CHUMBA Racing Official Blog - Mountain Bikes

EVO G2 Cable Routing: Innovative Design

2012-01-25T16:51:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends & Customers,

There has been some confusion about cable routing on the EVO G2. The EVO G2 uses cable routing that routes down the downtube, and below the bottom bracket. We've not had one complaint from anyone who has routed their cables in this manner about the imaginary fear of having rocks bash the cables.

Just in case you were wondering, there are a ton of bike companies that route the cables in the exact, if not very similar method that we use for the EVO G2. One of them is Specialized, who recently had the cables in full display on the cover of a recent Mountain Bike Action. Similarly, Yeti also routes their cables along the bottom of the BB.

We particularly liked this method of cable routing because it hides the cables on about 95 percent of the front triangle, and tucks them away very neat. For people who are not used to this style of routing, we would recommend for them to give it a shot!

U.S. and International Sales Agent Brad Kula

2012-01-24T10:47:00.001-08:00

Hello all fellow Chumba Riders,

Recently I had the opportunity to join the Chumba Team I will be head of all U.S. and International Sales. I look forward to working with all Chumba riders! If any dealers, individual riders, or anyone interested in Chumba has questions, feel free to send me an email at Brad@chumbaracing.com I Look forward to working with you all!

We are ready to make 2012 the year for Chumba. My main goal is to deliver a great product in a timely manner promptly responding to any concerns with a strong focus on customer service. With that being said, I'm proud to announce myself as Head of U.S. and International Sales.

Thanks,

Brad Kula
Chumba Sales Rep
18 years of High-Performance Mountain Bikes Cypress | California | Tel: 714.388.6937 | brad@chumbaracing.com

Riding with One Leg on a HX2

2012-01-12T16:36:00.001-08:00

Quick Ride from Lane Wiley on Vimeo.

Wishing Everyone a Happy Winter Season!

2011-11-20T23:10:00.001-08:00

Keep positive CHUMBA friends & family! Thanks for all your support and looking forward to many more good times in the coming years ahead. As we move into the Winter season, let us share our smiles and warmth with our friends and neighbors!

Customer Service Forum and Requests

2011-11-07T12:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Customers,

We are in a transitional period launching a new forum where you can list all of your customer service concerns, as well as a fully functional store that will list all the inventory we have in stock.

We are trying to be as transparent as possible and improve the overall quality of your customer service experience. We know that things can be overlooked during this time, and for this, we are sincerely sorry.

We would like to encourage you to visit: http://www.chumbaracing.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=17&t=4

Sign up and provide feedback, requests, or suggestions, and we will do our best to improve the experience for all.

Sincerely,

CHUMBA Management

New CHUMBA Store!

2011-11-07T10:33:00.000-08:00

Check out our new store at store.chumbaracing.com

We are still updating and revising, so if you have any questions before purchasing anything, send us an e-mail at info@chumbaracing.com. We appreciate all your feedback and all your support!

EVO G2: Proven Performance. Dakota Dulmage in OC.

2011-11-07T10:09:00.000-08:00

Customer Satisfaction with ELKA Tune!

2011-10-20T11:32:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo of my build. Thanks for your help with the Elka shock. I wanted to wait until I rode it a few times to contact u so that I could tell u what I think. Well, it is sick! I love the bike, the frame is super stiff and precise. The Elka is fantastic - keeping the rear wheel locked on the ground. The performance is so much better than my old bike. During last nights ride I was on my friends tail like never before - they noticed too! It was all due to the excellent geometry and performance of the Chumba. I'm convinced, my next bike will bee a Chumba - ill start saving for the Evo G2!

Thanks again!

P.S. Jim, your bike looks awesome!

EVO G2 in Powder White, Anodized Jet Blue, and Silver Metallic! Available Now.

2011-10-20T11:27:00.000-07:00

Check out the latest pictures of the ground-breaking EVO G2. Incredible finishes, awesome custom options, and the ability to tune your bike's performance like nothing else on the market. These bikes truly set the standard. Send an e-mail to sales@chumbaracing.com for size and color availability.

CHUMBA is looking for help! Freelance artists, sales, etc.

2011-10-15T16:07:00.000-07:00

Dear CHUMBA Friends,

We are looking for help in the following areas:

1) Freelance artists: must be versed in photoshop, illustrator. Help design graphics, artwork, brochures, on a per-project basis.

2) Outside Sales Reps: help open new accounts and manage existing ones.

Please inquire at sales@chumbaracing.com.

Thank you!

Custom-Powdercoating Available on Limited Basis

2011-10-14T10:04:00.000-07:00

We are now offering custom colors on limited sizes of the EVO G2. Currently in stock, we have:

1 EVO G2 XS (15") - Metallic Orange
1 EVO G2 XS (15") - Gunmetal Gray
1 EVO G2 S (17") - Gunmetal Gray
1 EVO G2 L (19") - Lime Metallic Green

Send us an e-mail at sales@chumbaracing.com for more information.

Shots of Anodized Jet Blue EVO G2 in ACTION!

2011-10-03T11:34:00.000-07:00

Here are shots taken in Mammoth, California this past weekend of the Anodized Jet Blue EVO G2. You saw this bike being built up on September 12, 2011 in our assembly room. Now see what it can do!

New, Incredible Pictures of 29er Complete Bike Silver HX2

2011-09-26T10:38:00.000-07:00

The CHUMBA 29er leads the industry in build quality, geometry, performance, and rigidity. These bikes are stiff, offer an engineered chassis maximized for handling. The balance, steering, and handling of this bike is unparalleled. Further, the features of sophisticated hydroformed tube shapes eliminates gussets and weight. The tapered zero stack headtube offers precision steering, massive rear tire clearance, and impeccable build quality. For more information on frames and complete bikes, contact sales@chumbaracing.com.

F5 Video Filmed in Southern California

2011-09-12T11:17:00.001-07:00

We found this film we shot awhile back, and thought we'd share.

Awesome Climbing Ability of EVO G2!

2011-09-12T10:20:00.001-07:00

Watch the FCC suspension in action. The frame minimizes pedal bob, transferring all pedaling input into forward motion. This allows this all-mountain frame to climb like a light XC racer. Watch as this rider shows what this frame can do.

Sneak Peek of Anodized Blue EVO G2

2011-09-12T10:18:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends and Customers:

Here's a sneak peek of our new anodized electric blue EVO G2. She will be making the rounds for a photo shoot, test ride, and video in Mammoth. Stay tuned for more pics and hopefully video!

RAD system. Adjustable wheelbase, and different style dropouts being developed at our on-site manufacturing facility.

EVO G2 in Stock and Shipping Now!

2011-08-30T12:41:00.000-07:00

The long awaited day is here, EVO G2 frames are in stock and shipping now in all sizes and colors. Contact us at sales@chumbaracing.com, or contact an authorized reseller.

Update of Albert Flynn Desilver: CHUMBA VF2 Goes to Tahoe!

2011-08-22T16:29:00.000-07:00

Hi CHUMBA:

Thought you'd appreciate this photo of me rockin the stairs with my trusty
VF2, which I'm loving more than ever!

Best wishes always,

Albert DeSilver
Woodacre, CA

Incredible New Shots of HX1 & VF2 from Orange County, California

2011-08-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

Pristine dime-bead welding, perfect alignment of tubes, sophisticated tube-shaping engineered for maximum strength and rigidity, massive seatstay and chainstay yokes, with a tapered head tube. The culmination of 18 years of R&D, not one misaligned frame in our history, and unsurpassed quality. These frames are the pinnacle of quality and development in our industry.

Check out these shots from last weeks photo shoot:

CHUMBA-ElKA Custom-valved Chassis Service Available

2011-08-17T12:00:00.001-07:00

Dear CHUMBA Friends and Riders:

As many of you know, we have formed a partnership with ELKA suspension to custom-valve all available CHUMBA suspension frames to reach the pinnacle of performance with respect to your bicycle. We have analyzed all of our frames with ELKA, to attain the perfect combination of compression and rebound depending on your weight, riding style, and frame you choose.

The proper amount of compression and rebound designed around your linkage is vital in suspension performance. The EVO G2 uses a patent pending system, that alters the frame's suspension feel when using either a coil shock or an air shock. Other frames don't make this differentiation. The ELKA then further fine tunes this linkage and shock combo to give you unsurpassed performance climbing, descending, and handling all technical terrain. In short, the performance is taken to new levels not offered by other manufacturers.

Here is what a rider who recently participated in this service had to say, "I am able to climb further up the same technical slopes than on my Ellsworth Moment or Ibis Mojo. Does it mean that it is better? I would think so. Compared to the dw-link, the EVO G2 is definitely more plush, and the ELKA definitely helps...the rear end doesn't flex like the Ibis Mojo..."

Attached, you will find a sample report that is made available at the time of shipping your frame. Sample PDF Report for Custom-valved Rear Suspension

For additional information on how to attain a custom-valved suspension for you, please e-mail info@chumbaracing.com.

New Phone Numbers

2011-08-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

We have received some new phone #s, so please call the following and our website will be updated as well in a few short days.

Bicycle and Frame Sales: 714.388.6937

Order Status and Customer Care: 714.388.6287

Fax: 714.735.4421

Thanks for your patience.

-CHUMBA

Free CHUMBA Keychain to first 50 Orders

2011-08-04T13:12:00.000-07:00

We love our valued customers and we want to show our deep appreciation for your support. This key chain is valued at $4.99 and for the next 50 orders that go out we're going to throw in a Chumba key chain for free, and some Chumba stickers!

Contact: Oscar@chumbaracing PH: (714)204-5221

2012 Shimano XT now Available for All CHUMBA Complete Bicycles

2011-08-03T14:04:00.000-07:00


Chumba is stocked up on the lastest 2012 Shimano XT parts! Get these goodies on your Chumba before they're gone!!

Contact: Oscar@chumbaracing.com

Custom-tuning for your EVOG2 - Perfection in the Ride

2011-07-27T12:48:00.000-07:00

EVO G2 with Custom-Valved ELKA Shock

Dear Friends,

We would like to announce our new custom-valved rear shock program with the New EVO G2. The EVO G2 was specifically engineered to accept coil shocks with a different shock mount to produce a better leverage rate to accommodate coil springs.

This leads to the ultimate in performance, making the EVO G2 an extremely pedal efficient, and super-plush on the rough terrain.

So if you are considering a custom-valved shock for your weight, riding style, and your frame, you can contact us at info@chumbaracing.com to get the ultimate in tuning for your ride.

The 29er that Puts the Rest to Shame: CHUMBA HX2

2011-07-27T12:41:00.000-07:00

Boasting some of the finest craftsmanship in the world, the HX2 sets a new standard on what a 29er frame should look like. There is simply no comparison.

Proven Downieville Slayer: The VF2

2011-07-25T16:01:00.000-07:00

Hello,

Just thought I would drop you guys a note and tell you that when I purchased the VF2 I never thought that it was going to be the ultimate Downieville bike. I rode Downieville this past Saturday and the VF2 handled everything the trail had to offer with no problem!! I fell in love with this bike even more during this ride. Thank you guys so much for offering OUTSTANDING bikes at a price the normal guy can afford!!! I think I see an EVO in my future.

Best Regards,

Nathan Thompson

Racing on the HX1 for Maximum Results!

2011-07-18T13:19:00.000-07:00

Chumba Racing,
Its been a while since I have given an update for you guys so here it is! It has been a very tough start to the season for myself. I got sick in March after college visits. I trained and raced as much as I could but many weekends had to be spent resting in bed. Up until April i didn't know why I couldn't shake this sickness, but my doctor finally ordered up some blood tests for Mono and they came back positive. I started feeling a little better in the beginning of May but by the end of May and into June I couldn't bear it any more. After my last race on that Tuesday in June until now I have had to continue to rest even though the Mono is gone but something else is still wrong so I'm on my third antibiotic which is hopefully the magic number because the doctors believe I have a recurrence of pneumonia that i had in last fall. Oh yea did I tell you I got bit by a bat on a twilight ride in the beginning of June. It been a crazy spring and start to the summer but in a week I should be back at it and preparing for my journey to Brevard College in North Carolina to race collegiate cycling and study. Yes I will be representing the Brevard Tornado's Collegiate Cycling Team as well as Chumba Racing this fall. Attached are some photos of my 2 amazing Chumba Racing machines and a first look at my racing outfit made for all of my sponsors so I can further support them and the great things they have contributed to make my racing all possible! I also have some results to boast in my first year racing in the Expert class(Cat 1). My highlight result is the second to last race before i got really sick again which was at Holiday Valley Ski Mountain where I came in first place on my Chumba HX2, which plowed over the roots and rock gardens to win by a 4 minute gap beating the local pro. I have been constantly looked for updates on the new Chumba EVO G2 which I cannot wait to hop on and shred down and up the ski mountains! Let me know when i can get a hold of one of these frames in a size large because I have already started getting parts and cannot wait to see if this revolution in frame construction is as awesome as is looks!

thanks,
Kenneth

Racing Teaser <== Check out the video!

An Owner's Perspective on owning a CHUMBA

2011-07-07T12:16:00.000-07:00

"Just thought I would drop you a line and let you know how well my new Chumba VF2 is going. After a successful day of building, tinkering and tweaking, my lovely Chumba was born, and I havent looked back since!

I have so far completed a 19.5 kilometre and a 25 kilometre race. both were really good fun and there was some healthy competition between us women riders. Coming up is a club XC race and a 6 hour enduro. I have also had a go at night riding, and find it one of the most exhilerating and adrenaline packed experiences ever! Our club holds weekly social rides that have helped me to learn new skills and meet many of the talented riders that we seem to produce here in the Red Centre.

I am incredibly happy with my VF2 and am thoroughly enjoying racing through the single tracks of Alice Springs on it!

Thanks again for your information and advice" Gemma

Hx1 AM build

2011-07-06T11:59:00.000-07:00

We have decided to put together a 2x10 X.9 Sram build with a 6 inch Fox fork to potentially make an AM hardtail machine! We haven't recommend a 6 inch fork on such a bike, but we're putting it to the test.

Oscar@ChumbaRacing.com

Hardtails That Put the Competition to Rest

2011-06-20T10:21:00.000-07:00

The industry leader offers our take on what a hardtail should be about. Welds of perfection, hydroforming with visual and materials sophistication, and features like a solid EBB, monocoque seat strut, and massive chainstay and seatstay yokes for stiffness, the HX1 and HX2 are at the pinnacle of the food chain.

We have a limited number of beautiful hard tails in stock ready to ship! These are going to go fast, so get these in your stores or hands asap! $699.00 each. We now offer frame and fork (Reba Race Dual Air) combos! Frame + fork $999. Please feel free to contact me at sales@chumbaracing.com.

Another VF2!

2011-05-04T14:30:00.000-07:00

Hi CHUMBA:

I just thought I should let you know my VF2 frame arrived last week, so thank you for that. My brother opened the box for me and was very jealous of my large Chumba sticker! He also owns a VF2 and is a very fast and skilled rider. He is helping me build my bike.

I have attached a photo from our local newspaper so you can see chumba being represented in Alice Springs, Australia by Ben Gooley (my brother) over the weekend at the Northern Territory MTB Titles. He is second from the left (wearing a chumba jersey) and in this race he led the pack around the first lap of the 9km XC course (approx 23mins!) then ended up coming third overall (and second in his class). I think they did 4 laps in total.

Anyway, just thought you might be interested.

Thanks again for being so informative and prompt, I really appreciate your help

Cheers

Gemma Gooley

VF2 Update from Matt

2011-05-02T09:31:00.000-07:00

Dear CHUMBA:

My wife got a horse and I got a Chumba. The Chumba is a much smoother ride and only eats dirt.

I've had the bike for a month now and love it. I never thought I would ride a full suspension bike, but this bike rides fantastic and takes a lot of the beating my back used to take.

Thanks for all your help.

Matt Mandeville

Jacksonville, FL

HX1 / HX2 / EVO G2 Headset Technical Spec

2011-04-07T14:00:00.000-07:00

Any headset with the same spec as the one below will work. Call us if you'd like to order directly from us for one of your frames.

FSA Orbit 1.5ZS Internal 1-1/8" top/1.5" lower

Part Number: HD4553
Category: Headsets
Manufacturer: FSA (Full Speed Ahead)
Model: Orbit 1.5ZS
Manufacturer Part Number: 141-2040
Universal Product Code: 400310033208

Orbit 1.5ZS is a 1-1/8" Zero stack top cup paired to a 1.5" Zero Stack lower cup. For use with tapered steerers and tapered headtubes

Item Specifications
Color	Black
Material	Alloy
Steerer Tube	1 1/8" to 1.5" Tapered
Crown Race	39.7
Stack Height	19.8mm
Bearing Type	ACB
Headset Type	Internal Upper 44mm OD, Internal Lower 56mm OD

New XS HX1 Build with 2011 XTR

2011-04-07T11:30:00.000-07:00

Bling alert! For riders around 5'1 - 5'4". We built up this beauty.

She boasts:

2011 XTR Drivetrain
Industry nine XC hubs and spokes laced to Stan's rims
Fox 120 Terralogic 15mm
Hope Mono M4
Thomson Stem & Post
Maxxis Ignitor Tires
& much more!

For custom builds and inquiries contact sales@chumbaracing.com

Hardtail Gallery - New Pics!

2011-03-30T21:01:00.000-07:00

These beautiful new HX1 frames offer the latest and most innovative features, boasting unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail not offered by any other frame manufacturer today. The zero-stack tapered head tube offers a wide variety of headtube angles, and fits tapered steerer tubes from Fox Racing and other major fork manufacturers. The double-butted hydroformed top tube offers extremely sophisticated and refined shapes - offering an aesthetic appeal only the CHUMBA brand can offer. Further, the seatstay and chainstay yokes are machined from one-piece aluminum, offering industry-leading tire clearance and stability of the rear triangle.

For more information, contact a dealer or distributor today.

New Hardtails Featured on Single Track World!

2011-03-30T20:47:00.001-07:00

Simon from Progressive Bikes got an excellent piece written up at SingleTrackWorld.com. Check out the new HX1 and its new innovative features and industry-leading craftsmanship here: http://www.singletrackworld.com/2011/03/new-chumba-hardtails/#comments

VF2 Testimonial from John H.

2011-02-09T14:25:00.000-08:00

Dear CHUMBA:

Thanks for supporting me in by Chumba Bike Build. This was my first build, and you really helped me through the process. I really appreciate the candid advice on component selection. I know this is support that I would not have gotten from some of the bike conglomerates. I was real happy when I received the frame.

Coming from a machining and manufacturing background, I recognize the quality work that goes into the frame. The fit and finish was top notch. The welds were perfect, are they done robotically? The machined surfaces made component installation a breeze. The bike feels substantial when I'm on it, as the tubes are light, but beefy. Nice job! I'd like to say that I look forward to my next bike from you, but I think I'll break myself before this rig gets broken.

Best Regards,

John Harrison

New Distributor in Norway - Check them out!

2011-02-02T14:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

We've officially signed a new distributor in Norway. The owner Nils, is a mountain biking enthusiast, and has detailed knowledge and information about all of our products. He is currently stocking the HX1, HX2, and VF2. He will also be carrying the EVO G2 in April. Please check out his website and give him a call or e-mail if you are in Norway. http://www.friksjon-sykkel.no/

A Piece of History from Japan

2011-01-31T13:53:00.000-08:00

A bunch of downhill, slalom, and trail bikes from the old days, including the F4, the Zulu DH, and the Zulu DSS. These bikes were all hand-built in Anaheim, California. Check them out here: http://kamazou.web.fc2.com/dss-3.htm

Stolen CHUMBA VF2 Complete

2011-01-31T11:54:00.001-08:00

A customer e-mailed this to us, so if you see it come up anywhere suspicious, please give the owner a ring. I'm sure he'd greatly appreciate it.

Bike4Passion & CHUMBA: A Partnership for the Ages

2011-01-21T12:57:00.001-08:00

We are pleased to report that we have signed Bike4Passion as our exclusive distributor for the country of Italy. Marco, the owner, is a passionate rider and enthusiast, who has previously been the sole distributor for brands such as Devinci.

He chose CHUMBA based on the technical prowess and personalized attention he receives. He says, "CHUMBA has the makings of a strong following here in Italy, and we hope with the new HX1, new HX2, VF2, and new EVO G2, we will be able to provide the highest quality products here in Italy."

He's been building a number of aggressive VF2s sporting coil rear shocks and 6 inch forks up front. Check out the bikes and his website and give him a call if you are in the area.

Bike4Passion: http://www.bike4passion.altervista.org/

The Most Stunning Hardtail Yet: 2011 HX1 Frame

2011-01-21T12:33:00.000-08:00

The Most Precise, High-Quality Welding in the Industry

The picture above is a randomly-selected frame out of our production batch. All of our frames will offer the quality you see above. It’s no secret, CHUMBA offers the highest quality in manufacturing today. Impeccably-laid dime-shaped weld beads, you won’t find messy or blurred welds on our bikes, many even ask if these welds are laid robotically. However, the truth is that these welders are selected for decades of experience, and are the best welders in the industry. If you have any doubts, grab any CHUMBA frame and put it up against another rig to see for yourself.

Quality, Design, and Innovation Ensured for Over 17 Years

We’ve designed, manufactured, and tested frames for over 17 years for national champions like Duncan Riffle and Lars Tribus; but we’ve also paid a lot of attention on designing frames for the rest of us, weekend warriors. We integrate the same attention and quality to detail on all of our frames as if you would be competing in a UCI World Cup.

A Legacy of Innovation and Performance: Features

Integrated Seat Mast for Increased Rear-end Rigidity

• Tapered Zero-Stack 1 1/8” – 1/5” Headtube – accepts Cane Creek angleset

• Double-butted, hydroformed tubeset

• Same Race-proven Geometry of Original HX1

• EBB for Single-speed or Geared Offering Flexibility for Build Options

• New Graphics for 2011

• Ultra-wide Seatstay and Chainstay Yokes for Exceptional Rear Tire Clearance

• MSRP: $699.00

New Partnership with ELKA Suspension

2011-01-21T11:25:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,

We'd like to announce a new partnership with ELKA suspension. We've worked very closely with them to custom-valve, and custom tune the rear suspension to the linear chassis of the VF2. The results of pairing the linear active 4-bar with the linear coil shock, with the right amount of compression dampening and rebound have been stunning.

For those of you that haven't heard of ELKA, they are a leading suspension manufacturer for ATVs and other sports equipment. They produce all of their products in-house and offer high-quality CNC machined parts for their products and technical custom prowess to all of their products and customers. The results on the CHUMBA VF2 prove that this will be a well-suited partnership.

We begin testing with sponsored Yamaha ATV rider Dustin Nelson who has done extensive consulting work for Yamaha's R&D division. He's proved instrumental in maximizing suspension performance for our bicycles as well.

We are providing a very limited run of ELKA Stage 5 shocks with the VF2, so if you are interested, give us a call (888-997-2666) or e-mail (info@chumbaracing.com) to discuss these exciting new developments!

For those that are interested, here's some words from ELKA with comments from our engineers on the work they've done on the VF2:

Elka Suspension’s approach to the mountain bike market isthe same that made it successful in other markets such as ATV, Side-by-SideVehicles and Motorcycles: we analyze the vehicle’s geometry (bike) and adapt ourproduct to get the most out of it. Our customers thus benefit from the sameadvantages they would get from a personalized suspension tuning (i.e. Push)straight form the factory, without any additional charges. Below is asimplified explanation of the process our R&D staff will go through inorder to develop a custom-tuned valving for any bike design, using the newChumba VF2 and EVO G2 model as an example.

1. During initial product development, our engineers have donedata acquisition on many bikes with various suspension designs. This helpedthem understand what is happening at the wheels on any kind of terrain,independently from the bike design. The data logged was the bike’s speed andthe position, velocity and acceleration of the wheel. This allows them to calculatethe forces at the wheel that needs to be absorbed for all kinds of impacts.

2. The designer / engineer / product manager of the bikemanufacturer provides us the following information:

a. Bikemodel name and year(s)

b. Wheeltravel

c. Leverageratio curve (graph showing the variation of the ratio throughout the wheeltravel)

d. Mountinghardware dimensions

e. Additionalinformation input about the intended use, suspension feeling goals, performancegoals, etc.

3. When that information is not available (or not enough), we getthe actual bike in our R&D labs and measure it to get the data we need. Wealso further use the bike for testing with our development racers and riders.

4. Our engineers will process that data using a special software(Bike Checker’s Linkage) to analyse the geometry, determine how the shock needsto work to optimize certain ride characteristics based on the leverage ratioand linkage design. Using the data logged on the trail combined withdynamometer testing, our engineers are able to replicate wheel movement on thedyno at the shock level and therefore create a dynamic calculation chart togenerate data for shock tuning, independently from the bike’s geometry andsuspension design.

5. For example, Chumba's VF2 uses a relatively linear leverage rate curve from beginning to end; being slightly regressive during the beginning towards the latter half of its stroke, with a slight amount of progressiveness towards the end of the stroke for increased bottom-out resistance. This gives a deep, supple feel during the beginning and middle of it's travel providing a bottomless feel, but also a slight ramp-up towards the end to preventing bottoming out when the maximum amount of travel is used. Given this information, we've been able to dial in the appropriate amount of compression and rebound to compliment this feel.

On the other hand, Chumba’s new EVO G2 model uses a similar shocksize/stroke as the previous generation but has a slightly higher leverage ratiowith a slightly more progressive curve from fully extended until the lastquarter of the wheel travel where it becomes digressive. That means the bikewill feel smoother initially, then will feel gradually stiffer and use lesstravel on mid-sized bumps to finally tend to be easier to bottom-out. It alsohas a mild anti-squat effect built-in to improve pedaling eficieny. To get themost out of this design, our shock needs to have less low-speed compressiondamping than the previous generation in order to keep and smooth initialfeeling with just enough pedaling “platform”. The shock also needs to have astrong damping and high threshold point for the high-speed compression circuitto prevent harsh bottoming-out. This is how we can tune the shock to achievethe best ride possible from a suspension design.

6. The engineers will produce some prototypes that arecustom-valved and will test them on the dynamometer to generate data that willhelp validate if the valving provides what the bike needs at the wheel. Oncethese results are good, they will send the prototypes to the manufacturer fortesting and approval.

7. Once the manufacturer has approved our tuning, it is thenoffered to the general public in the aftermarket and sometimes as stock on thebike (OEM) or as an upgrade by the manufacturers.

8. That’s what involved for each you see on our huge applicationlist !

Featured Bicycle: 28lb. VF2 Trail Slayer - Carbon Components

2011-01-21T11:12:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone!

We've been busy reorganizing and planning for a successful 2011! Our loyal customer base produced some stunning bikes based off of our VF2 chassis and we thought we'd share some pictures with you all.

This custom build offers a CCDB with Titanium spring and DT Swiss front carbon fork. The VF2 is a perfect frame for the most elite level builds and offers performance to match.

We offer custom builds and would love to discuss any build options or plans you might have. Shoot us an e-mail at info@chumbaracing.com to discuss!

CHUMBA Co-sponsors Event in Irvine, California for Mountain Biking with the Blind

2010-11-03T16:21:00.001-07:00

CHUMBA Tattoos

2010-10-12T11:37:00.000-07:00

Nope, we didn't hold a big contest or sweepstakes promising a free expensive bike to see a tattoo of our beloved mascot. Our riders do it out of plain stoke for the brand. Check out Joe's newest tattoo, and I've included some other tattoos from the past.

From the past:

CHUMBA XCL Down A-Line in Whistler

2010-10-11T16:10:00.001-07:00

More XCL ride stoke we received over the weekend:

I have a used Chumba XCL that i got from a friend and i wanted to say it is one of the best bikes i have ever been on. I have had quite a few different brands and designs over the past few years, but the thing just rips singletrack. Handles drops and technical terrain well too, if the transitions are good. I have a modified RockShox Domain stepped down to 150 mm of travel on the front and the bike is absolutely perfectly balanced for steep trails, climbing or descending. A 160mm fork was just too much for the bike and made it wander too much on the climbs and squat into the rears travel with the weight bias shifted back that far, but 150 is spot on for a fork. Just wanted to drop you guys a line and let you know i love the ride. I ride very rocky east coast trails and it just fits the bill. It took me about 3 weeks to get the bike perfectly setup (shock air, fork, swaping out stems etc), but once i got used to how the suspension behaves and the cockpit tuned, i am completely impressed with the bike. When/if i break it i think i will probably have to come back for another Chumba. To be honest i was impressed with how bottomless the suspension feels. It feels more like my 180mm bike than past 140mm bikes but without all the added weight. Good job guys.

Thanks,
Dan

Take a Kid MTB Day

2010-10-05T11:38:00.000-07:00

A good event and cause. Here's an e-mail we received from one of the organizers:

Thanks so much to you and CHUMBA's continued generosity
towards the free kids raffle and give away.
The items you donated were a hit with the groms.
Overall we had our largest event to date with over 50 kids joining in
(100+ peeps in total)
It rained a bit during the ride, but nothing could put a damper on the
event with the kids smiling the entire time.
Again thanks so much for your support.
I have attached a .pdf with some pictures of the days fun as well as
short video as well (which can be found here -> http://bit.ly/cph4aV
Again thanks and we hope you will be a supporter in the years ahead.

Regards,

Adam

CHUMBA F5 Featured in BIKE France

2010-09-16T11:20:00.000-07:00

For more information contact our French Distributor at:

Loïs Debièvre

Gérant Draille Bike

Tel : +336 77 80 88 44

MSN : loisdebievre@hotmail.fr

Skype : loistunt

www.draillebike.com

CHUMBA Partners with Mountain Biking with the Blind

2010-08-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

CHUMBA has officially partnered with Mountain Biking with the Blind. At the next event, we will be donating a small HX2 frame in blue.

Here's some information about what they have going on:

World Access for the Blind is excited to announce that 97.1 AMP Radio will be partnering with us to be the radio sponsor for our event Mountain Biking with the Blind! They will be covering the event on-air and on-line and will be sending their "street team" to participate in the event.

We are also thrilled to have PureFit Nutrition Bars as the official nutrition bar of our event. Their 100% All-Natural bars will keep our participants healthy and energized through their challenging ride.

To learn more about our blind mountain bikers, please check out the attached article from Mountain Bike Action magazine.

If you are interested in spreading the word, creating a team, or becoming a sponsor of Mountain Biking with the Blind, please contact Kelly at kelly.husted@worldaccessfortheblind.org or (323) 744-0370. All donations are tax-deductible and support World Access for the Blind's mobility programs and sports programs for blind youth. In return, we will promote you as a sponsor on our website, on our Facebook page, and in all printed materials and press releases about the event. Thank you for your consideration.

For more information, contact:

Kelly Husted
Development Manager
World Access for the Blind
(323) 744-0370
worldaccessfortheblind.org

Modified HX2 for Lane Wiley - Riding with a Disability

2010-08-17T11:30:00.000-07:00

Here's a little background info. In 1996, I was fitted with a misaligned prosthetic leg that turned my world upside down. My body/muscular structure was changing (and not for the good). I eventually lost my golf game, and pretty soon it became painful to do even the most basic task. Through this time I always had a bike (been riding since I was six) to rely on to keep me in shape and to take my mind off things. I was working 24/7 in my head and rebuilding my leg myself on the floor of my bedroom to figure out what went wrong. I even made parts for my foot out of duct tape that were able to get me by for a while. In 2007 I finally found someone in Houston that was able to help me. Not long after that, I had a new leg that was not throwing my hip socket 140 degrees out of whack. Not having your hip socket rubbing on your pelvis is a great feeling by the way. This newer leg was nice because I could ride without my leg wanting to shoot off. And, with a little bit more room at the top of the socket, I could leave the neoprene belt off. Ahhh, no more sawing motion on my waist. I wore the silicone liner and hydraulic cylinder out (under warranty, thank god!) on my leg in a under a year. My old 1986 GT Mach One that I had owned since new gave out as well (cracked seat tube). This was a problem because I had some tall handle bars that I was able to reach with my little arm and was pretty comfortable with a upright riding position. I tried a lot of bikes at my local bike shop and reluctantly got a Specialized Hardrock. It was a good bike, but I was in an awkward position on it while trying to walk my 85 pound German Shepherd. I eventually started riding more. I took it off road once and struggled greatly in the woods. I had one mishap right after dusk. I hit a black speed bump that I couldn't see. I was able to save myself from hitting the pavement, but that was enough for me. I was freaking out every 20 feet trying to figure out how to deal with every obstacle that was in my way - curbs, cracks in the road, branches, rocks, thick grass etc. The discomfort factor was wearing me out. I could only last maybe 20 minutes on a ride. Leaning over on my elbow any longer than that made my neck hurt for most of the next day. I had to mentally scream at myself before the ride with both bikes to get pumped up enough to ride. It felt like I was getting ready for an Olympic Bobsledding run. I knew I needed a new bike that fit better. A friend loaned me a Marlin that was too big and was unrideable for me. I tried a few different bikes at my LBS. The Pivot Mach 4 was fast, but still didn't fit right. The Specialized FSR had a great ride, but I bobbed like crazy and it favored my left leg too much. The Orbea 29er was too much of an XC riding position, plus I was unsure about getting those big hoops moving. But the more I read about them, the more it seemed to be the direction to go considering my height. I found a picture of a Chumba HX2 and said to myself "That's it!."

I called Chumba and told them the story of me and my disabilities and was able to ask a few questions about the bike. I saw a guy riding a bike with an artificial leg on their site so I figured I was in good hands. I got a hold of Alan later that day and told him my story. He calmly said yeah "We can do it. We can even modify the bike for you." I was skeptical about modifying the bike. In the past, I just adapted my body to things like skateboards and golf clubs with no problems. I was willing to try something new. If it didn't work, I could just put it back to its original configuration. Alan was able to create something with two handle bars, two stems and a longer fork steerer tube using the pics and video that I sent him. He came up with a pretty awesome set up. After my LBS assembled it, I took it for a spin around the shop and was really surprised that we really didn't have to adjust anything other than the seat height. We raised the seat up a little that was it. It felt so good that when they asked if I needed help putting it in my trunk, I thought for a second and said "screw that, I'm riding this sucka home".

I stopped by a friend's house who recently got a new 29er and off we went to hit some trails on the other side of town. The new bar positioning gave me more neck freedom to survey my surroundings better. This helped tremendously in traffic. On to the trails. These were trails I had never seen before. I didn't even know they existed. I had a great time until we got by the four wheeler trails by the river. I came upon a huge, steep section about the size of a one story rooftop. I suddenly had flashbacks of chickening out with my BMX on some E.T./extraterrestrial lots back when I lived in San Diego. While I was debating myself to cross it, I fell over on some logs. I got stuck in the toe clips and whacked the frame with my artificial leg. I thought, "Well there goes the paint." There wasn't even a scratch. I got back up and went down the section keeping my left "good" foot down just in case. At the bottom, you have to make a hard right turn or you'll go right in to the bushes. WOO! I MADE IT!! The ride to this trail took a while, so I was able to figure out with the two bars what was going to work and what felt natural to me. The extra height on the left bar felt great. I instinctively put my right arm in the normal position. That quick trail ride helped me figure out what my body would reach for when I had obstacles to deal with. I had not planned for a ride that intense with a new bike, or with two bars which I knew could be dangerous for me. But, we were on a short trail. Other than the drop in I felt I was ok. I knew I was on a special bike when I came upon a right hairpin turn with a large log. The fact that the trail was muddy made it even more interesting. I leaned into the turn, went right over a log the size of my arm and nothing happened. It was like it wasn't even there. The Maxxis Ignitors were great in the mud. Even with one leg pumping, I never slipped. We rode for five hours that day. As we approached my friend's house, my cheap temporary pedals fell apart and my friend lost a spoke on his rear wheel.

WHAT A GREAT DAY!! A Five hour ride? Are you kidding me? I felt like I had not even done anything that day, I was totally energized. I kept the two bars on for a while until I was definitely sure which which way I wanted them. I finally cut the upper right and the lower left and put some plastic caps in the bars for safety. My neighborhood is a haven for road bikes. The relatively steep hills and 1.7 mile kidney bean shaped layout make for a nice little track. Also, no through traffic makes it the safest place to ride in town. As I was getting more comfortable with the bike, I was able to compare it to my other bikes by running it flat out for two laps. The Chumba did great, no problem getting the big wheels up to speed. I was running low tire pressure and still liked how smooth it was. I was amazed at how I was able to go over roots, curbs and cracks in the road (the roads are horrible in Louisiana). I pumped the tires up just to check the top speed of the HX2 and started off down a hill full blast. I was flying in no time. It was way too fast for me, so we went right back home and let some air out of the tires. I was having a lot of fun with the lower pressures riding over roots. I found myself purposefully not going straight at all - just carving the road trying to hit spots really close to the side to see if I could make it. No problem for this bike. Another advantage I noticed was low speed stability. I felt in control almost to a complete stop, which comes in handy while trying to walk my 13 year old dog. The Hardrock gave me problems with the front wheel coming up on steep grass hills. Not the Chumba. The seat was also great right out of the box. I can't stand up to peddle, so I spent a lot of time on it and it's very comfortable.

I began exploring my town a lot more. My gut told me there were some cool places around, but I needed the right bike to get there. Right under peoples noses, I found a wood duck pond and a great little trail right by my house. This trail has some cool sections and is just hard enough for my skill level. I always have to pick the right line going uphill over roots, but once I figure it out I can get up it every time now. After it rains, the trail can be littered with sticks, branches and rocks that can kick my front wheel out from under me. I have the fork set pretty soft. If I set it too stiff, it can cause problems with the roots going uphill. My little arm gets bucked off when I'm moving at a fast pace, so a soft fork and low air pressure in the tires is my ideal set up. The only bad thing about this trail is that there is supposedly a black bear den in there somewhere. I heard about this from someone whose Border Collie floats across the river to chase the bear (he's too fat to swim). I haven't seen any bear. I think they must attracted to the drive through daiquiri shop close by.

I have yet to experience a panic moment on this bike. I was riding across a road once in heavy traffic and had recently moved my front brakes to the left side of the rear brake. As I crossed the road, I grabbed the front instead of the rear (with a backpack on full of books) and accidentally got up on the front wheel. I was able to negotiate what was going on and even rode it out a little ways. I have NEVER done that before in my life! The weird thing was that I did not panic at all. Some teenagers in a jacked up truck saw it happen and I just casually saluted them with my little arm and just went on my merry way. This newfound confidence has given me the goal of going to Baton Rouge and riding at Comite Park one day.

For a long time I had to focus on fixing my leg and getting better. It was tough, It took a long time, but I finally got it done. The physical pain is one thing to deal with, but I was thrown a curve ball when the fire went out inside of me. Mainly to play golf, but even stranger that fire was gone from everything. My focus was one thing and it drained me, I was lost. Period. This bike was the final push that I needed. This year has been great. I started a part time business dog and house sitting. I started playing golf again. I went to the U.S. Open this year and was able to walk 18 holes. I've been looking into helping some disabled veterans maybe next summer in Crested Butte, Colorado. I've got a long way to go to get my game and my body in shape but I feel I'm finally on the right track.

The Chumba is beyond great. Riding it is the closest I have ever been to feeling like a whole person. For me, most activities take a lot of energy and concentration. This bike is the complete opposite. It seems to give me more energy. Simply awesome.

Thanks to Alan and everybody at Chumba Racing and all their work.

Lane

New XCL Rider Video from Russia!

2010-08-17T11:01:00.001-07:00

Ride to deforestation with details from Georgiy Romanov on Vimeo.

VF2 Review New Geometry Option Coming

2010-08-05T13:38:00.001-07:00

VF2 Review in the UK

Here's a review we got in the UK. They basically loved everything about the bike, but wanted differing geometry; namely a slacker HA and lower BB. Some of the juicy parts:

"The bike oozes attention to detail, with the asymmetrical chainstays, full “Enduro” cartridge bearing pivots and anodised bolts throughout. The quality of the construction and paintwork is high, with a number of colours available including anodized finishes. The Chumba logo headbadge is a particularly nice touch."

"This combined with the active rear end meant the VF2 ate up bumps and with plenty of low speed compression added in there wasn’t too much bobbing and bouncing when climbing uphill. The back end never felt too far out of its depth on rough, high speed trails or in the braking bumps."

"The build quality, suspension action and chassis “feel” was first class and if you’re a fan of bikes such as the Yeti 575 and “All Mountain-y” Santa Cruz bikes, then you’ll feel more at home with the geometry and sizing."

http://www.singletrackworld.com/revi...ba-racing-vf2/

I'm not sure I necessarily agree about the geometry comments as the VF2 uses identical geometry as the XCL (which has been well-received world-wide), but I understand people's tastes can differ and evolve. Well, it's a good thing we are planning to produce replaceable links for the VF2 to suit those tastes as well. I aim to have some in the next 6 weeks.

Southern California Product Testers Needed!

2010-08-03T23:42:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! We are looking for a few good product testers to give us some feedback on our latest models. We would like you to state your riding preferences, what you desire in your ride, and allow you to take a few of our best rigs out there and see how they stack up against the competition.

You can e-mail info@chumbaracing.com with the answers to these questions:

1. Name and city you live in
2. Current Ride and set up
3. Height
4. What do you like about your bike? What can be improved?
5. Describe your typical ride, terrain, trail names.
6. Describe your perfect bike -

We will select about 10 applicants to borrow bikes for the weekend with a pre-ride meeting; and post-ride meeting to get feedback for our models. Thanks in advance!

CHUMBA Racing Brings Unique Linkage System to the Market

2010-08-03T18:19:00.000-07:00

Anaheim, CA - CHUMBA Racing recently filed for a patent for our new invention: a linkage system specifically engineered to accept coil shocks in one configuration; and air shocks in another. By using a replaceable front shock mount; this system will allow riders to choose suspension rates that are specifically designed and engineered alongside the linkage to work with coil spring rate or air spring rates.

In either configuration; the shock and linkage will feel supple, smooth, and predictable. Expect this new technology to be released with the 2011 EVO G2, set to arrive around Interbike 2010.

CHUMBA Racing Awarded Patent for 2011 4-Bar Designs

2010-08-03T18:04:00.000-07:00

Anaheim, CA - CHUMBA was awarded a patent for several years of development of the FCC patent. The technology is premised on mounting the shock on a strategic location on the downtube for numerous benefits, including engineering a centrally balanced chassis; and channeling suspension forces to increased stability to the rider. This concept is applicable among a broad range of suspension types, including most 4-bars.

CHUMBA has been refining this technology for numerous years now; and has received full intellectual property protection for the invention earlier this year. Ted Tanouye and Alan Kang worked together on behalf of the CHUMBA corporation; to provide the company with technology to increase performance and durability for CHUMBA's full suspension frames.

Alan Kang of CHUMBA, states, "We have labored intensely on behalf of CHUMBA's technology portfolio; and we are sure this FCC patent will bring about the performance and manufacturing depth to allow CHUMBA to produce race-winning frames." He further stated, "As the person overseeing CHUMBA's product improvement efforts, it is truly exciting to see CHUMBA move past our traditional concepts of refined geometry, lateral rigidity, and smooth suspension performance - to add a truly unique frame design through the FCC - that allows centralizing of mass; and channeling of forces - aspects that are only being now fully realized as significant on frame technology."

Ted Tanouye co-developed this frame with Alan Kang in the Anaheim facility of CHUMBA for the past several years. These frames will likely make their way on to 2011 models in 6-7" models.

The patent itself is available for viewing here: CHUMBA FCC Patent

CHUMBA VF2 Ride Stoke on the French Alps ..

2010-07-23T13:25:00.000-07:00

Our friends in France, Lois from Draille Bike sent us these amazing photos in the French Alps aboard the VF2 trail bike.

Tips for Healthy Riding As We Age

2010-07-19T22:59:00.000-07:00

This is an opinion piece and not necessarily reflective of the views of CHUMBA Racing.

So I received my MRI results back for my spine, and on my C2-3 there is a 2mm disc bulge; and on my C5-6 a 2mm disc protrusion caused by an "annular tear." I have been experiencing a lot of pain recently after someone ran a red light and hit the front fender of my car; and finally was able to verify the causes.

So, for someone who loves riding bikes, what does this mean moving forward? Now, I'd like to preface that I am not a medical professional, and these are purely my own thoughts based on common sense and my experiences; anyone who is actually injured should seek consultation from a medical professional.

There are a few things that I would suggest to anyone, whether a beginner or experienced, and I'm sure many of you already know most of this, but just in case:

1. Always know your trails. If this is your first time on a trail and with a new group; if you feel a certain area is sketchy, walk it first, then choose your best line and go.

2. Wear soft shell pads. 661 or TLD knee/shin/ and elbow guards can save you a lot of skin and joint damage in the long run; for a minimal weight and convenience penalty.

3. Nothing wrong with walking. Just because you are on a 6" bike; doesn't mean you need to huck or jump everything you see. Too many of us have families to support, jobs to handle, and have responsibilities that extend far beyond the trails. Just because all of your buddies are catching air on big bikes, doesn't mean you have to. But, if you insist, there are plenty of good camps out there where you can meet a qualified instructor who can help you. Here's a link to a great one: http://www.bikeskills.com/blog/ I'm personal friends with some of the guys; and they're a great bunch to learn from.

4. Always make sure you are on the right equipment. Last December, a buddy of mine took his 4" XC bike that was set up extremely firm with an upright position and followed me down some nasty trails. He took a spill and ended up falling face first ending up with 12 stitches. Moral of the story? Bigger bikes are safer when in doubt; and always make sure to do the research first on what trail you are riding, the level of difficulty, and if you are unsure, walk parts of it first to get a feel for it as mentioned in Point #1. Ultimately, as well-meaning as companions might be, you are ultimately responsible for your own safety.

Take your longer travel 5-6" bikes on unfamiliar trails for increased safety

Well, thanks for listening, and if you've read this far I guess the article was mildly interesting. If you have anything to add, shoot me an e-mail at alan@chumbaracing.com.

Happy trails,

A.

Eccentric Bottom Bracket Instructions - 29er Hardtail HX2

2010-07-16T12:41:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Forgive me if this article seems like I'm stating the obvious; but we really have had more than a few inquiries on our eccentric bottom bracket (EBB).

First, the EBB should slide in and out of the bottom bracket shell freely. It is recommended to put a small amount of grease on it; just so it doesn't get lodged in the shell after mud and debris accumulate and harden over a period of time.

Second, the EBB mounts into the shell by means of an allen bolt and 2 clamping pieces that slide horizontally. As the clamping pieces move towards the center, they will be elevated causing the EBB's diameter to effectively increase and lodge into the shell.

You can see in this picture the 2 clamping pieces are perfectly horizontal.

As you screw the bolt in, you can see the pieces slide horizontally elevating along the grove increasing the diameter of the EBB.

So, that's really all there is to it, just tighten the bolt, and loosen it, with a 5mm allen wrench, and use a little grease before you get your frame so you don't have lodging problems later down the road.

HX2 29er Hardtail Promotion - Summer Sale!

2010-07-14T12:04:00.000-07:00

We only have a few remaining HX2 frames left. We can help you build one up or you can just get the frame. We only have small and large left; but several colors to choose from. Inquire at sales@chumbaracing.com or contact your dealer or distributor, and they will make sure you get hooked up!

Progressive Bikes UK CCDB Promotion

2010-07-14T11:28:00.001-07:00

Check it out on Bike Rumor! Our UK Distributor, Progressive Bikes has a great write up on Bike Rumor, with a good explanation of how the frame and shock works together; along with a nice promotional package!

http://www.bikerumor.com/2010/07/13/chumba-racing-uk-cane-creek-double-barrel-promotion/

2010 VF2 Complete Bike Information!

2010-07-05T16:17:00.000-07:00

2010 Updated VF2 Complete Bike Information Here!

You may also e-mail info@chumbaracing.com or call 714-986-9100 from 10am to 5pm M-F Pacific to discuss substitutions and custom builds. Look forward to hearing from you!

Anodized Gold Rear End for XCL

2010-07-05T13:08:00.000-07:00

Custom-color combination from customer. Anodized gold with black front triangle.

RCS and IMBA Trail-access Fund Raiser July 23-25

2010-07-05T12:40:00.000-07:00

Vancouver Island, BC - Renegade Cycle Solutions (RCS) is committed wholeheartedly to the philosophy that everybody who rides off-road should support IMBA, either by donation or trail maintenance or both.

We recently made the commitment to offer any IMBA Canada member 10% off any product we distribute. Now we are going one step further. July 23-25 is the East Coast Open DH Race at Blue Mountain Resort (Ontario) promoted by Sirbikealot Racing. At this first-of-its-kind historic race we will raffle off a brand new Chumba Racing F5 frame outfitted with an X-Fusion Vector HLR shock, (MSRP $2600 CDN). Tickets are just $5 each or 3 for $10 with all proceeds going directly to IMBA Canada.

RCS and Chumba both support grassroots racing, so get off your couch and hit the slopes. While you are there, why not buy a few tickets, pickup a new ride and help a cause close to every rider's heart.
Check out bluemountain.ca, sirbikealotracing.com, and r-c-s.ca.

Brian Kuhn
Renegade Cycle Solutionsbrian@r-c-s.ca
www.r-c-s.ca
(250) 483-6677

All-mountain HX2

2010-07-02T11:01:00.000-07:00

Here's a HX2 built up in Italy with some AM parts. Notice the pictures of the massive tire clearance of the CHUMBA, and the attention to design with the one-piece CNC machined oversized seatstay yoke.

1st Pic: CHUMBA Tire Clearance
2nd Pic: Standard Tire Clearance

HX1 Racing Update from Kenneth Hall

2010-06-28T20:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Alan and the Chumba Racing Team,
     I've been doing great and racing a lot since the start of my 2010 season. The Chumba HX1 has been amazing while my racing has followed. I am turning in times that I wouldn't of thought were possible in my wildest dreams. But I have dreamed of winning these major races that I have now made happen in the past couple months, especially recently. I love it when people ask my what I ride, and I tell them Chumba Racing. I have locked up golds in two racing series so far and am working on another series right now, this past weekend I won the biggest title in racing of my life so far which was winning the 2010 Raccoon Rally Cross Country and Down Hill Races with winning both my age group and setting a record time which the closest rider in my entire sport class came almost 7 minutes behind me. I look forward to crank-in threw in a bunch of major events including the 6 Hours of Power, the Suicide 6, the Mountain Bike UCI world Cup being held in Windham, NY this year, and the Laurel Classic and many others!
      Thank You,
            Kenneth


Don't forget to check out this quick video of some of the races i have done in the 2010 season so far, featuring Chumba Racing!
->->->->->Kenneth Hall Racing Video Featuring Chumba Racing Bikes <-<-<-<-<-

CHUMBA Jersey Available!

2010-06-25T14:30:00.000-07:00

Junior X Ripper Tim Mangini sporting a factory jersey

CHUMBA jerseys made of athletic wicking fibers sporting the traditional CHUMBA Race team design are available through CHUMBA in sizes S,M, L, and XL. The price is $44.99.

Please call 714-986-9100 M-F 10am-5pm; or e-mail jasonk@chumbaracing.com to order.

Mondial VTT 2010 / Draille Bikes: French MTB Summer Event Recap

2010-06-24T11:12:00.000-07:00

June 19, 2010 - The largest mountain bike event of the summer in France was held this past weekend. Draille Bike, the French distributor for CHUMBA Racing was on hand to represent the bikes and the company. Plenty of F5s and VF2s were spotted along the event, and many engaged in a fun day of friendly competition and riding!

Here are some pictures of Lois, Draille Bike, and crew:

If you are in France, give Draille bike a holler: www.draillebike.com

Seat Clamp Sizes & Rear Shock Bushing Specifications

2010-06-23T17:26:00.000-07:00

Seat Clamp Sizes
F5, EVO, XCL, VF2: 38.5mm
HX1, HX2: 34.9mm

F5 World-cup Downhill Racing
Upper Hardware: 1.25" * 8mm (eyelet)
Lower Hardware: 0.625" * 7mm (eyelet)

EVO G1 Light Freeride - Aggressive AM
Upper Hardware: 1.625" * 8mm (eyelet)
Lower Hardware: 2.205" * 8mm (eyelet)

XCL AM
Upper Hardware: 1.625" * 8mm (eyelet)
Lower Hardware: 2.205" * 8mm (eyelet)

VF2 AM-Trail
Upper Hardware: .865" * 8mm (eyelet)
Lower Hardware: 1.655" * 8mm (eyelet)

EVO G2 AM
Upper Hardware: .865" * 8mm (eyelet)
Lower Hardware: .865" * 8mm (eyelet)

XS XCL
Upper Hardware: 41.15mm * 8mm (eyelet)
Lower Hardware: 38.15mm * 8mm (eyelet)

Sam Fraser Bike Park Vid

2010-06-21T12:11:00.000-07:00

The CHUMBA VF2 takes on the Maxiavalanche Vallnord Europe Cup

2010-06-15T12:59:00.000-07:00

Maxiavalanche Europe Cup in Vallnord
More than 400 MTB downhill riders made the descent on rugged and harsh descents from PicCubil Peak, at 2,350 metres, to the village of Massana in Andorra.

Representing for CHUMBA Racing was Gavarres Bikes, fully decked out in CHUMBA gear, riding the all-mountain VF2 outfitted with Fox 36 forks and rear shocks.

Gavarres Bikes successfully navigated the course, with enough suspension on the VF2 to endure the punishing downhills but using the pedaling efficiency and precise handling of the VF2 chassis to overcome all obstacles.

Good job guys! More information on the Avalanche Cup here: http://www.avalanchecup.com/

Some video of the race and the VF2 here: http://www.alotrolado-mtb.com/blog/eventos/video-maxi-vallnord-2010/

History Reference: CHUMBA Catalog from 2008

2010-06-10T15:38:00.000-07:00

Some company information etc. for those interested:

2008 Catalog

Tim Mangini Racing Update

2010-06-07T11:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks again for all your guys help, 2010 has been an awesome year so far, I rounded up the Fontana Winter Series at the 2010 Fontana City National with a 4th place in expert. I then headed to the Sea Otter Classic for both dual slalom and downhill. I qualified 5th in expert for dual slalom and worked my way into the Finals on Friday where i ended up with a 4th. Downhill i had a mechanical with my bottom bracket and was basically with out a drive train and brought home a 40th out of 100. The following wednesday I left for the first Pro Grt in Port Angeles, Washington.

The course was very fast and physical, the conditions changed day to day with rain one day sun the next then a little of both for finals on Sunday. I finished up with an 11th out of 65 with a nice smooth run. I have about a month off of racing now before we get back inot the swing of things with the Chile Challenge in Angel Fire, NM and then up to northstar for the next round of the Pro Grt. I will be racing in the MSC series, NW Cup, Pro GRT, Crankworks in Cananda, Fluid Ride Cup, National Champs, and hopefully the final round of the UCI World Cup in Winham, NY. The bikes have running flawlessly and I look forward to showing what I can do on them!

Rohloff Speedhub on XCL

2010-06-07T10:33:00.000-07:00

One of our friends in Germany set this XCL up with a Rohloff Speedhub.

Some details about the hub from Rohloff's website, available at http://www.rohloff.de/en/products/speedhub/:

The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 has been developed for both pros and performance oriented hobby cyclists who can appreciate it because of its reliability, perfect single gear ratios, wide range of gears, low maintenance and easy operation; its weight and efficiency are ideal even for pro racing.

The sealed gearbox ensures reliability and durability even under the toughest conditions. The even increments of 13.6% from gear to gear make it possible to always ride at the performance peak. The overall range makes sure that you have the right gear in every situation. Pure fun is guaranteed.

The SPEEDHUB 500/14 is operated by a twist shifter which shifts simply by pulling separate cables up or down. The indexing of the shifting lies not in the shifter as with common designs, but inside the hub. There is no wear on the indexing system nor need to adjust it.

The rest of the bike's spec include:

Large Black Ano XCL
DHX 5.0 Air
RS Revelation Team 150mm
CK headset and hubs
Hope m6ti 8"
Thomson post
XTR Crank

Weight 15.10 kg

The Rohloff is definitely not cheap, sitting around $1,000 USD, and it isn't light; but for those looking for an alternative to manual shifting; could be a nice option.

Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-31T09:52:00.000-07:00

We'd like to wish all of our friends, customers, and extended family members a safe, happy, and fun Memorial Day full of riding and good times! This picture was taken at the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California during our Memorial Day celebration.

Awesome New Downhill Video! Featuring CHUMBA F5

2010-05-26T09:15:00.001-07:00

Black & Gold F5 Show Bike from France

2010-05-26T08:06:00.000-07:00

This bike features custom anodized gold bits - including the rigid brake mount, main pivot, and other pieces. High-level of attention to detail. Good job Draille Bike!

Check out Steve's Helmet Cam Footage on his F5 DH Bike

2010-05-24T16:45:00.000-07:00

Plattekill Pro GRT #2 race course

Words from Steve:

Just wanted to give you a quick update of my first race of the season. The Pro GRT made a stop on the east coast this past weekend in Plattekill NY for the 2^nd stop of the series, this was also the first race of the series in which Plattekill and Mount Snow joined together to create The Eastern States Cup race. The pro class featured many World Cup Riders and this was the first big event for a mountain that has been running it’s lifts for riders and hosting races for 17 years! The event went perfect.

I had some great practice runs and the bike felt great on the course which included a fast flowing section on the top, then a steep rocky chute with a big and technical drop in the middle, finishing with more fast flow on the bottom then off the infamous “Broken Tooth” drop and into the finish. I was able to get some fast practice runs and the F5 felt great, stable at speed, handled the big drops with my 215lbs on it, and pedaled great to the finish. Unfortunately my race run did not go so well but I was able to hang on and get 4^th place in the CAT 1 (expert) 40+ category.

Here is a helmet cam run that a friend did while following me down the course during practice on Saturday, enjoy and thanks again for all the support.

Nathan's VF2 Review and Picture

2010-05-15T02:02:00.001-07:00

Hi Alan,

I was finally able to get some serious trail time in this past weekend so I thought I would give you my impression of the VF2. My VF2 weighs in at 31.8lbs but it climbed like a 23 pound cross country racer. It went down the hills like it has 2 more inches of travel then it does. This bike just blew me away. It took everything I threw at it and it was like it was saying "that's all you got."

The CCDB is in a league of its own. I am coming off of a Pushed RP23 and that shock does not even compare to the CCDB. It is so nice not having to flip a pro-pedal switch all the time. No it is just point and go and no worry's about whats in my way.

Thanks so much to you and Jason for all of your help with this project. I am a Chumba rider for life!!! Keep me in the loop with what is happening with the new EVO and the longer travel XCL.

Thank you-

Nate

Vaughn's VF2 Review and Pictures

2010-05-09T14:59:00.000-07:00

Vaughn - one of Orange County's most sought after music DJs - recently picked up a new VF2 to replace his GT full suspension bike. He is running a Cane Creek Double Barrel rear shock and Fox fork with SRAM x.9 drivetrain.

Here's a letter he wrote us:

Hey Alan!

The bike is awesome! I have taken it to a few trails and really love the ride. I feel very comfortable and safe when I am riding much like the feeling you get when your riding in a nice sedan as opposed to a compact. The up hill is great I was able to overcome the same uphill challenges I had on my GT. Plan on doing much more this weekend. Here are a few pics of the bike on the trails. Thank you so very much for the sale and working so hard to make your company special to mountain bikers!

Vaughn B.

Vaughn @ Carrizo Plains National Monument

Alan's Guest Editorial in BRAIN

2010-05-08T14:53:00.000-07:00

This was published a few months back in the nation's largest Bicycle Trade Journal (Bicycle Retailer and Industry News), but in case anyone missed it.

Integrated Riding Shop - Check it out!

2010-05-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

CHUMBA has teamed up with high-performance, boutique bicycle shop, Integrated Riding (IR) out of Singapore. The owner Thiam, is a true bicycle enthusiast - he has serviced, ridden, and worked on numerous high-end bicycles; yet, has made the choice to commit to the CHUMBA brand.

Thiam says, "CHUMBA makes high-quality bicycles that are simple and proven combined with excellent customer service. There's not many companies left where you can call and speak to the owner of the company without hassle."

Check out IR's innovative showroom, boasting a CHUMBA VF2 and xs XCL for all to see. For more information you can contact IR at:

integrated riding Ÿ 338 Changi Road #01-08 Singapore 419977 Ÿ Tel: 65-6346-0448

New F5 Pictures!

2010-05-05T11:22:00.000-07:00

We received some photos from our French distributor, Lois from Draille Bike.

Here's a sneak peak, more will be available on our official website shortly.

Albert's VF2 Review

2010-05-04T13:44:00.000-07:00

Here's an e-mail we got from Albert, an experienced enthusiast with several high-end full-suspension bikes in his past including an Ellsworth Moment:

Dear Alan,

Was out today for my 3rd ride on my new Chumba VF2, and I am stunned! I Iove this bike! It is truly amazing on the downhills. The faster I ride the better it handles. Fits me like a glove. Getting used to the climbs coming off a Ti Litespeed Hardtail, but wow it's a hoot through the rocky gnar gnar!

Plus it's a real head-turner here in Northern California--I'll be
recommending it highly to my riding posse!

Best wishes always,Albert DeSilver
Marin County, CA

www.albertflynndesilver.com

Lime Green HX2 - Custom

2010-05-04T11:43:00.001-07:00

Received this picture from a customer. He had a custom powder coat frame, with chain and headset to match!

Beautiful Custom-color XCL

2010-05-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

Our friends over in Russia sent us a picture of this matte army green XCL. Yes, it is as tough as it looks.

New VF2 Product Brochure!

2010-05-03T13:14:00.000-07:00

Please check out our new VF2 Product Brochure! It goes over product features, design and production overviews. Print copies may be available as well. Let us know if you have any questions.

Click on the link below:

Click here for 2010 VF2 Product Brochure

F5 Pics and Video from Scotland

2010-05-03T12:48:00.000-07:00

Our buddy Cameron from Scotland sent us these pictures of him. Here are some words from the man himself:

I was racing at Pitfichie last weekend ... Every one was really interested in the bike and how different it was to other bikes out there. In three weeks time I will be racing SDA round 2 in Glencoe, I feel that I will excel on the track because it is suited to my style of riding which is fast and technical.

Skate Park Jump Video from Australia

2010-05-03T10:55:00.001-07:00

The Evolution of the XCL

2010-04-23T00:23:00.000-07:00

Our French Distributor sent us the story of his XCL evolution.

The Beginning:

1 Year Happily After:

You can see more on Draille Bike and Lois at www.draillebike.com

East Coast Rider Review

2010-04-14T15:44:00.000-07:00

Rider review from our friend over in the East Coast:

Here are some pics of my F5 and my custom HX2. The F5 had me leading the Gravity East Series with only the final race to go when I slammed into another rider during practice and broke my wrist. What helped me get through the six months of surgeries and rehab was slowly building my new training bike. I wanted to go with mostly white accessories, Truvativ helped out with the stem and bar combo, high rise for the DHer's. I couldn't find white single speed cranks anywhere so I enlisted the help of my local speed shop and had my Stylo's powdercoated. I figure in order to counteract the weight I added I will eat one less double cheeseburger this week. Wheels were a custom build from Orion Cycles, Stan's No Tubes, Hope Pro II hubs, DT Swiss spokes and red nipples. Chumba gets credit for the sweet frame. I was able to ride this bike twice before MD got 3' of snow dumped on us and it was a spectacular ride. Compared to my old 29er this bike is a dream, I am once again able to manual, bunnyhop and jump my XC bike.

Before the F5, I was riding a Kona Stab and it was like riding a Cadillac, buttery smooth, plush and could plow through anything. However, the weight and pedaling capacity of this bike was lacking. Once on the F5 I could immediately feel the difference in the pedaling and response of the rear suspension. My first race on this bike left me sad and brokenhearted, 7 flat tires in a row. I couldn't make down the trail at Massanutten, VA for anything. I tried running a 2.7 Intense on my race run and flatted on a smooth gravel section right out of the gate. On to the US Open, my first year racing in 2008 I got 35th in the amateur class, not bad for my 2nd downhill race ever, but the handling of Chumba on the brutal rocks of Diablo helped me to a 6th place finish in 2009 and I blew the berm coming into the flat pedally field. I spent the rest of the summer following the Gravity East Series and was on the podium every time minus the flat tire incident. Can't wait 'till this race season gets underway.

Tom S.

Cane Creek Visits CHUMBA!

2010-04-13T12:08:00.000-07:00

Josh Coaplen, Scott, and Malcolm from Cane Creek paid us a visit. They showed us some cool new headsets coming out later this year that we will be offering OEM on our new frames. We've also had lots of great feedback on the double barrel from our customers, and hope it will continue. Thanks Cane Creek!

New CHUMBA XCL Review - !

2010-04-07T21:19:00.000-07:00

Check out this great review here:

http://www.ondirtreview.com/2010/04/be-all-you-can-be-coiled-xcl/

A New CHUMBA Rider Report - Chris from Southern California

2010-04-05T11:21:00.000-07:00

A New Chumba Owner's Review

I mountain bike because it's fun; it's also fantastic exercise that feels great. With a good heavy climb, you earn you a bombing fun descent but first you have to find a bike that does both well. This is the holy grail of mountain biking; the Chumba EVO is a rare gem that achieves it.

Last September it was time to buy a new all-mountain bike. My old bike, an older big-name full suspension, was simply too XC for me. Going down, especially in rock gardens, I was always on the verge of going OTB. It handled a bit like a stiff pogo stick. Not that it had too much rebound, but somehow, it was too bouncy yet too squishy. Worse, for a supposedly light XC bike, climbing was only "ok" -- too much pedal bob.

I tried out several different bikes. Various big name brands, and various styles, from a heavy freerider that was no fun on the flats and climbs, to light and nimble XC bikes. I tried out a big-name heavy duty trail model with a fancy shock (a current incarnation of my old bike). It also had that unusual top-heavy feel. Climbing, the light bike felt out of balance for me. It was hard to keep traction and even with the fancy shock I noticed some pedal bob. Descending: fugheddaboutit. It was only slightly better than the old version I was replacing. I tried several bikes in between. I knew exactly what I was looking for: a trail bike that bombed like the heavy freerider and climbed at least as good as the lighter XC/trail bikes.

To make things more difficult, I'm a stickler for performance and quality, but not flush with cash. Not a great combination. Thing were looking like I might not find the right bike. After hours, days, and weeks of research, I had a list of bike going for $6000 or $5000. My budget closer to $2500. I realized I was going to have to adjust upward… but $5000??? That was beyond what I could get to. Buying used, or just accepting that I would have to live with a lesser bike seemed like the only viable alternatives.

Luckily, it wasn't long before I stumbled upon the Chumba EVO. Chumba, being a boutique brand, was not one of the first names I found. It was while looking at used bikes that I first met and fell for the EVO. Sadly, it was third-party used, almost as expensive as a new bike, there were care issues, and it had a component setup not in line with my ideal preferences.

However.

That bike opened my eyes, and that's when I looked into Chumba. A few months later, I stretched my budget a bit, and had my own, brand new Chumba EVO.

Chumba bikes are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination, but consider this: for a sane price, competitive with mid-range bikes from the big-name brands, I got a race-proven, top-quality, high-end mountain bike with a component mix that works perfectly for rugged all-mountain use. Simply put, their bikes represent the best value out there.

All the reviews out there for the EVO are true. I have not found a single negative review and, riding one, it's obvious why. This bike is arguably the best all mountain bike money can buy.

Never have I had better climbing on any bike, XC or otherwise, than with the EVO. I almost want to say "buy the EVO for the climbing."

But that would do it injustice because you might be tempted to compare it with the best climbing XC bikes and totally miss the point on the whole reason most of us mountain bike: fast, grin-inducing descents through any terrain. Descending on the EVO is outrageously confidence-inspiring. You see, I'm not a pro, I'm just an average weekend warrior who loves being able to go anywhere, up or down anything, with his bike. I need all the confidence I can get or I'm not going to go some places where a pro might be just as capable to bomb on a hardtail. That's not me. I need a bike that takes care of me. The EVO, surefooted unlike any other, is certainly up to the task.

My Build

Fox Talas 36 RC
Cane Creek Double Barrel
DT Swiss 5.1 340
XT Deore Crankset
X9 Rear Serailleur
Thompson Elite Seatpost and Stem
FSA Orbit
Sunline V1 OS 750mm
Wellgo Magnesium Pedals
OD Rogues w/Chumba Endcaps and Clamps
X0 Twist Shifters
Elixer CR Brakes

I do plan to upgrade some details here and there over time. But this is an excellent starting point.

A word about the suspension. The EVO comes stock with an air-sprung shock. Unless you're a weight weenie (and if you are, then all-mountain isn't really the ideal category for you), go for the Cane Creek Double Barrel upgrade. Alan Kang at Chumba let me try out the CCDB over the winter, and it's such an awesome shock that I realized I had no choice but but to go ahead and upgrade. I can't say enough good things about this shock. O M G

The CCDB coupled with the 2010 Talas 36 RC2 must be experienced. These two shocks do a great job at balancing each other. The Talas with 160mm of full-on travel, can also be travel adjusted, which is a must to fully appreciate the climbing prowess of the EVO. This fork super stiff, and with both high speed and low speed damping, you can get a very plush response with limited inertial or weight-induced effects. The CCDB is also an outstanding performer. I've got it set up so that there is ZERO pedal bob. The EVO feels practically like a hardtail once I sit on it and try to shift my weight around. But as soon as the terrain gets bumpy, the bumps get gobbled up (all bumps, small and huge). Buy it for performance and handling, buy it for comfort. Another note: this shock has the best rebound behavior of any shock I've ever tried. It must be experienced to be believed (unfortunately you do have to configure it for your weight, style, and bike before you can get a good feel for it).

Finally, a HUGE thanks to Alan and Jason at Chumba for their over the top customer service. They've been holding my hand and taking care of me the whole way. Why would anyone go deal with a mega-corp elsewhere when you can support a local manufacturer who has sick/brilliant craftsmanship, cares about the community, offers unheard of service, and gives you a LOT more value for your dollar?

So how about some pictures, right? I took my new baby out to Angeles National Forest and found some nice settings for the bike to frolic and pose for the camera. With the rain we've been having, the scenery was resplendent and the weather that day was picture perfect. It helps that my EVO is not camera shy either, as you can see.

Custom Engraving on F5 Swingarm

2010-04-01T12:43:00.000-07:00

Hello CHUMBA Friends and Family!

We got this picture from our French Distributor Draille Bikes today - of a F5 swingarm with some custom graphics and decals engraved into it. High-quality stuff!

More information from Draille Bike here: www.draillebike.com

CHUMBA F5 Video filmed in Southern California

2010-03-24T12:35:00.001-07:00

Here's a video we filmed with the F5 in Southern California. It was posted on pinkbike.com and we thought we'd share it for our blog followers. Enjoy!

VF2 BIKE MAG REVIEW: "SURPRISINGLY AGILE BIKE W/ CATEGORY-BLURRING PERFORMANCE."

2010-03-01T11:30:00.000-08:00

The latest VF2 review came in this month. After months of research and testing with Cane Creek's R&D Director Josh Coaplen on the VF2 chassis, the first major review of the bicycle's performance from the media is in. (see VF2 shock tuning).

In the review for BIKE Mag, we put a heavy emphasis on making sure the bike pedaled efficiently, even while standing out of the saddle. We wanted to prove, or at least reemphasize, that a properly designed 4 bar with the right shock tuning is one of the best platforms out there for pedaling efficiency.

So what did BIKE's editors have to say after comparing the VF2 chassis against pretty much every other suspension design on the market today? They said, "Still, the bike rode surprisingly well. It bobbed marginally while standing, but seated climbing was smooth and efficient."

The editor's praised the fully active suspension, and the VF2's ability to handle tough terrain. They mentioned opting for possibly a (larger?) coil fork and more aggressive tires - to match the rear performance of the CCDB - which imo is a fair suggestion as I currently have this bike now set-up with a PUSHed 36.

Overall, they appeared to appreciate what the bike is - an all-around trail bike with a smooth, supple, and well-handling ride. Thanks BIKE Mag!

12 Hours of Santos - HX2 29er Report

2010-02-25T10:27:00.000-08:00

Report from sponsored rider Owen Simpson.

12 Hours of Santos 2/20/2010

I made my annual trip down to Santos again this year. The trip this year provided some perfect weather to finally get some good riding and a chance to really get some good miles on my new Chumba. I didn’t have the geared on finished yet, but since the geometry is exactly the same for both bikes, I looked forward to riding the single speed down there.

My wife and dad came down for support again, and this year I was doing a team event with some friends of mine, Pam and Dave Forshee. We got to Santos early in the afternoon on Friday, we had plenty of time to set up and get in a lap or 2 of test riding. The weather was perfect (around 70 degrees) and the course was nice and dry. The test lap went great, it seemed easier this year than it did last year, and felt really good on the new bike. I was running a 32 x 16 and actually considered putting a 15 on the back, but decided to wait and see. Pam had a little difficulty with the really technical sections, but did great on the course.

On Saturday I was a little late getting to the race because the GPS wanted to take us on a sightseeing route from the camper. Pam decided that she wanted to do the run and the first lap, which worked out well for me too. She took off in the middle of the mob and held position on her lap. I took the next 2 laps and I wanted to see what I had at this point. The first 2 miles or so are very technical and did not give me a lot of room to pass riders, so I took what I could until the trail opened up. When I got to the open section, I got to a pace that I could keep for a few hours if I needed to, but could still gain time. I passed my wife, taking pictures, about 5 miles in and let her know that I had passed 29 people so far (it turned into a game for me). I was spinning like crazy on a couple of really open spots on the course to keep my speed up, the bike was perfectly stable and stuck to the pine needles and sand like glue letting me keep all of my momentum with almost no drifting. I was having a blast!

Dave went next, the Pam again, and I knocked out 2 more laps. When I came in to hand off to Dave, Pam let me know that she was done for the day and Dave would only be doing one more. I was okay with that, we decided before we got there to do it for fun and do as much as we wanted too. I was just hoping I had enough left for the last 5 + hours. I got in one more lap before the night laps and could tell that I was already a little slower, but I still felt good. I put on lights and had a good first night lap and I was stoked that it was still warm enough to ride in shorts. On my next lap, I started to feel cramps on the really steep stuff, but tried to take it as easy as I could on a ss in those areas. I got to the flats and just kept it smooth, some of the faster geared guys started getting around me now, but gave me a good update on my pace. When I got to the last part of the course, which is also very technical all muscle strength had disappeared. I piled it up on the first really steep section and offered some skin to the trail as a sacrifice, then scraped a tree really hard on the way back down and gave up a little more skin. After my 4^th time of testing the firmness on the ground I decided to pull in to the pits and call it a good day. The race got me really motivated for the rest of the season!! The new bike was awesome on both the really technical and really flat stuff.

You can check out more on Owen's blog here :http://www.owenjsimpson.blogspot.com/

New 2010 CHUMBA Fox RP23 for XCL and VF2

2010-02-24T11:03:00.000-08:00

After long deliberation and careful testing, CHUMBA decided on their 2010 RP23 spec for their frames. The higher volume air can should give the linear chassis a complimentary feel allowing smooth and supple progression throughout the travel stroke. Further, low compression and medium rebound will give the right mix of bump absorption and pedaling characteristics to try and replicate the feel of a properly tuned coil shock. We chose to keep the rebound at medium to slow it down so as to give a controlled feeling on g-outs and small drops, while leaving the compression tune light so as to let the suspension do most of the work.

As we've been switching between different tunes in the last few years based upon Fox's recommendations as model years change, we think we've found a sweet spot with the new RP23's internals that is a noticeable improvement over past RP23 versions. We hope that many of you can feel confident in the new technology.

Poll Results

2010-02-21T18:44:00.000-08:00

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen:

We had 3 polls in the last few weeks; and had great feedback from our blog visitor on all 3 polls. So, we thought we'd post the results and talk about what we've learned.

Our most recent poll was, "What is your favorite drive train?"

Shimano XT (18 votes) came in the winner, and SRAM x.9 a close second (16 votes). SRAM x.0 (11) came in third and Shimano XTR (5) a distant fourth. The poll suggests riders are finding the XT group to be a leading choice - and riders may feel the pricier group sets just may not be worth the coin.

Full XT build from BIKE Magazine - XT wheels, brakes, and drivetrain.

The second poll asked how important waterbottles are? 62 percent of voters did not use water bottle mounts anymore at all on their frame - while 37 percent still used, or considered using them. Seems like water bottle mounts are going out of vogue - but still a significant amount of people using them should urge frame manufacturers to offer this option when possible.

The third poll asked about head tubes. This poll was set up to get some insight as to what head tube our new frames should use. After speaking with Josh over at Cane Creek, it seems like tapered and 1.5 headtubes seem to be the new rage and he showed me a lot of cool new headsets they were developing over there.

So what did our poll say? Our voters chose the standard 1 1/8" headtube as the #1 pick with 24 votes. The 1.5" headtube came in second with 20 votes, and the tapered headtube was third with 16 votes.

Thanks everyone for participating, and we will keep those polls coming! Also, please keep on posting and discussing, we love receiving feedback.