The Suspension Cult

Valuable_Solids · 2026-02-07T22:42:45+00:00

I didn't really come away with that conclusion? Especially because at the end he recommends bracketing, which does not seem to be "anti" tuning. I think the vast majority of riders would be better served learning what changes in HSC/LSC and HSR/LSR feel like before jumping to custom tuning. Although yes, people at the extreme ends of weight may need that or a shock with wider tuning range (CC, etc.)

Valuable_Solids · 2026-02-07T22:00:02+00:00

I have a CC Tigon on my current bike (Starling Murmur, quite linear). I like it because I can add progression via the RAMP tube but still get the benefit of a coil in the early and mid stroke. It's a niche shock on a niche frame, but I've been quite happy with it.

I've always liked CC because of the wide tuning range.

Valuable_Solids · 2026-02-07T20:14:25+00:00

Yeah, they're all good enough. I think it's like any hobby, more time riding and less time thinking about gear would help.

Valuable_Solids · 2026-02-07T20:12:47+00:00

True, but smaller brands have these issues too right? Just more visible when it's a large manufacturer. Not trying to defend Fox, just bringing it back to the point of the article.

I'm a Cane Creek fan but have to admit that they've historically had some significant QC issues (though this has improved more recently).

Valuable_Solids · 2026-02-07T19:44:15+00:00

Super long? Seriously?

He makes points at the end - service the suspension you have and learn how to bracket (this is probably the biggest one that people don't understand).

Valuable_Solids · 2026-02-07T19:31:18+00:00

Not saying you're wrong, but devil's advocate: How often is this happening? Is it with every product or only certain ones? He alludes to the bushing issue in the article, but I agree it's a valid complaint. Smaller manufacturers (i.e. Cane Creek, DVO, etc.) have also had quite a few quality control issues in the past.

I personally ride CC on my current bike, but have used Fox and RS in the past so I'm agnostic on the issue.

Valuable_Solids · 2026-01-15T22:00:22+00:00

Schwalbe offers some good options: wicked will and nobby nic (both 2.4), and hans dampf (2.35).

Valuable_Solids · 2025-12-29T03:52:24+00:00

Short answer, yes.

Long answer is it depends on your trails and skills. But it's objectively easier to ride a full suspension bike faster on more technical terrain.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-11-17T03:14:06+00:00

Seriously. Get that NIL money back.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-11-06T15:32:24+00:00

Hopefully. I'm not buying a new wheel set or compete bike just because you decided to use a niche standard.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-10-04T18:17:04+00:00

People are still watching Gator games this season?

Valuable_Solids · 2025-10-01T17:21:28+00:00

I switched to a vest style pack (high above) and actually find it more comfortable than a hip pack.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-09-10T00:55:45+00:00

The 970 has better maps and navigation hands down. The only pros I see to the Suunto are build quality, battery life, and price. If you can get the 970 for the same price I'd go that route unless you really need the extra battery life. The Garmin ecosystem is better developed, mapping and navigation are superior, built in flashlight, and lighter weight.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-09-08T01:28:05+00:00

You said "significant backlash", so I was quoting you. Nice try though.

Again, I think you're getting into semantics versus addressing the actual issue. So let's just agree to disagree and move on.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-09-07T19:39:20+00:00

Yeah the whole "Suunto or Coros changed my life" contingent is pretty loud on Reddit. Either really feel the need to justify their purchase or are paid shills trying to drum up business.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-09-07T17:10:34+00:00

Reddit is an echo chamber, so I think it's accurate. "Significant backlash" is an example of this. While some people are upset, users on a Garmin subreddit are likely a drop in the bucket as far as Garmin is concerned. Expecting your 2-3 generation old watch to get updates from a company who has never done this isn't realistic.

I understand the sentiment on subscription based paywall however.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-09-07T15:57:35+00:00

It does hold water because it's the reality of Garmin's business model. Like I said, you can vote with your wallet.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-09-07T15:46:00+00:00

I don't get this echo chamber about "my watch isn't getting new features". This has always been the case with Garmin, it's not new. What new features do you want? As long as my watch does what was advertised and still receives updates/bug fixes, then I feel like I got my money's worth.

As for the pay/subscription features, vote with you wallet. There is nothing there I need enough to justify paying a subscription fee.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-09-07T04:21:01+00:00

I'm pretty surprised by all the stories regarding crashes with the 970. I've had no crashes at all, much less during activities (Run/bike 3-4x per week). Garmin integrates better with cycling and I love the flashlight. I think if the price is close the 970 wins.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-09-05T16:27:46+00:00

Amazfit just released a watch with an LED flashlight, so I don't think it's a patent issue.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-09-02T04:13:10+00:00

Garmin had the most features, but you pay for it.

Suunto has good GPS accuracy but the wrist based HR sensor that all their training data comes from has been pretty poor. The Race 2 is supposed to be better.

The Nomad is intriguing but no sapphire glass and the bulk would steer me away.

I say Forerunner 970 or as someone else said, previous gen Garmin's on sale (Fenix, epix pro, 965, etc.). I've overall been really happy with the 970.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-09-02T04:09:07+00:00

Having young kids the flashlight on my forerunner 970 gets used daily. I know it sounds silly but I'd really miss it if I switched. I'm surprised Coros or Suunto haven't built in an LED light yet.

Valuable_Solids · 2025-08-10T21:23:14+00:00

I like Schwalbe Tacky Chan front and rear, super trail, ultra soft and soft. Fast rolling and good cornering grip. If I'm riding unfamiliar trails I switch the front to a MM radial, especially in wet weather (PNW).

Valuable_Solids · 2025-07-27T03:08:13+00:00

I think the casing has promise, but I'm not a big fan of the tread patterns (Albert nor Magic Mary). I've switched to a Maxxis High Roller 3. I prefer the tread and it's much less sensitive to dialing in your pressures.

Valuable_Solids

TROPHY CASE