EPISODE 214: Drop Bar MTBs with John Galloway

SUMMARY

In today’s episode, we dive into versatile cycling setups, the evolution of gravel and mountain bikes, and an intense story about a foot injury abroad. Join us as we explore the lasting influence of the Velocast, the rise of drop-bar mountain bikes, and what’s shaping the future of gravel racing, bikepacking, and versatile bike builds.

Key Topics:

Foot Injury & Recovery

• John recounts his recent foot injury during a trip to Chengdu, China, leading to a month in the hospital and three surgeries.
• Discussing the challenges of regaining fitness after three months off the bike.
• Getting back on the bike with the help of coaching and turbo trainer sessions.

Velocast Legacy

• Reflecting on the early days of Velocast, a pioneering cycling podcast that influenced today’s cycling journalism.
• How Velocast was ahead of its time, standing for integrity and refusing to cover races in oppressive regimes.
• Fond memories and the podcast's impact on current cycling media.

Rise of Drop-Bar Mountain Bikes

• John shares his early experience with drop-bar mountain bikes and his claim to have “invented” the gravel bike back in 2009.
• Transitioning between road and mountain biking with setups like Tange chromo hardtail frames and flare drop handlebars.
• The shift in gravel bike design towards drop-bar mountain bikes with wider tires for tougher terrains.

Bike Setup for Versatile Terrain

• Comparing gravel and mountain bike builds for diverse conditions, from smooth roads to rugged trails.
• Insights from Josh Portner (formerly of Zipp) on why gravel racers are moving to 2.2-inch tires for added speed and control.
• Aerodynamic advantages of wide tires and drop-bar setups in gravel racing.

Gravel Bike Evolution and Trends

• The debate over the “death” of the 40mm gravel tire.
• The growing popularity of gravel bikes resembling mountain bikes, especially in the U.S., where gravel terrain varies greatly.
• How race-focused bike designs influence recreational cyclists, with features like narrower bars and integrated cockpits.

Bikepacking & Gear Considerations

• Advice for selecting bikepacking setups that emphasize simplicity and durability.
• Comparing mountain and gravel bikes for bikepacking across different regions.
• Modern bikepacking gear: the benefits of belt drives, Pinion gearboxes, and steel frames for long-distance rides.

The Role of Handlebars in Versatility

• The rising interest in unique handlebar designs for versatility in touring and bikepacking.
• Options like the Surly Corner Bar, which combines control and multiple hand positions, compared to more traditional setups.

Key Takeaways:

• Versatility in Bike Setup: Riders looking for a single bike for multiple terrains may find drop-bar mountain bikes or versatile hardtails an ideal choice. Elements like tire width, handlebars, and frame build are essential for comfort and capability.
• Gravel Bike Trends: Wider tires and drop-bar mountain bikes are becoming mainstream in gravel racing, with aerodynamic tests suggesting surprising benefits of wider setups.
• Choosing the Right Bike: Personal preference, location, and riding style play a big role in deciding between gravel and mountain bikes. For bikepacking and long tours, rugged builds with low-maintenance components like belt drives are advantageous.

Listener Shoutouts

Thank you to all listeners who reached out during John’s recovery! Your support has been truly appreciated.

Resources Mentioned:

• Josh Portner - Silca: Thoughts on bike setups for 2024 and beyond.
• Rusty Rides Gravel (YouTube): Discover gravel routes in Scotland.
• Dylan Johnson's Video on Gravel vs. Mountain Bikes: Insights on why wider tires are becoming the norm in gravel racing.