In episode 2 of Bikes: Unaffiliated, Jason Schroeder, Lars Sternberg and Shawn Spomer discuss the evolution of mountain bike technology, focusing on the durability of bikes and components. They explore the expectations riders have for bike longevity, and the importance of community feedback in shaping technology. The conversation also touches on maintenance practices and the balance between cost, weight, and durability in bike design. They delve into the evolution of mountain biking, focusing on suspension setups, the impact of e-bikes on component durability, and the importance of understanding rider skill levels. The crew discusses the challenges of navigating suspension adjustments, the significance of bearing technology, and the lifecycle of bike components. They also dissect where to spend money when building a durable bike.Chapters00:00 Introduction, What's In/What's Out14:10 The Evolution of Mountain Biking Gear18:28 Tires and Tubeless Technology: A Game Changer23:43 The Balance of Durability and Performance29:00 Expectations on Bike Longevity34:05 The Future of Mountain Bike Technology45:20 Dynamic Forks and Rider Preferences48:23 Sensitivity to Suspension Setup51:27 Skill Levels and Equipment Accessibility52:16 Understanding Compression and Adjustments54:29 E-Bikes and Durability Challenges58:17 Headset Issues and Innovations01:03:36 Durability in High-End Bikes01:12:14 E-Bike Technology and Future Considerations01:17:38 Understanding Bike Longevity and Maintenance01:19:41 Investing in Bike Parts for Durability01:22:51 Building a Bike: Prioritizing Components01:26:01 Injury and Its Impact on Riding01:26:10 Choosing the Right Bike and Brand01:29:40 The Lifecycle of Bike Parts and Consumer Expectations01:36:49 Engaging with the Cycling Community