Simple question for the experts- Where does the rubber on my knobbies go to when they wear down to slicks like mine currently have?
Walt Bisbee

Great question. The short and simple answer is that the rubber is literally deposited on the trail. Hardpack and rock actually show scuffs from hard braking and power slides which are evidence of the lost rubber (also explaining why tires wear faster on hard surfaces). Soft terrain hides the evidence better but wear is constantly happening on a molecular level as a result of friction. Your tires are reduced to harmless dust particles over time not unlike a sped up version of erosion. Finally don’t forget our good friend oxidization which is responsible for rubber compound breakdown even when your tires are perfectly stationary. This is more commonly called dry-rot.

Dear MBT:
How come you guys haven’t jumped on the carbon fiber bandwagon yet?
Nick Owen “Trick Nick”

We imagine your question stems from the fact that we have yet to assemble a bicycle review on a carbon fiber model (or frame) but this isn’t to say that we don’t support the technology in question. We have put in a request to Ibis for their generally well respected Mojo. It is important to realize that the sport of mountain biking is quite trendy. Be it frame materials, wheels size, number of gears, even color schemes. We typically make it a habit to hold off a bit before jumping onto the latest trend only to watch it disappear as quickly as it arrived. Carbon has been proving itself on trails around the world and we hope to add our two cents on the matter as soon as possible.

Technical Editor's note:
Nick,
While it seems that carbon fibre is one of the hot commodities at the moment, it's difficult for me personally to support such a material as a frame material. Carbon bars have proven to be a great piece of technology, but they do have their caveats. You have to be very careful with carbon parts to ensure that the outer clearcoats and layers are not damaged; damage to those layers can cause catastrophic and premature failure of the structural carbon. And while these failures may be few and far between, they do happen. The useful lifespan of said carbon products tends to be significantly shorter than that of their aluminum counterparts for the above reason.
Another problem I have is the kind of failure you see in carbon fibre parts versus aluminum parts. Carbon tends to absolutely fail, while aluminum tends to deform before completely failing. This gives you at least some warning that you should be replacing something before it gives way underneath you. For this reason in particular, I'm fond of aluminum frames. The piece of mind offered by something that will fatigue first and not snap without warning is appealing.
There have been a fair number of people who have noted problems with some carbon fibre bikes *coughscottcough* breaking underneath them. While warranty problems have been dealt with well, I'm concerned that the same may happen to a bike underneath me. Not very appealing. That being said, I do use an Easton carbon fibre handlebar. I carefully inspect it prior to each ride, and if I should find a defect, you can be sure I'll be immediately retiring that bar from use. No carbon part, no matter how sweet, is worth risking my health over. I am open to the idea of carbon frames, however. If they prove to be strong enough and able to handle abuse without a decrease in durability, I'll gladly sing their praises in this very space.
-Rob M. (Technical Editor)

Dear MBT:
I’ve been on the hunt for a 3 inch XC style fork that won’t break the bank so to speak. I don’t jump or freeride but need something that will remain active on small descents. Some adjustability is a must as well. Your input is most welcomed.
Steve McGurthy

We’ve had some recent success with the Rockshox Reba series (see our review of the Carver 96’er elsewhere in this issue) and would recommend one based on your requirements. The affordable SL features adjustable travel (85mm-115mm) for a good price point.

Dear MBT:
I really appreciated the good review of the Tony Hawk helmet cam. It's probably the best review I've been able to find, and I'll be looking to add one of these to my mtb gear soon. There are some good videos on YouTube if you search on Tony Hawk helmet cam. I'm new to your site but will make it a regular stop.
James Messick
Kernersville, NC
Mountain Biker and author of the Almost Live Radio podcast at almostliveradio.com.

James, thank you for the feedback on our Hawk Cam report. Honestly, for the price point this package really surpassed our expectations. For recreational use/hobbyist enjoyment, it can't be beat. Keep us in the loop with your own future video productions. If you happen to capture a gem that you want to share with the mountain bike community, we would be happy to host it for you.

Got a question? Fire it away to us and we'll do the best we can to answer it. Send your inquiries to Ask Mountain Bike Tales.