SWIMBA presents Ask a Wrench.  This is a Q&A feature in which anyone can submit a bike related question via email and we have our local experts post an answer.  The question can be about fit, equipment, riding techniques, etc...  You can email your questions to: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Some frequently asked questions are:

What are the best tires for XC riding in the foothills?

What do you recommend for a light system for riding at night?

How do I keep my feet warm and toasty while riding in winter?

The mechanics that will answer your questions are:

Jason Bauer from G-Fit Studio-  Professional Bike Mechanic since 1995.  Team mechanic for the Goldie's Women's Road Team during the HP Women's Challenge.  Current personal and race mechanic for Rebecca Rusch (2007, 2008 and 2009 World 24 Hour Solo MTB Champion).  Race mechanic for Greg Martin (2008, 2009 Singlespeed World 24 Hour Solo MTB Champion).  Mechanic and Mechanical Advisor for the Linen District's G-Fit Studio.  Professional Level Mechanics, Metabolic Services and Bicycle Fitting

Ryan Faber owner of Eastside Cycles- Ryan began mountain biking as a kid and that grew into working on bikes starting at 9 or 10 years old.  It was the one thing that came naturally to him as he was growing up.  By the time Ryan was in Junior High, he had most of the needed stands and tools and began doing tune ups out of his garage.  He had the opportunity to work and learn at a local shop for 9 years working on everything from simple adjustments to the most technical repair.  In March 2009, Ryan and his wife opened Eastside Cycles pushing his love for the sport and the industry to the next level.

Mark Hodges is an avid mountain biker and has been wrenching on bikes for a couple of years.  You've no doubt seen him lying trailside, gasping and bleeding and laughing hysterically.  This has never been the result of a poor wrenching decision, at least as far as anyone can tell.  He has logged thousands (yes, thousands) of miles on the local trails, and only got lost twice. To be honest, nobody knows why he's included in this list of experts, other than the fact that he's willing to look stuff up for people that are too busy with useful tasks.  It's possible that community service is a component of his recent release from an unnamed (but well-known) mental health facility, but he will neither confirm nor deny this allegation.

SWIMBA thanks BOB Trailers, Inc for their generous financial donation, a trailer, and tool rack. We also want to recognize them as a continued supporter of our organization, our foothills trail system and our recreational way of life in Southwest Idaho.