Cycling Together with Kristin & Steve

PODCAST · health

Cycling Together with Kristin & Steve

For over 25 years, Kristin and Steve of Steve the Bike Guy, an independent bicycle shop in Massachusetts, have been cycling together – keeping things rolling over roads and trails as they also navigated marriage, kids, and careers. Now, they are inviting you to join the ride as they share experiences, insights, and advice for anyone who does, or wants to, ride a bike. Find us on YouTube for a closed-caption version of each episode.Cycling Together with Kristin & Steve is a production of Steve the Bike Guy and Sundin Marketing.

  1. 41

    Do we need women specific bikes?

    An article in Cycling Weekly has Kristin and Steve discussing the rise and fall of women's specific bikes and whether we "need" bikes built for women, or more options for all  riders? Kristin also shares her experiences at New England Youth Cycling's Girls of the League Day, and Steve answers questions about flat top chains and Flight Attendant from Rock Shox. Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    So you want to join a group ride

    Group rides - whether informal gatherings of riders or organized events - are a great way to meet new friends, discover new routes and have a most enjoyable time on your bike. But joining your first group ride, be it road, mountain or gravel, can be a intimidating if you don't know what to expect. Kristin and Steve use their experiences both participating in, and leading, group rides to share how to know which group ride is right for you, as well as some of the etiquette and skills you will need to stay safe and have fun.Steve also shares some updates on 32" mountain bike wheels as well as name changes for mtb groupsets from SRAM. And we answer our first listener voicemail - talking about waxing your chain.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    Simple Upgrades That Can Make a Big Difference

    We're pulling Steve out of the weeds of last episode to give a high level review of some simple bike upgrades that can make a difference. From front to back, top to bottom, we cover a little bit of everything.Kristin and Steve also discuss recent reactions to video shorts and why the hot takes and strong opinions make cycling feel intimidating.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

  4. 38

    Bike Upgrades That Give The Most Bang For Your Buck

    Upgrading the parts and components on your bicycle can be a great way to improve comfort and performance – but what are the upgrades that will give you the best "bank for your buck" and when is the "juice not worth the squeeze." Kristin and Steve discuss what to look for when buying a bike including what can (and can't) be easily upgrade.They also discuss the Ozark Trail from Walmart, a new line of low cost, better quality bikes which promise to get more people on bicycles, and take a moment to say good-bye to a member of our cycling community, Anthony Moccia.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    Oh the Places We Rode

    As Kristin and Steve wrap up the second week of traveling by van, they are taking a look back at all the places they rode including popular mtb destination, Santos Trails in Ocala, Florida. They share highlights from the trip, lessons learned, as well as the tools Steve packed "just in case."Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    Comments, Questions, Complaints, Corrections & Clarifications

    Kristin and Steve are taking a look back, addressing comments, questions and criticisms on a variety of topics including where to buy used parts online; New Jersey's new ebike laws; dork disks; finding the "right" mtb tires for New England XC riding and.... Erg Mode (hopefully for the last time).Steve also shares a Shop update – the new Spider from INTENSE and the new FITZ from ALLIED are now available at the Shop.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

  7. 35

    How NEYC Gets More Kids on Bikes

    We are joined by Kelly Catale, Executive Director of New England Youth Cycling (NEYC) a "youth" development organization that supports racing and riding for kids in grades 5-12, plus a development riding program serving grades K-5. During our conversation, we discuss the basics - teams, practices, equipment - as well as how NEYC is helping kids and families build community and find the joy in racing and riding.We also discuss the roll advocacy organizations such as MassBike play in the development of reasonable bike laws and how cyclists can help those efforts to avoid legislative overreach.Thank you JTracy for the cover photo, and JTracy & Steve the Photographer for photos in the video version.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

  8. 34

    So You Want to Try Zwift

    Riders who are "Zwift-curious" - this (very long) episode is for you! Kristin and Steve discuss the basics of Zwift, the popular virtual training app that gamifies indoor riding (and makes it slightly less miserable, or maybe even fun).Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    Wrapping up a year of riding and podcasting

    We are marking the end of a year of riding, and our first year of podcasting – reviewing the rides that were, as well as some of our goals for 2026.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

  10. 32

    The Worst Gifts for Cyclists

    'Tis the season for "listicles" of gift ideas for cyclists from every publication from Bicycling Magazine to Good Housekeeping looking to sell you something or make a buck through affiliate links.Steve and Kristin go through lists from several, discussing why some seemingly obvious choices actually make for terrible gifts (unless you KNOW it's what someone wants), as well as share some of their favorites as well as those from the STBG Cycling Team.We also discuss feedback received on a recent clip about ebikes ruining mountain biking, and share news from the Shop including new waterbottles and the new Spider from Intense.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

  11. 31

    About Bike Computers and Phone Apps

    As both riders and bike shop owners, Kristin and Steve get a lot of questions about bike computers as well as bicycle tracking phone apps. We share our experiences using examples from the Garmin ecosystem, to discuss the features and drawbacks of each as well how to decide what will work for you and your priorities.We also revisit the question – are e-mtbs ruinining mountain bikes – and share an announcement from the Shop.... Steve the Bike Guy is now an Intense dealer.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    Planning a Mixed Terrain Route

    Each year, Kristin and Steve organize the "Hallowed Groad" a self-supported, mixed-terrain scavenger hunt adventure ride designed to introduce riders to the trails in our area as well a local "sites" that may be missed by most. They discuss what goes into planning a route, as well as how they market the event.The change in season also has them sharing some of their favorite "shoulder season" gear.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    About PMC Unpaved

    For the fourth year, Steve and Kristin joined riders and volunteers at PMC Unpaved, the Pan-Mass Challenge's annual gravel fundraiser which benefits Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Lenox, Massachusetts. In addition to reflecting on another amazing experience, we share our experiences, advice, tips and insights as well as thoughts for next year.During this episode we also discuss the proposed tariffs on the aluminum and steel content of bicycles, and answer listener comments and questions (including how did Steve turn a Raleigh Technium into an ebike).Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    What Your Bicycle Frame is Made From

    Hold on tight – We are letting Steve dive deep into the bicycle geekery with this episode! Inspired by not one, but two, titanium frames which had to be returned to their manufacturers for repair, we're talking about about what bike frames are made of (steel, aluminum, titanium, carbon, oh my), including the pros and cons as well as care and repair. You also may be surprised by the material Steve thinks more bikes should be made from.We also share an update on our PMC Unpaved fundraising (thank you), the benefits of wearing a helmet (even on the rec path), as well as a few favorite articles seen while scrolling.Visit SteveTheBikeGuy to see photos of some of the bikes mentioned.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    So You Want to Try Cyclocross

    Inspired by our recent cyclocross activities – lending a hand at two introductory clinics, as well as supporting racers at Midnight Ride of Cyclocross – Kristin & Steve are sharing information about this most peculiar, but welcoming, type of bicycle racing. We discuss cyclocross race features and skills, as well as equipment options including bike and tire choices. We also share recent experiences with Lyme, how Steve got caught buying something on Amazon, and what is his recommended gearing for gravel bikes.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    25. CX, D2R2 & Cycling with Sophie

    For our 25th episode we welcome our college age daughter, Sophie, to the show! A listener comment about cyclocross has reminiscing about our racing days, and learning how to embrace the very embarrassing situations that can happen during a race. Having just participated in the 20th anniversary Deerfield Dirt-Road Randonnee to benefit Franklin Land Trust, we discuss "letting" her ride solo, and her transition from "riding because my parents ride" to "person who rides a bike." We share our individual experiences, as well as what we thought of this New England cycling tradition, if it was "worth" the expense and if we'd do it again.Steve also answers Sophie's questions about her bicycle, addresses what things she "needs" to know about her bike and talk about "internet" opinions.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    24. A Cacophony of Clicks.... or How Jeff Started Riding & Racing

    We enjoyed speaking with Jeff so much - we had him on twice! Jeff shares how he started riding with an epic race on a rented bike, and how the "cacophony of clicks" keeps him coming back to racing, events and group rides.We also discuss why cyclocross is the ultimate niche sport, but with the most welcoming community of riders, and a ew generation of riders on gravel bikes, the time might be now for growth.Kristin and Steve also discuss rules of the road for riders (and why we are our own worst enemy) and the potential consequences of the UCI's possible decision to ban 32" mountain bike wheels, and Kate Courtney's record setting time winning the Leadville Trail 100.Photo credit: Steve the Photographer - Treehouse CXSend us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    23. The Rift Iceland, Pan-Mass Challenge Support and Post-Event FOMO

    If FOMO is the "Fear of Missing Out" then what is the term for when you know you missed out because you can't do all things all the time? With help from our friend Jeff we talk about their "guys trip" to take on The Rift in Iceland, and Steve shares his five tips for those who want to ride The Rift.Kristin and Steve also talk about some of the most common repairs made for Pan-Mass Challenge riders from our unsanctioned tent, as well as one of our most unusual problems; how tariffs are impacting prices at your local bike shop and why to keep an eye out for counterfeit parts, and Steve admits that maybe more people wear cycling caps than he realized.Photo credit: The Rift Iceland, Jon Halldor UnnarssonSend us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    22. How to Take Your Bike on a Plane

    Days after recording, Steve was on a flight to Iceland to take on “The Rift” with friends and customers. Inspired by the trip, Kristin & Steve talk about how to travel with your bicycle, specifically on a plane. We share when to consider renting bikes vs bringing your own, and options for packing your bike (bags vs boxes). We also discuss Steve’s recent Lyme diagnosis, which threatened his trip to Iceland; answer questions from friends and listeners about mountain bike classifications; mtb technique, cycling caps and how much is a "normal" amount to spend each year to keep your mtb rolling, as well as vent about why the new “trend” to 32″ wheels is a problem.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    21. How Alex & Jason Started Cycling

    Kristin and Steve welcome their best friend, and original members of the STBG Cycling team, Alex and Jason to share how they each started cycling. From Jason's teenage years, to Alex's introduction through triathlon, through their time racing cyclocross to today, we discuss their cycling evolution, couples rules and why we riders like to do "hard things."Separately Kristin and Steve discuss what percentage time time a mountain biker is out of their saddle, as well as if e-bikes threaten to destroy QOM/KOMs on Strava.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    20. Underrated But Essential Bike Handling Skills

    On our 20th episode of Cycling Together, Kristin and Steve, with help from members of the STBG Cycling Team, share some of the "underrated but essential" bike handling skills.Inspired by two recent bicycle events, we discuss skills to benefit road and gravel riders, whether riding alone, with a friend or in a big group. On our list... taking your hands off your handlebars; walking your bike; starting (and stopping) with intention; drafting and pace lines; turns and pedal position as well as riding on dirt and other “light” mountain bike skills.During our conversation we go on a bit of a tangent about ride etiquette (can we buy an “on your left.”) as well as discuss the new UCI rules for handlebar widths and why women riders are not happy with the new ruling.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    19. Why Your Wife Needs The Better Bike

    Kristin and Steve hold a mirror up to Steve's own bicycle purchasing decisions as they discuss something they've observed in the Shop – riders who have really (really) nice bicycles and gear, who may not spend quite as much on their partner's bike.What may seem like "rational thinking" can often lead to a spouse or partner failing to embrace cycling, or giving up quickly, due to discomfort, discouragement and failed expectiations. Using personal experience, they discuss how a "better" bike or components can lead to a better experience and, hopefully, a happier rider.They also discuss Steve's first impressions of Kristin's new BC40 (speaking of better bikes); Shimano's new wireless XTR Di2 drivetrain and while answering a viewer a question about chain lube on new chains, also discuss chain wax.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    18. Are E-Mountain Bikes (EMTB) Inevitable?

    E-mountain bikes are on the rise, and according to some industry insiders, e-bikes will soon represent more than half the bikes on the trail one day. But should we, as Outside Magazine asks, “just submit to our eMTB future?”After breaking down the different classes of e-bikes, Kristin and Steve unpack their biases before digging deep into the growth; drawbacks including raising the bar to entry and costs of maintenance, dangers related to bad batteries as well as the potential issues and the etiquette. We also recognize we have a lot to learn, and that our attitudes and opinions may change as we give e-mountain bikes a try.Seen while scrolling: Articles in Road.cc and Bike Radar inspire a conversation about cross-chaining and whether it is really an issue. Reader question: Steve shares how to care for a slightly rusty chain and when to know if your chain has “too much” rust.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    17. How to Clean Your Bicycle

    The best way to extend the life of your bike and it's components, which in turn will save you money, is to keep it clean! We share how we clean our personal bikes, our "must have" equipment, why it's important to always dry your chain, and how to know if you have "toxic" sweat.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    16. New Mountain Bikes, Dropper Posts and Mechanic Answers

    Kristin is getting a new mountain bike - a custom built BC40 from Allied Cycle Works. In addition to discussing why Allied is a good fit for the Shop, we discuss types of mountain bikes (cross-country, down country, all trail) as well as some of the component choices they are making while building the new bike. Speaking of components, we discuss why dropper posts have become "required" equipment (and why we don't think that's a great idea) as well as answer questions from listeners and the internet on topics including mountain bike suspension, hooked and hookless rims, and bike gearing.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    15. How Jackie Started Cycling

    Before Jackie bought a new mountain bike in 2021, the last time she had ridden a bicycle was when she was a teenager. But as Hale Education's Director of Camp and Community Programs worked with the organization's growing mountain bike community, she soon found herself taking up a new hobby. A few years and three bikes later, Jackie has grown as a rider, leader and ride organizer, using her platform and personal experience to create and cultivate experiences designed to welcome more girls and women to the sport.On this episode, Jackie joins Kristin to share her development and discoveries as she started riding and what her goals are for the future. They also discuss her passion project, Everwild, a day of clinics and rides for women which is held at Hale on International Women's Mountain Bike Day.Steve and Kristin wrap up the episode discussing where people can find good quality information and reviews about bikes and equipment, and what it means when we say shift "up" or "down."Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    14. Managing the Chaos and Costs of New Tariffs

    There is still a lot we don't know about the new tariffs, but experts all appear to agree – the costs of new bikes, as well as parts, accessories and everything else are likely to increase.Steve and Kristin sit down to discuss how tariffs may be already affecting purchasing decisions for manufacturers, supplies and retailers, as well as what you can do to save in the short term whether you have a bike, or need/want a bike.We also discuss the beautiful red SID Ultimate Flight Attendant RockShox fork spotted during this past weekend's UCI World Cup in Araxá, and the "ken-energy" of certain naming conventions.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    13. (Almost) Everything You Need to Know About Bike Tune-Ups

    Spring is here, and our thoughts turn towards getting bikes ready to ride. But does your bike "need" a tune up? Steve and Kristin talk about what is (generally) included in a service package, what can you do to care for your bike to extend it's life, and how to ensure you get what you pay for when bringing your bike to the bike shop.Steve also shares why he's excited for the announcements from SRAM including the new Eagle Mechanical Transmission and, but not so impressed by the 32" tires coming out 2025 Taipei Cycle Show,Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    12. Gravity Parks and Questions About Mountain Bike Suspension

    A technical glitch got us on the last episode! While visiting the San Lee Gravity Bike Park in Sanford, North Carolina, we recorded a spontaneous segment about the fun that is gravity parks. We discuss some gravity park basics, and why no jumping is required - just control your speed.We also do a deep dive on mountain bike suspension inspired by a couple of questions Kristin spotted while scrolling one of her favorite mtb-related Facebook groups. We review basic terminology and setup including how to interpret the travel numbers of your bike, how to set the sag, and how where your ride, how you ride, and even how much you weigh can determine the right amount of suspension for you.Listener feedback gets Kristin rolling on another pet peeve – male riders who feel the need to comment on equipment, or ask questions such as "did your husband bike you that bike." As Steve says... "don't be that guy."Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    11. Lessons from our van trip

    We're home after our two week van trip - but there is no rest for the weary! Before we put up our feet and unpack the van,  we discuss our trip, including how we travel with our dog, meal prep when the fridge is broken, working through bad wifi and other frequently asked questions.We also share details details about our self-built Sprinter van – a 2021 160 High Roof – including why she is lighter than your average Sprinter build out (but certainly not light), what we have planned and why the “side wind assist” was incredibly helpful on the trip home.We wrap up with our “Seen While Scrolling” segment with Steve sharing the potential of Intense’s “Frame First” program.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    10. Planning a Van Trip for Riding & More

    Kristin and Steve report in the first week of a two-week road trip designed to get them out of the New England cold.Planning an extended trip that includes riding, sightseeing, resources for working and accommodations for the van, and dog, is no easy feat. Kristin and Steve share where they have traveled, what's gone right (and wrong) as well as some of the resources that Steve used to plan for our first extended van trip.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    9. Should you MTB on clipless or flat pedals?

    When mountain biking should you ride on clipless (clip-in) or flat pedals? While there are many “experts” with very strong opinions (which they are not afraid to share), Kristin and Steve discuss the truth which is – there are advantages and disadvantages to each.They start with a look back at the evolution of the “clip-less” pedal, and the rise in popularity of flats, as well as discuss why it’s okay to hold back on offering unsolicited advice to riders, regardless of what is on their feet. Special thanks to Justin for allowing us to share the perfectly perfect picture of him jumping his mtb with toe clips.They also share why you don’t need to use a blow torch to fix your brakes (unless you want to ruin them), and the most recent article from Consumer Reports regarding helmet safety.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    8. How to Buy MTB Gear for Speedy Kids & Teens (Part 2)

    Beyond the bike, kids and teenagers racing mountain bikes need additional gear to round out their "kit." Kristin and Steve discuss the options for mountain bike jerseys, shorts, pedals, shoes, hydration, helmets and more. We also circle back to bikes briefly to talk about dual suspension options as well as best bikes for little racers in grades K to 4. Before wrapping up with tech talk inspired by the first images of new SRAM Motive brakes spotted on brujulabike.com while scrolling, Steve answers Kristin's questions about the reverence for, and history of,  Campagnolo.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    7. How to Buy a Mountain Bike for Speedy Kids & Teens (Part 1)

    Whether you have a child thinking about joining NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association); NEYC (New England Youth Cycling) or racing solo, it starts with getting them the "right" bike. But the choices can be overwhelming, particularly for parents that may not be familiar with mountain bikes and mountain bike equipment.Inspired by a recent Open House and Information Session we hosted at the Shop for our local NEYC, the Dover Demons, in the first in a two-part series we break down what to look for in a mountain bike for a “speedy” teen or child. We discuss the minimum you should plan on spending (retail) as well as what your kid needs (vs what their teammates might tell them) including dual-suspension vs hardtail; aluminum vs carbon frames; tubeless vs tubes; dropper posts, and the value of high quality components. With used bikes being a great option to get a high quality bike, we also discuss what to look for, and what to avoid.During the second part we will be discussing the other gear kids need (or don't) as well as answering other questions.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    6. Don't be a jerk - About mountain bike etiquette

    Inspired by an opinion piece in Mountain Bike Action, we're talking about proper mountain bike etiquette. We discuss who has priority on shared use trails, how to pass another mountain biker whether traveling in the same or opposite directions, and rules that are specific for group rides. Following the "rules" not only ensures safety of all trail users, creates a more welcoming environment for new riders, and preserves trail access.We also introduce a new, as yet to be named segment where Steve shares some wisdom from the bike shop. This week, Steve uses Cannondale's entry level mountain bike, the Trail 1, to share an issue when product managers decide to save money by choosing alternative chains, rather than the one that is decided for the drive train. Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    5. How We Started Cycling

    Everyone's road (or trail) to cycling has a different start, as well as twists and turns. On this episode, Kristin and Steve are looking back and digging deep into the photo archives to share how they each started cycling, the bikes that have come (and gone), and how their cycling has evolved since they started cycling together.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    4. Mountain Biking When It's Cold AND Dark

    If you want to mountain bike outside during the winter (and still have a day job) there is a very good chance you will be riding at at night, in the cold. Inspired by a recent ride with "Friday Night Ride (FNR)" friends, Kristin and Steve share how riding at night gives a new perspective on your favorite trails, while also making new trails a bit more challenging. We also discuss the gear and clothing to wear to ensure you stay warm and enjoy your time on the trails.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    3. Fat Bikes are Fun

    The snow is falling, and our thoughts turn towards dusting off our fat bikes! Kristin and Steve roll back to the early days of the Shop when the introduction of fat bikes and our then-partnership marked an important turning point. During our conversation we talk about our bikes – a Surly Wednesday and Surly Ice Cream Truck – as well as share information about bikes, components, tubeless tires and riding fat. We also share listener comments and questions related to indoor riding, as well as the first in a segment we are calling "Doom or Boon - Spotted while scrolling."Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    2. Indoor Training – Riding Miles, Going Nowhere

    Shorter days and colder temperatures have forced us inside and onto our trainers. And while we aren't entirely happy about it (we always prefer riding outside), there are plenty of good reasons to get on the trainer. We share some of the tactics (and gear) we use to make the most of "riding miles, going no where."Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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    1. Planning our cycling schedule

    At the start of the New Year while some are making resolutions, Kristin and Steve are planning their ride schedule! For this, the first episode of Cycling Together, Kristin and Steve share some of their past ride experiences, what factors they consider when deciding on rides, and what rides are on their list for 2025.Send us Fan MailSupport the showLeave a comment, question or topic suggestion for future episodes.Find Cycling Together with Kristin and Steve on YouTube for Closed Captioned video version.You can visit CyclingTogether.Bike for show notes or to learn more about Kristin and Steve.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

For over 25 years, Kristin and Steve of Steve the Bike Guy, an independent bicycle shop in Massachusetts, have been cycling together – keeping things rolling over roads and trails as they also navigated marriage, kids, and careers. Now, they are inviting you to join the ride as they share experiences, insights, and advice for anyone who does, or wants to, ride a bike. Find us on YouTube for a closed-caption version of each episode.Cycling Together with Kristin & Steve is a production of Steve the Bike Guy and Sundin Marketing.

HOSTED BY

Kristin & Steve Brandt

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