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Geek Warning
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Geek Warning
Author: Escape Collective
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© Escape Collective
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Welcome to Geek Warning, a podcast focused on deciphering the world of cycling tech, explaining how bikes work, and how to make them better. Hosted by Dave Rome, Ronan Mc Laughlin and Brad Copeland, this weekly show is your fix for tech geekitude, covering the latest tech news, industry trends, answering mechanical questions, and whatever else is on our minds.
Escape Collective is entirely member-funded. If you like this podcast please consider supporting us by becoming a member: https://escapecollective.com/member/
Escape Collective is entirely member-funded. If you like this podcast please consider supporting us by becoming a member: https://escapecollective.com/member/
135 Episodes
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The derailleur looks set to continue ruling the roost, but the increased attention to gearboxes is one to watch. In this week’s shorter-than-usual episode, the geeks chat about Fox Factory’s recently approved patent in the space.You’ll also hear some early speculation about Fizik’s entry into helmets, some new EU-based helmets standard inbound, and what our go-to tubeless tyre sealants are.Tech reporter Alex Hunt just wrapped up a big feature on big shoes, and the geeks give a basic overview of that.Finally, members of Escape Collective (if on the member-only feeds) will be privy to the Ask a Wrench segment that, this week, chats tyre width selection for crit racing and how to best switch disc brake pad compounds.All that and more in this week’s Geek Warning. Enjoy!Time stamps:1:55 - Fizik is getting into helmets4:22 - Explaining why things are a bit quiet on the tech front5:20 - Fox Factory gets a patent approved for a gearbox9:50 - On our minds is shoe width18:00 - Silca’s new Ultimate tyre sealant, plus our picks24:00 - A farewell to Matt Opperman25:30 - New helmet standards inbound in Europe29:00 - Ask a Wrench: picking a width of new road race tyres35:40 - Ask a Wrench: Brake pad compound switching
PFAS – also known as “forever chemicals” – are in everything from waterproof jackets to chain lubes and electronics. They’re praised for their stain, friction, and water resistant properties but notorious for their environmental and health risks. These chemicals never break down, accumulating in water, soil, and even our bodies.As regulations restricting the use of PFAS roll in, the cycling industry is facing a dilemma: how can brands replace the chemicals that have been used in nearly every part of the supply chain? Is something called “PFAS-free” even possible to achieve? And is the performance going to downgrade as a result?In this episode, we cover the challenges of going PFAS-free, the trade-offs in performance, what the upcoming regulations mean and why some brands are moving faster than others to eliminate the forever chemicals.
It’s a new week and that means a new episode of the Geek Warning podcast. This week you’ll hear Suvi Loponen and Zach Edwards (Boulder Groupetto) join Dave Rome in covering the big tech topics of the week.You’ll get a beginner’s guide to PFAS (forever chemicals) and why you should care. Thoughts are shared on the new Cannondale SuperX gravel race bike. And a widespread leak teases new full wireless from Shimano.There’s something silly on Dave’s mind, and then the geeks wrap up the remaining tech news of the week.Finally, and as usual, the episode wraps with Brad Copeland, Zach, and Dave answering mechanic-related questions from Escape’s members – including a tangent into our favourite shift cables. As a reminder, Ask a Wrench is now exclusively available on our members-only podcast feed. Head to escapecollective.com/member in order to hear the full episode.Time stamps:2:00 - PFAS’ and why you should be aware13:55 - Cannondale’s SuperX returns, now more gravel23:45 - Next generation of Di2 appears to be truly wireless27:05 - Dave thinks the white off-road shoe trend won’t last32:00 - iceBike, a trade show from a single distributor36:35 - TrainerRoad training programs now work in Zwift3730 - A new tool from Enduro Bearings38:40 - Berd collabs with HED on a road wheel41;30 - Garbaruk teases its entry into wheels43:50 - Pivot joins the lifetime bearing replacement policy club48:00 - Removing dried tyre sealant from inside of a tyre (member-only feed)53:05 - Diagnosing SRAM AXS battery and derailleur issues (member-only feed)59:00 - Cable routing for Shimano mechanical 11-speed and our favourite cables
This week on The Geek Warning podcast, join Ronan McLaughlin, Zach Edwards, and Dave Rome as they discuss the latest happenings in the world of cycling tech.The geeks cover what is believed to be the first win for tubeless in a cyclocross World Championship. There’s a UCI rider survey circling that strongly points to a few technical changes being considered. An approved patent and many rumours point to new SRAM Transmission mechanical coming soon. And there’s a new headset that claims to solve for cable routing woes, but we’re not so sure.Plus, there’s something mechanic-related on Ronan’s mind, a few little bits of news, and of course, Ask a Wrench (now with the addition of Zach, joining Brad Copeland).As a reminder, Ask a Wrench is now exclusively available on our members-only podcast feed. Head to escapecollective.com/member in order to hear the full episodes.Time stamps:1:20 - Corrections Corner on Shimano CUES2:11 - Zoe Backstedt’s CX win on tubeless10:20 - UCI’s new “Safer Group” rider survey19:30 - SRAM Transmission looks to be going mechanical26:20 - Easy Bike Parts’ solution (or is it?) to headset cable routing30:15 - On our minds are angry mechanics on social media39:40 - US government changes mean you should hold off on some overseas orders43:25 - MADE Bike Shows, dated announced43:50 - Welcoming Josh Weinberg to Escape Collective44:48 - Bianchi’s new TT bike47:50 - Ask a Wrench (member-only) about storing tyres53:00 - Ask a Wrench (member-only), more about bottom bracket plastic top-hats1:01:00 - Ask a Wrench (member-only), switching chain lubes for cleaning running
Oh hi, welcome back to Geek Warning!There are some things to tell this week. We’ve had a number of changes to the pod over the past few months (sorry!), and we’ve got a few more to share.Ask a Wrench, which sits at the end of our episodes, is now members-only. That means you’ll need to be on our member podcast feed to hear that extra part of the podcast. Meanwhile, the first hour of goodness is free for all.Additionally, you’ll still hear from UK-based tech writers Suvi Loponen and Alex Hunt on occasion, just not every episode. Suvi will soon begin on a new podcast series that investigates industry-related topics. Meanwhile, you’ll also hear Alex and Suvi on an upcoming and recurring special episode where we’ll catch up on the bikes and gear we’ve been testing.With all that said, jump on in to hear Dave Rome, Ronan McLaughlin, and the return of Zach Edwards (Boulder Groupetto). Also, Brad Copeland is present at the end to answer some of your Ask a Wrench questions.The episode itself is jam-packed. The geeks offer their opinions on what the UCI’s relaxed equipment ruling from four years ago are doing to bikes of today and tomorrow. They cover the details of new Shimano CUES. And talk about the realities in the durability of modern road pedals. Plus a whole lot more…Time stamps:0:00 - Changes are happening2:30 - The impact of the UCI’s relaxed rules from 202119:45 - New Shimano CUES and ESSA for dropbar bikes31:00 - On our mind: Pedals should be serviceable41:35 - Ritchey ditches the World Champ rainbow46:20 - QO cranks, from the founders of Rotor48:05 - Wolf Tooth’s EnCase mini pump line49:10 - A bad week for smartwatch users52:20 - CeramicSpeed has a new tool for (DUB) crank removal55:20 - State’s new 4130 All-Road is very cheap57:42 - Biggest tech news for the week comes from Chris King (spoiler, it’s a coffee tamper).59:22 - Tangent into our favourite tool-related bottle openers1:01:00 - Switch to the Member-Only feed if you want Ask a Wrench!1:05:00 - Modern drivetrain compatibility leading to road and MTB gravel (recorded a week before the CUES announcement, oops)1:11:00 - Sweating tubeless tyres and what to do about it.1:17:00 - Disc brake performance and bed-in when using multiple wheelsets, plus a dive into bed-in procedure.
At the 2024 edition of the Tour Down Under, Ronan Mc Laughlin was joined by aerodynamicist JP Ballard as they walked through the pits to talk about the aero hits and misses within the latest bikes of the WorldTour. For 2025 we’re back with something of a similar theme.This time Dave Rome is joined by the Head of Aerodynamics at South Australian Sports Institute (SASI), John Pitman.Now, with access to a wind tunnel he oversees (a story we aim to share soon), Pitman takes a stroll through the pits, talking about general aero themes, the effectiveness of design flourishes, and other random things seen.Normally, this type of episode would be exclusive to members of Escape Collective, but instead, we’re keeping things open to give you a taste of the sort of content you may be missing out on. If you like this episode, and if you haven’t already, then please consider becoming a member of Escape Collective. Similarly, please share it with a friend who may enjoy it.
Hey Geeks! With the 2025 WorldTour kicking off in Australia, this episode dives straight into the bikes (and bits of tech) that caught our eyes, whether for the right or wrong reasons.The cast of Dave, Suvi, Ronan, and Alex discuss the recently leaked SRAM Force update and the ethical dilemma in covering such an unreleased product. And of course, there’s plenty more new things discussed, too.Toward the end you'll find the usual Ask a Wrench where Dave is joined by pro race mechanic Brad Copeland to answer member-submitted questions. All this and more in this week’s episode.Also, keep an eye out for a bonus episode of the Geek Warning podcast, where Dave Rome goes for a walk through the mechanic pits at the Tour Down Under with aerodynamics expert John Pitman. Unlike most of our bonus episodes, this one will be free to all. Please give it a share if you like it.Timestamps:1:16 - On Our Minds: Winners and Losers of the 2025 World Tour Peloton Bikes38:00 - SRAM Force leak and its impact on the bike market44:08 - Lapierre recalls some road models45:00 - Rouvy Acquires Fulgaz47:50 - Classified releases a crank and expands cassette options for SRAM50:40 - Formula Cura road calipers52:12 - Pashley’s all-road bikes54:36 - 4iiii factory expansion55:00 - Ask a Wrench: Getting better longevity from an oil-based lube1:02:00 - Ask a Wrench: Slipping D-shaped seatpost woes1:07:50 - Ask a Wrench: Shimano GRX 12-speed braking and compatibility1:17:21 - Escapecollective.com content highlights1:21:19 - Outro
In this week’s Geek Warning, the tech team — Dave Rome, Alex Hunt, Ronan McLaughlin, and Suvi Loponen — explore AI’s role in cycling tech, from training and design to marketing, while questioning even is truly “AI” and what’s just advanced machine learning – or marketing. Whether we’re all sick of hearing about it or think it has a place in some applications, you’ll find out.As the off-season is over (and keeps Dave busy at TDU), it seems we’re starting to see more and more new tech drops. This week, the geeks talk through new pedals from OneUp, short cranks from RaceFace, as well as new bikes from Giant and Liv, Stinner, Basso, and Chapter2. There’s also chat about some more industry headwinds that have affected REI and Raleigh.And as usual, Brad Copeland joins the pod to answer a few wrenching questions from Escape members with Dave.Maybe it’s the Christmas break effect still and we’ve got a lot of chat in us, but like last week, this episode is longer than usual, but we hope you enjoy it nevertheless.Escape Collective’s podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Time stamps:2:40 – On Our Minds: What is AI anyway – and is it being unleashed in the cycling tech?23:50 – Not a Pick One but info on a new Collective Favourites series24:55 – Cycling industry news from REI and Raleigh28:15 – OneUp clip pedal31:15 – New 160mm cranks from RaceFace32:15 – Wolf Tooth tyre pressure app update34:12 – The Cool Bottle36:45 – New Giant Trinity and Liv Avow TT/triathlon bikes42:15 – New Basso SV45:46 – Chapter2 Rira bike47:25 – Stinner Refugio Select adventure bike49:30 – Ask a Wrench with Dave & Brad01:19:00 – Outro
Welcome back to the first episode of Geek Warning for 2025. There’s plenty to discuss with the geeks having had a few weeks to dwell on their thoughts.Within, you’ll hear discussion over the industry woes continuing, some well-known brands suffering, and some big related moves. Switching things up, SRAM recently got approval for a patent related to a UDH equivalent of a brake mount. As the geeks discuss, it’s certainly something to watch out for.On Ronan’s mind is whether we’re about to see a new wave of pro-only race bikes, where the viability of selling the things is wholly ignored in favour of just serving sponsored riders the next advantage. The geeks reason how this would sit with increased discussion over reducing peloton speeds.There’s some fresh tech from Garmin, Wolf Tooth, No6 (No.22’s composites brand), and Core. Plus, there’s a naming quibble between Factor and Scarab Cycles.Finally, Brad Copeland jumps on with Dave to answer a few mechanical questions from Escape members. Questions span from removing tight cranks, cleaning off grossly stuck-on bar tape, and whether fancy bottom brackets are worth the cash.This episode is longer than usual, but we hope you enjoy the broad range of topics.
Are modern road bike geometries due for an overhaul? As riders adopt more forward positions and longer stems, handling and weight distribution are facing new challenges.In this episode, Ronan McLaughlin talks to renowned frame builder Rob English about the intricacies of frame design and geometry. They explore topics such as progressive geometries, seat tube angles, bottom bracket drop, and how subtle tweaks can transform bike performance. Rob discusses how he designs bikes to match a rider’s contact points first and foremost, and why sometimes tradition and aesthetics still play a role in bike design.Tune in for a fascinating conversation on how the future of road bike geometry might look, and whether your next bike should have a custom fit that challenges conventional design.
It’s not the usual weekly show format this week, as instead, it’s time for our annual tech awards. Don’t worry, this isn’t just us praising new products, in fact, there’s hardly any of that.These are awards you won’t likely see promoted by the respective brand, as afterall, a poo emoji isn’t likely to help sell product. It’s not all negative though as the full cast of geeks discuss the biggest new tech trends, a few most desired products, and the most anticipated new products for 2025.With absolutely no sensical order to anything, let’s dive into the Geek Warning tech awards of 2024! Thanks for a great year, and you’ll hear from us again when 2025 arrives.Warning, spoilers (aka time stamps) below:1:00: Biggest tech trends of 2024 - All-road bikes, wider gravel tyres, converging categories, and shorter cranks13:00: The unexpected gimmick we don’t hate - Head units with integrated bicycle bells15:40: Silliest new product of 2024 - RAF’s aero backpack18:40: Thought-invoking/Most nuanced/potentially bad award - Zipp XPLR 303 gravel wheels, Highbar helmet system, Visma’s TT Giro Aerohead II helmet29:00: Most desired small product that doesn’t yet exist - A “long press” SRAM Blip shifter and a self-dropping dropper post34:00: Best new aero thing - Time-trial saddles for road bikes37:00: Best new maintenance tool thing - A different way to check chain wear from Abbey Bike Tools and disc brake piston presses41:30: Great new product most likely to bankrupt us - Scott Addict RC, RockShox Flight Attendant suspension, Body Rocket Aero Sensor (guess who picked what?)47:00: Glasshouse of the year - GCN Tech Show #35948:30: Worst trend of 2024 - Half-baked products being released for sale (looking at Wahoo and Coros as examples) and product leaks59:00: It’s about time they fixed it (aka most improved) - Pinarello Dogma F, SRAM Red AXS shifters, and SRAM brakes in general1:08:30: The more of this please bike industry award - Genuinely serviceable and repairable components, better representation in the industry, and less waste in general.1:14:00: Most anticipated new product for 2025 (which hopefully happens) - Shimano GRX Di2 1x, Shimano XTR Di2, SRAM mechanical T-Type shifting, Specialized reVenge, Fox’s answer to Flight Attendant suspension1:21:00: Looking to 2025 and some changes to the Geek Warning team
Just when we started to think the bike industry was moving toward do-it-all road race bikes, we then get word that it’s all about to change once again. Dedicated aero bikes never entirely left, but as you’ll hear from the geeks, they’re very much coming back.This week, Ronan Mc Laughlin, Suvi Loponen, Brad Copeland, and Dave Rome are all on the pod to discuss the latest new bikes and what is driving these trends. You’ll learn about the biggest dos-and-don’ts in using a torque wrench, plus the geeks answer a few “Ask a Wrench” questions from Escape members.Enjoy!Time stamps:1:30 - Spotting bikes in the wild is getting easier5:00 - Colnago’s big investment in the new Y-Series is unapologetically for the pros14:20 - On our minds: Dedicated aero bikes are coming back in a big way and sharing our preferences25:00 - PSA: Proper usage of torque wrenches41:30 - Schwalbe’s new gravel range of tyres44:00 - Trek launches a tyre recycling program in the USA46:15 - Ask a Wrench: Removing stubborn tyres on the road53:00 - Ask a Wrench: Wear on metal steerer tubes59:00 - Ask a Wrench: Tyre inserts for XC racing1:06:00 - Geek Warning awards next week
In this bonus episode of Geek Warning, Ronan McLaughlin sits down with the Colnago design team to dissect the design and development of their latest aero road bike, the Y1-RS.They explore how recent changes to UCI regulations opened up new possibilities in frame design, the challenges of balancing aerodynamics, stiffness, and rider comfort, and why the bike looks the way it does.The discussion covers everything from improving CFD modelling to a Colnago's stiffness tests, and the whys of that off set seat post design and Y shaped handlebar. Long story short… In the absence of being able to ride the bike, we set about finding out if this decisive bike is all go or all show.
Welcome back to Geek Warning!This week Ronan Mc Laughlin, Dave Rome, Suvi Loponen, and Brad Copeland are on the pod to discuss things such as Wahoo’s gigantic new head unit, Campagnolo’s return to the WorldTour, and the worrying trend of many cycling products being disposable.On our minds, and a general theme of the episode, is how to better cover sustainability aspects in the products we review. As you’ll hear, our focus is expecting a longer useable life (whether through serviceability or just straight up durability) from the products we buy.Of course, plenty more is discussed, too. Enjoy!Time stamps:1:00 - The big-sized release of the Wahoo Elemnt Ace, aero meters, and more19:30 - We told you so, Campagnolo returns to the WorldTour27:00 - Sustainability in products is on our minds36:00 - Giant’s expands its own range of suspension components for 202541:00 - Ask a Wrench: Lacking access to service parts52:40 - Ask a Wrench: Pedal extenders and power meter pedals58:45 - Ask a Wrench: Odd movement between a Shimano SPD-SL pedal and cleat1:06:00 - Ask a Wrench: Finding a budget cassette for SRAM Eagle that fits an HG freehub
This week, Escape’s newest tech writer, Alex Hunt becomes the latest voice on the show. Joined by Suvi, Dave, and Brad, the geeks discuss the biggest news in the week of tech, a tech development that could have a game-changing application, and answer several technical questions.There is Scott’s newly renewed focus on weight and what appears to be crazily light tyres coming from Schwalbe. Dave thinks Magura’s recently announced Easy Link hose system could be a glimpse at the future of easing the pain that is integrated cabling.The geeks then discuss a few smaller bits of tech and then get to an important maintenance-related matter that impacts all bikes. Finally, the Ask a Wrench segment answers things related to headsets, bottom bracket/crank installation, and tandems. A special thanks to frame builder Brad Bingham (plus Butch Boucher and Steve Potts!) for helping to answer that tandem question.Time stamps1:00 - An introduction to Escape’s newest tech hire, Alex Hunt4:30 - Scott’s Addict RC proves weight still sells12:00 - The unknowns of Schwalbe’s new Aerothan tyres25:00 - On our minds, the future of quick disconnect hydraulic hoses33:00 - PSA: Draining those bikes40:50 - Enve’s SES Aero Pro one-piece road bar43:00 - Outlier's Unusual Axle-Free Pedal Designs47:00 - The Smart Lever, aims to ease tyre installation52:00 - Ask a Wrench: Steering range limiting headsets58:30 - Ask a Wrench: Tandem-related things, answered by the experts1:06:00 - Ask a Wrench: How freely should a new bottom bracket spin?
It’s a big week in the cycling tech world with Strava dropping a bomb on many connected apps. To learn more about what this upcoming change could mean for you, Ray Maker, aka DCRainMaker, joins the pod.Following that chat, you’ll hear from Suvi, Ronan, Dave, and Brad on various topics, ranging from Rouleur Live, a bunch of new bikes, and answering a couple of member questions. Plus, Dave shares something on his mind that then follows a different path.As usual, we encourage you to visit escapecollective.com to see and learn more about the products and themes discussed.Enjoy!Time stamps:1:00 - DCRainMaker joins to explain Strava’s unexpected API changes21:30 - Rouleur Live highlights25:30 - Reap Type 300 gravel bike and rapid prototyping32:40 - On our mind: products shouldn’t be annoying to use and an unexpected tangent into disc brake caliper piston service and Dave’s tool testing43:30 - Bunch of new bikes, starting with the Mondraker Arid Carbon gravel bike46:30 - Argonaut’s Supernaut48:00 - Colnago has a new steel bike, the Steelnovo52:25 - Pinarello’s entry-level F1 road bike56:00 - DT Swiss partners on a dynamo hub and complete wheels59:50 - Ask a Wrench: Brake feel and air in Shimano brakes1:09:00 - Ask a Expert: Why compliance matters beyond the tyres
Join Ronan, Dave, Suvi, and Brad as they discuss all things related to modern tyres. You’ll hear why Ronan now prefers hard-to-fit tyres, tips to make the installation easier, and our favourite online (free) pressure calculators.Of course, there are a few bits of news to cover, including an interesting new freehub patent from Lauf. And as usual, Brad and Dave answer a few mechanical questions submitted by Escape members.As a reminder, we’re now covering tech news in our Daily News (published on site each day), and that means we’ve also made some changes to the podcast (for the better, we hope). Let us know in the comments how you like (or not) the format changes we’ve been making.Time stamps:1:15 - Corrections Corner related to pulling a chain from wax2:50 - On Ronan’s mind is that tyre fitment woes may not be a wholly bad thing18:00 - Making tyre installation easier21:30 - Ronan finally reveals the tight-fitting tyre24:30 - Pick One: Tyre pressure calculators39:45 - MRP creates a Cage Guard from SRAM Transmission derailleurs41:55 - Thule purchases Quadlock43:00 - Stinner’s introduces a well-priced USA-made stock geometry steel bike44:50 - Lauf’s teases patent for a springy freehub47:00 - Ask a Wrench: chain noises on SRAM Eagle AXS55:20 - Ask a Wrench: installing new brakes and hoses1:00:05 - Ask a Wrench: removing a stuck headset bearing
Welcome back to Geek Warning. It’s a big cast with Suvi Loponen, Ronan Mc Laughlin, Brad Copeland, and Dave Rome chatting through the latest new tech and answering some mechanic-related questions.Ronan is quizzed over the “too long didn’t read” for the newly Spotted Ridley Noah Fast, plus what Pirelli is up to with its FSC-certified tyres.SRAM chains have been back in the media this week after some comments from cyclocross legend Sven Nys, the geeks speculate what could be happening here and why it’s not a widespread issue. Of course there's more tech talk including a PSA and answering a few Ask a Wrench questions from Escape Collective members.Finally the episode wraps with a bunch of new product releases worth sharing.Enjoy!Time stamps:2:00 - Ridley’s new and unreleased Noah Fast7:15 - Pirelli and rubber trees12:20 - Coros’ new Pace Pro sports watch18:30 - Hammerhead Karoo updates battery life through firmware20:50 - Sven Nys complains of SRAM chains27:10 - PSA to not ignore creaks36:00 - Ask a Wrench: When pull your waxed chain41:20 - Ask a Wrench: Feeling a brake track45:15 - Ask a Wrench: Putting a longer fork on an XC bike49:50 - OneUp’s new dropbar dropper lever52:20 - Stan’s No Tubes and Daysaver collab55:20 - Canecreek’s GXC stem fills a gap57:40 - Aerocoach Blitz track handlebars1:00-40 - Lapierre’s new Pulsium endurance road bike1:02:15 - Yamaha stops e-bike sales in the USA1:03:30 - The Pro’s Closet returns
It may be the off-season in the racing world, but the land of bike tech never sleeps. In this episode of Geek Warning, you’ll hear Suvi, Dave, and Brad discuss an intriguing shifter-related patent from Campagnolo that perhaps can’t come soon enough.The geeks then discuss what they each seek in a drop handlebar and what their favourites are. Within this extended segment, you’ll hear about one-piece cockpits, more traditional two-piece setups, and picks for road and gravel purposes.We’ve also got some great Ask a Wrench questions that spark some deeper conversation.Enjoy!Time stamps:1:45 - Campagnolo’s recent shifter patent11:00 - Discussing drop handlebars and picking one (well, maybe two)33:15 - Ask a Wrench: How to become a bike mechanic48:00 - Ask a Wrench: SRAM Flat Top and T-type chain compatibility53:22 - Ask a Wrench: Raising awareness for the actual cost of bike ownership and where the blame sits1:06:45 - Tech bites: an increasing number of lighter e-MTBs is a trend that won’t slow
Things are a little flipped upside down in this week’s Geek Warning. Suvi, Dave, and Brad open the show by discussing their most meaningful bikes. The geeks then turn to pick a favourite side-access bottle cage for when frame space is limited. Of course there’s a handful of Ask a Wrench questions, answered. And the show wraps with a round-up of new tech to drop over the past week.A small note: Suvi experienced some audio issues toward the end of the episode, and so, the power of editing has her disappear from the conversation without much warning.Time stamps:5:00 - The bikes we’ll never let go and those we wish we hadn’t20:30 - Picking one side-access bottle cage32:00 - Ask a wrench: resin versus metallic (sintered) disc brake pads40:00 - Ask a wrench: the importance of matching rear shock hardware sizes45:30 - Ask a wrench: Chainline woes in going old 2x to new 1x gravel51:30 - Tech news on the daily53:20 - Dare’s Velocity Ace goes full aero55:30 - Enduro also now offering polymer-infill frame pivot bearings1:00:00 - Enve’s new M-series wheels1:01:15 - Daysaver’s new mini pumps1:02:30 - Body Rocket on-bike aero sensor arrives
Welcome to another members-only (at least the full episode) edition of the Geek Warning podcast. This episode came together after the boutique brand Open Cycle [teased a long-awaited update to its Up gravel bike. For those who aren’t familiar with the Open Up, it was a bike to break new ground for the emerging sporty gravel space through its dual-wheel size compatibility with 700c and 650B. Meanwhile, it achieved the clearance between the rear tyre and chainring by introducing dropped chainstays to the market. Open Cycle was founded by Andy Kessler (former CEO of BMC) and Gerard Vroomen (co-founder of Cervelo, and until recently, also the co-owner of 3T). Between Open and 3T, Vroomen has pushed many boundaries in the gravel space in recent years. In this episode, Vroomen covers the details of the new Up and Upper bike range and the design decisions made. We touch on Open’s move to on-shoring production. I pry unsuccessfully into teased compatibility with unreleased Shimano. And we chat about the move to threaded bottom brackets. Plus, members of Escape will hear me eat my own hat as despite designing a 700c-only bike, Vroomen strongly defends the smaller 650B-wheelsize and laments (and explains) its loss.It’s a varied chat with a whole lot of interesting experience in designing and engineering bikes shared. Enjoy!A portion of this podcast is available to all. The full length, including the conversation on 650B vs 700C is available exclusively to members of Escape Collective. To add member-only podcasts, including this one, to your podcast player of choice, click here.
This episode introduces a new voice, Escape’s new tech writer, Suvi Loponen. Join Suvi, Brad, and Dave as they discuss the latest tech and a couple of new bikes seen at Gravel Worlds.Picking the Mount Rushmore of bicycle cranksets is sure to cause debate. Within you’ll hear Brad and Dave share some of the cranks that have left an impression on them. We’d love to hear your picks, so jump into the comments.Ask a Wrench continues, this time with Brad and Dave offering answers to three member-submitted questions. Within Ask a Wrench Brad answers a question about the basics of suspension setup. There was a recommended video mentioned, here’s a link to that. Enjoy!Time stamps:5:45 - Tech themes at Gravel Worlds10:50 - Inflation on the fly with Gravaa19:30 - Lapierre’s first carbon gravel bike22:40 - Superior getting into gravel27:30 - The Mount Rushmore of cranksets40:15 - Ask a Wrench: A basic guide to setting up mountain bike suspension50:00 - Ask a Wrench: increasing the lifespan of road tyres55:00 - Ask a Wrench: geometry changes in putting road tyres on a gravel bike1:01:20 - New Rolf Prima wheels go to 16 spokes for disc brakes1:05:05 - Hunt’s new 40 Limitless gravel race wheel1:08:00 - Sidi’s new Tenacia is for toe clips and L’Eroici
In this episode of Performance Process, Ronan and Caley welcome Dylan Johnson, a lifetime Gran Prix athlete, coach, and data-driven performance-optimising YouTuber, to discuss the ins and outs of off-road racing.Dylan shares his insights on the category he arguably reignited: drop bar mountain bikes, exploring the whys and the pros and cons of ditching flat bars. He also delves into tyre selection, revealing his two tyres for gravel racing following his own rolling resistance and aero testing.Speaking of aero testing, Dylan discusses the importance of aerodynamics in gravel racing, and his advice on where to optimise first. Finally, as gravel racing continues to evolve, the group discuss if current trends are truly optimal or stop gaps along the way with predictions on the future of bike design.Whether you’re a racer or an enthusiast, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration for the gravel and off-road rider.
Plus why modern bikes require more frequent headset inspections, Ridley’s new gravel bike, and a tonne more.It’s a big episode this week as the geeks, Dave and Brad, cover a whole lot of ground including the latest new products, a rant on silly-priced items, a little on chain wear, why headset inspections matter more than ever, and there’s an in-depth chat with a true geek of the wheel building world.That opening chat related to chains comes off a recent Threaded article about chain wear.Meanwhile, Dave jumps on a call with wheel build extraordinaire Tristan Thomas of WheelWorks to answer a multi-part Ask a Wrench question. It quickly gets detailed and geeky, but we figured that’s exactly what you’re here for.As a reminder, the Geek Warning podcast is only made possible through members of Escape Collective. We intentionally don’t have any advertising, affiliate links, or sponsored content, so if you love this podcast, please support it (and then enjoy all the member-exclusive content you've been missing out on).Time stamps:5:30 - Chain wear, for those that missed it13:00 - Ridley’s new Astr gravel race bike and thoughts on BB8624:00 - The Pro’s Closet is shutting shop31:40 - On Dave’s mind are silly-priced “limited” pulley wheels44:00 - a PSA on the increased importance of headset inspection58:10 - Ask a Wrench, all about wheel building with Tristan of WheelWorks1:25:00 - Bosch’s new Performance Line CX e-bike system1:26:50 - PNW releases silver anodised dropper posts
Plus why tyres are likely to keep getting wider.With the road season soon to come to a close, the events in the tech world are unsurprisingly more focused on the dirt. In this week’s episode of Geek Warning, you’ll hear Brad and Dave cover the latest in tech across road, gravel, and mountain bike.Amongst a number of new things, the geeks discuss a future of electronic suspension and what that could spell for the gravel world. Why tyres are likely to continue trending wider in cross-country racing (among other disciplines). And with Specialized announcing free full suspension frame bearings for the lifetime of its mountain bikes, we discuss new ways to sell bikes in tough times. All this and plenty more!Time stamps:1:25 - BMC’s new Teammachine R Masterpiece7:30 - Sad passing of Bob Parlee8:50 - Bontrager goes up to 29 mm rim width for gravel12:40 - Lauf’s first mountain bike raises questions on the future of big tyres24:40 - BH has an interesting new short-travel XC bike29:25 - Fox joins the wirelessly-controlled electronic suspension game36:22 - New ways to sell the bikes that aren’t selling?47:20 - Ask a Wrench: career mechanic woes55:25 - Ask a Wrench: storing Di2 for winter59:10 - Ask a Wrench: keeping alloy rims black
It’s new bike day for Lauf Cycles as the Icelandic bike company launches its first mountain bike. In this bonus episode of Geek Warning, you’ll hear from two key people of the company about the design decisions behind the bike, how Lauf seemingly keeps finding itself ahead of emerging trends, and what allows Lauf to hit some impressive price points. To read and see more of this bike, head to Escape Collective.Non-members of Escape Collective can still tune in and listen to approximately half of this episode. Meanwhile, the full version is found in our exclusive member feed, something you’ll gain access to through signing up.
This week’s episode is shorter than usual, but no less geeky. Join Dave and Brad as they discuss some of the bigger tech news.Within, the geeks discuss Mavic’s new US$999 Cosmic S 42 Disc carbon road wheels. Pivot has wholly overhauled its Vault gravel bike. Wolf Tooth has a new free app for dialling in off-road tyre pressures. The iconic folding bike company Brompton goes gravel. And of course, there’s a quick discussion of that new RAF1 backpack thing.You’ll also hear Dave and Brad share some tips and their favourite bike cases for when flying with a bike. And then, the episode wraps with two member-submitted Ask a Wrench questions.Time stamps:4:24 - Mavic’s US$999 carbon road wheels8:25 - Pivot’s new Vault gravel bike12:30 - Wolf Tooth introduces a free tyre pressure app for off-road purposes14:45 - Brompton goes gravel17:15 - An aero backpack to burn with fire20:00 - On our mind and picking one: travel cases29:50 - Ask a Wrench: Why isn’t 650B more popular in gravel?34:50 - Ask a Wrench: Storing tubeless tyres through the winter
In this week's Geek Warning, Brad, Ronan, and Caley delve into a project that wants to answer all our compatibility questions, forever. Plus, a bit of Campagnolo news, some thoughts on the unreleased bike Lachlan Morton is riding around Australia, and Brad's suggestions for Caley's brake and suspension fork woes.
Tyres tyres tyres! Aero tyres, big fat gravel tyres - in this episode has a lot of tyres in it.We have a bit of a shakeup this week. Dave Rome is on a well-deserved holiday so Caley and Ronan are joined by pro mechanic Zach Edwards to talk through Parcours' latest tyre testing and what the data can teach us about optimising for various road courses. Then we discuss the trend toward 50mm+ rubber at the pointy end of gravel races, some updates from Zwift, and Caley's new cross-country bike.
In a member's only Geek Warning episode, Dave Rome and framebuilding expert Rob English discuss some of the highlights from the 2024 Made handmade bike show. We have made a shortened version of the ep available here on the free Geek Warning feed, but to get the full show, you'll need to head on over to escapecollective.com/member to sign up!
It’s the end of the week and that means the geeks are back with another geeky episode. Join Dave and Brad as they discuss the latest in the world of cycling tech.The first topic of discussion is Hunt’s new 40 Gravel Race wheels with H_Cyclo, a new technology that aims to bring recyclability into a thermoset carbon fibre product. The resin-based technology appears to come from Taiwanese company Swancore (unconfirmed by Hunt), and dare we say, this won’t be the last time the geeks discuss it (perhaps expect a full feature on the tech in the future, too).Brad and Dave then cover their favourite Presta-type pump heads and offer a PSA on basic drivetrain maintenance. Finally, a few members pose mechanical questions to the geeks in the Ask a Wrench segment.Plus, keep an ear out for a bonus episode of the Geek Warning podcast with framebuilder Rob English and chatting all things related to the recent MADE Bike show.Time stamps:2:20 - Hunt’s H-Cyclo tech allows recycling of thermoset carbon10:30 - Wolf Tooth’s new Internal-External headset16:55 - Picking One Presta pump head26:30 - a PSA applicable to all forms of chain lube34:20 - Ask a Wrench (AaW) about bigger chainrings on SRAM Force AXS41:50 - Smelly chains (AaW)44:15 - Handlebar width for women’s XC racing (AaW)53:20 - Getting more range from SRAM XPLR AXS 12-speed (AaW)
It’s never a boring week when you’re a bike geek. Join Brad and Dave as they discuss the latest from the last week of tech, including interesting developments in wax options from Silca, why gravel tyre trends have caught the bike industry by surprise, plus the latest from Fox and Ratio Technology.The geeks also share thoughts on a few round seatposts to consider and answer three member-submitted Ask a Wrench questions.Time stamps:3:10 - Save some fresh tech for the TDF Femmes6:35 - Silca’s new Speed and Endurance chips11:25 - Trek’s CheckMate and rapidly changing tyre width trends23:45 - Picking one seatpost (well, at least the things to consider)38:55 - Ask a Wrench: mixing and matching SRAM AXS and Shimano 1245:05 - Ask a Wrench: pedals and install torque51:10 - Ask a Wrench: servicing Shimano pedals59:00 - Fox’s Neo Wireless dropper post1:08:20 - Ratio Technology turns AXS Road into XPLR
What do dropbars on mountain bikes, our love for electric tyre inflators, and a random chirping noise have in common? Very little, but it’s all covered in this week’s jam-packed Geek Warning!Join Dave and Brad as they discuss emerging trends in gravel bikes, which are increasingly getting rowdy. The recent Leadville race and the new BMC URS both offer discussion points for this.This week, Dave is thinking about battery-powered tyre inflators, which will be covered in this week’s edition of Threaded. The geeks then discuss their favourite bartapes and why they like them.You’ll then hear three member questions answered in the recently returned “Ask a Wrench” segment. From chain lube for Cross to solving a mystery chirping noise, and the geek’s most embarrassing/costly mistakes.Finally the episode wraps up with a few new tech bites from around the cycling industry. There are new shorter-length ShockStop suspension stems from Redshift. Forge+Bond brings its theromplastic technology to a handlebar. There are more bad e-bikes from the automotive world. And a heads-up of two custom bike shows coming this month.Enjoy!Time stamps:4:45 - Leadville showing bike trends or just one-offs for a specific event?15:48 - BMC has updated its URS gravel bike23:05 - Electric tyre inflators are all the buzz28:50 - Pick One: Bartapes34:25 - Ask a Wrench1:02:40 - Ford's new bad e-bikes1:06:05 - Forge+Bond has a handlebar1:09:05 - Redshift adds 55 and 70 mm versions of the ShockStop stem1:12:20 - MADE is nearly here
It’s time for a bonus episode of Geek Warning. Usually, we keep such bonus episodes for members of Escape Collective, but it simply wouldn’t be right to limit this one. It’s a conversation about what is arguably the most impactful bicycle-centric not-for-profit in the world. Indeed, we’re talking about World Bicycle Relief, aka, WBR.In this episode, Escape’s Dave Rome chats with Dave Neiswander, the CEO of World Bicycle Relief and the organisation’s Lead Product Designer, Andy Samways.Within you’ll learn about World Bicycle Relief and how the humble bicycle is used to change lives and benefit communities. Of course we also chat about the interesting tech behind the new Buffalo Utility S2 bike.You can learn more and donate at worldbicyclerelief.org.
It’s 2024 and yet we have a new high-end rim brake Colnago to discuss. We certainly didn’t expect to write that sentence.Also in this week’s Geek Warning, you’ll hear Brad, Ronan, and Dave discuss some broad aero themes seen at the Olympic Games. There’s some chit-chat about Cervelo’s minor update to the Caledonia 5. And Ronan shares a Garmin-related PSA that he had to learn the hard way.Perhaps the biggest news is that Ask a Wrench has returned. Members of Escape Collective can now submit a recorded question for use in future episodes (please introduce yourself at the beginning).The episode wraps with some recall-related news out of the USA. And lastly, Dave and Brad discuss Madrone Cycles, a small company focussed on bringing beaten SRAM Eagle derailleurs back to life.Time stamps:1:00 - Tech at the Olympic Track17:40 - Colnago’s novel new braking system26:50 - Cervelo updates the Caledonia 5, but only a little33:30 - Ronan’s PSA for Garmin users36:15 - Ask a Wrench returns!57:00 - CPSC rules Amazon is liable for recalls59:10 - Brompton recalls 2024 T-line bikes1:00:00 - Madrone repairs SRAM Eagle derailleurs
With no time for chit-chat, the geeks are excited about the first few bits of tech seen at the Olympics, chatting a few notable elements from the road Time Trials, and then chatting why some of the tech seen in the mountain bike races are likely relevant to all.Then you’ll hear a summary of the latest gravel-going groupset from SRAM, and the matching ultra-wide wheels from Zipp. For more on these products, certainly check out Dave’s extensive write-ups on the SRAM Red XPLR AXS groupset and Zipp 303 XPLR wheels. If you’ve got a modern bike with thru-axles then you may be intrigued to hear that your thru-axles may in fact wear out. In this week’s PSA you’ll hear how to make those axles happy and why you shouldn’t ignore early signs of issue.Finally, there’s a couple of bits of tech news to wrap things up. Enjoy!Time stamps:1:30 - Straight into Olympic tech, so far21:45 - New Red XPLR AXS, 13-speed on a 12-speed chain27:30 - Zipp has a matching suite of XPLR products45:50 - a PSA that your thru-axles may experience wear56:30 - Ritchey’s comfortable-looking Montebello57:40 - Shimano is helping to fund some trails
Welcome back for another episode of Geek Warning. This week, Dave Rome and Brad Copeland discuss the latest topics in the bike world. They ponder whether all-road and gravel bikes are now the same thing. And the conversation does cover Dave’s poor financial control.Three new bikes are discussed. There’s Canyon’s new Aeroad road race bike, a bike that Ronan Mc Laughlin wrote about last week. Meanwhile, USA-based Otso Cycles and State Bicycle Co have both released new all-road/gravel bikes with prices starting from just US$2,500 – the Otso Cycles Warakin and State Titanium All-Road (yes, a budget titanium bike).On Dave’s mind is the gravel bike he couldn’t bring himself to return, a Santa Cruz Stigmata that he just wrapped up reviewing.You'll also hear a PSA about servicing freehub bodies, and the episode wraps up (in under an hour!) with a quick bite of news from Kask.Timestamps:4:35 - Canyon’s new Aeroad goes all-in on T2516:30 - Defining All Road21:00 - Otso Cycles’ new Warakin Steel27:55 - State launches a budget titanium bike33:20 - Reviewing bikes can get expensive40:00 - PSA on freehub body servicing50:35 - Kask unveils the Nirvana aero road helmet
For the first time in a long time the bike industry is taking a breather on new product drops. With that, Dave Rome and Brad Copeland catch up to discuss what’s on their minds.There’s a nostalgic chat about Brad and Dave’s dream bikes as awkward teens. Dave raises his frustrations around integrated shifter and brake clamp systems on mountain bikes. And the geeks discuss what spares they carry on local rides.There’s a small amount of worthy tech news at the end, including factory-waxed chains from KMC and Wippermann, plus a chat about Wolf Tooth’s updated dropper and how it compares.Timestamps:2:50 - Corrections Corner related to OneUp hubs5:50 - Dream bikes in our teens, plus a tangent21:00 - Why can’t MatchMaker make our match?34:05 - Pick One Returns! Our spares50:00 - A quick repeat of a PSA52:10 - Waxed chains straight from the factory are here!59:10 - Wolf Tooth’s Revolve Rev2 shows how Right to Repair should be1:02:50 - Wolf Tooth’s news presents another Pick One segment
Eurobike is now in the rearview mirror and the buzz of the Tour continues to grow. In this week’s Geek Warning episode you’ll hear (without sound issues, horray!) a wrap-up from Eurobike, learn about Schwalbe’s intriguing new Clik Valve, Canyon’s Tempr shoes bring them into a new product category, and some bold claims from Parcours for the gravel race scene.Brad and Dave also discuss the latest Trek Top Fuel mountain bike and Dangerholm’s incredible 5.89 kg (12.99 lb) hardtail. Plus you’ll hear about the latest from Feedback Sports, DT Swiss, Manitou, and Shimano.The big conversation for this episode is all about the generally poor quality control of flat-mount brake mounts, and it warrants a language warning as Dave feels his anger grow. Seriously, a message to bike manufacturers and brands, it shouldn’t be up to the local shop to fix this stuff!Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/join to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Time stamps:1:48 - Parcours’ FKT aero gravel race wheelset10:00 - Canyon enters the high-end shoe market18:40 - Ronan’s experience at Eurobike25:55 - Schwalbe Clik Valve - a new valve we may just like30:15 - Trek’s fourth-gen Top Fuel37:30 - Dangerholm’s latest ‘lightest hardtail’43:05 - Dave gets a little sweary: flat mount should be flat!55:10 - Feedback Sports enters the electric stand market1:00:20 - It’s DT Swiss’ 30th anniversary1:02:00 - Manitou releases its R8 cross-country fork1:04:45 - Shimano’s new second-tier S-Phyre RC7 shoes, plus the case for spending more on certain things
It’s the week of all weeks for cycling tech. The Tour de France has kicked off, the world’s largest cycling tradeshow – Eurobike – is on, and we’ve seen many smaller handmade bike shows, too. With that, Dave Rome, Brad Copeland, and Ronan Mc Laughlin have plenty of things to geek out over.The geeks discuss the new Classified and TRP drivetrain collab, plus new budget groupset options from Microshift and SRAM. Ronan gives a brief overview of Continental’s new aero tyres, while there’s also chat of a new fancy chain waxing tool seen at the Tour.There’s a chat about how to keep a check on your brake tracks. And then to finish things off, you’ll hear Brad and Dave discuss new hubs from OneUp, a new gravel bike from Giant, some question marks about Ohlins suspension, and the entrance of drone-experts DJI into bicycles (wait, what?). And lastly, the new Buffalo bike for World Bicycle Relief is discussed.And once again, we apologise for the sound quality on this one. This time, it was Brad with the technical issues, sounding a little distant on the backup audio we had to use.Time stamps:3:50 - Classified and TRP collaborate on a groupset14:45 - The Aero111 tyre from DT Swiss, Swiss Side, and Continental21:40 - SRAM’s new S-1000 Transmission27:05 - Microshift Sword Black, even cheaper and 9-speed31:35 - Cyclowax teases on-bike chain waxing38:25 - Handmade bikes everywhere!43:40 - PSA: saying it once more, measure those brake tracks!54:45 - A workforce reduction at Ohlins57:40 - Oneup enters the hub market1:01:58 - KOM’s Xeno hub has us intrigued1:05:00 - We drone on about DJI’s entrance into e-bikes1:08:20 - Giant’s new Revolt Advanced gravel bike1:11:15 - The new Buffalo bike
If you managed to take a look at some of the bikes from Spoken, you’ll quickly realise there’s a whole lot of tech to talk about. For this member’s special bonus episode of Geek Warning, Dave Rome sits down with a number of exhibitors while at the show. In this episode you’ll hear interviews with builders such as Feather Cycles and Woods Bicycle Co. Dave chats with Silca’s owner Josh Poertner about the future of chain waxing and 3D titanium printing. You’ll learn about the latest from Melbourne-based Curve Cycling and Project Flock. Plus, discussion on bike fit with RiderFit.CC and the future of the Spoken show with event co-founder Nathan Lorkin.Only members of Escape Collective can listen to the full version of this episode, however, this shorter version is available here for free (and hopefully to once again, encourage you to join).Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.Time stamps:1:00 - Feather Cycles and the launch of WKNDR9:40 - Woods Bicycle Co on hidden cable routing19:30 - Josh Poertner on 3D titanium printing and the next-generation of chain waxing40:00 - Project Flock44:30 - Curve Cycling and going higher-end49:00 - Stewart Morton of RiderFit56:30 - The future of Spoken?
In this week’s episode of Geek Warning, Escape Collective's tech editors Dave Rome and Ronan McLaughlin get lost in thought and go well over the magic hour. Hit play to hear whether Trek’s move to turn two race bikes into one is a decision based on performance or business, whether lateral chain wear is a measurement we should be considering, what we look for in bib shorts, and what possessed Ronan to do a nearly 20-hour-long ride.Of course, the geeks also talk about other new products just released, including Wolf Tooth’s entry into mini pumps, Wahoo’s new heart rate strap, and Willier’s latest road bike. Enjoy!Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.Time stamps3:00 - Trek goes all-in on the new Madone21:30 - Wilier’s new climbing bike31:30 - Abbey Bike Tools introduces a less thought way of measuring chain wear44:20 - RIP Jurgen Falke45:10 - Ronan’s big ride is on Dave’s mind55:30 - Picking one bib-short1:02:30 - Wahoo’s new heart rate strap, will this one last?1:09:40 - Wolf Tooth gets into mini pumps with internal storage1:13:30 - Bossi’s new Grit titanium gravel bike1:14:20 - MADE Australia is this weekend, while Ronan is heading to the Tour and Eurobike
It’s time to geek out. This week Brad Copeland, Ronan McLaughlin, and Dave Rome are on the pod to talk all the major news in the world of tech and what’s on their minds.There’s a new road bike from Pinarello, and a new head unit that promises to be self-sustaining, and a more affordable full suspension race bike from Specialized. Plus Dave and Brad share some things on their minds.Forward warning and an apology as the sound quality on this one doesn’t meet our usual standard. Dave was already under the weather, and if that weren’t enough, he then had mic issues. The information is there, it’s just Dave sounds like virus-riddled bot!Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.Time stamps:2:24 - New Pinarello Dogma11:50 - Coros’ entry into head units22:05 - More new alloy from Specialized, this time the Chisel FS28:33 - Spoken has been run, a bonus episode is incoming29:25 - Spare seatpost length is on Brad’s mind33:30 - Dave explains why he’s a reformed chain waxer43:50 - Quick tech bite in the form of Giant’s new kids bike50:05 - Brad shares a tip for getting tips
The tech never stops. This episode Brad Copeland and Dave Rome discuss a handful of new dropbar bikes, a recall, common mistakes with fitting chains, and their favourite… grease. Oh yes, it’s Geek Warning!Those new bikes include the fascinatingly simple Specialized Crux DSW, a refreshed Bianchi Arcadex gravel bike, and OBED’s entry into the endurance road space. Meanwhile the geeks discuss Ellsworth’s recent return and entry into gravel.Following a repair during the week, on Brad’s mind is how chain direction matters and it spurs a larger conversation about other common chain-related mistakes. Then Dave asks the hard hitting questions, asking Brad to pick a single grease of choice.The episode wraps with a recall from Kuat and a tease for the upcoming Spoken Show (formerly Handmade Bicycle Show Australia) in Melbourne, Australia.Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.Time stamps:5:25 - Specialized’s new alloy bike and why simple wins20:00 - Bianchi new Arcadex and why UDH is now the common feature in gravel26:48 - Ellsworth returns to the dropbar world33:00 - OBED RVR is another option with a taller stack height39:25 - Chain direction is on Brad’s mind46:40 - Pick one: Grease. Yes, grease.53:50 - Roval releases a Team version of its Rapide CLX II road wheels58:32 - Kuat has a recall that impacts 86,000 racks1:01:30 - High-fives await in Melbourne
A €9,000 frame, a €27k build, and €22K spent on developing the bottle alone… Wilier has a new TT bike.Escape Collective had exclusive access to the development of this new bike in a seemingly impossible time frame. Leading the design project was Marco Genovese, Head of Design at Wilier Triestina. With 14 years of experience in developing over 100 frames, Genovese knows a thing or two about carbon frame design. Escape Tech Editor Ronan Mc Laughlin sat down with Genovese to deep dive on all things frame design to discuss everything from brainwaves in the shower to initial concepts and from modern design tools to made-up UCI rules.The Supersonica may be a time trial bike, but this bonus episode of the Geek Warning podcast is for anyone who has ever wondered how bikes are designed.Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.
A lot has happened in the world of cycling tech over the past week. The Dauphine has teased new bikes getting dialled in for the Tour. While Unbound has shown that gravel tech is still progressing at a rapid rate, including wider tyres, new 1x drivetrains, and aero-shaped suspension.There’s a full cast of geeks to chat about it, with Ronan Mc Laughlin tuning in to discuss what’s new in the road space, while Dave Rome and new-old voice Brad Copeland discuss the rest.Of course the geeks discuss something on their mind which should prove helpful for anyone with a stuck crank. The episode closes with tech news including Fulcrum’s new Sharq wheels, a new gravel race handlebar from Pro, a well-priced mountain bike shifter upgrade from SRAM, and more.Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.Time stamps:4:26 - A swarm of new road bikes are coming from Canyon, Willier, Pinarello, and more24:00 - A corrections corner24:51 - New tech seen at Unbound Gravel, including things from SRAM, wider wheels, aero Fox suspension, and new bikes42:20 - On our mind: stubborn crank bolts and methods for overcoming them55:00 – Bianchi’s ribbon-cutting ceremony has us giggling58:20 – Fulcrum’s new wavy-shaped Sharq wheels1:02:40 – Pro Bike Gear’s new Discover Aero Carbon handlebar for better GRX integration1:08:10 - SRAM’s new Pod Rocker upgrade for AXS
It's time for another bonus episode of Geek Warning.Typically, we keep these bonus episodes for subscribers and members of Escape Collective, however, this one is being left open to all as a teaser for the type of stuff you’re missing by not being a member. If you like this and want more, sign up here. This episode is about gravel tire selection and trends in the thinking that bigger is better. It all came about through an Instagram post by former WorldTour pro-turned Gravel Pro Alex Howes, who had shared just how much he had been obsessing over tire selection for the 2024 edition of Unbound Gravel. And what makes this conversation all the more interesting is that Howes isn’t sponsored by a single tire brand, but rather an online retailer that sells all the brands - biketiresdirect.Dave Rome and Howes cover a lot of ground in this one, including chatting slicks versus treads, picking the biggest volume possible, inserts or not, what to carry on a self-supported race like Unbound, and why white bar tape.If you don’t care about why, where, when, or how, and assuming the weather holds, Howes plans to race on Vittoria Terreno Zero tyres, in a 50 mm width up front and a 47 mm rear with inserts. He expects to start the day with approximately 19 psi in the front, and 24 psi rear. Still, if you find these details interesting, you’ll surely appreciate the conversation. Enjoy!
Welcome back to Geek Warning, a podcast by the Escape Collective, that covers everything to know in the world of bicycle tech. James Huang said farewell in our past episode, and with that, Dave is joined by a new voice that knows a thing or two about bicycle-related things – Brad Copeland.With a mountain bike World Cup race at Nové Město freshly finished, Dave and Brad discuss things in use by the winners, technical problems by a race favourite, and trends in tyre tech.The geeks share their favourite tubeless tyre sealants and a PSA applicable to all.It’s a relatively light week in terms of tech news, still, Brad and Dave share their thoughts on DT Swiss’ new premium gravel wheelsets, new well-priced carbon wheels from Easton, and a new gravel race jersey with its own sweat-patch.Time stamps:4:10 – Pre-Olympic tech spotted in use by Pauline Ferrand-Prevot and Tom Pidcock10:55 – Speculating about Victor Koretzky’s tech woes15:20 – Are wider tyres always better for gravel and MTB? What does that mean for the future of tyre inserts?37:25 - Pick one: tubeless tyre sealant50:05 - PSA: test your spares!57:10 - New DT Swiss GRC 1100 and 1400 Dicut gravel wheels1:08:00 - Easton’s new EC90 ALX gravel and all-road hoops1:10:40 - Castelli adds a hydration bladder to an aero jersey, so gravel
Ever feel like you’d like a lighter bike? Now imagine what your current bike would feel like if it was half of your body weight. For all too many kids who are learning to ride bikes, that’s exactly what it feels like to them. Premium kids’ bikes are a relatively new category, but also one that’s rapidly growing with more brands, models, sizes, and genres than ever before. Are they expensive? As compared to what you’d find in a big-box store, sure. But when you really think about what your kid might get out of a nicer bike, what actually goes into them, and even what you might get out of them once they’ve outgrown them, the numbers become easier to justify.Fair warning: The full episode is only available to Escape Collective members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.
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