Preparing for the Ultimate Spring Riding Season: What to Expect in 2025

As the days grow longer and the trails dry out, the excitement of the spring riding season is in full swing. There’s nothing quite like that first real ride of the year—feeling the dirt beneath your tires, the wind in your face, and the sheer joy of being back in the saddle. For 2025, I’m looking forward to making the most of this season with new experiences, new connections, and, of course, the best gear to keep me riding strong.

Looking Forward to Ride Flow MTB

One of the biggest things I’m excited about this year is the launch of Ride Flow MTB, our new riding group. Mountain biking has always been about more than just the ride—it’s about community, camaraderie, and pushing each other to be better riders. I can’t wait to hit the trails with old friends and new faces alike, sharing in the stoke and creating a space where everyone feels welcome. Flow MTB is about building a community of riders who support, challenge, and inspire one another. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just getting started, there’s a place for you in our group rides.

Giving Back to the MTB Community

I’m also incredibly excited to be serving on the board with Genesee Regional Off-Road Cyclists (GROC) this year. GROC has been a driving force in advocating for and maintaining local trails, and I’m honored to have the opportunity to give back in a bigger way. Volunteering, trail maintenance, and working alongside other passionate riders to improve our riding spaces is something I take great pride in. If you’re looking for ways to support the local MTB scene, consider getting involved—every bit of effort makes a difference in keeping our trails open and accessible for all.

The Gear I’ll Be Riding This Season

Gear can make or break a ride, and I’m sticking with what I know and love for 2025. This will be my second season riding my Ibis Ripley V5, and I can confidently say it’s my favorite bike I’ve ever owned. It handles everything I throw at it—climbs like a dream, descends with confidence, and still puts a smile on my face every time I hit the trail.

I’m also excited to continue our partnership with KETL Mountain Apparel. Their gear has been my go-to for so many outdoor activities, from riding to hiking and beyond. The versatility, durability, and overall fit of KETL’s apparel make it a staple in my lineup. Plus, their lifetime damage warranty is unbeatable. This season, I’m looking forward to trying out some new pieces from the brand to keep me comfortable and performing at my best on the trails.

Of course, I’ll also be relying on some of the top brands available through Rochester Fitness + Cycling, including:

• Fox Racing for Helmets, protective gear and apparel

• Kali Protectives for helmets that balance safety and performance

• Kuat Racks for transporting my bikes securely and easily

Goals for the 2025 Riding Season

Every season, I set new goals to push myself as a rider, and this year is no different. Some of my top goals for 2025 include:

• Exploring new trails whenever possible, both locally and beyond

• Taking a weekend MTB trip out of town for a change of scenery and new challenges

• Trying my hand at a mountain bike race it’s been on my mind for a while, and this might be the year I finally give it a shot

• Improving my riding skills by continuing to learn and refine my technique

The stoke for this season is real, and I can't wait to see where 2025 takes us. Whether you’re riding solo, joining a group ride, or taking on new challenges, this is going to be a great year for mountain biking.

See you on the trails!