EPISODE · Mar 27, 2025 · 1H 28M
Turnin’ & Burnin’: Mid South Wildfires, E-Bike Tech, and the Future of Gravel Racing #99
from ShiftLess Cycling Adventures and Unpaved Bicycle Culture · host ShiftLess Hosts Hooked on Gravel, Bikepacking and MTB
In Episode 99 of ShiftLess, Kevin and Brad dive into the "burn" of the week—both literal and metaphorical. From local brush fire drama to the high-stakes cancellation of Mid South 2025, this episode explores the shifting landscape of unpaved bicycle culture.We take a hard look at why gravel racing giants are feeling the heat, the "COVID hangover" affecting event attendance, and why more riders are moving toward selective, grassroots experiences. We also geek out on the latest industry shifts, including Gary Fisher’s new E-bike venture, the 15-minute fast-charging battery, and the struggle between direct-to-consumer models and the Local Bike Shop (LBS).Whether you are training for an ultra-endurance race or prepping for a self-supported bikepacking mission, we’re talking about the gear, the grit, and the community that keeps us on the dirt.The Mid South Wildfire Cancellation: A deep dive into the logistics, the promoter’s perspective, and the financial reality of "Mega Gravel."Industry Deep Dive: Why are Giant, Specialized, and Trek seeing a 60% profit dip? We discuss the E-bike saturation point and the future of bike retail.Gary Fisher & Morrell: Can a 15-minute charge change the gravel e-bike game?The Next Gen: The massive growth of youth cycling and the impact of NICA on mountain bike culture.Project Updates: A look ahead at The USA Trail verification and how Basepacking is redefining the vehicle-supported adventure.Training & Longevity: Dealing with knee issues, using rowers for cross-training, and staying on the bike at 60.Gravel cycling, gravel racing, bikepacking, ultra endurance unpaved cycling, The USA Trail, Basepacking, Mid South gravel, unpaved culture, ShiftLess podcast.Inside This Episode:Keywords Included:
What this episode covers
In Episode 99 of ShiftLess, Kevin and Brad dive into the "burn" of the week—both literal and metaphorical. From local brush fire drama to the high-stakes cancellation of Mid South 2025, this episode explores the shifting landscape of unpaved bicycle culture.We take a hard look at why gravel racing giants are feeling the heat, the "COVID hangover" affecting event attendance, and why more riders are moving toward selective, grassroots experiences. We also geek out on the latest industry shifts, including Gary Fisher’s new E-bike venture, the 15-minute fast-charging battery, and the struggle between direct-to-consumer models and the Local Bike Shop (LBS).Whether you are training for an ultra-endurance race or prepping for a self-supported bikepacking mission, we’re talking about the gear, the grit, and the community that keeps us on the dirt.The Mid South Wildfire Cancellation: A deep dive into the logistics, the promoter’s perspective, and the financial reality of "Mega Gravel."Industry Deep Dive: Why are Giant, Specialized, and Trek seeing a 60% profit dip? We discuss the E-bike saturation point and the future of bike retail.Gary Fisher & Morrell: Can a 15-minute charge change the gravel e-bike game?The Next Gen: The massive growth of youth cycling and the impact of NICA on mountain bike culture.Project Updates: A look ahead at The USA Trail verification and how Basepacking is redefining the vehicle-supported adventure.Training & Longevity: Dealing with knee issues, using rowers for cross-training, and staying on the bike at 60.Gravel cycling, gravel racing, bikepacking, ultra endurance unpaved cycling, The USA Trail, Basepacking, Mid South gravel, unpaved culture, ShiftLess podcast.Inside This Episode:Keywords Included:
NOW PLAYING
Turnin’ & Burnin’: Mid South Wildfires, E-Bike Tech, and the Future of Gravel Racing #99
No transcript for this episode yet
Similar Episodes
No similar episodes found.
Similar Podcasts
No similar podcasts found.