Mountain bike rides can create unforgettable adventures—or turn into complete disasters without the right leadership. In this practical guide, Coach Andrew Winohradsky of Dirtsmart MTB shares essential tips for leading safe, fun, and organized group rides. From matching riders to the right trails and preparing for weather, to keeping the group together and boosting morale, this article breaks down how great ride leaders create positive experiences both on and off the trail.
MTB Girls Magazine Issue 13, The Art of the Ascent, by editor Liz Donahey is a powerful reflection on women, mountain biking, leadership, resilience, and the shared climb toward strength, joy, and becoming more.
In the quiet Sierra mountain town of Avery, California, 26-year-old April transformed a dream into a thriving mountain bike community. What began as a vision to recreate the welcoming bike-shop culture she loved in Santa Cruz became Mountain Aloha MTB Co.—a rider-driven hub that now connects locals, visitors, and trail advocates alike. Despite industry skepticism, financial risks, and personal setbacks, April built more than a business; she created a place where riders gather, friendships form, and mountain biking continues to grow throughout the region. Her story is a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and believing in an idea before anyone else does.
Modern mountain bike pedals now go far beyond basic platforms, with options like flat, clipless, composite, and smart power-meter designs improving performance and control. A new innovation—floating flat pedals such as the 8 Degree system—adds controlled movement to better match natural foot motion, aiming to boost comfort and reduce joint strain.
At the 2025 Marinduro in Marin County, Gabby Huffman won the Pro E-Bike category while also highlighting a bigger shift in mountain biking culture. Beyond racing, she works with NICA and Marin Trail Stewards to grow the sport and improve access, especially for women riders.
Join MTB Girls Magazine and Straight Wheel Cycling for Quarry Park Bike & BBQ on August 23 in Half Moon Bay. Ride, BBQ, and build community!
Here's a concise excerpt you could use for promotional, editorial, or social media purposes:
> **"The biggest surprise wasn’t the bike—it was me."** After a month aboard the Mullet Cycles Peacemaker, MTB Girls Magazine Editor-in-Chief Liz Donahey discovered how a purpose-built mullet bike can transform the riding experience. From the rocky climbs of Annadel’s Canyon Trail to the technical challenges of Refugio Trail, the Peacemaker delivered exceptional stability, confidence, and control. With its unique 29-inch front and 27.5-inch rear wheel setup, the bike felt less like a traditional trail bike and more like a dirt bike with pedals—encouraging bold line choices and expanding comfort zones on some of Northern California’s toughest terrain.
This MTB Girls Magazine cover story article follows Canadian twins Ava and Bella Holmgren from local trails to world champions, showing how their versatility, resilience, and humility are inspiring the next generation of women in cycling.
Pedals are one of the most important yet overlooked upgrades on any mountain bike. From classic flat and clipless designs to lightweight composites, smart power-meter pedals, and the groundbreaking 8 Degree floating flat pedal, today's innovations are improving comfort, control, efficiency, and rider confidence on every trail. Discover eight pedal technologies that are changing the way mountain bikers ride.
Our MTB Girls Magazine Cover Girl, Vida Lopez De San Ramon, is quickly emerging as one of the most exciting young talents in international mountain biking. At just 19 years old, the Sebastopol, California–based racer delivered a breakout season on the UCI World Cup mountain bike circuit, proving that confidence, resilience, and a deep love for riding can take an athlete from local trails to the world stage.
More than just a bike shop, Straight Wheel Cycling has become the heart of Half Moon Bay’s cycling community. Founded on a passion for riding, inclusivity, and genuine human connection, owners Amy Thompson and Bart Draper have created a welcoming gathering place where riders of all ages and abilities feel at home. Through community involvement, mentorship, and a shared love of cycling, Straight Wheel Cycling continues to inspire the next generation of riders while strengthening the bonds that make Half Moon Bay unique.
Abigail Snyder of Ride Fierce Racing embodies a new era in mountain biking—one where community, courage, and consistency matter just as much as competition. Her journey, rooted in connection rather than dominance, reflects a broader shift as more women enter the sport and reshape its culture. By showing up, supporting others, and embracing progression over perfection, Abigail is helping create spaces where confidence can grow and more riders feel they truly belong on the trails.















