New (old?) Member...saying hello.

My name is Joe. I live in Tustin. Followed a link here from somewhere else. Don't remember it at all but, apparently signed up here two years ago, so back again for the first time. Or something like that. I ride semi-regularly, pedal and ride DH. Usually ride Fully Loop once a week with some friends from work, along with Oaks since it's close to my house. Just like being on two wheels when I can. Always down to ride with new people.

 

Welcome (back)!

 

With awesome pics like those, you don't belong. Not! Welcome back.

 

Welcome back! I'm in the Orange hills myself and ride Oaks mostly so hit me up for a ride.

 

Duuuude where is that chunky drop located at on the Floop, I'm soo there...

Oh yea, welcome (back)

 

Yea, that chunk drop, what a cool shot.

Ride, post, repeat...you know the drill, @kazlx

 

Heh, yea, that's prob one of my favorite trails to ride, 'In Deep' at Whistler. It's pretty chunky dry and gets crazy when it's wet. You can see the triple hump line off the rock to the right, which I took in that pic, or you can come through the rocks on the left. Riding is ok here in SoCal and I have fun, but if we didn't have solid roots and family, I would move up to the PNW. The riding just can't be beat.

 

Dude is a serious rider! Welcome. Lots of climbers on this forum, not many of us who prefer the more exhilarating end of gravity's pull - but a steady and dedicated handful nonetheless.

 

I just enjoy riding. I rode BMX a kid, mainly as transportation, but never really rode ramps or dirt jumps or anything. Started up riding a Kona Coiler in 05 on a whim and much shopping, after being thoroughly disheartened at what was available for $500. There's no way the me then would have thought the me now would be riding what I'm riding. Even at 36, I love progressing and helping others progress. I do enjoy big rides, but I need that payoff

 

Nice!
Welcome back Joe!
Yeah you were the 782nd person to join imtbtrails.
Place has grown, great group of guys, enjoy the stay...

Mikie

 

Even at 54 I am progressing and helping others progress. You sir - are in the PRIME of your life. Glad to see you enjoying it personally and with family!

And I am with you 1000% - there has to be some candy to make the climbing worthwhile!

 

Yea, I rode with a great group of guys when I got started riding. I knew I wanted to ride aggressive stuff, jumps and drops, but I was terrified at first. Rode a few things in Laguna that had me freaking out, but wanting more. My first 'downhill' trip was Bootleg. Still remember a few of the first small victory features. That place is still special for me just for that reason. My biggest regret is knowing I've wanted to hit Whistler since I started riding and not doing it sooner. Went for the first time two years ago and plan on going every year from here on out. One of those places that is tons of fun and just incredibly advances your riding skills in a small amount of time. The bike culture up there and Canada in general can't be beat.

 

Rode Whistler for my first time at the age of 46. And then at 46 again (6 weeks later - at my wife's insistence - and yes, she rode too). Then again at 48. I'm ready to go again. Please do not see age 36 as in any way a limiting factor. Kelly Slater is 45. Laird Hamilton is 53.

 

Not at all. Most of my crew is in their 40s and 50s. Makes me want to push harder to keep it up as long as possible.

 

Welcome and stunning pics. I'm not worthy...

 

Probably my biggest personal accomplishment. I fantasized about hitting this gap on my first trip to Bootleg. Finally got it a few years ago.

 

Well, while we are showing our personal accomplishments, I call this picture from my first DH race (age 46)...

Rock Nap...



Just need my teddy bear...

 

Nice. Is that Fontana?

 

Nice gap jump. Working on getting the courage myself to do that stuff.

 

Oh yeah! I had to rest before "the wall..."

 

Welcome, Great photos.

 

Extreme!!!! That's rad
If it was on a single speed hardtail you would have a ton of fans here.

 

It's been a long process. I try to pick and choose what I do that's incrementally bigger/harder than what I've done before. Imo actually something like Flow drop at Mammoth is a great intro and was my first large feature. It can be hit at various speeds and is relatively smooth with a straight landing and no gap between the takeoff and landing.