Member
joshpalmer
- Age: 41 years
- Gender: Male
- Location: Canada
Articles / Tips
Crankworx Rotorua: a how-to guide for visitors
Crankworx Rotorua has quickly grown into a global marquee mountain bike event. You'll want to go and BikeRoar gives you some tips on how to make the most of your trip.
13 of the scariest things to do on your bike
There are some pretty scary things people do on their bikes! We put together this list of the 13 scariest along with videos to share the fright.
Opinion: Do we really need 29-inch DH bikes?
29er downhill bikes are beginning to top podiums in World Cup DH races. BikeRoar ponders if 29in DH bikes are necessary and considers benefits and disadvantages of going big wheeled.
How to pick a cycling coach
A good cycling coach can make you a better cyclist, but how do you pick the right one? We tell you the things to look for and explain how they matter to finding the best coach for you.
Don't give up on your road bike
Cycling isn't an easy sport and you may have contemplated giving up, but there are plenty of rewarding reasons to stay in the saddle of your road bike. Here's why you won't quit.
How to ride rutted out trails
Riding trail ruts can be a big challenge, as one wrong move can lead to a bad crash. BikeRoar is here with some great tips to help you confidently and properly ride a variety of ruts.
How to prepare your bike suspension for winter
Whether you plan to ride all year through the cold, or give the bike a break as the temperatures dip, use this information to prepare your bicycle's suspension for the winter season.
What makes a good cycling jacket?
Jacket quality affects ride quality, whether you set out in rain or simply get caught out in some. BikeRoar helps you understand what makes a good jacket and how to choose one.
Foam tire inserts and the future of MTB wheels
More and more mountain bikers are considering foam tire inserts. We test and compare different types to find out if they deliver on tire, rim, and flat protection.
Clipless vs. flat pedals and shoes for MTB
Riders often debate the necessity of clips versus the utility of flats for mountain biking. BikeRoar breaks down the benefits to help you decide how you'll connect and pedal your MTB.
How to recover faster and better from hard rides
A hard day on the bike can leave you sore and tired. Feel better and ready to roll again with these tips and strategies for refreshing your legs and body.
Student bicycle gear shopping guide
This school shopping guide helps students get the gear they need to ride their bikes to classes safely, comfortably, and looking smart.
Ridden and Reviewed: Marin Hawk Hill
Marin's budget Hawk Hill is a welcome contrast to bikes costing more and more. We put it through its paces and see how this low-cost trail bike delivers against its modest price.
5 life lessons I learned from riding road
Time spent on riding on the road can be difficult, but almost always rewarding. Here are five lessons I learned from road riding that go beyond cycling and apply broadly to life.
How to ride slippery roots
One of the most intimidating features of any trail is a nasty section of off-camber, slippery roots. Bike Roar is here to calm your fears and walk you through riding them confidently.
Big Changes in 2017 for Orica-Scott Cycling Team
Aussie pro team adds bike sponsor Scott to title name and joins other partners to build for 2017 success. BikeRoar gathers more about the team's gear and ambitions at Australia Road Nat...
Pro & Bike: World and Ironman Champion Terenzo Bozzone and the Argon 18 E-119 Tri+
Terenzo Bozzone may be one of the most dominant triathlon competitors in recent history. BikeRoar sits down with the 5-time world and Ironman 70.3 champ to discuss his Argon 18 E-119 Tri+.
Cycling nutrition for the new year
If you're looking to improve your cycling this year, try focusing on your diet and nutrition first. BikeRoar brings you a guide to bicycling nutrition for the new year.
Christmas Cycling Gifts for Her
Christmas is almost here and we got everything the cycling lady in your life needs! From undies, to full carbon bikes, BikeRoar has a comprehensive list of gift ideas for women.
Bond Bikes: The re-birth of high-end aluminum frames
Industry newcomer Bond Bikes is determined to make aluminum relevant again by offering full custom geometry and top tier construction. They may just pull it off.
Cyclist stocking stuffer guide
Out of ideas, but still have a stocking to fill? BikeRoar is here with a list of some great stocking-sized gifts that are perfect for any cyclist in the family.
Kids cycling gift guide
Your kids deserve the best gifts money can buy. We at BikeRoar put together our buyer's guide for the little riders in your family.
Hottest new MTB tires for 2017
The new year brings new mountain bike tires from new companies as well as freshened up favorites. Here's BikeRoar's list of hot MTB rubber for the 2017 season.
Lessons from Larry, the Old School Merchant
Before jumping at the newest trends in sales tactics, you should be refining a more classic approach. Meet Larry, the old school merchant who teaches us all a lesson or two in the art o...
E-bikes: What there is to know before you buy
Electric bikes aren't new, but escalating popularity and ability has rules and regulations rapidly changing in response. It pays to do research before you buy and BikeRoar is here to help.
What to look for in mountain bike gloves
Gloves are an important part of any rider's kit. BikeRoar shows you what to look for when purchasing a new set of MTB gloves.
Climbing bikes that beat the Taiwan KOM Challenge
A grueling race tackled only by the world's best climbers, BikeRoar was on hand at Taiwan KOM Challenge for a close look at the bikes that helped conquer.
Christmas Gifts for Cyclists 2016
Christmas is just around the corner and BikeRoar has you covered! Take a look at these great holiday gift ideas for the cyclist in your life.
Ridden and Reviewed: Cycliq Duo Mount
Are your handlebars over crowded with lights, computers, shifters and seat post switches? If so, you need the Duo Mount from Cycliq. BikeRoar spends some time using the Duo Mount and se...
Cycling Destination: Taiwan
Taiwan is widely known as the global manufacturing hub for the bike industry, but did you know it is a first-class riding destination as well? BikeRoar introduces you to cycling destina...
The '3 Wise Campaigns' for your Bike Shop Marketing this Christmas Season
For most bike shops, Christmas is one of the year's biggest selling seasons and has great profitability. Make the most of this year's holiday opportunities with these three wise campaig...
What to do if you have a warranty issue?
If something breaks or doesn't work like it should, a manufacturer's warranty usually has you covered, but making a claim can be daunting. Here is advice on what to do if your bike or a...
Ridden and Reviewed: Cycliq Fly12 - HD Bike Camera and Front Bicycle Light Combo
POV cameras are immensely popular for documenting rides - for fun and safety. BikeRoar tests and reports on the Fly12, a smarter, integrated HD action video camera and headlight from Cycliq.
BikeRoar Best Bike Shops for 2016
We talk with our Best Bike Shop 2016 winners to understand how they got to be customer favorites and successful businesses.
How to choose a safe cycling route
Cycling around your city or town can be dangerous, but you can manage a lot of the risk. BikeRoar gives you the information you need to choose a safe cycling route.
6 tips for clean training
With the recent leak of athletes using banned substances, we at BikeRoar though you could use some great tips on how to train clean.
Fancy Bears blows the lid off of who's been using banned substances in professional sports
An internation hacker collective call Fancy Bears have recently been releasing information on the allowed use of banned substances by many professional athletes. BikeRoar brings you the...
Fall is the best time to build trails and here's why
With the leaves turning and the days getting shorter, it's time to start thinking about building and repairing your local trails. Fall is the best time to be out building and we at Bike...
Interbike 2016
Interbike is upon us once again and the BikeRoar team is on the floor checking out all the newest products. Here's a look at some of the great things we're seeing at the show.
5 Best Trail Hardtails $1500 - $3000
Mountain bikes are getting increasingly expensive and complex, but hardtails are where the performance value is at. We've picked the best ones priced from a modest $1500 up to $3000 USD.
How to get faster and better service at a bike shop
Need your bike serviced ASAP? Or wondering if you can get a better price on that new saddle? BikeRoar has some great advice on how to get faster and better service at your local bike shop.
It's okay to buy a hardtail (and you probably should)
Hardtails have come a long way in recent years, and with the price of more complex mountain bikes rising, we think you should buy one. It's O.K., we promise.
Eurobike Gold Awards 2016
Eurobike is where manufacturers showcase their newest cycling related products to the world. A panel of judges bestows a Gold Award to a select few for their innovation and ingenuity. H...
Best new bike accessories for 2016
We've seen the release of some truly advanced bike accessories this year, and now we share our list of the ones we think are best.
5 Great Fatbikes for 2016
Looking for some extra grip to rip? BikeRoar brings you our top choices and editor's pick of fatbikes for 2016.
Email Marketing: A Deep Dive Into Email Analytics, Tracking and Statistics for Bike Retailers
Ok, you're convinced that email is worth it, but wondering if you can track where your money is going. In part 2 of our 'Email Marketing' series BikeRoar shows you how to track your ema...
Home storage ideas for your bike
Struggling with how to store your bike? BikeRoar has some ideas on how you can set up good looking, space saving bike storage wherever you live.
Save money by setting up your own home bike workshop
Are minor bicycle repairs starting to drain your bank account? It may be time to get yourself some tools and set up a home shop. BikeRoar has some great ideas on how you can save money ...
Most Innovative Bike Components of 2016
2016 has been a year of giant leaps for the bike industry. 1x12 drivetrains, smart bikes, and wireless devices have re-shapped the way we think about bikes. Check out BikeRoar's list of...
What to do if your bike gets stolen
Having your bike stolen is one of the worst experiences in life. BikeRoar is here to help you with some advice on what to do if your prize ride does go missing.
Australian Father's Day Gift Guide
Father's Day is coming up, Australia. Here are some great gift suggestions to celebrate your cycling Aussie dad.
Does drinking alcohol impact your cycling performance?
Seems many cyclists enjoy alcoholic beverages, but are those drinks, be they beer or wine or spirits, hurting your race day performance? BikeRoar gets to the bottom of how and when alco...
Why an all mountain bike should be your next purchase
Modern all mountain bikes have been making the most out of the newest technology; adjustable geometry, wheel size options, and frame materials are allowing all AM bike to truly be the o...
A viewer's guide to slopestyle contests
Slopestyle season is in full swing and if you enjoy watching the contests, but don't quite understand what makes a winning run, BikeRoar is here to help with this advice.
Your kid should bike to school - here's why and how
Kids are getting back to school and biking there is better for you and them in many ways. Here are the reasons and tips to help you and your child pedal to class.
Top 10 tips for faster descending
Descending on your road bike is fun and it can make or break a race. Here are ten key tips for descending faster.
MY BIG FAT BIKE DILEMMA: The evolving specs and geometry of fatbikes
The appeal of a fatbike is simple, but go to buy one and get swarmed by a variety of rim widths, hub dimensions, and tire sizes. BikeRoar is here to break down all these specs and sizes...
Back to School: Bike gear shopping list
School time is just around the corner and we have a list of must-have items for the cycling-student in every family, from elementary learners to college scholars.
Email Marketing: A Powerful Sales Weapon is Right at Your Fingertips!
Email marketing isn't new, but it may be under utilized. BikeRoar gives you a comprehensive list on why email marketing should be your go-to when reaching out to your customer base to r...
#Rio2016 - Olympic Cycling at its best
We preview the cycling events of the 2016 Olympic games in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, and predict who will stand atop the podium in some of the most scenic and exciting games to date.
Learn mountain bike skills by video? Ryan Leech guarantees it!
Legendary trials rider Ryan Leech offers an online video coaching program he guarantees will help develop your bike skills. We ask him, how effective is it and why?
Ridden and Reviewed: 2017 KHS SixFifty 6700
KHS surprised the market with an early release 2017 full carbon version of the SixFifty with a top of the line build kit. We put some time in the saddle of the new SixFifty 6700 and see...
Neck Braces: Should you be wearing one?
Neck braces for mountain biking have been available for 10 years now, so why aren't more riders wearing them? With a lack of independent studies done on their effectiveness, BikeRoar ex...
Compression Socks: Science or science fiction?
Are there real cycling benefits to compression socks? BikeRoar quizzes popular manufacturers Swiftwick and Dissent Labs to see if performance socks really do belong in your kit.
Knog Lights Ridden & Reviewed: Blinder MOB The Face and Blinder Road
BikeRoar takes two sets of Knog's hi-powered front and rear bike lights on the road and commute for a long term review of their function and help with visibility safety.
Ridden and Reviewed: KHS Grit 440
BikeRoar takes the KHS Grit 440 off roading to see what this full carbon gravel bike is capable of.
SpeedX: Is a smart bike a smart buy?
With a successful Kickstarter campaign, SpeedX offers a fully integrated smart bike for a budget price. BikeRoar asks: How is this possible? and should you rush out to buy one?
Crankworx Whistler: An insider's guide to the biggest event of the year
Easily the biggest mountain bike event in the world, BikeRoar gives you insider's information on how to make the most of your Crankworx Whistler, BC Canada experience.
Ridden and Reviewed: Fox Rampage Pro Carbon MIPS Helmet
We test Fox's highest end downhill MTB helmet, now with MIPS, to see how it fits and performs out in the real world.
Safe Cycling Tips
Although it can seem safe, cycling almost always poses some level of risk and danger. If you are new to cycling, or need a brush-up, this article contains some great information on how ...
Ridden and Reviewed: Fox Metah Helmet
The Fox Metah is an elite level trail helmet. With Varizorb EPS impact foam, extended coverage and a large fixed visor it is one of the safest helmets on the market, but is it worth the...
Tour de France 2016: Preview & Predictions
The 103rd annual Tour de France is set to begin Saturday July 2nd and should be an exciting 3 weeks. BikeRoar brings you our preview and predictions for the 2016 Tour de France.
MIPS Helmets: How do they work? Should you use one?
There are more MIPS equipped helmets on the market than ever before, so BikeRoar takes a look at how they work and if you should be riding with one.
Carbon Handlebars: Why your MTB needs a set
BikeRoar takes a close look at carbon bars for your mountain bike to find out if they're worth the money. You may be surprised with these reasons.
Balance Bikes: What are they? Which ones are best for your kids?
Balance bikes revolutionized the children's bike market. BikeRoar shares exactly what they are and why they are so effective in helping your child learn to ride a bike.
Downhill MTB: Best bikes for $2500-$5000
Downhill season is upon us and BikeRoar brings you the 6 best DH bikes from $2500-$5000
Ridden and Reviewed: MindShift Gear Rotation 180 Trail 16L camera and gear bag
BikeRoar tests the MindShift Gear Rotation 180 Trail 16L backpack to see how it performs as both an adventure camera bag and a cycling hydration bag.
Sagan is Special(ized)
The word at the front of the peloton is that Peter Sagan will be moving from Tinkoff to Astana in the 2017 season, bringing with him some familiar faces and bikes.
Carbon MTB Wheels: Benefits and Breakdown
Many new carbon wheel manufactures are popping up on the market causing prices to come down significantly - almost par with higher-end alloy wheels. But is the jump to carbon worth it?
Road Realizations: Are cycling's governing bodies failing their members?
With cycling numbers on the rise in both Australia and the United States, why are race license numbers on the decline? Are cycling governing bodies doing enough to support their members?
Racer or not, is it safe to buy a road bike with disc brakes?
The recent ban of disc brakes in the pro peloton has all levels of bike shoppers wondering if it's wise to buy a bike with disc brakes? We examine where consumers and manufacturers go f...
Dropper Posts: How do they work and do I need one?
Having a button on your handlebars that allows you to control your saddle height has revolutionized the way we ride bikes. Take a look as BikeRoar breaks down how dropper posts work and...
Don't quit the gym during your cycling season - strength and conditioning
Hit the gym during race season? BikeRoar speaks with top level pros and finds out why you should keep your gym training going all year round.
Zerode: An interview about the future of gearbox bikes
With bikes evolving as fast as they can be made, a gearbox bike for the average consumer may finally be here from Zerode Bikes out of New Zealand.
Why Women Could Save Your Bike Shop
Women are a valuable resource that often gets overlooked in the bicycle retail world. BikeRoar brings you some great tips on how involving more women in your shop could increase sales a...
Plus Bikes: 4 bikes you need to ride
With Plus sized wheels showing up in every manufacturer's line of bikes, we at BikeRoar suggest the first 4 the you should get out and ride.
Adventure Riding: How-to ride in exotic countries
There is no better way to see exotic countries then from the seat of your bike. BikeRoar gives you some inside tips on how you can properly plan for the trip of your life.
Surviving a wild animal encounter while biking (Pt. 2) - Danger Down Under
Australia is home to some of the world's most unique – and deadly animals. Here is some information on how to handle an encounter with the biggest animal threats to cyclists in Oz.
Liv Giant boosts support for women in cycling
Liv started as a female-specific brand under Giant Bicycles. BikeRoar takes a look into the success and independence of Liv and it's impact on women's cycling.
Are road disc brakes a menace or a blessing?
Disc brakes made their controversial debut of the Paris-Roubaix road race and were suspended after a rider injury. BikeRoar investigates whether their performance is worth the risk.
Why women are better cyclists than men
Women handle stress better, are more organized, and take fewer risks, making them better bikers then men. Don't believe us? BikeRoar has the science to prove it.
Best XC Full Suspension Bikes for $1500-$3000
BikeRoar brings you 6 top performing XC full suspension mountain bikes that won't break the bank.
Helping your family enjoy cycling
Having a family than doesn't enjoy cycling can be tough. BikeRoar gives you some great ideas on how to help your family share your love of cycling.
Should Bike Shops be Worried by a UCI ban on Road Disc Brakes?
With a recent ban of disc brake use in competitive cycling by the UCI some, retailers are wondering how this may affect the sales of performance road bike moving forward.
The Haute Route: A firsthand experience of what it takes to tackle the world's toughest ride
A series of week-long sportives, the Haute Route takes you through some of Europe's most epic mountain ranges. BikeRoar shares the experience: what it's like to suffer, and ultimately s...
Ryders Seventh Review: Where function meets value
Ryders Seventh riding glasses seamlessly combine tech features with true value. BikeRoar tested the Seventh glasses on both the road and the trails to see how good these glasses truly are.
AM, XC, PLUS - What am I? A beginner's guide to who you are and what MTB to buy
We break down mountain bike genres (sport/rec, AM, XC, PLUS) to help you understand them, your riding preferences, and the right bike for you and the ride.
Hey Bike Shop Owner - Let’s Go for a Walk
Hey shop owners, BikeRoar bring you some straight forward advice on your shop thats guaranteed to help you create a better buying experience for your customers.
6 Road Tires Worth Paying More For
There are many good options when it comes to replacing the tires on your road bike. BikeRoar makes it easier with this list of 6 top-end road bike tires for 2016.
Succeed in cycling goals when you have kids
Starting a family is one of life's biggest joys, but how do you fit in the time to ride with the demands of a busy family? BikeRoar has some great tips on how to maintain your training ...
SRAM MTB 2016 Lineup: A quick round up and comparison
With the addition of Eagle and NX to SRAM's already comprehensive collection of mountain bike componentry groups, here's a run-down of SRAM's offerings to date for the 2016 season.
SRAM Eagle 1x12 Takes Flight
Recently announced 1x12 XX1 and X01 drive trains from SRAM are due this June and people are wondering, 'Is this the end of the front derailleur?'
Max's Bike Wash: Junior bike washer's tips and tools
Starting his own bike washing business so he can raise enough money to get to the Australian nationals, young Max is as industrious as he is determined. Bikeroar talks with this junior ...
Spring Clean: things to remember when caring for your bike
Spring is in the air for the northern hemisphere, so BikeRoar gives you some great tips on how to get your bike and bike habits ready for the upcoming season.
Track Cycling: Glittering past and a glorious future?
World Cycling League is about to launch velodrome racing with superstar riders and spectator friendly rules. BikeRoar digs deeper to see if track cycling can win the hearts of the masse...
Weekend warrior teams taking over amateur cycling
Cycling is often a team sport, but are growing teams providing proper development or simply squashing competition?
Pro And His Bike: Andrew Blair and the S-Works Epic WC
Get to know one of Australia's top XC racers and his bike of choice - the Specialized S-Works Epic of Andrew Blair.
PLUS Sized Bikes: What's the big deal?
The introduction of PLUS sized bikes mean yet another new industry standard. BikeRoar gives you the scoop on what PLUS is and why you will want to upgrade.
Alternate Perspectives: James DuBoses' autoshift handcycle
Automatic electronic shifting technology (ProShift and Shimano Di2) helps James DuBose compete with his handcycle and gives regular cyclists a glimpse of the future.
SRAM NX: 1x11 MTB drivetrain on a budget
SRAM introduces a budget 1x11 drivetrain to the market. With most 1x11 builds costing too much for the average rider, the inexpensive NX system could be the answer many people have been...
6 Ways to Improve Your Bike Shop’s Profitability in 2016
Turning a profit is the single most important goal for retail shops. BikeRoar gives you some great insight into how you can increase your profitability over the 2016 season.
6 Best Mountain Bike Tires for 2016
Moving forward into 2016 BikeRoar brings you their choices for the best MTB tires for this season. There are some familiar faces in this list and some brand new tires that are sure to k...
New laws for cyclists in NSW: Does cycling still represent freedom?
Increased fines and mandatory licensing laws menace cyclists in New South Wales, Australia, and threaten cycling as a personal freedom.
Save money by spending more - Buy the bike you want regardless of price
It sounds like a sales pitch, but there's truth to saving when you spend more. We explain the importance of paying more for your bike.
Retail Advice: Top bike shops share their tips to success for 2016 and beyond
BikeRoar asks award winning bike shops about what separates them from the rest. Use their tips and advice to build on your store's success for 2016 and beyond.
Conversation: Should Gran Fondos have champions?
Winners were crowned at the public gran fondo recently held along with Australia road nationals. Should gran fondos be sanctioned races? With champions?
Downhill racing: Secret tips from a veteran racer
Handy and unusual preparation tips for DH racing that only a seasoned racer would know.
Surviving a wild animal encounter while biking
Wild animal encounters can be unnerving and dangerous. Use this advice to deal with some of the most common animals found on the trails.
What it takes to be a pro bike mechanic - Andrew Ward
DRAPAC team mechanic Andrew Ward tells BikeRoar what it takes to wrench in the pros and offers tips for home bike mechanics.
Valentine's Gifts for the Cycle Lover
With St. Valentine's Day right around the corner, BikeRoar has you covered with great gift ideas sure to capture the heart of your special cycling someone.
Trail saboteur convicted; mountain biking community remains burdened
64 year old woman found guilty of sabotaging iconic North Vancouver bike trails, but was it a win for the MTB community?
Jay McCarthy (Tinkoff) - From the Ground Up
McCarthy gives BikeRoar a rundown of his winning equipment and race at the 2016 TDU.
How to shop for the right bike shop
Shopping for a new bike shop can be difficult. BikeRoar has a few good pointers on how to make shopping for a new bike shop as easy as possible!
Nathan Earle moves to DRAPAC and a SwiftCarbon UltravoxTI
Earle swaps his Pinarello F8 for a SwiftCarbon UltravoxTI. He gives BikeRoar a look at his new team bike.
Graeme Brown shows off gold aero Swift HyperVox at TDU
Graeme Brown (Drapac) unveiled his brand new gold Swift HyperVox aero bike at this year's Tour Down Under. Bike Roar was there to get the inside scoop on this beautiful machine.
Staying fit while injured
Injured while cycling? Use these tips to keep fit or come back better than before.
You, your local bike shop, and the other guys
Look at the relationship and roles of cyclists and local bike shops in today's world of shopping and service.
Bobridge's Brave Solo Ride Wins War Of Attrition
Jack Bobridge, Amanda Spratt, and Jenelle Crooks each claim Australian road race titles in closing championship events.
You Stink! How to eliminate odor in cycling clothes and gear.
Do your bike clothes and gear stink? Here's how to get the odor out and what might be causing it to smell.
Biking to Lose Weight
Cycling is a great way to lose weight and you don’t have to wear Spandex to make it happen. Here is some advice for success.
Road Bikes: 6 best bets from $2,000 to $3,500
BikeRoar takes a look at six road bikes that are big on performance, not on price…
Bike Fit: Does size matter?
BikeRoar talks to the world’s best bike gurus to tap into the truth on the importance of frame size when it comes to individual fit.
BikeRoar.com adds Anthony Morrow as Online Marketing and Content Strategist
Growing product resource website adds Anthony D. Morrow as Online Marketing and Content Strategist to expand exposure for platform and local bike shops.