB Air IL in the rear (120mm), with an overdamped, highly progressive tune. On steep and rough trails around Pacifica, it's like being handcuffed to Jackie Chan. You can dance through wave after wave of violence and danger and laugh it off - as long as you bring your A-game. If you bring anything less than that, you will run out of talent and luck very quickly. I write this as I sit with my shoulder sling, wondering if the short-travel roulette game is still worth it.