Mr X

Get your handlebars as low as possible, this adds weight/grip to the front wheel.

I would estimate this to be about only 5% true.

If they wanna make the cars slower and more efficient then just take those stupid wings off. "Aerodynamics are for car manufacturers that do not know how to build engines." - Enzo Farrari

The other thing I really do not like about this season: F1 2014 is an economy-run not a race!

This F1 season reminds of A1, the commentators and the engine sounds and speeds are the same. The driver that has been standing out most last year and so far this season is Hulkenburg, give that man a mid fielder car and he will rake in the podiums. It also seems DRS is less of a factor for some reason, I am not very happy with F1 so far this season but I will give it a few more races.

3D targets can be other riders` tyres?

We are talking 1 event here the Epic not the sport in general. There are many road races and mtb races that do not allow just anyone to enter, it does no damage to the sport but enhances it by having the best riders compete. Why is nobody complaining that amateurs can not enter the TDF? Does this make road cycling elitist? Nope. Not anyone can just enter the XC Olympics, no harm done. Also, it is the price tag on an Epic entry that makes the Epic elitist, but this does not make the sport of mtb elitist.

I do know what the DIPS meant I have been subjected to his online rants/CAPS for years now.

That`s uncalled for, anyone who paid the entry deserves to be there, and attempting the Epic with limited training time takes guts.

It was never stated that anyone does not deserve to be there, it was stated that the back-markers do not warrant his sympathy. Do the the back-markers want our sympathy?

Insults unnecessary...He is referring to normal unfit grannies who came unprepared, not fit super grannies.

The Diamond Back Apex steel frame is a great bike, maybe that`s why shes kicking your arse.

Cool bike, cool chick. Does she have a mother?

Or on this, it`s all about the rider so the Epic could be won on this if Sauser is riding it. http://www.jamesperse.com/img/products/TRICYCLE_BPWD_L2A1.jpg

Funny that we always say it`s the rider not the bike. I disagree. Go ask Sauser, and he will tell you equipment plays a very important role in mtb racing. I heard him say this in an interview. At the pro level every second counts and you can not win on a Game special bike. At that level every little thing counts.

Yes you can! Like Webber demonstrated here...

No he would have more fun winning - its a pro thing.

Mech problems. I think it is crappy that they are not allowed to switch bikes or have mech assistance on route. It should be a test of riding skills and not mech skills of the riders. A race format more like the TDF would make the Epic much better.

I`d say go with 170mm if you have a choice. The longer cranks for mtb comes from the old idea that steep climbing is better with longer cranks, which is probably not valid.

Nope

Too idealistic. Our roads are getting more dangerous and the only thing that could make a difference is a drastic political change so that law enforcement could be strict and effective. I do not believe a person should have to risk their life for their sport. This is why I gave up road cycling, these roads/drivers are just too dangerous.

Cycling on these roads is madness.

Scandi flick works great for leaning over quicker into the the corner. Counter steer is used usually when a corner is taken fast and it gets a bit loose.

Vineyard race I have done parts of the route and it has changed since the Epic is coming in down at the river this year again. Some serious climbing in this years route, but also since the Epic will not be using the singletracks this year, yes there will be lots of singletrack!

Yes this is the reason why. Position of feet. Right foot forward is a small forward/downward movement for a left turn. Wanna improve your skills? sometimes ride over rocks and stuff with your unnatural foot forward, it is very handy to be comfortable riding over obstacles with any foot forward.