Coach Kim Meredith shares expert mountain bike coaching tips to help riders build confidence, master technical skills, and ride smarter on every trail.
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.
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> **"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.
At Bentonville Bike Fest, women riders discovered the innovative 8 Degree Pedal—the world’s first flat floating pedal. Designed to promote natural foot movement, it combines the freedom of flat pedals with improved comfort, efficiency, and reduced joint fatigue. Whether you're tackling technical trails, gravel roads, or bike park laps, 8 Degree Pedal helps you ride farther, feel stronger, and stay confident on every adventure.
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.
Looking for ways to keep your daughter active and engaged this summer? From mountain biking and outdoor adventures to new friendships and skill-building experiences, discover fun activities that help girls stay healthy, confident, and connected all season long.
The California MTB Endurance Series is helping more women discover the power of endurance mountain biking through supportive events like the Fort Ord 50, where community, resilience, and adventure come together on the trail.
More North Bay Area California families are discovering why Ross Valley Mountain Bike Camp is becoming one of Marin’s favorite summer experiences for kids ages 7–14. From confidence-building and trail skills to friendships, adventure, and unforgettable rides, this camp helps young riders grow both on and off the bike this summer
Mountain biking summer camps help kids build confidence, strength, resilience, and real friendships while staying active outdoors. Beyond learning bike skills, children develop healthy habits, emotional wellness, and a stronger belief in themselves — all while having fun and exploring nature.
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.
There are moments in life when everything begins to shift. After heartbreak, healing, and major life changes, I found myself returning to the same lesson mountain biking has taught me for years: you fall, you recover, and eventually you ride again. As I prepare for my first enduro race alone, I’m learning what it truly means to become my own partner, trust my own strength, and keep moving forward through every switchback life throws my way.
The 8 Degree flat floating pedal introduces a third option between flat and clipless systems, combining the freedom of a flat pedal with controlled rotational movement. Designed to follow the body’s natural foot motion, it aims to reduce joint strain, improve comfort, and boost confidence on technical terrain while still allowing instant foot release.
