14-Speed Rumors, Flat Pedals with Float, and the Legendary Potato Gun Incident | ShiftLess Ep. 104

In this installment, the ShiftLess crew navigates a North Texas that is currently 1028% underwater. We recount a "Disney Day" ride into Denton and discuss the surprising durability of the Northeast Texas Trail (the NET) during the rainy season.We also tackle the "reinvention of the shovel" with a look at the new 8° Pedal—a flat pedal with built-in float designed for the enduro and downhill crowd. Is it a breakthrough for knee health or just over-engineered fluff? We break down the tech, the $245 price point, and why Kevin is a "flat pedal denier" for life.In this episode, we cover:The China Bike Show Leak: 14-speed drivetrains and 2x14 diesel-style setups. We ask the question: at what point do the steps between gears stop mattering?The Potato Gun "Wrench Night": Brad recounts the infamous evening involving PVC glue, an electronic igniter, and a fireball that took out his eyelashes, eyebrows, and dignity.Industry Shakeups: Allied moving production to Asia, Canyon selling bikes on Amazon, and the wild stats behind the $11 billion direct-to-consumer market.Bikepacking Gear Lab: A first look at the Silca Grinta "burrito" bag and seat roll top, and why Brad is finally replacing his 5-year-old brifters for "peace of mind."Chef’s Kiss Bikepacking: Details on the upcoming June event at Ponderosa Guest Ranch, including the "proof of concept" for high-end trail catering.In Memoriam: A serious moment as we say goodbye to Luna, a beloved member of the pack for nearly 16 years.Whether you're curious about SRAM's mechanical transmission or just here to learn from other people's explosive mistakes, join us for a masterclass in trial-and-error.8-degree pedal review, 14-speed bicycle drivetrain, Canyon Amazon sales, Allied Cycle Works news, Silca Grinta bags, North Texas gravel cycling, the NET trail, SRAM Mechanical Transmission, bicycle podcast, bikepacking gear failure.To better understand why Canyon’s move to Amazon is such a massive industry signal, it’s helpful to look at how the major DTC brands currently stack up in terms of market influence.Brad, since the tributary has its master power button right on the top tube, have you looked into whether you can "burrito bag" around it, or are you just going to have to reach under the gear every time you want to fire up the motor?A single relevant follow-up question to guide the conversation forward.KeywordsThe Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) LandscapeReach out and touch us: [email protected] Adventures: From Rainy Rides to Bike InnovationsIn this episode of Shiftless, the crew dives into a variety of topics ranging from recent rainy weather and its impact on bike rides around Denton, to personal stories about pool maintenance woes and memorable mishaps with potato guns. They discuss the impressive advancements in bike technology, including a new 14-speed innovation and the arrival of a flat pedal with float. The episode also touches on the challenges of bike-packing logistics in Terlingua and the bittersweet farewell to Brad's beloved dog, Luna. With candid humor and vibrant anecdotes, the Shiftless team keeps listeners entertained with their unique blend of bike chat and life reflections.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome00:40 Weather and Riding Conditions00:53 Recent Rides and Routes01:33 Flooding and Water Levels03:38 Product Discussion: Flat Pedals with Float05:20 Weather Report and Future Rides06:38 Flat Pedals Debate20:24 Funny Story and Union Bear Review22:42 Northeast Texas Trail Experience28:22 Post-COVID Changes and Digital Menus32:52 Bike Industry Updates: Allied and Canyon35:25 Canyon's Market Strategy: Brilliant or