I know the area pretty well. We usually come up to Pisgah and stay near the South Entrance. Ridden N. Mills River a couple of times. I definitely know what you mean by gritty soil, down here in FL, we have SUGAR sand and a ton of it.
Next time I head up, maybe you could show me around.
I'm thinking I'm due for a Memorial Day long weekend trip. (along with all the other Floridiots going to WNC).
L8R
Originally Posted by HaroX2
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I live in Horse Shoe, which is between Mills River & Pisgah Forest. I'm literally surrounded by some of the highest rated MtnBiking trails in the entire USA.
It's almost always muddy, at least in places (we get 35"+ rainfall/yr) and the soil makeup is really gritty (you Yankee's may not know what I'm talkin' 'bout). That's one reason I went disc on the brakes. I was wearing out the sidewalls on two sets of rims/year. Chains & cassette's don't have too long a life either. Anyway, alot of people come from all over the nation to ride around here, and it's good to meet "most" of them. Some aren't too friendly, but I suppose that's the way of life in the big city...
Here's a pic of my new bike after 2 rides. I love the Hayes HFX-9 DH brakes, and lighter wheelset/tires.
Unfortunately, it still weighs right @ 32 lbs.
They don't look new for long...
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"Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, "WOW, What a Ride!" - unknown
"Your Bike Sucks" - Sky Yaeger