New Bike Day!

#followcamfriday testing my new Yeti in some of the roughest terrain in the US with Merrick Golz. Legend, that Merrick. 

It's been about 6 years since I have owned a proper DH rig. My last one was the last year of the 303. That bike was sick, even with those tiny little wheels. After racing DH for 8 years, there will always be a special place in my heart for big bikes. If I am being honest, DH is still favorite discipline of cycling. Trail bikes have gotten amazingly capable over the last few years and the places they take me are inspiring, to say the least. But, there is nothing that compares to smashing laps on a DH bike. 

It is worth noting that Merrick Golz is not riding a DH bike in this video. Far from it. This is actually his XC bike. Merrick is a crazy person, and that is why I love him. It should also be noted that he got a haircut, after being a hair farmer for most of his adult life. As it turns out, he has not lost any of his super-powers and seems exactly the same, despite having short hair. It's science. 

You can watch my build video here. Pete the dog does a wonderful job in getting this thing ready for Bootleg. Without his help, the fork probably would have fallen off. Pete will be far more famous than me on the internet, soon enough. He is planning to open a bike shop in the near future and already has people lining up for service. Man's best friend, indeed. It should be noted that Pete works for fish, so come ready. 

So yeah, about Bootleg.... This is my first time riding here on the proper DH tracks. I cannot think of a better place to test a DH bike. These trails are some of the roughest in the US, no doubt. One mistake will surely result in a trip to the ER. The ground basically resembles a cheese-grater. Holes in elbows, hips, knees, and carbon frames. Aluminum will also be destroyed. Nothing is safe from the wrath of Bootleg. I consider myself lucky. 

So did my new bike live up to the expectations? You bet. I did manage to go through a set of tires in 2 days of shuttle laps, but it was worth it. My 165 made quick work of the nastiest terrain that Bootleg had to offer. If you ever go there to ride, and I recommend that you do, make sure that you do a lap on "Ginger" You can thank me, or punch me in the face, later. Enjoy.