I’m a casual trail cyclist of all sorts (dirt roads, pump/jump/skills areas, moderate single track, occasional woods exploration). I prefer flowy stuff but live in New England so do a lot of technical, too. I like having just one bike for a bunch of reasons (space, budget, maintenance, often combine activities in single ride). I'm a 39 yo guy with a desk job, so this is pure recreation/fitness for me.
My current bike is basically a dirt jumper (geometry, 26” wheels, single speed), but with low gearing (+ motor assist) for uphills, extended seatpost for leg extension, and front/back hydraulic brakes for downhills. Honestly it’s not great at anything but it gets the job done on everything, is super low maintenance, and is fun/inspiring enough that I’m always excited to go out and ride.
Recently I've found myself doing steeper + more technical downhill trails. I also found a lift access downhill place that I’m going to try this weekend, but I worry may be approaching my bike's limits. A friend who knows her stuff encouraged me to rent; I will either do that or stick to easy trails. But most likely I'll have a blast and want to go back occasionally. Then what?
I could spring for a fork upgrade (currently have 100mm travel) and maybe throw a 27.5 on the front. But let’s face it, 90% of the people there will be on enduros and downhills for a reason. I lack the experience to fully appreciate that reason, so I'm asking you kind folks.
Should I ride this thing until it tells me not to? Or should I count my blessings and switch to something more stable and forgiving? I love my bike and I'm genuinely not looking for a reason to "upgrade". But I also don't want to do anything stupid or plainly unsafe.
I'm open to specific recommendations as well as general advice on how to think about this. Photo of my bike if helpful: https://imgur.com/a/usEAUBd
TYIA.
by freerobby