No More Arm Pump! MTB Suspension Setup and Riding Loose Explained [RNL S2, Ep 39]

Suspension tuning, functional weight training for mountain biking, and learning to ride loose are the big themes in this episode of the Ride and Laugh MTB Podcast—because a custom dialed setup and a strong, dynamic body can completely transform your MTB performance. We break down how a custom tune from Ride Dialed eliminated arm pump on Dan’s Pivot Firebird, why lifting heavy (for bone density, injury prevention, and functional strength) matters for male and female riders, and how bouncing, pumping, and weighting the front tire unlock next-level flow. We also celebrate 2 YEARS of Ride & Laugh Podcast, revisit classic bits (jar of calluses!), and dive into bike fit insights inspired by shredder Benoit Coulanges.  From trail etiquette and follow distance to naming our cross-country MTB road trip (GNAR? Stoke Tour? Unlimited Stoke?), this one’s packed with mountain biking tips, bike setup talk, and pure trail stoke. What’s ONE thing you’re working on right now—suspension setup, gym strength, or staying loose on descents? And help us out… which road trip name gets your vote? Would you listen to lo-fi trail episodes on the road? Join the conversation and leave your comments below or email us at [email protected] MTB Gratitude of the Week: Sage: SKS Raceblade Pro Fenders - Sage is grateful for the simple upgrade that makes a huge difference on cold, wet rides: quality fenders on his road and gravel bike. His current setup has lasted over 12 years and still keeps spray out of his face and off his back. For winter cycling, gravel riding, and rainy road miles, staying dry is staying warm—and staying warm means riding longer and happier. Sometimes the best bike upgrades aren’t flashy… they’re functional. SKS Raceblade Pro https://amzn.to/3OwSX3V (Affiliate Link) Dan: Jeff Winsor - Dan appreciates his buddy Jeff for intentionally riding behind him to offer real-time MTB coaching and trail feedback. Jeff slowed his own pace to help Dan improve body position, loosen up, and ride more dynamically. That kind of mountain bike mentorship and on-trail support is priceless. Progress happens faster when you ride with friends who care. MTB Tip of the Week: Be open to feedback and ask for it. Film each other riding, talk through bike handling technique, body position, cornering, braking, and weighting the front tire—then apply the tips on your next lap. Mountain biking progression accelerates when you accept advice, stay humble, and share knowledge. No ego. No pressure. Just stoke, skill-building, and getting better together. Featured Riders: Benoit - https://www.instagram.com/benoitcoulanges/  Shelly - https://www.instagram.com/o.hey.shell/  Thomas - https://www.instagram.com/all_terrain_thomas/  AJ - https://www.instagram.com/aj_mtbrealtor/  Jeff Winsor - https://www.instagram.com/jwinsor20/  Vaughn - https://www.instagram.com/v.spencer_mtb/  Sploosh MTB - https://www.instagram.com/sploosh_mtb/ Rob Drew - https://www.instagram.com/therobdrew  Jeff Jackson - https://www.instagram.com/jeffjacksonmtb  Additional Links: RNL Road Trip Map - https://maps.app.goo.gl/P4UwRRMQNgjB3U7W8 Haribo Twin Snakes - https://www.instagram.com/haribousa Tristan at Ride Dialed - https://www.instagram.com/ride_dialed/  The video version of this episode is also available on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/GE2plEReDJs  The Ride and Laugh MTB podcast is hosted by Dan @the_ride_abides and Sage @TrailSage.  Join us as we discuss all things mountain biking!  Riding technique, MTB gear, bikes, nutrition, fitness, mindset and more! Feel the gratitude. Flow on the trails, Flow in life!  Please enjoy the content then like and subscribe.  Join the Ride & Laugh community in the comments and/or [email protected]. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases made through the above links. Commissions earned through the Amazon Affiliate links help support this channel's content creation. Thank you! #MTB #MountainBike #MTBPodcast #MTBtips