Podcasts about escape collective

Today on the show: A budget cap? But not for us! Mads Pedersen speaks out against the horrors of the Saitama Criterium, and the Olympic velodrome was farting. 

If you were buying a mid-level performance bike, would you prefer an exceptional frame or a little compromise to get better components? That's something that Ronan and Dave ponder in this week's episode of Geek Warning.In addition to that, you'll learn about DT Swiss' first wheel that features spokes that aren't its own. There's a PSA for anyone ignoring noises from their drivetrain. And Dave nerds out on some funny-looking screwdrivers.Of course, members of Escape Collective get access to the Ask a Wrench segment at the end of the episode. Here, Dave and Brad Copeland go deep on whether bottom bracket bearings can last a lifetime and take a detour on the topic of flat mount mountain brakes.Timestamps:1:00 - Bigham's Laser Bubble Tunnels6:00 - Giant's big bet on XC and high-end frames bumping up price points19:00 - DT Swiss has a wheel with spokes that aren't made by them25:00 - Trek's Project One now offering frame-only29:00 - A PSA for your drivetrain36:00 - Dave's Good Thing of the week (decade?)45:00 - Ask a Wrench with Brad Copeland (Members Only)46:00 - A watery floor pump52:00 - Can a bottom bracket bearing last a lifetime?1:02:00 - Upgrading flat mount brakes on a mountain bike

It's rare to get a bike that's raced professionally throughout the season, that wins a World Championship title, and only then is released.The new Giant Anthem cross-country bike is finally official, and tech editor Dave Rome recently flew to Taiwan to see how it's made and get some early ride time on it.While at that launch, Dave sat down with the bike's lead category manager, Joe Staub, to learn about some of the design decisions, how Giant designs for manufacturing, and plenty more. At the end of the episode, you'll also hear an interview with current XCO World Champion Alan Hatherly (as well as team manager Sebastion Boyington) about some specific tech thoughts for cross-country racing.Usually, the full versions of our special episodes are only available to members of Escape Collective. We're making an exception for this and keeping the full episode free for all. We just ask that if you find it interesting, please consider sharing it with someone who may also like it.If you want more information on the bike, then head to EscapeCollective.com for a full write-up, including early ride impressions.

Today on the show: Premier Tech departs IPT, sport director musical chairs, the very real bicycle race in Japan last weekend, and somebody stole a giant inflatable beer. Maybe. 

Today on the show: Victory Lafay is a Rocket, Pogacar's knee really hurt at the Tour, and EF signed some youths. 

Welcome back, geeks!This week's episode is a bit of a mixed bag, with Dave and Ronan kicking things off with a chat about Giant's flagship factory. Things then jump to South Africa, where Escape's CEO Wade Wallace sits down with racer and occasional tech contributor Kevin Bekenstein to chat tech at the inaugural Gravel Burn stage race.Finally, members of Escape Collective will hear the return of Brad Copeland in the Ask a Wrench segment.Time stamps:2:30 - Dave's trip to Taiwan6:30 - Touring Giant's flagship facility14:45 - Equipment basics for Gravel Burn22:00 - A proven use case for gravel suspension50:00 - Brad Copeland returns for Ask a Wrench (Members only)54:00 - Indoor bike and trainer servicing1:14:00 - Shimano front shifter that keeps getting hard to use.1:27:00 - Long-term storage of mountain bike suspension

In this episode, the Virtual Velo Podcast rolls into the biggest week on the cycling esports calendar. USA Cycling Esports National Champion Hayden “Farmwatts” Pucker returns to the show as he prepares to take on the world's best at the UCI Cycling Esports World Championships live final in Abu Dhabi on November 15th.Co-hosts Chris Schwenker and Emma Martin catch up with Hayden on his mindset heading into his second consecutive Worlds appearance, the rivalries taking shape, and what to expect from this year's new course and format. Hayden talks about defending his National title on TrainingPeaks Virtual.Chris also breaks down his top storylines and predictions as the sport's brightest talents converge under the lights in the desert for esports cycling's grandest stage. Don't miss out on the unique opportunity to delve even deeper into the intriguing topics discussed in this episode.Get to Know Why They Call This Elite Cyclist, Hayden “Farmwatts” Pucker [Zommunique, Jan. 2024]Listen to ep. 51 with Hayden here.Revamped format revealed for the 2025 Cycling Esports World Championships [Escape Collective, Aug. 2025]TrainingPeaks Virtual to Host USA Cycling Esports National Championships Through 2028 [USA Cycling]We need to talk openly about weight in cycling esports too [Escape Collective, Aug. 2025]USA Cycling Awards 20 Stars and Stripes Jerseys at the 2025 Cycling Esports National Championships [Zommunique, Feb. 2025] Statements made by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the podcast, its hosts, or its partners. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions.

Today on the show: Oier Lazkano says he's innocent, Tadej Pogačar's golden statue, and Tom Pidcock's gravel awakening.

Today on the show: What's going on at Jayco? Matt White is the new trident master at Movistar. And the Isaac Del Toro Giro mystery has been partially solved.

Jeez, that Dave and Ronan can sure ramble on about a new groupset. Indeed, this week's Geek Warning has the geeks geeking over Campagnolo's much-awaited release of 1x13 wireless. They chat about what's new, the limitations of a single chainring for general road riding, and why the future for the iconic Italian manufacturer seems brighter.While that chat may be a little premium for some tastes, the rest of the episode is all about more practical things. From tips for freehub servicing through to chatting good tech docs, this week's episode lives up to the podcast's name.Time stamps:2:30 - A Corrections Corner that only members need4:00 - Campagnolo's big Super Record expansion and the limits of 1x road26:00 - Looking at Look's Vision pedals30:00 - New warranty options for CSS rim customers32:00 - a PSA for your freehub41:00 - Readily available technical manuals are a Good Thing48:50 - Ask a Wrench (Members Only, with Zach Edwards)49:30 - What's up with gravel suspension?55:00 - Threaded bottom bracket creaks1:04:00 - Putting new Shimano XTR Di2 on a road bike1:17:00 - Zach's preferred brakes to bleed

Today on the show: The Vuelta is headed to Pogačar's door, Evenepoel may not be headed to the Tour, and Del Toro is the Mexican champ. 

Today on the show: Jonny and Dane join Caley (who is still feeling the effects of getting absolutely pasted by The Intern during their mountain bike race last weekend) to discuss double Alpe d'Huez at the Tour, the Rockets signing Poels, and how Vingegaard might race the Giro.

Warning, geeks inbound. This week, Dave and Ronan catch up to discuss WorldTour rumours and a few of the bigger stories in tech. One of which is Wilier's new aero bike, and while it wasn't what Ronan had expected, it raises questions about whether the new crop of Hyperbikes are a consumer-friendly option.Of course, there's a PSA and Dave shares a ‘Good Thing' that was on his mind from earlier in the day. And as per usual, members of Escape Collective get an extra half an hour of geekery as submitted questions get answered.Time stamps:1:00 - A little bit about electric tyre inflators10:45 - Wilier's new Filante SLR aero bike isn't so radical17:15 - WorldTour tech rumours31:00 - Strava wants to be friends with Garmin again34:00 - PSA to preventing stuck tubeless valve nuts37:00 - Good Things for bleeding brakes44:00 - Ask A Wrench (Members Only)44:30 - Maintenance time versus durability in chain lubes52:00 - Wedges in cycling shoes1:01:00 - How to know when a slick tyre is worn1:05:00 - Finding a 160 mm crank for use with 2x GRX

It was a big week for Pauls, as Jonny Long, Kit Nicholson, and Dane Cash discuss on this week's podcast. Also covered on the show: Uno-X Mobility's impressive late-season run, the Andorra Cycling Masters, and the next Bernard Hinault.

Today on the show: The UCI is throwing its weight around once again in Holland, teams are folding and merging all over the place, Cian Uijtdebroeks' Movistar dream team is falling into place.Click here to become a member and find out how Dane put a phone thief in jail from the back seat of a cop car. 

Gravel World's, Bespoked Dresden, and new products have kept Escape's tech team busy over the past week. In this episode of Geek Warning, Dave and Ronan discuss a few of the bigger tech sightings and why they may prove to be irrelevant.There's talk of Campagnolo's latest products, plus Ronan further explains the role of saddle positioning tools.Members of Escape Collective also get access to the Ask a Wrench segment (this week with Boulder Groupetto). Of particular interest for many is a question related to the use of grease versus anti-seize versus threadlocker.Happy geeking!Time stamps:2:20 - Tech at UCI Gravel Worlds8:00 - Ultra-wide wheels from Dangerholm19:00 - Campagnolo goes Ultra27:30 - Good products, inspired by another podcast33:30 - Pet peeve meets PSA related to saddle positioning45:00 - Ask a Wrench with Boulder Groupetto (Members Only)47:00 - Tech that less tech-savvy riders should avoid58:30 - Grease vs Anti-Seize vs Threadlocker1:12:00 - A member-submitted tip1:15:00 - Omnium tyre choices

It's a rare occurrence that timezone align for Escape's entire tech team to get together and casually chat about what's keeping each of them busy.For this bonus episode of Geek Warning, Dave, Ronan, Suvi, Josh, and Alex discuss some of the test products and testing that has been on their minds as of late.Enjoy!Time stamps:3:00 - The bikes we rode last5:00 - Early thoughts on the Cervelo Aspero 58:00 - Canyon Grizl12:00 - Trek CheckOut18:00 - Stinner Refugio Ti and Salsa Spearfish21:00 - A long-awaited Basso review23:00 - A tangent (rant) into how we do and don't get review bikes to fit us37:30 - PFAS-free waterproof and cool-weather kit (Members Only)44:00 - Wolf Tooth's entry to SPD pedals53:00 - Ronan's power meter pedal deep-dive56:00 - Josh' Dynamo adventures58:00 - Not feeling the difference in Shimano's new cleats1:07:00 - Ronan thinks he's owned a Tarmac SL8 for 7 years. Alex praises the Scott Addict RC.1:13:00 - THE electric inflator test is coming this week!

Today on the show: carbon monoxide is back in the news, the Dutch love to chase each other, and Pogacar got beaten by a guy!

Today on the show: Geraint Thomas is entering his bland PR era, Intermarché and Lotto's merger may be on the rocks, and you'd never have guessed it but we're heading down Ayuso alleyway once again.

Emergency episode time!Caley and Ronan dive into a story that started with chainrings and cogs, and ended up in court. The BCA has ordered the UCI to suspend its new Maximum Gear Ratio Standard, siding with SRAM in a dispute that could reshape how cycling's rules are made. What began as a “safety test” for rider speed has become a battle over who really governs the sport, and whether the UCI is still above competition law.

Come get geeky with Dave, Ronan, and Zach (Boulder Grupetto), as they add context to the latest cycling tech.This week you'll hear about adjustable crank lengths, whether fancy bottom brackets are worth the expense, and if modular mechanical rear derailleurs will succeed.Members of Escape will also hear a non-safety-critical PSA, and of course, Ask a Wrench. That Ask a Wrench is a little different from the usual, with a long chat about whether the review bikes we get are given special treatment by the brands.Time stamps:1:50 - Adjustable length cranks return with SRM10:15 - A dive into fancy fancy bottom brackets via CeramicSpeed's overhaul29:30 - Did Specialized get the new Aethos right?37:30 - Debating premium, modular, mechanical rear derailleurs.44:00 - PSA - Check your hex keys for wear (Members Only)51:00 - Ask a Wrench (Members Only)53:00 - Do we get special bikes to review?1:04:00 - Solving mystery air in disc brakes

In the latest installment of our special edition podcast, Orogenesis Dispatches, Josh Weinberg talks with adventure cyclist Kurt Refsnyder, who is riding the entire trail from the US border with Canada all the way to Mexico.Kurt checks in from Bridgeport, California, about 2,000 miles (3,200 km) into the 5,000-mile (8,000 km) route. From there, with it being nearly halfway through the route, he reflects on challenges that have included substantial sections of deadfall in Oregon, smoke and fires in Idaho, and unexpectedly hard sections like a soft rail bed in Northern California. He also reveals a feeling of relief being in California, where the trails are more established for bikes, and deadfall will hopefully be less of a concern.The bulk of the conversation addresses reader/listener-submitted questions that span a multitude of topics, including using an electronic drive train over a mechanical one, riding without a chamois pad, how he chooses camping spots, the daily joys of waking up on the trail, and what lies ahead.

Today on the show: Movistar is the new destination team, Kristoff crashed out, and we're headed back to Ayuso Alleyway.

Today on the show: Alexander Kristoff may miss his milestone, UCI points really matter for the next couple of weeks and there are more people leaving Ineos this off-season.

Long-time listeners of Geek Warning are in for a treat as Zach Edwards (Boulder Groupetto) returns for a full episode. Along with Dave Rome and Alex Hunt, there is a whole lot of ultimate bike geek to this week's episode.Within, you'll hear about some unintentionally leaked information related to what's likely the next generation of Shimano road pedals.Dave then takes the conversation to an old favourite topic – chain waxing. Next, those new to cycling or less knowledgeable about the technical aspects may appreciate a dedicated new section that aims to cover topics that bike shop staff frequently repeat multiple times a week. This week, it's all about drip-on wax lubes.Of course there's some industry news to talk about, and finally a decision on the UCIs handlebar width pondering.All of that is free for all, but members of Escape Collective then get access to the Ask a Wrench segment of the podcast. Here, the geeks answer a number of member-submitted technical questions with information that should prove helpful if you're working on bikes or keen to expand your technical knowledge.Happy geeking!Time stamps:01:50 - Is a new generation of Shimano road pedals around the corner?10:40 - Chain waxing temperatures, does it matter?17:00 - Back to basics: Chain lubes31:00 - UCI adjusts and confirms its bar width ruling37:30 - YT set to close42:50 - CSS Composites closing48:00 - Ask a Wrench (Members only)48:30 - Getting perfect shifting with Shimano Tiagra56:30 - Where to begin with modern mountain bike geometry1:04:30 - Shimano 12-speed cassettes and the Adhesive Ring

Today on the show: We have new world champions, but there are many more fun things to talk about from the road races in Rwanda. Meanwhile, breaking news, Juan Ayuso is already causing a ruckus at Lidl-Trek.

Juan Ayuso has a new home, Chloe Dygert has a sticker printing machine, and there are also some World Championships happening in Rwanda. 

In this episode of The Virtual Velo Podcast, host Chris Schwenker is joined once again by Jacob Fraser, the UCI's Cycling Esports Coordinator, for an in-depth conversation ahead of the 2025 UCI Cycling Esports World Championships.Jacob reflects on last year's groundbreaking Worlds—the first live final on MyWhoosh—and shares insights into what worked, what didn't, and how lessons learned are shaping this year's event. The discussion covers everything from race format changes and qualification controversies to weigh-in protocols, anti-doping measures, and the ongoing push for hardware standardization.Looking ahead, Jacob offers a candid look at the UCI's long-term vision: athlete health safeguards, a sanctioned event calendar, international rankings, and how broadcast innovation can capture new audiences. With Zwift stepping back from elite racing and TrainingPeaks Virtual entering the scene, the landscape is shifting fast, and Jacob provides clarity on where cycling esports is heading next.Don't miss out on the unique opportunity to delve even deeper into the intriguing topics discussed in this episode.Listen to ep. 54 with Jacob here [Spotify]When ‘close enough' isn't good enough: Inside cycling esports' hardware crisis [Escape Collective, Aug. 19, 2025]We need to talk openly about weight in cycling esports too [Escape Collective, Aug. 25, 2025]The UCI's rocky roadmap for cycling esports [Escape Collective, Mar. 21, 2025]The UCI takes important measures to protect rider safety and health, and approves 2026 UCI calendars for several disciplines [UCI, Sept. 25, 2025] Statements made by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the podcast, its hosts, or its partners. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions.

This week on Geek Warning, Ronan Mc Laughlin and Dave Rome discuss why SRAM's battle with the UCI may also prove positive for Shimano.Ronan asks Dave what his workshop wish is, which leads to an unexpected tangent about bike washing. There's, of course, a PSA, which ends up being a conversation about how to align dropbar shifters. And the geeks summarise a bunch of the latest and biggest new tech.Lastly, Zach Edwards (Boulder Groupetto) joins the pod to answer some questions from members in the Ask a Wrench segment. As a reminder, only members of Escape Collective get access to this section of the podcast.Happy geeking!Time stamps:1:00 - A hypothetical question5:30 - SRAM taking the UCI to court, explained (plus a big rumour)10:15 - Waiting on an update to the UCI's handlebar ruling (now out of date since recording)13:00 - Ronan ponders Dave's dream workshop wish 25:00 - PSA that alignment markings on bars may be fictional plus an explainer on road shifter alignment38:00 - Rotor returns to the groupset game, sorta40:15 - Further update on SRAM's Transmission firmware update41:40 - Trek's CheckOut, a full suspension gravel bike43:15 - RockShox's matching Rudy XL45:00 - RLS helmet safety system and Canyon growing the full-service side of the business48:30 - Lezyne enters the rear Radar game50:00 - Ask a Wrench (Escape members only)52:30 - Shimano Di2 rear shifting woes58:30 - Adding shifters to SRAM AXS1:04:00 - Greasing posts and cleaning seat tubes

Today, Trek launched a bike that's sure to spark debate in comments sections. It's called the CheckOut. It features a new 60 mm travel front suspension fork, courtesy of the RockShox Rudy XL, and 55 mm rear travel to match. It fits gravel-width cranks and has official clearance for up to 56 mm tyres (about a 29x2.25in).However, it's the design and testing of this bike that brings our fascination up to a boiling point. Trek published a white paper explaining how it used a rolling road with 3D motion capture, on bike sensors, and a metabolic mask to understand the benefits of having suspension on typical gravel terrain. We had questions.So with that, Alex Bedinghaus (Lead Design Engineer) and Kyle Russ (Analysis team) jumped on to geek out with Escape's Dave Rome. The conversation covers the design of the bike, what modern off-road efficiency testing looks like, why gravel bikes continue to go where mountain bikes have been, and plenty more.Meanwhile, head over to Escape Collective.com to see Dave Rome's early coverage of the new Check Out.Those on the free feed for Geek Warning get the first 25 minutes free. Meanwhile, members of Escape Collective get the whole thing, which frankly, includes the best parts.Time stamps:3:00 - Introductions6:00 - The design goal of the CheckOut10:00 - Why not a mountain bike?15:30 - Designing for bikepacking20:00 - Longer suspension and stack heights25:00 - Suspension layout versus Trek's IsoTrust27:00 - Testing explained (Escape Members Only from here on)35:00 - Body is a damper and a spring37:00 - Suspension versus bigger tyres44:00 - Measuring steering compensation49:00 - Qualitative versus quantitative data53:30 - Is smoother always faster?57:00 - CheckOut versus a gravel race bike

Josh Weinberg recently checked in with Kurt Refsnider, a bikepacker attempting the first full ride of the Orogenesis Trail. At roughly 5,000 miles, the route begins at the Canada–US border and travels through Washington, Oregon, and California to the Mexico border, then onto the Baja Divide.At the time of recording, Kurt was in Paisley, Oregon, about 1,100 miles in, nearing California and the halfway point through the U.S. section.Kurt details how challenging the ride through Washington was, with nearly 120,000 feet of climbing and descending over rugged moto trails and non-motorized singletrack near Mount St. Helens. He faced detours due to land closures, and construction added to the difficulty.Once in Oregon, Kurt has primarily followed the Oregon Timber Trail. Using elevation gain as a metric for daily effort, he explains how climbing has taken priority over daily mileage, aiming for 7,000 to 8,000 feet of climbing per day.He also dives into gear maintenance and resupply strategies, which have been tough, with dust wearing down his suspension and brake pads, and unpredictable provision availability. He's already swapped out some wear items and explains how opting for battery packs over a dynamo hub for power has worked out.Along the way, Kurt has been fueled by strong community support.Folks following along are tracking his progress, offering lodging, bringing food, and sharing real-time trail conditions. Looking ahead, he faces a tough, deadfall-heavy section in southern Oregon. Once he crosses into California, he'll encounter faster ATV trails before taking a rest near Quincy and heading into long singletrack sections through Truckee and Tahoe, where we plan to catch up with him again.

Today on the show: Remco made it three in a row as he passed Pogačar by, SRAM is suing the UCI and we have an update on the Israel-Premier Tech situation.

Today on the show: Worlds starts this weekend, we love Tom Pidcock's mum, and Philly is back, baby. 

When Escape Collective first launched, Ronan Mc Laughlin announced plans for an aero leaderboard. The goal was to test race bikes in real-world conditions using the latest testing tools to determine which bikes are the fastest. That obviously didn't come to fruition, and this week, Dave and Ronan discuss why. The conversation leads to the two discussing how they approach reviews and the anxieties that surround them.The geeks also have a PSA, Dave attempts to explain pedal kickback in mountain bikes to Ronan, and there's chat of SRAM's speed update for Transmission.Members of Escape Collective (via the member podcast feed) get the full episode, which contains Ask a Wrench. This week Dave answers a handful of member-submitted questions, which this week relate to bottom brackets, servicing hydraulic disc brakes, and cassette wear.Time stamps:2:00 - Why bike reviews can't have conclusive answers26:00 - PSA related to replacing disc brake pads31:00 - DT Swiss' new DF system and pedal kickback explained39:30 - A quiet release from SRAM that speeds up Transmission shift speed50:00 - Ask a Wrench (member-only feed)50:00 - Specialized's OSBB explained56:30 - Cassette wear and how to measure for it1:04:00 - SRAM Road Hydro lever service1:11:00 - Buying a bike with a BB86 bottom bracket

Today on the show: Alabelievers rejoice, the greatest Vuelta podium on a shortened final stage, and what does this all mean for pro cycling? 

Today on the show: Tadej Pogacar has is mojo back, Juan Ayuso won a bet, and we've got new tech to talk about.

This week, Ronan and Dave ponder how they would equip an entry-level road bike, and while chatting, realise that maybe the industry has backed itself into a costly corner.Of course, there's a PSA and a bunch of tech news to discuss. Meanwhile, members of Escape Collective get access to Ask a Wrench, where this week Dave and Zach Edwards answer four member-submitted technical questions.Enjoy!Time stamps:3:15 - How would we spec an entry-level road race bike22:30 - A PSA to grease your axles27:20 - Cervelo's new R530:40 - Castelli's PFAS-free poor weather jacket37:00 - SRAM's 1987 Limited Edition Silver group38:00 - What's coming up, plus Escape gets a much-wanted feature42:00 - Ask a Wrench (member's only)44:00 - Suspension service intervals and not riding50:00 - Breaking chainring bolts56:00 - Using a shorter fork on a modern XC bike1:01:30 - Why are aero wheels not a thing in fast MTB races?

Sweden's Mika Söderström is a rare cycling talent. A two-time Swedish Road Race Champion and multiple-time Cycling Esports National Champion, she's one of the only athletes to hold and defend both jerseys simultaneously—yet she still identifies first and foremost as an esports racer.In this episode of The Virtual Velo Podcast, Mika joins hosts Emma Martin and Chris Schwenker to share how her introduction to cycling—beginning on her father's smart trainer on Zwift—when coupled with a data-driven strategy, has carried her from the forest paths north of Stockholm to a top-ten finish at the UCI Cycling Esports World Championships and a sprint jersey at the MyWhoosh Championships. Despite these palmares, she balances elite competition with life as a Ph.D. researcher in brain wave biomedicine, where the precision of science complements the discipline of elite sport.Mika offers unique insights into the nuances between road and esports racing, from strategy and preparation to the mental and physical demands of each. She explains why, despite her road victories over some of Sweden's best Women's WorldTour pros, she feels more motivated to defend her esports national title. She also opens up about navigating weigh-ins, balancing studies with training, and why she believes the future of esports lies in embracing its own identity rather than imitating the road.And true to her competitive spirit, Mika insists that to be the best you have to beat the best—welcoming all challengers, road pros included.Join Emma and Chris for a wide-ranging conversation with one of esports' most compelling athletes, bridging intellect, versatility, and passion both on and off the bike, as Mika shares her perspective from the upper echelon of road and esports competition.Don't miss out on the unique opportunity to delve even deeper into the intriguing topics discussed in this episode.AusCycling and the Swedish Cycling Federation Crown 2024 Cycling Esports National Champions in Live Event Finals on the Same Day [Zommunique, Mar. 27, 2025]Procycling Stats: Mika SöderströmThe voice of the peloton: TCA has released its annual rider survey [Escape Collective, Sep. 2, 2025]VVN's Most Impactful People in Cycling Esports For 2025 [Zommunique, Apr 8, 2025] Statements made by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the podcast, its hosts, or its partners. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions.

Or is there any difference anymore? Today on the show: Is the Vuelta is a real bike race? Is UAE a good bicycle team? Is Chris Hoy the best? And is Geraint Thomas happy he's done? 

An Irish road cyclist walks into the R&D department of an international bike brand and rides a prototype mountain bike. That's the joke.In this episode, Dave and Ronan discuss 32-inch-wheeled mountain bikes and whether Ronan is now a mountain biker.There's a detailed chat about the torque required when working with UDH hangers or SRAM Full Mount derailleurs, along with some buying advice for an appropriate torque wrench.There are new road bikes from Pinarello and Scott worth talking about, while Shimano's new cleats are equally worthy of discussion.The free-version of the episode wraps with a quick chat about Dave's recent counterfeit chain article, while the Member-only version offers some more detailed answers on this matter. Then it's time for Ask a Wrench, where Dave is joined by mechanic Zach Edwards in answering a handful of member-submitted technical questions.Happy geeking!As requested by a few members, we're now offering episode chapters – hope it works as expected! And a language warning for around the 9-minute mark, as Ronan is a potty mouth.Time stamps:1:23 - Corrections Corner for another podcast3:55 - Ronan is now a mountain biker?20:00 - PSA - Torque that UDH and Full Mount, plus a tangent on torque wrench choice33:28 - Shimano's new cleats42:26 - Explaining Pinarello's Dogma F-Series50:12 - Scott's interesting new Addict endurance road bike58:42 - Counterfeit versus Fake Chains1:14:18 - Ask a Wrench: Chain waxing in hot conditions (member only)1:20:50 - Ask a Wrench: Wheels with creaking spokes (member only)1:28:00 - Ask a Wrench: Setting up a kids bike for better shifting (member only)

In this first dispatch from the field, Josh Weinberg talks to Kurt Refsnider, who is attempting to ride the entire Orogenesis Trail from the Canadian border through Washington, Oregon, and California to Mexico via the Baja Divide.On day 12 of his journey, Kurt shares his progress, which entails riding over 500 miles into Washington with nearly 85,000 feet of climbing, much of it on challenging single-track and moto trails.Kurt also discusses the physical and mental demands of this particular trail thus far. He compares the experience to other long-distance trails, such as the Colorado Trail and the Tour Divide, with an emphasis on how rugged and demanding Orogenesis is. Reflecting on the balance between effort and reward, Kurt also touches on the performance of his equipment, camping conditions, and the encouragement he receives from local riders and towns.

Remember when Juan Ayuso was the biggest story of the week? Today on the show: Protests in the Basque Country bring the Vuelta to a halt, GC Pidcock has arrived, maybe? And we still haven't talked about Juan Ayuso officially leaving UAE, so we'll definitely talk about that.

Today on the show: Juan Solo looks to free himself from the new Death Star, rebel fighter Jonas Vingegaard quietly plots his route to destroying the UAE empire, High Prince Kulset is out of a job thanks to his father, and on the distant republic of Edinburgh, the Grand Départ isn't looking as certain as it once was …

Today on the show: Vuelta drama fizzles before it starts and there's been another bike theft.

The Portland-based Made show has wrapped up for another year, and our website has been buzzing with coverage from the handmade bike event.This week's Geek Warning is a bit different from the usual format, with the conversation focused mainly on what was seen at Made. Here, Dave Rome chats with Escape's US tech editor Josh Weinberg along with famed framebuilder (and Escape contributor!) Rob English.Within you'll hear about emerging trends from the custom bike world, why Rob believes there are no new ideas left for bicycles, and some of Rob and Josh's top picks.As usual, the episode wraps with our regular Ask a Wrench segment, where Zach Edwards (Boulder Groupetto) and Dave Rome answer technical questions from Escape members. You'll need to be on the Escape member podcast feed to listen to this section.See all the coverage from Made 2025 here.Time stamps:2:40 - Explaining Made and industry vibes10:00 - Trends in the handmade scene18:30 - Josh and Rob's favourite bikes of Made31:30 - Rob's absolute favourite - a bike from 197936:00 - A little Aero bike38:30 - Favourite small parts of Made55:45 - Ask a Wrench (Members only)57:00 - A corrections corner related to impact wrenches58:40 - Bottom bracket torque settings1:03:15 - Solving a worn dropout1:09:00 - Sticky cables, sticky drink mix

Today on the show: The Vuelta is underway, Vingegaard is back, and Danny van Poppel can't stop collecting yellow cards.

Today on the show: Mads' middle finger, Pogačar doesn't want you to take his picture, and the Secret Pro is back. And no, we will not be answering the question in the episode title. But you're welcome to guess! 

It's a shorter episode this week as Escape's Suvi Loponen and Dave Rome catch up to discuss the spares they carry and how to ensure they work when you need them most.On the news front, they discuss the latest developments regarding the ongoing Shimano crank recall and an unexpected (and hopefully short-lived) issue affecting older Wahoo Bolt and Roam head units.Finally, Zach Edwards of the Boulder Grupetto returns to Ask a Wrench to answer a number of member-submitted questions.Time stamps:2:00 - Shimano crank recall update11:20 - Older Wahoo devices living in 200615:00 - a PSA to check your spares20:00 - The specific spares we carry35:00 - Made is coming up!37:45 - Ask a Wrench (Member Only)39:25 - Impact wrenches around e-bikes45:20 - Sprockets versus Cogs48:00 - Slipping SPD cleats on carbon shoes53:00 - Hanging up modern bikes

Today on the show: A Vuelta preview from Dane, disqualifications at Romandie with Abby, and Mike Woods is retiring, which makes us sad. Plus, the big green egg Pogačar bought his teammates. 

Head to Escapecollective.com/member to sign up today.Today on the show: Arkea and maybe Jayco are in a little bit of trouble? Tom Pidcock is going for GC again, and Patrick Levefere is angrily posting photos of his sandwiches.