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Discover how the Verde Valley Cyclists Coalition built one of Arizona's most successful mountain bike trail networks in this episode featuring VVCC President Tracy Randall and board member Lars Romig. From Sedona's iconic red rock terrain to the emerging systems at Dead Horse and Blowout, learn how this advocacy group transformed contentious Forest Service relationships into productive partnerships that have created over 500 miles of mountain bike trails. Tracy and Lars share their journey from illegal trail building in the early 2000s to becoming a model for community-driven trail development, including their work on the highly anticipated Turkey Creek trail system.

Get actionable insights on building a thriving mountain bike community, from organizing trail work days that attract 50+ volunteers to establishing the Sedona Red Rock Trail Fund that secures funding for new construction and maintenance. Tracy and Lars reveal their strategies for working with land managers, incorporating technical trail features that keep riders engaged, and mobilizing their community to defend public lands against threats like the recent proposal to sell 3.3 million acres of federal land. Whether you're a trail advocate, mountain biker planning a Sedona trip, or community organizer, this episode offers a proven blueprint for trail advocacy success.

Check out the VVCC here:

Verde Valley Cyclists Coalition (VVCC): https://vvcc.us/

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/verdevalleycyclistscoalition/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/VerdeValleyCyclistsCoalition

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Thinking about swapping your mountain bike frame but wondering if your existing components will transfer over? This comprehensive bike shop secrets episode dives deep into frame compatibility with industry expert Dane Higgins. Learn about critical measurements including rear hub spacing (boost vs. super boost), headset configurations, fork steerer tube length, and bottom bracket standards. The hosts cover everything from dropper post insertion depth and seat collar sizing to disc brake adapter requirements and chainline adjustments for different rear-end widths.

Whether you're considering a frame-only purchase from brands like Revel or Intense, or planning a complete build transfer, this episode provides essential guidance on what components are universal and what requires careful measurement. Discover insider tips on headset cup compatibility, shock eye-to-eye measurements, crank spindle widths, and the often-overlooked differences between threaded and press-fit bottom brackets. Perfect for DIY mountain bikers and anyone looking to understand the complexities of modern bike component standards before making their next frame purchase.

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When your local bike shop orders parts, there's a complex supply chain working behind the scenes that most cyclists never consider. Quality Bicycle Products (QBP) operates as the invisible backbone of bicycle retail, distributing products from four strategically located warehouses to over 5,500 independent bike shops. QBP sales rep Bryce Buckner reveals how this system works, explaining why bike shops choose QBP over direct manufacturer relationships and how bulk purchasing power translates to better pricing and faster shipping for consumers.

The discussion explores QBP's house brands that have become cycling icons: Salsa's modular Blackthorn platform that adapts between different travel configurations, Surly's practical steel bikes favored by bike messengers and touring cyclists, and Problem Solvers' budget-friendly compatibility components. Buckner shares insider knowledge about industry challenges including the "Amazon effect" on shipping expectations, how exclusive distribution agreements work, and why certain products like Silca's electronic pumps were delayed due to tariff concerns. The episode balances technical industry insights with entertaining tales from Angel Fire, featuring dramatic tubeless tire explosions and the reality of riding with injuries sustained during thunderstorm conditions.

Links:

Salsa Cycles: https://www.salsacycles.com/

Surly Bikes: https://surlybikes.com/

Teravail Tires & Wheels: https://www.teravail.com/

Problem Solvers: https://problemsolversbike.com/

QBP Brands: https://www.qbp.com/brands

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mountaincog@gmail.com