Marla Streb: Cycling Expert
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Marla Streb turned pro for mountain biking when she was 28. And that was 15 years ago! At that time, she had a Masters degree in molecular biology, and decided to quit her job as an AIDS research scientist.
Streb specializes in Downhill, but is better known as an all-round biker, competing in events ranging from road criteriums to 24-hour events. The Luna Chick has won a World Cup and three National Championships, and has written and published two books. She's been featured on the cover of Outside magazine, as well as the IMAX movie Top Speed, NBC's TODAY Show and Dateline.
The rather "mature" racer podium'ed regularly at the nationals only a couple months after giving birth to new baby Luna Chicklet, "Nicoya".
For '08, the two-time Single Speed World champ will try to win another Single Speed World Championship, as well as another National Downhill title. On top of all that, Streb will oversee the building of the world's first signature mountain bike park in Costa Rica, called "Singletrack Jungle".
Streb specializes in Downhill, but is better known as an all-round biker, competing in events ranging from road criteriums to 24-hour events. The Luna Chick has won a World Cup and three National Championships, and has written and published two books. She's been featured on the cover of Outside magazine, as well as the IMAX movie Top Speed, NBC's TODAY Show and Dateline.
The rather "mature" racer podium'ed regularly at the nationals only a couple months after giving birth to new baby Luna Chicklet, "Nicoya".
For '08, the two-time Single Speed World champ will try to win another Single Speed World Championship, as well as another National Downhill title. On top of all that, Streb will oversee the building of the world's first signature mountain bike park in Costa Rica, called "Singletrack Jungle".
REVIEWS
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You’re out there getting fit, and you want to feel comfortable doing it, maybe even looking good while you’re at it. You don’t have to be into fashion to realize that your choice of jersey sets the tone for the ride. But so many to choose from! Here’s a guide of the best that will narrow your search down. These are the highest quality jerseys that offer the most performance in fit and thermoregulation. Most importantly, they’ll keep you stylin’ on and off the bike.Read More » -
The saddle is probably the most personal, and important, part on your bike. What other piece of equipment can make or break a ride, if not an entire lifestyle choice? Keep in mind that the reason it is called a saddle and not a “seat,” is because you don't bear all of your weight on it (like that on a recumbent bike). Your arms and legs should carry the rest of your weight as you pedal. If you're just starting out, remember to keep your rides short until you develop good sitting habits. And when buying, don't be fooled into thinking the softer the better. Just like a mattress, the softest saddle may not be the most comfortable.Read More »
Here are my picks for the best all-around saddles, perfect for both the road and the trails. -
So you want to get out those trails and be comfortable, yet ride with style. You want to stay dry, and look cool. The jersey is probably the most important piece of clothing you’ll put on that can make a fashion statement, and even dictate the mood of your ride. There are tons of technical, high fashion jerseys of every pattern, fabric, color, and size out there. Many fabric blends offer superior wicking abilities, aerodynamic performance, and some even boast quantified UV protection. Of course, you can always take the wool route if you want to keep it simple and retro.Read More » -
An introductory mountain bike is often thought of as “hybrid”. But it would be a big mistake to substitute an off-road bike's performance and quality for an upright riding position and an aversion to technology. The mountain bike's high tech features have just as much benefit for a new rider as a seasoned vet. A well-performing bike will keep the new rider riding. And almost as importantly, it will definitely impress all the buddies at the coffee shop.Read More »
I feel the best introductory mountain bike should be full suspension. It actually takes a lot more skill and finesse to ride a more “basic” hard tail. Beginners usually just want to ride, not wrench. So for a maintenance free cross-country experience, look for all Shimano drive train. Also, every well-designed bike should be able to carry two water bottles. You never know when you're going to get lost out there! -
A cross-country mountain bike is made for playing in the woods. And girls like to get dirty too! Most mountain bikes are unisex. But women are built differently than men, and can benefit from some minor considerations in the design of their bike.Read More »
The typical woman has a smaller torso to leg ratio than the boys, so she needs a shorter cockpit length. Bike frame geometry should reflect these biomechanical characteristics. The more comfortable we are when riding, the more confidence we gain. And we women like to be in control… Especially for newbies, confidence is key. So a mountain bike completely designed with women in mind is the name of the game.
I believe throwing down for a full suspension bike is the way to go, even for beginners. They may be more pricey, but the comfort and control that they lend will really get a new rider excited to ride, and keep them going back for more. So here are the best premiere full-suspension rigs that are perfect for opening the eyes of new trail riding chicks to the world of woods.
