Outside the Toolbox #004: 'What's That Sound'

With the seasonal racing stoke high, but possibility low, we can offer you the next best thing: the beloved trackside sounds of a bike at full chat.

John Hall is Aaron Gwin’s mechanic and the lead mechanic for Intense Factory Racing. His professional and personal life is all about riding mountain bikes so no wonder he likes talking about them. But does he like listening to them? Find out in the fourth video of the Outside the Toolbox series “What’s That Sound” as we follow John to the track to playfully listen and identify some of the more peculiar sounds and also learn a thing or two about rotor care.

Sound can be a powerful tool in preparing a bike for the brutality of a racecourse but is something seldom heard by the mechanic. In this video, we camp out with John trackside to see what he thinks about the clanking, clacking, and slapping going down the hill. Along with this, John takes a moment to explain proper rotor care while traveling between events to prevent that dreaded squeaky brake.

As a former Marine, John brings a work ethic and perspective that few on the circuit have mastered. He carries himself with unmatched professionalism. He’s a constant tinkerer and a consummate pro, and of course, he’s cool under pressure. All reasons why TRP enlisted his help in the fight to rid the world of derailleur slap with the TRP DH7.

Enjoy your time off the bike during this global event. Try to learn maintenance tips, set-up tricks, and remember, “brake drag and rotor rub are the secret thieves of speed” – John Hall.

More at www.trpcycling.com
Film Brock Van Heel, Knowmad Development

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