While Kristin and Steve take a short podcasting break, we are throwing it back to one of our favorite episodes from the past year...

Kristin and Steve hold a mirror up to Steve’s own bicycle purchasing decisions as they discuss something they’ve observed in the Shop – riders who have really (really) nice bicycles and gear, who may not spend quite as much on their partner’s bike.

What may seem like “rational thinking” can often lead to a spouse or partner failing to embrace cycling, or giving up quickly, due to discomfort, discouragement and failed expectations. Using personal experience, they discuss how a “better” bike or components can lead to a better experience and, hopefully, a happier rider.

They also share their experience at Raid Rockingham, Steve’s first impressions of Kristin’s new BC40 (speaking of better bikes); Shimano’s new wireless XTR Di2 drivetrain and while answering a viewer a question about chain lube on new chains, also discuss chain wax.

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As an experienced bike shop owner once told us - everyone rides a used bike!

Steve and Kristin discuss what to look for (or look out for) when purchasing a pre-owned road or mountain bike, with a special focus on the things that are most expensive to replace, and how to know how much is "too much" to repair a used bicycle. Kristin even surprises Steve with a few real marketplace listings for evaluation and explanation.

Also in this episode... Kristin also shares how a podcast from the Women's MTB Network on bike fit for women has swayed her on the need for women's specific saddles, they discuss why you should replace your helmet ever 3 to 5 years, Steve explains Shimano Cues and Microshift components, and they share news about the 5th year of the Shop's summer MTB ride series for women.

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Whether its to maximize your efficiency or to increase your comfort and time in the saddle, being "fit" by a professional bicycle fitter can offer riders a lot of value. Steve breaks down the basics of a bike fit, including adjustments you may be able to make to get you into your "gray zone."

They also discuss Kristin's Everwild weekend at Hale Education and the value of mountain bike clinics to improve your skills as well as the recent backlash against the industry's ongoing push towards 32" wheels. Steve then answers a couple of follower questions about Rock Shox Flight Attendant before they discuss the issue of sales reps and influencers commenting on new technology without disclosing their relationship with the brands.

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An article in Cycling Weekly has Kristin and Steve discussing the rise and fall of women's specific bikes and whether we "need" bikes built for women, or more options for all riders? Kristin also shares her experiences at New England Youth Cycling's Girls of the League Day, and Steve answers questions about flat top chains and Flight Attendant from Rock Shox.

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Group rides - whether informal gatherings of riders or organized events - are a great way to meet new friends, discover new routes and have a most enjoyable time on your bike. But joining your first group ride, be it road, mountain or gravel, can be a intimidating if you don't know what to expect. Kristin and Steve use their experiences both participating in, and leading, group rides to share how to know which group ride is right for you, as well as some of the etiquette and skills you will need to stay safe and have fun.

Steve also shares some updates on 32" mountain bike wheels as well as name changes for mtb groupsets from SRAM. And we answer our first listener voicemail - talking about waxing your chain.

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We're pulling Steve out of the weeds of last episode to give a high level review of some simple bike upgrades that can make a difference. From front to back, top to bottom, we cover a little bit of everything.

Kristin and Steve also discuss recent reactions to video shorts and why the hot takes and strong opinions make cycling feel intimidating.

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Upgrading the parts and components on your bicycle can be a great way to improve comfort and performance – but what are the upgrades that will give you the best "bank for your buck" and when is the "juice not worth the squeeze." Kristin and Steve discuss what to look for when buying a bike including what can (and can't) be easily upgrade.

They also discuss the Ozark Trail from Walmart, a new line of low cost, better quality bikes which promise to get more people on bicycles, and take a moment to say good-bye to a member of our cycling community, Anthony Moccia.

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As Kristin and Steve wrap up the second week of traveling by van, they are taking a look back at all the places they rode including popular mtb destination, Santos Trails in Ocala, Florida. They share highlights from the trip, lessons learned, as well as the tools Steve packed "just in case."

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Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.

You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.