ShiftLess: Gravel, Bikepacking and Unpaved Bicycle Adventures

Welcome to Episode 147 of the ShiftLess Podcast! This week, we’re serving up a heavy dose of mental gymnastics, cycling industry conspiracy theories, and... dry-cured meats?
Bradford gives us an update from the "cure room," but the real meat of the episode is Kevin’s massive hot take on the sudden explosion of the 32-inch gravel bike hype. After the absolute dominance of the Specialized Crux at Unbound Gravel (taking 4 of the top 6 spots), are competitors like Scott and Trek pushing 32-inch prototypes as vaporware just to freeze Specialized's sales momentum? We break down the timeline, compare the 32" hype machine to the slow burn of the original 29er mountain bikes, and discuss whether the industry is actually innovating or just scrambling for survival.
Plus, we talk Keegan Swenson's Unbound tactics, the upcoming Tour Divide, and why flat-bar drops might be the next frankenbike trend at Leadville.
Disclaimer: We aren't industry insiders. This is just our opinion, our observations, and a lot of unapologetic bike nerdery.
Join the Pack: Check out upcoming grassroots gravel & ultra-endurance events at Spinistry.net

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#GravelCycling #32InchBike #SpecializedCrux #UnboundGravel #ShiftLessPodcast #CyclingIndustry #BikeTech #GravelRacing #MountainBiking #TourDivide #ScottBikes #KeeganSwenson #Bikepacking #CyclingPodcast #Spinistry
Shiftless Ep. 147: Salami in the Cure Room, Unbound Debrief, and the 32-Inch Gravel ConspiracyIn Episode 147 of Shiftless, the hosts open by disclaiming they’re sharing opinions, then detour into Bradford’s “cure room” and his salami projects (beef, Calabrian pork tenderloin, and ventricina-style), explaining drying to ~40% loss and vacuum-sealing to equalize moisture. They pivot to bicycles with an Unbound debrief and a debate over 32-inch wheel hype, noting only one appeared in the pro race while Robin won XL on a Scott 32-inch prototype. They argue the new Specialized Crux dominated results and discuss team dynamics, marketing, and concerns about Specialized dealer pricing. Kevin proposes a conspiracy that 32-inch hype was amplified to slow Crux momentum among early adopters, while Bradford contends big brands are quietly developing 32s and hype moves faster now. They also preview a delayed Tour Divide episode, discuss parts availability for 32s in ultra events, note tracking tools, and touch on Leadville’s drop-bar ban.00:00 Rolling in HD00:23 Opinions Disclaimer01:22 Cure Room Salami02:26 Salami Tasting Notes04:52 Back to Bicycles05:57 Unbound 32 Inch Recap07:02 Team Orders Talk09:23 Specialized Dealer Drama10:50 Crux Dominates Unbound11:40 Tour Divide Plans12:46 Marketing and Tire Clearance16:24 32 Inch Hype Timing22:23 Vaporware Argument23:21 Boutique vs Big Brands26:50 Fads and Fueling Trends28:52 Who Drives the Hype30:11 Sea Otter Reality Check30:55 Will Big Brands Debut 32s34:30 Hype Cycle vs Reality38:25 Development Cycles Explained39:03 MTB Platform Confusion39:41 Scott 32 Prototype Strategy44:19 Hype Cycle vs Reality48:36 Tour Divide Practicalities53:25 Salsa Size Debate55:23 Bikepacking Bags and Fit57:03 AC Troubles and Costs01:02:00 Industry Survival and 32 Adoption01:09:01 Leadville Bars and Specialized01:12:48 Unbound Results and Rider Stories01:19:42 Tour Divide Lists and Tracking01:21:52 Wrap Up and Sign Off

We took the mobile studio down to Lewisville, Texas, to sit down with local legends Carlos and Lisa Uranga at the brand-new Full Gas Cycling Fit Studio. Before we dive into the black magic of bike fitting, Brad and Kevin debrief the absolute mudfest at Unbound 2024. We break down Keegan Swenson's F1-style pit stops, the utter dominance of the Specialized Crux, and the momentum building behind Scott’s winning 32-inch prototype in the XL field.
Then, we get down to the nuts and bolts of how a proper bike fit can give you free watts, fix that nagging lower back pain, and keep you smiling on those ultra-endurance pushes. Carlos and Lisa break down why buying a bike before getting fit is a massive gamble—especially in the era of expensive, integrated cockpits. Whether you are building up a brand-new MOG, tweaking a trusty Fargo, or stubbornly mashing a single-speed, this episode is packed with fit philosophy that will change how you look at your rig.
In this episode, we cover:
The Unbound 2024 Fallout: Mud, marginal gains, and why a good team dynamic is just as important as tire clearance.

The 32-Inch Wheel Revolution: Will it become the new standard for ultra-endurance and bikepacking?

The Pre-Purchase Fit: Why you should get mapped on a fit bike before dropping $10k on a rig with an integrated cockpit.

Short Crank Science: The mechanical advantage of dropping down to 160mm or 165mm cranks to open up your hip angle and improve aerodynamics.

Solving the "Hot Foot": Why standard wide shoes (we’re looking at you, Shimano) might be failing you, and how surface area, socks, and custom insoles make or break a 100-mile ride.

Direct-to-Consumer Risks: The pros and cons of buying Chinese carbon frames like X-Lab or Quick Pro without a proper geometry consultation.

Links & Resources:
Full Gas Cycling Fit Studio: fullgasfitstudio.com

Find Carlos & Lisa Urrenga's studio off 121 in Lewisville, TX for your next pre-purchase mapping or fit follow-up.

0:00 New Location Intro00:22 Meet Full Gas Fit Studio01:31 Unbound Tech Talk 32s05:27 Fit Implications of 32s08:54 Unbound Weather Recap11:11 Wheel Swap Drama14:12 Crux Bike vs Talent16:14 Fit Basics Stack Reach21:57 Buy Fit Before Bike27:28 Integrated Cockpit Headaches34:18 Hot Feet Troubleshooting39:49 Fitting Riders on Flats40:58 Flats Versus Clips41:47 Leg Length Shims42:40 Short Crank Setup44:27 Q Factor Explained45:10 Pedal Options Today47:04 Fit Across Bike Types50:02 Goals Drive Fit51:35 Common Pain Triggers52:50 How Often Refit55:53 Injuries And Compensation57:41 Tools And Assessments59:47 Free Watts For All01:01:14 Modern MTB Geometry01:02:44 Droppers And Setback01:05:24 Hip Angle Blood Flow01:08:08 Watching Pros Critically01:09:52 Three Contact Points01:11:55 Ultra Endurance Fits01:14:16 Pre Fit Before Buying01:17:34 Partnering With Shops01:20:14 Fit Included On 10K Bikes01:20:38 Custom Spec Bikes01:21:05 Booking a Fit01:21:57 Four Hour Fit Day01:23:30 When MOG Won’t Fit01:24:38 Testing Cockpits Fast01:26:00 Fit Bike vs Your Bike01:27:19 Pricing and Transfers01:28:24 Why Fits Matter01:30:48 Follow Ups and Fees01:33:54 Crank Length Debate01:37:07 Short Cranks Stories01:44:45 Trends and Geometry01:46:08 DTC Brands and LBS01:50:03 Wrong Bike Problem01:51:32 Wrap Up and Contact

Will Unbound Gravel be the proving ground for 32-inch wheels? In episode 145 of the ShiftLess podcast, we dive into the latest industry rumors, including the highly anticipated debut of 32-inch gravel bikes by top-tier pros. We also break down major cycling news, from the unfortunate closure of Niner Bikes to the triumphant return of Paragon Machine Works and SRAM's groundbreaking legal victory over the UCI.
Beyond the bikes, we preview the Traka gravel race's push to become Europe's premier event, discuss optimal sous vide steak techniques, and outline a detailed business plan for bringing authentic New Orleans-style po'boys to Texas.
Unbound Gravel Preview & Rumors: Speculating on course conditions, wildcard contenders, and the potential debut of 32-inch wheels from major brands like Scott and Specialized.

Industry Shakeups: Discussing the end of Niner Bikes, the legacy of 29ers, and the rescue of Paragon Machine Works by Firsthand Framebuilding.

SRAM vs. The UCI: Breaking down SRAM's successful appeal against the UCI's restrictive gearing rules.

The Global Gravel Scene: Analyzing the Gravel Earth Series and whether the Traka will rival Unbound as the premier international gravel event.

Culinary Ventures: Debating the ideal sous vide times for dry-aged Wagyu and brainstorming the logistics of opening a dedicated, nostalgic po'boy shop.

Unbound Gravel 2024, 32 inch wheels gravel bike, Niner Bikes closing, Paragon Machine Works, SRAM UCI gearing rule, Traka gravel race, ShiftLess Podcast, gravel cycling news, custom frame building, sous vide steak, cycling industry updates.
Unbound Gravel Rumors, 32-Inch Wheels, and Bike Industry UpdatesTwo hosts record at Casa Verde on Memorial Day and preview Unbound Gravel, focusing on a rumor that a top-tier pro—possibly Cam Jones on a Scott—will race a 32-inch wheel bike, debating sponsor-driven exposure vs performance, estimating how many 32s might appear, and noting muddy conditions could change equipment choices. They discuss elite start list curiosities, wild-card threats, course changes, weather forecasts, and Lauren potentially being the oldest Lifetime Grand Prix athlete with podium chances. Industry news includes Niner ceasing production to focus on Huffy, Paragon Machine Works being revived via acquisition of stock, machinery, and IP by a Portland custom builder, and SRAM winning an appeal against the UCI’s proposed 54x11 gearing limit. They touch on DT Swiss dynamo hub internals, Tour Divide timing, Traka’s push to become a premier European gravel series, and end with personal updates plus extended talk about sous vide, dry aging, and a potential po’boy shop concept.00:00 Wisdom and Casa Verde01:32 Unbound Rumor Mill02:42 Scott 32-Inch Bombshell07:03 Start List Mysteries09:29 Course and Weather Watch13:54 Over Under on 32s19:09 Wheel Size Talk19:52 Niner Shuts Down24:09 EBB vs Sliding Dropouts26:23 Paragon Returns30:59 Tire Trends Then Now36:20 Dynamo Hub Deep Dive38:42 Tour Divide Preview40:49 Family Updates and Natchez Eats44:27 Pidcock and Pro Chatter46:10 Traka Versus Unbound47:58 Series Drama And Cheating49:43 Routes Dates And Pit Stops51:40 Indoor Camping Hub Idea54:29 Texas Gravel Arrow Wins55:28 SRAM Beats UCI Rule57:43 32 Inch Wheel Speculation01:02:34 Bike Shop Visit And Becky01:04:12 Memorial Day Food Plans01:05:33 Sous Vide And Swordfish01:09:53 Po Boy Shop Blueprint01:16:32 Location POS And Delivery01:26:37 Food Peddler And Minden01:29:05 Wrap Up Ride Your Bike

Kevin and Chef Brad are back in the studio, and this time they’re joined by the king of the Zone 1 Revolution himself, Austin Whittington, fresh off a grueling, wind-blasted win at the Spinistry Red River Riot.
In this episode, the crew dives deep into the current state of grassroots gravel racing versus the increasingly commercialized “Instagramification” of the industry. They discuss how event formats are shifting, why cloverleaf routes might be the ultimate test of mental toughness, and how to bridge the gap for hyper-fit indoor riders who need to build real-world bike handling skills.
The guys also unpack the latest bicycle industry shakeups, from the cooling of the post-COVID used bike market to the unfortunate bankruptcy news surrounding Lynskey. On the gear front, expect a heavy dose of tech talk: the frustrating state of satellite trackers and Garmin’s subscription models, the death of micro-USB, power meter accuracy, and why you might want to rethink running lightweight pedals if you actually want to cross the finish line.
Episode Highlights & Keywords:
Race Recap: Surviving 40mph Texas gusts and tire size debates (45s vs. 2.1s) at the Red River Riot.

Industry News: The Lynskey Chapter 11 filing, the new Moots Scrambler, and the shifting dynamics of the secondary bike market.

Event Design: Why grassroots events are adapting, and the logistical brilliance behind the cloverleaf race route.

Tech & Gear: Navigating the confusing world of Garmin electronics, inReach satellite trackers, Assioma vs. Garmin power pedals, and the eternal Crank Brothers vs. Shimano SPD reliability debate.

Culture: The changing rules at major events like Leadville and Rule of Three, and building up beginners in the gravel community.

Grab your coffee (burnt or otherwise) and tune in!
Tags:Gravel cycling, bikepacking, Spinistry, Red River Riot, gravel racing, cycling tech, Garmin Edge, bike tracking, Lynskey titanium, power meters, bike handling, grassroots cycling, cycling industry news, Chef Brad Green.

The Unconventional Justin Cary Returns for an Unbound XL Deep Dive!
In this episode of ShiftLess, Kevin and Brad sit down with our favorite ultra-endurance rule-breaker, Justin Cary. With Unbound XL right around the corner, we are milking this preview for all it's worth. Justin is gunning to shave three hours off his time from last year, and to do it, he's taking some massive swings with his gravel bike setup that fly in the face of conventional cycling wisdom.
We dive deep into the logistics, gear choices, and mental tactics required to survive and thrive at the pointy end of ultra-endurance gravel racing and bikepacking events. Whether you are gearing up for a 300-mile race, fine-tuning your bikepacking rig, or just love nerding out over tire rolling resistance, this episode is packed with real-world takeaways.
Topics Covered in this Episode:
Unbound XL Preview: Goal setting, race tactics, pacing, and drafting in a 350-mile race.

The Unconventional Setup: Why Justin is ditching aerobars in favor of a high stack height, and how he's running "Fast on Flats" pedals for ultra-distance events.

Gravel Tire Tech: Testing the puncture resistance and rolling speed of the Michelin Power Adventure 48s on a 2025 Specialized Crux.

Ultra-Endurance Nutrition: Fueling massive efforts with no solid food using Simple Cycling Nutrition, plus extreme hydration and caffeine strategies for riding through the night.

Bikepacking Gear & Battery Management: Navigating the logistics of cache batteries, Exposure lights, SRAM RED shifting, and action cameras over multiple days.

Industry Talk: The Rule of Three course changes, the ongoing debate around suspension forks on gravel bikes, and why 32-inch wheels might be the "Blackberry" of the cycling industry.

Bonus: Kevin's sous vide beef tenderloin revelation.

Keywords:Gravel riding, gravel racing, Unbound XL, bikepacking, ultra-endurance cycling, specialized crux, gravel bike setup, bikepacking gear, fast on flats pedals, Michelin power adventure, cycling nutrition, Rule of Three gravel, Tour Divide, 32-inch mountain bike wheels, ShiftLess podcast.

Justin's pedals (use coupon code SHIFTLESS for 10% off): https://www.simplecyclingnutrition.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Justin's bike overview on his channel: https://youtu.be/aDOl5X0O5s0?si=Cq0Q8pu4c-ZNhFCg