Ep. 03
In this engaging podcast, we delve into the world of mountain biking with Brooks and his group of friends as they share their experiences and insights into the biking community, specifically focusing on the South Austin Trail Network (SATN). Greg kicks off the conversation by recounting his introduction to mountain biking, stemming from his time at a bike shop in Chicago and later exploring the trails in Austin. Carl, known as the “godfather of SATN,” shares his biking journey from his roadie days to discovering the trail networks in Austin, while Dale discusses how he found his passion for mountain biking in Austin after a fortuitous encounter with a fellow biker. The group also delves into the origins of the pronunciation of “SATN” and the sense of camaraderie that comes with exploring the trails together.
Dale opens up about rediscovering his love for cycling during the pandemic, transitioning back to biking from running and forming connections with others in the biking community. He and Carl emphasize the importance of trail maintenance and the evolving nature of trails over time, discussing the delicate balance between preserving original routes and creating new paths for varying skill levels. Greg and Carl touch on the challenges of trail alterations and the significance of catering to different skill levels while upholding the integrity of the trails. The group shares their favorite trails in South Austin, highlighting the diverse offerings and the joy of enhancing the local mountain biking scene.
Carl sheds light on the evolution of the Crank N Drank weekly ride, tracing its roots to different locations and addressing the challenges of accommodating riders of different levels while encouraging exploration of the extensive trail network. The conversation delves into ride planning, etiquette, and the necessity of clear communication within the group to ensure a cohesive and safe riding experience. They discuss group dynamics, the importance of maintaining a steady pace, and the value of embracing getting lost as a means of learning and bonding within the group.
Greg underscores the significance of maintaining group dynamics to foster an enjoyable cycling experience for all riders, particularly focusing on balancing varying skill levels in group rides. Dale and Carl share their insights on leading rides and managing the complexities of group dynamics, paving the way for discussions on upcoming rides and trail developments, including the excitement surrounding new trails like the Violet Crown Trail. The group emphasizes the need for businesses to support cycling in the area by providing amenities such as bike racks to enhance the biking experience for enthusiasts.
The conversation shifts to Carl’s advocacy for the Violet Crown Trail and its benefits for the community, including improved biking accessibility and wet-weather riding opportunities. Dale, Brooks, and Greg touch on the importance of safety in biking, recounting personal experiences and highlighting the risks associated with road biking versus mountain biking. Greg recounts a harrowing incident involving gunshots during a pre-ride, underscoring the group’s shared experiences and the tight-knit community bonds formed through their love of biking.
The group also reflects on a traumatic incident where Greg was shot while mountain biking, emphasizing the quick recovery, community impact, and the importance of mutual respect among all trail users. They express their dedication to maintaining and advocating for biking trails, showcasing their passion for biking, camaraderie, and commitment to the sport.