I'd skip de greasing the chain because the factory grease is lubing parts of the chain that you usually can't reach with lube when I install a new chain i just wipe the outer parts with a rag so it's not sticky everywhere and after a few rides I will apply lube. With contact points I go full ergon. Grips and saddle.
Really appreciate your no-nonsense advice. But one thing about innertubes that seems to be forgotten is that the vast majority of people who ride bicycles are not mtb'rs. The tubes are there for those people - the ones who are just getting into it. Riding tubeless is completely new to them, as it was to me when I began doing this. I run tubeless now, but when I started I was hesitant to make the switch as I didn't think it actually worked, and it was just a gimmick to sell more expensive tires. But now I know better : )
The thick sticky “grease” is called cosmoline. Used in manufacturing of metal products to protect from rust and oxidation until the product reaches its end user.
Great tips man, I would also say if your bike is not top shell you should really check the truing of the wheel and do maintenance for suspension as it will most likely have metal chips
After trying many different saddles i found the perfect one for me: the SQlab 6OX. Perfect combination of comfort for longer rides and still "streamlined" enough for not being in the way on the downs. Just measure your sitbone width, get the right size for you and don't think about saddles ever again. ;-)
I have had a great experience with my specialized power saddle. It's seems to do best with more upright seating positions which is great for mountain biking.
Good tips. I'm curious as well to see if a bike half the cost can ride just as good as a more expensive bike. Although I think it depends on rider experience and how dialed in you get your bike.
if you want to improve your riding skills ,ride a hard tail for awhile with fully inflated tires . Now you will notice what your full suspension bike is masking . most new riders start out on a full suspension bike . this doesn't refine ones skills because you never encounter those things/refinements that the full suspension bike is hiding .try it , it's a real eye opener .
No is the answer to your question. The brakes on the T8 are not that great, the wheels weigh a ton, and the fork isn't as stiff. But for trail duties, it's rather good!
Honestly, I’d go with the Xtrada for a beginner… the fundamental skills that you’ll learn on a hardtail are priceless and will give you a solid foundation to build on.
