Please keep your distance during operating hours, there will be plenty of time to help rebuild when the machines are finished working.

Here’s a sample of the assistance that has been provided with a new trail roughed in from the Chlorine Shack towards Black Hole.

New trails with help from Mike Hamilton Logging

Near the start of this website we had a first ride on the 2007 MarinRift Zone Quad XC. Three years have brought forth quite a few upgrades and changes and the 2010 model eclipses it’s older brother in many ways. Now delineated as the Mount Vision series, each model is numbered from 5.6 to 5.9. A one piece carbon fiber swingarm on the 5.9 model and alloy on the rest. Pricing Ranges from $2299 right up to $6699 but this 5.8 fits in at $3799. The Quad XC 120 series provides 120mm and fits in the Mountain FRS series below the Attack Trail 150mm series.

2010 Marin Mount Vision 5.9

Out of the box

Sweeping lines and new linkage changes

Working with their award winning Quad-Link 2.0 design, Marin took the hydroformed tubing, adjusted the head tube angle to 68.5 degrees, dropped the bottom bracket height and adjusted the seat tube steeper to keep an efficient location for pedalling. A new set of narrower links and new swingarm design to create more clearance for ankle and foot keeps the rear end solid but trimmed 200 grams from the swingarm alone. New use of smooth weld construction provides for increased frame strength.

Keeping the linkage in check is a Fox Float RP2 and front end squish come from a 15mm through axle Fox Float RL 120 32mm fork with lockout. The 5.9 model sees an RLC and RP23 combo and it would have been nice to see the same here to provide a choice of carbon or aluminum swingarms.

Shifting duties come from Shimano XT drivetrain throughout with Shadow rear and 2-way instant release levers providing crisp shifts. Braking duties come from Hayes Stroker Carbon hydraulic brakes on a 7″ rotor in the front and 6″ in the rear. FSA stem, Easton Monkey Bar and FSA integrated headset, FSA seatpost and WTB Devo Saddle provide the cockpit duties. The bike rolls on WTB Moto Raptor tires wrapped around Mavic 317’s. Mounting of the rear wheel is via a modular dropout which can be upgraded for stiffness to a Maxle if desired. Full specifications for all models can be found on the Marin website.

Initial Impressions

Smooth welds at Head Tube

Previous bikes were monochromatic, but for 2010 Marin has gone for two tone colour schemes including this one in Gray/White. The sweeping lines and smooth welds make the front triangle look more like carbon fiber. Paint quality was high with clear coat over all decals. Cable routing was well thought out including mounts for an add-on remote seat adjuster cable.

Dropouts were well positioned and the upward curve created lots of room for easy removal and replacement of the rear wheel.

The 15mm front axle was definitely a breeze, something I hadn’t yet used, but the system in its second year was effective.

One challenge I had was the proximity of the upper left linkage arm to the air preload on the Fox rear shock. While not impossible to attach thea pump hose to, the choice of pump adapter could make it easier.

Previously many local owners of the Quad XC line of bikes upgraded their front suspension to 140mm through axle forks and added a stronger wheelset. With the new geometry changes this step can easily be avoided while providing a very stable bike for up or down. This left me ready for a solid test on our local trails.

On The Trail

Descending with confidence

We’ve been spending a number of recent rides on our local Forbidden Plateau trails so what better way to compare to my regular ride than hitting up some of the same trails. Our warm February weather left us with many options so we thought we’d start with Two Shieks, and then head towards Cabin Fever before returning to Nymph Falls. The terrain included logging roads, tight singletrack through rooty forest, some open rock and rough rocky creekbeds.

Riding in on the access logging road, the Pro Pedal kept the rear swingarm in check. The trail begins with a section of trail which twists and turns through rooty trails, short bridges, and punchy short climbs. Out of the saddle pedaling was consistent with minimal bob and the slack head angle kept the bike stable and running true over bridges and skinny log rides. Even though the bottom bracket was lowered in this newest version, chainring and pedal clearance was fine.

Nimble climbing

When the trail dropped down over some steep slabs and loose rocks, the stability of the new geometry and 15mm through axle fork became apparent. On my personal ride I have a 130mm Marathon SL with a standard 9mm quick release  and Mavic 317’s. Over the same trails I notice more lateral deflection as I carry speed through the roughness or try to pick my way down the steep rock section, but in each case I found more confidence to point and shoot my line. I did notice quite a bit of flex in the stock FSA stem, and would suggest finding a good replacement stem as part of your bike fit.

One nice feature of the Quad Link 2.0 suspension design is the ability for the bike to ramp up as your riding becomes more aggressive. When riding the roots and square edge bumps, the suspension is quite active in the first portion of the travel but even as I came down hard on bigger drop off ledges, faster sections of the trail and deep compressions, the rear suspension didn’t bottom out. This comes from the changing (falling) leverage ratio on the shock, the further into the travel you are. It really does inspire more confidence as the 120mm feels much like a whole lot more.

Shifting was crisp and I was happy with the feel of the Hayes Stroker carbon levers. One complaint was the rough sound as the brakes were first applied. It’s probably a design of the pad to clear the mud cutter rotors, but it was not as confidence inspiring as recent Avid Elixir brakes I’ve ridden. Hayes is working on a new floating rotor and new design called the Prime, so I’ll have to check them out later this year.

We headed up the next day for another ride with a few minor tweaks to the air pressure and really found the balance point of the bike. Nice to be able to throw a leg over a bike and within a very short while have it well setup for your riding style.

Conclusions

Many riders look for a solid bicycle to offer them joy on a large selection of trails. The All-Mountain category of bikes provide climbing prowess and descending stability. Lighter bikes were often limited in their range of riding ability, but new computer designs, construction processes and materials are making solid effective bikes capable of many years of trail riding pleasure.

Who is this bike best for?

The Marin Quad XC 120 series of bikes are very capable and would be a great choice for riders who prefer to climb to their riding destinations, keep the wheels mostly on the ground and enjoy exploring greater distances by bike. The lighter weight, solid suspension design and good looks should put this bike high on your test ride list. Marin Bikes are available in the Comox Valley at Dodge City Cycles.

Comparison to similar bikes

Giant Trance X1 – $4099  X2 -$2799

Trek Fuel EX 9 -$4099  EX 8 – $2799

Specialized Stumpjumper FSR XC – $3700 – $3100

Norco Fluid 1 / Faze 1 $3400

About the author

Colin has been riding mountain bikes since the mid 80’s. Through the years he has been an avid racer, rider, advocate and more. Currently a chiropractor in Cumberland, he enjoys the varied trails of Vancouver Island. Colin is a lead organizer for the 2010 Island Cup Mountain Bike Series and works with the BC Bike Race on the medical team.

Recent bikes I’ve ridden lately include the 2009 Norco Fluid 1, 2006 Specialized Rockhopper and 2009 Giant Trance 1.

Deals in Dodge City

The 2010 games are over and it’s time to ride! What better way to come see the new Cumberland trails than on a new bike.

Check out these great deals on remaining 2009 bikes.

• Marin Mount Vision 5.8 was $3599 now $2899
• Marin Mount Vision 5.7 was $2999 now $2449
• Marin Mount Vision 5.6 was $2199 now $1799
• Marin Wolf Ridge “Demo” 6.7 was $3000 now 1999

• KHS Lucky Seven was 3000 now 1999
• KHS Velvet was 2650 now 1899

• 2009 Lyrik coil u-turn was $1400 now $899

All race face, Loeka and Oneal clothing now 40% off!

Come on by the shop or give Dan a call at 250-336-2200 for sizing and availability.

The rally was organized by Saanich South NDP MLA Lana Popham who also presented a petition inside the legislature on behalf of 5000 people opposed to the tax hike.

Bikes are currently exempt from the Provincial sales tax but if the HST is implemented on July 1st, 2010 it will be applied to bikes, bike repairs and related equipment.

During question period Finance Minister Colin Hansen defended the moving saying the introduction of the HST is the single most important thing the government can do to stimulate the economy and create jobs.

The Minster also says the government has brought in an HST tax credit to offset the incremental costs on things like new bikes and implemented and increase in the basic personal exemption.

NDP leader Carole James is calling people to write letters to their MLAs and the Premier.

An On-line petition is also being launched at http://www.squeakywheels.ca/

Check out the article showing the great trails here in Cumberland, Hornby Island and on Forbidden Plateau!  Six pages of glorious glossy goodness!

Island Mountain Rides "Island Hopping"

About Island Mountain Rides

IMR uses 12 years of local knowledge to ensure that your expectations are exceeded.  We can custom build tours based on your fitness, technical ability and your desire to experience the scenery of Vancouver Island.

The Island boasts a wide variety of terrain and is renowned for it’s beautiful scenery.  The mountain bike trails that you will experience are all purpose built, mountain bike trails built by mountain bikers, for mountain biking!  IMR can show you all the best routes to maximize enjoyment and flow.

IMR is based in Cumberland, BC which is quickly becoming Vancouver Island’s riding Mecca.  If mountain biking is your religion then a pilgrimage to Cumberland is a must!  Cumberland boasts a wide variety of trails right out the back door in it’s neighboring forests.  Cumberland is centrally located on the Island and is the perfect place to access the trails of other areas, such as; Forbidden Plateau/Comox Lake, Hornby Island and Campbell River.

IMR is proud to be allied with the Riding Fool Hostel, a purpose built, recreation focussed accommodation that is located in the heart of Cumberland.  The Riding Fool is the perfect place to base your riding vacation and to relax following a ride.

Located in the same building is the local pro-shop, Dodge City Cycles.  DCC provides professional mountain bike service, sales and pretty much everything else you could imagine for your riding vacation, including rental bikes.

Island Mountain Rides provides a professional mountain bike guiding service on one of the most beautiful islands in the world.  Come and visit us for a mountain biking experience that you will not forget.

Contact info@islandmountainrides.com for 2010 pricing and availability.

www.islandmountainrides.com

March 17th 5:30PM to 7PM – Beginner Course – $25
Topics include chain maintenance, wheel removal, flat tire repair, and proper cleaning techniques.

March 18th 5:30pm to 7pm – Intermediate Course – $25

Topics include gear adjustment, brake adjustment, and wheel truing.

Both courses will take place at Blacks Cycle (274 Anderton). Advance
registration is required. Space is limited to 4 people per session to
allow hands on learning. Bring your bike and your questions!

Sign up at Blacks Cycle or call 339-7011.

Malicious destruction in Cumberland’s community forest has people used to seeing brown and green seeing red instead.

Sometime last week three or more young teens or pre-teens went into the community-owned forest and chopped down at least a half a dozen cedar trees, some as much as 100-feet tall.

“This is really going to upset the 140 people who give money every month towards paying the debt for this forest,” said Andrew Nicoll, president of the Cumberland Community Forest Society.

“This is a forest that we worked hard to buy and there’s less and less of it.”

The 150-acre community forest is adjacent to privately held forest land, and about a dozen more trees along the boundary between the two properties were likewise felled.

At least another half a dozen trees within the private land were also hacked down.

Bridges damaged by vandals

But the vandalism didn’t end there — the culprits also smashed several stunts built by mountain bikers over the years.

The destruction within the community forest was primarily along the Tied Knot trail, a trail that was built about 12 years ago to celebrate a marriage.

“It’s wanton, it’s just horrible what they’re cutting out,” said Robin Burch, a volunteer trail maintainer with the Forbidden Freeriders Trail Crew.

“If they were out to destroy certain parts of the trail for bikers or hikers, they would have destroyed specific parts — they haven’t. They’ve just come along with an axe and chopped out stunts, chopped out trees, chopped out whatever they felt like.”

The vandalism has created some potentially dangerous conditions for mountain bikers.

Wooden slats were broken on one structure near the bottom of the Tied Knot trail and, right next to it, a small cedar tree was chopped off about three feet up, leaving a pointy stump.

Should a rider have come along and wiped out due to the unexpectedly damaged stunt, it was possible that he or she could have become hurt or impaled by the stump.

Burch has already cut the stump off low to the ground to remove that danger, and he continued to clean up other dangers caused by the damage Tuesday afternoon.

“There are two things so far that I’ve seen that people could spear themselves on coming off a bicycle,” said Burch. “People know the trails so well (and) it’s a change, so they make a different reaction and you can cause all kinds (of danger).”

Four youth believed to be around 12 years old were spotted in the area at the time of the incident. One has since been arrested, admitted to his role in the vandalism and implicated two or three other youth.

According to Comox Valley RCMP spokesperson Const. Tammy Douglas, the youth will be dealt with through the Community Justice system rather than the courts.

The forest was purchased for $1.1 million in 2005 after years of furious fundraising, including $100,000 grants from Mountain Equipment Coop and Coast Sustainability Trust

Thousands of local people have donated to the cause and volunteered maintaining the woods, while 140 others have committed to making monthly payments to pay the loan for the purchase.

“This is land that belongs to people who love it,” said Nicoll. “It’s not just a forest.”

The society also hopes to purchase some of the adjacent private forest land in the future as it is very close to the village.

mtetrault@comoxvalleyecho.com

Jon and the team at Mountain City Cycles are making way for the new 2010 Giant and Devinci bikes so the 2009’s have to go. What better place than your garage!

Check out some of these awesome deals.

2009 Devinci Ollie – was $2999 now $2499
2009 Devinci District – was $899 now $749
2009 Giant Anthem X3 – was $2149 now $1849
2009 Giant Trance X1 – was $4199 now $3199

2009 Trance X1 Now $1000 off!

Now in 2010 Glory, Reign SX, Cypher and more including 2010 Troy Lee kits and helmets.

More deals in store but they won’t last long!

120 Fifth Street, Courtenay, BC, V9N 1J4
250-334-0084
www.mountaincitycycles.com

We’re proud to announce a brand new Mud Run Ride on Vancouver Island this spring. Launching in conjunction with the NEW Swicked Cycles opening this winter in Campbell River. Also on board for the inaugural event is Shore Runners. Come join us on Saturday April 17th and get dirty on the Island!

Everything we know about Mud.

We have most of it nailed down by now, but check back for more details as we approach race day.

It’s time to get dirty, bring a friend.

The MUD is an event that gives everyone an opportunity to have fun at an adventure race. Whether you are an experienced racer or you are looking at your first competition, you will cross the finish line with a big smile and even bigger coating of mud.

Both teammates begin running at the start line. After the first kilometer, one is ready to continue running and the other picks up their bike. Throughout the race course you will come upon some Mystery Challenges.

If you are riding at this point, you get off your bike, conquer the challenge and then start running to the next Mystery Challenge. If you are running, you do the challenge and then hop on the bike and start riding to the next challenge. You will be doing this a few times through the event. This way everyone gets to do some riding and running.
Oh and how can I forget… at the finish there will be a nice mud pit waiting for you to crawl through, wall for you to climb over, and the finish line. At this point you can say you have raced the MUD RUN RIDE!

Registration

How to get Muddy?

Just register, visit the registration page, click on the link, fill out your info and show up on race day! If you miss registering before the registration cap – come volunteer – and register early for next year!

Why the cap on registration?

We want to offer the best experience to all participants, whether they are first, middle of the pack or coming in last. You are all important and the event experience should be the same! Fantastic!

Categories

We are going to recognize the top teams in the following divisions:

• Top Female Team (2 Females)
• Top Male Team (2 Males)
• Top Mixed Team (1 Female / 1 Male)
• Top Mammoth Team (Combined weight of 400 pounds plus)

How much is it?

$99 per team of two. Click on the registration links and sign up.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Queries

How long is the course?

It’s about 12km total, so when you break it down – you and your partner will each run about 5km and ride about 7km.

What is a Mystery Challenge?

These are located throughout the course that will help take your mind off the biking and running. Always fun to watch and even more fun participating in. There is no special training required.

Is there a style of a bike that you recommend?

You want to use a bike that is good on hard packed and slightly rocky ground. You and your race partner will be sharing the same bike so you want to both fit it a close as possible. That being said it is open as to what you would like to ride on, probably a mountain bike of some sort.

Where can I watch my team?

The finish line is the best place to be. There you will find the mud pit and climbing wall that they have to complete before crossing the finish line. There will also be music, possibly a BBQ and lot’s of other fans chilling by the mud.

Do I need any special gear?

As long as you are comfortable on the bike and while you are running, you are set to go. Some people like to use technical wear, others cotton and even some people like to wear a costume.

Will there be water on the course?

No there will not be any water stations on the course. A water bottle on the bike would be a great idea. There will be an Ultima station at the finish line.

Do I need a compass?

No. The course is clearly marked and you will find many of your fellow races around you.

How do I get to Inter River Park?

You can use this link from Google Maps to find your way there.

How do I find Swicked Cycle in Campbell River?

It’s coming, we’ll let you know.

I want to help out / volunteer, how do I?

On the about us page is information on our volunteers and how you can become part of the team – click here.

Rules of Competition

The rules are a work in process, check back before race day -

• Both teammates must complete the whole course and finish together at the finish line. They must also switch racing disciplines at each Mystery Event – bike then run and run then bike.
• It is mandatory that when you are riding your bike you are wearing your helmet. Failure to do so will be an instant disqualification.
• Some items that will cause instant disqualifications – swearing and rude behaviour towards another racer or MudRunRide crew, littering, going off course, and not obeying the rules of the road.
• If your bike breaks down, you may continue but in the riding stages you must run with your bike.
• For everyone’s safety, there is no outside support allowed on course.
• You must switch the racing discipline at each Mystery Challenge (if you were running you are now riding and visa versa).

Other Need to Know Items

Refund Policy

There are no refunds. This may sound hard, but our top priority is to create an enjoyable and safe race for everyone involved. To put on this type if event does create expenses that are constant no matter who races and volunteers.

In Case of Weather or Act of “God”

The event goes on the day scheduled, rain, shine, hail, tornado.

Waivers and Liability

- Racer Medical Information Form / Liability Waiver (PDF)

Save yourself a step on race day, print out the above form, complete them and bring with you on race day to get your number and shirt!

Welcome to Campbell River’s newest outdoor store! Are you addicted to biking, paddling, running, hiking, snowshoeing and more? Opened in February 2010, we provide you with quality products and services for all your outdoor human powered endeavours, including mountain and road biking, triathlon, kayaking, running, snowshoeing and hiking equipment.

Brands we carry:

• Trek
• Gary Fisher
• Santa Cruz
• Guru
• Louis Garneau
• Osprey Packs
• Loeka
• and more to come!

The staff at Outdoor Addictions are outdoor addicts themselves. Whether it’s exploring the island’s backcountry on the weekends or mountain biking to work, our staff memebers practice what they preach. Each one of our staff brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, so you can expect high quality customer service everytime you come into Outdoor Addictions.

For more information:

250-286-1184

1980 Island Highway
Campbell River, BC
V9W 2G2‎

www.outdooraddictions.ca