One of my favourite videos of yours. You opened up about a personal feeling, yet it's a very serious but often 'unspoken' issue that a lot of us think about. Following your journey I could sense that you maybe weren't into riding as much anymore. I have to say I've been quite happy to see you pop up on Zwift/Strava a lot lately. You're a great ambassador for the sport and I'm glad you're back at it!
Thanks Zack! yeah last year was a struggle for sure, I 'wanted' to get back riding, but I was scared and that fear led to not riding and then getting WAY out of shape, which made any attempt at riding not very fun. I've devoted myself to getting back in shape and been hitting the trainer/gravel bike fairly hard! Hope to see you on the trails this year! I'm planning on being in Turkey Point this Sunday for their Spring Kicker event, maybe I'll see you and Vanessa there?
@@ToogyHowser I totally understand, the sport is just as tough mentally as it is physically. I saw you log a ride or two recently and really hoped you kept with it and you definitely have. I believe we plan to be at the kicker, should be a fun day, enjoy it if I don't see ya out there.
I totally respect your decision to tone it down a bit. MTBing is a confidence game but even the best riders get major injuries often enough which is so debilitating. We're husbands, fathers and people who need to pay the bills first and foremost but MTBing is just for fun. Ride within your comfort zone and you'll have fun. That's what it's all about!
Thanks for the update. I have decided this year to make sure that I can continue to ride for another 20+ years and if that means I don’t do something that I don’t feel confident about, so be it. I will still strive to improve my techniques but I don’t need any broken body parts along the way. Good luck in the enduro and hopefully we get to see some more of your adventures. 👍
I'm glad to see you back on a bike and making videos. I can relate to not wanting to hit those high consequence features as a 40+ rider. I think we can still have fun and hopefully continue to progress.
No injuries, just nagging little pains from lifting. MTB most of my life and also begrudgingly hitting up the Sea Otter. Racing progresses you and builds confidence. Welcome back🙏🏾
Just because you don't want to hit the big jumps and drops doesn't mean you won't improve. I am amazed at what I can learn at my own pace that make its so much fun! That's what I like. Having fun, riding with my friends and trying new trails. Glad you are getting things on track.
I arrived at the same conclusion last year being in my late 40s and crashing breaking my thumb leaving me out of riding for over a month and a half. I dialed it back so I can stay on the bike and continue riding and enjoying myself with my wheels mostly on the ground now. I still like to pop over stuff and take small drops but jumping and racing are off the menu.
I completely admire this and the sentiment. As someone who has been there (shattered my CB 2 years ago), I totally get it. Just gotta learn to chill a bit!
Spoken like a True Champion! The inner work to get your head back in the game. Doing what works best for you. And honestly bro, you're a Mountain Biker! Doing this sport at any level puts you ahead of most average people. And still a certified BadAss💪🏾😎👍🏾 keep your feet on the pedals
Good to see you back man! Great video and completely understand and appreciate your honest perspective. As a 50+ rider, I am just happy just to not gas-out on each climb! Maybe a fitness-level goal is better than a technical or feature driven goal - certainly is for me. Stay well brother👍
yep totally! I've been hitting the trainer every morning trying to improve my fitness, I know when I'm not totally gassed I'm having way more fun on the trails!
Being older and starting later, I spend loads on armour.... I broke a bone in my hand while snowboarding, 5 years ago. I still can't do that move I did that.
It's good to hear that you are getting back to riding. I turn 62 this summer, so I can understand your perspective. I'm still progressing myself, but I have my limits, and I've really just started getting into doing jumps in the last couple of years. Heck, I might even clear a tabletop someday. I'm looking forward to seeing more content from you in the future, and seeing what is next for you.
You and I are in the same spot bro! I started when I was 55, I’m 63 now. Can’t travel to places anymore so I’m hitting the pump and jump track down the street very recently . There’s a channel called Fluidride with Simon Lawton, I’ve wanted to be as safe as possible with learning to jump. I feel Simon is the guy to help me along this path. My first 7 or 8 years in biking was all green trails and cross country stuff. I think even the very small pump track with small berms has made me a better rider. Proper instruction is invaluable. Lee Likes bikes is a great guy to build a foundation with too.
I can relate to what happened to you for sure. I had a really close call with a cracked rib. I am 60 years old and only took up mountain biking about a year ago. I see folks doing crazy stuff on their bikes and say to myself. Maybe if I had taken up those sport when I was 15 years old or so... my objective is to be as safe on the trails as possible, have fun, and get a good workout.
GREAT DECISION I watch for the mountain biking outside , nature , adventures . I don't watch your videos to see you get hurt . I especially like this decision because I'm 56 and still mountain bike , but take it easier now days and I am actually having more fun now days because of the little risk factors . Thanks again for another great video . Mark from Maryland
Toogy, good to see you back! I fully understand where you are, you are not alone. Many have crashed hard, and departed the sport due to injury. Physical, psychological, or both. Glad you chose to return! Keep at it and push the boundaries a little at a time. It's pushing the boundaries that brings the excitement back to the sport. On the other hand it must be balanced against the reality that failure has consequences. I crashed on a local trail, and it still haunts me. I need to go back and ride that trail again, and not crash! I think I will try it again this season. It really rattled me and I also came to know that nagging feeling in the back of the mind, the doubt and fear that kills motivation, I struggle with it, and the vicious circle you describe, from time to time as well. I hope you are able to get out, and find freedom, and get lost in the flow of the ride this season. I'm looking forward to your future content!
Thanks man! I've been out a few times this year and already starting to feel much better, I find being in a little better shape definitely helps! I've been hitting the trainer and riding gravel etc. lately and that is really helping me!
Hey good luck on getting back into riding. With the number of crashes you’ve been through including your big wipeout I’m not surprised that was a bit of a scare and reality check for you. Just scale it back though as you mentioned and hopefully you can start enjoying riding again.
Glad your still riding! I'm getting older at 52 and I'm a big guy and at 335 lbs. I'm built for fun not for speed anymore! But I still ride 2 times a week! Keep riding & be safe!
J adore vtt mais les culbutes et chutes ca fait mal tant que l on ne se casse pas trop on recommence....mais le plaisir est là avant tout...courage...fun...;-)
I’m certainly a jumper, but I totally respect your decision. It is just as quick to progress technically with smaller features as the bigger jump type of progress. Feet on the pedals!
good to see you back man! just get out and have fun even if its not jumping and gaps. I got my new FS bike and just started the gravel game so excited for this season Cheers
Good to see you back on the bike. I've been there a few times in my life . It can be hard and each has a different way of getting over it. Glad to see you're finding a way.
Glad you're back out riding dude! Nothing wrong with taking some time off when you aren't feeling it. Come out to Quebec and we'll ride Mont Ste Marie, then we'll paddle out to an Island on Lac Ste Marie for some camping!
Welcome back bro! Just ride and have fun!! Don’t need to hit the big jumps and whatnot. Just enjoy the ride!! Where do you get your riding clothes from? I’ve been having a heck of a time to find riding clothes for big guys like myself and your a big dude too lol. So I’m just curious because I’d love to get some nice riding clothes at some point!
I get most of my riding gear from Fox Racing Canada, size XXL lol, I don't wear size XXL in anything else, but riding gear always tends to run a little small.
Glad your back man. Keep up the push. Seen you been back on Zwift. If you feel the urge to race......try XC. Tires on the ground most the time and it makes you wanna train more.
yeah maybe once I get my fitness back I'll try XC, the one XC race I did 4 years ago was a real eye opener lol, I wish hardwood did the singletrack classic race still, I'd try it again!
Just found your channel. I am 24 and recently crashed on a jump and separated my A/C. You perfectly summed up how I feel getting back on the bike. Thanks for the inspiration!
Welcome back!! I’ve learned to balance risk/reward with age as well. Nothing wrong with that. I personally think if you want longevity on your bike it’s a must. We also have to think of ourselves off the bike. We all have lives and responsibilities that we need to be able to do. Even if the content isn’t what it was it doesn’t matter. Just have fun doing what you’re doing and take us all along for the ride.
I appreciate this. I had a rotator cuff surgery last spring, by the time I was ready to ride again in the fall I got covid. Never really felt like I had energy after covid but better now. Trying to get the stoke back this spring. Keep it up!
Good luck man! it's hard to stay motivated! That is why I registered for the race, give me a reason to stick to it, plus I know I have way more fun on the bike when I'm in reasonable shape!
Nice to see you are back. Gradual progression and not rushing into too difficult stuff too fast is also, ease I to it. And yes not a good idea to do these high risk stuff now atleast, you need to have skill level back up and strength, stability to do it, feel good. I've never tried that big drops or done any gap jumps, gap jumps can also snap forks, even good ones. But ride easier stuff, and even that, ease in to like you probably plan on now.
We're about the same age, and we started at the same time, both on Roscoes.. That's how I found your channel Anyways, I saw how fast u progressed, thought I was just being an old wuss, but then I saw ya take some hard slams quite a few times. This time I thought you might have really took a hit.. Glad to see you're back on a bike.
That’s how I felt when I tore my ACL in right knee playing soccer back in 1994, I was 18 yrs old. After surgery, took me 7 years to get back to playing. All because of that mental fear of getting injured again.
Damn you had your own crashes to fill up a Friday Fails. I’ve been racing motocross and mountain bikes for the better part of 30 years and coming back after a injury is a tough task but that’s something you have to work through as if you’re not ready I believe the chance to re-injure yourself is higher when the confidence is low.
Glad you're back Toogy and hopefully we meet up on the trails. 2021 sounds like it was a hard year for you and 2022 is shaping up to be a tough year for me for a few reasons but mountain biking has always been my way to relieve stress - just go and enjoy your bike and ride whatever you are comfortable with at the time.
Honestly, never watched your videos before, but I totally relate to this one and to the way you feel. I think the approach you chose is very healthy, you do mountain biking for joy, so it is better to have fun and not be anxious thinking about riding. Best of luck!
Good to see you, bro. I absolutely understand where you're coming from. Just enjoy riding trails again, don't worry about big jumps! I look forward to seeing this year's videos! Cheers, mate!
Mad respect! Keep it real man. I totally support your decision. I just feel that because of these UA-cam videos all of us have to get to the road gaps as soon as possible. I think you came to a great conclusion. Mountain biking can be super fun even if you stick to the blue and easy blacks. If you like jumps, a lot of bike parks have super cool jump lines with all table tops. All the fun and no serious consequences. Wish you all the best and looking forward to great content. Have fun and stay safe.
Toogy! Glad to see you back at it! Been looking out for a video from you with some type of update. We are about the same age, so, I can relate to not wanting to get out of your comfort zone with bigger features. Doesn't mean you can't get out there and enjoy a good shred o a tech trail or some with different "wheels in the air" options. Looking forward to more updates! Cheers, Derek
Nice to see you back. When one watches professionals doing these drops and huge jump lines they think it's easy...nope. There are also huge consequences to screwing up a drop or landing. I'm in my late 50's and it hurts when you fall. I love mountain biking but I don't want to kill myself either. Keep it up - get riding, do what you feel comfortable doing and don't feel pressured to perform above your abilities. Keep the rubber side down.
Have you ever taken a private lesson? For me it really helped me to ride safely with a good base foundation to progress. Im 46 and would have killed my self at Horseshoe last weekend without the 2 hour private. I also taken multiple privates at Hardwood.
im thinking blue might be all the way or at least higher this year by looking at the list of trails they added to the conditions report list. butter up listed as a climb trail. must be buttered stuff in reverse
oh really? I talked to the organizer a few weeks ago and they said it would be about half way up, we shall see! Either way I gotta get my climbing legs fired up!
I'm 50 and I know a few middle aged guys who are right where you are about the risk. Some of them are switching from 160mm travel bikes to 130 or 140mm bikes because it discourages them from doing risky stuff. And as a side effect it improves your climbing.
I almost Quit , A Coyote Bite me and I got beat up by a Girl . I was At a low . So i trapped the Coyote and put it in her Apartment . Seemed like a good Idea ,At the time . So I'm riding again ,Mostly running from the Girls But my time is down and im more confident . Good luck .
I don't know man, I still think I want to ride downhill parks, just not hit the big drops and jumps etc. Ideally I'd have a FS XC bike and this enduro rig, but I can't afford both lol.
Don't be ashamed or apologetic. You like me are no longer a young buck. I have toned my riding down alot in my early 40s. To much to risk in my life outside biking by getting a major injury. I still do what feels like techy sucide climbes and gnarly downs but the high consiquance stuff is gone from my riding. Now I live through my son and take him to our killer bike park in Brantford, watching him get the high air. I still do the small stuff at the park but tecky single track is where I thrive. No need to be embarrassed or feel any lesser of a rider. There are plenty of kick ass trials out there with smaller features that are more demanding and technical then open wide trail jump lines, that still challenge you but are of low injury consiquance. Sadly there is to much enthisis on freeride and enduro type riding by the industry to push the expansive bikes. Any thing 130 mm travel and under is now considered a down country or cross country bike. Yet they are super capable. Hold your head high Toogy, maybe we will cross paths soon as we are both Southern Ontario riders. Looking forward to your contant and glad your healed up.
I stopped riding because of time restraints by the time we get to the trail I might as well turn around and just head home. And also the ridiculous cost associated with mountain biking. I haven't mountain biked for 15 years and decided that I want to get back into it .I went to a bike shop to look for a bike I had a couple thousand dollars thinking I get a really nice bike only to find out that that will barely get me into a bike that is capable so I ended up getting a rockhopper specialized expert model. Needless to say I've already pushed it beyond its capabilities and I will not be spending more than a couple Grand on a bike. I actually walked into a local specialized bike shop saw the prices and just walked out, the salesman came out and asked what was wrong and I told him and he talked me into buying a rockhopper. But geez... And before you people start about being poor I'm not I'm a contractor and make really good money I just can't see the logic and spending $10,000 on a bicycle. I would much rather have a ATV or a MX bike for that much...
yeah man I totally get that, I am sick of driving over an hour to get to some place decent to ride, makes riding a trail almost feel like an all day commitment! and the cost of everything in the industry going through the roof, it's a couple of reasons I'm really down on the sport lately....
One of my favourite videos of yours. You opened up about a personal feeling, yet it's a very serious but often 'unspoken' issue that a lot of us think about. Following your journey I could sense that you maybe weren't into riding as much anymore. I have to say I've been quite happy to see you pop up on Zwift/Strava a lot lately. You're a great ambassador for the sport and I'm glad you're back at it!
Thanks Zack! yeah last year was a struggle for sure, I 'wanted' to get back riding, but I was scared and that fear led to not riding and then getting WAY out of shape, which made any attempt at riding not very fun. I've devoted myself to getting back in shape and been hitting the trainer/gravel bike fairly hard! Hope to see you on the trails this year! I'm planning on being in Turkey Point this Sunday for their Spring Kicker event, maybe I'll see you and Vanessa there?
@@ToogyHowser I totally understand, the sport is just as tough mentally as it is physically. I saw you log a ride or two recently and really hoped you kept with it and you definitely have.
I believe we plan to be at the kicker, should be a fun day, enjoy it if I don't see ya out there.
Just ride the trails and go on fantastic new adventures, but leave the racing and jumping to the younger riders. 👍🏻💪🏼
I totally respect your decision to tone it down a bit. MTBing is a confidence game but even the best riders get major injuries often enough which is so debilitating. We're husbands, fathers and people who need to pay the bills first and foremost but MTBing is just for fun. Ride within your comfort zone and you'll have fun. That's what it's all about!
Yep! just having fun is why I started biking in the first place!
@Moderator Hater lol
What I like best with mtb is how I'm always riding the edge of my own capabilities. Whatever they are.
Glad you're back!
Thanks for the update. I have decided this year to make sure that I can continue to ride for another 20+ years and if that means I don’t do something that I don’t feel confident about, so be it. I will still strive to improve my techniques but I don’t need any broken body parts along the way. Good luck in the enduro and hopefully we get to see some more of your adventures. 👍
Thanks! yeah I'm hoping to get back to making content more regularly!
I'm glad to see you back on a bike and making videos. I can relate to not wanting to hit those high consequence features as a 40+ rider. I think we can still have fun and hopefully continue to progress.
Yep! I still want to get faster and become a better rider, but I don't need to be doing the stupid stuff and just "sending" it! lol
Your philosophy is where I was 10 years ago. I now go around most big obstacles and enjoy the journey. Glad to see you back riding and making videos.
Thank you! yeah I need to get back to just having fun! Not having to prove anything to anyone!
No injuries, just nagging little pains from lifting. MTB most of my life and also begrudgingly hitting up the Sea Otter. Racing progresses you and builds confidence. Welcome back🙏🏾
yeah I'm looking forward to the race, still have mixed feelings on it being at Blue Mountain....
I’ve always enjoyed your videos. We ain’t a kid anymore. No shame in toning it down a notch
Thanks Charles! yep, just gotta get back to having fun!
Good to see you back Toogy! Ride what you can and keep your feet of the pedals!
Just because you don't want to hit the big jumps and drops doesn't mean you won't improve. I am amazed at what I can learn at my own pace that make its so much fun! That's what I like. Having fun, riding with my friends and trying new trails. Glad you are getting things on track.
Yeah it’s all about just having fun on the bike!
Yeah! He's back! The return of the Jedi.
Drumroll and trumpets!
Haha! thanks Jose!
I arrived at the same conclusion last year being in my late 40s and crashing breaking my thumb leaving me out of riding for over a month and a half. I dialed it back so I can stay on the bike and continue riding and enjoying myself with my wheels mostly on the ground now. I still like to pop over stuff and take small drops but jumping and racing are off the menu.
yeah it's just not worth it, especially at my age!
I'm in the same boat and goal as you described at the end of the video. We still have fun!
Welcome back! I look forward to the upcoming videos.
Ride within your limits. Don't need go extreme to keep or get new subscribers. Ride safe.
yeah I've been guilty of pushing myself past my comfort for the views and subscribers!
I completely admire this and the sentiment. As someone who has been there (shattered my CB 2 years ago), I totally get it. Just gotta learn to chill a bit!
Great to see you back on the bike! Just keep it fun and don't do anything you're not feeling and you'll be fine.
yep, that's the plan!
Spoken like a True Champion! The inner work to get your head back in the game. Doing what works best for you. And honestly bro, you're a Mountain Biker! Doing this sport at any level puts you ahead of most average people. And still a certified BadAss💪🏾😎👍🏾 keep your feet on the pedals
Thank you Sam! I can always count on you for inspiration! You're killing it lately! Way to go with the Enduro Races you are doing!
Good to see you back man! Great video and completely understand and appreciate your honest perspective. As a 50+ rider, I am just happy just to not gas-out on each climb! Maybe a fitness-level goal is better than a technical or feature driven goal - certainly is for me. Stay well brother👍
yep totally! I've been hitting the trainer every morning trying to improve my fitness, I know when I'm not totally gassed I'm having way more fun on the trails!
Heh - welcome aboard, old man! We ride carefully, but we have LOTS of fun! Let me know if you get near Santa Cruz! I'm glad you're doing well.
yeah man! that's the plan, just get back to having fun!
we'll stick around Toogy! warm wishes from India!
Thanks man!
Being older and starting later, I spend loads on armour....
I broke a bone in my hand while snowboarding, 5 years ago. I still can't do that move I did that.
It's good to hear that you are getting back to riding. I turn 62 this summer, so I can understand your perspective. I'm still progressing myself, but I have my limits, and I've really just started getting into doing jumps in the last couple of years. Heck, I might even clear a tabletop someday.
I'm looking forward to seeing more content from you in the future, and seeing what is next for you.
You and I are in the same spot bro! I started when I was 55, I’m 63 now. Can’t travel to places anymore so I’m hitting the pump and jump track down the street very recently . There’s a channel called Fluidride with Simon Lawton, I’ve wanted to be as safe as possible with learning to jump. I feel Simon is the guy to help me along this path. My first 7 or 8 years in biking was all green trails and cross country stuff. I think even the very small pump track with small berms has made me a better rider. Proper instruction is invaluable. Lee Likes bikes is a great guy to build a foundation with too.
I can relate to what happened to you for sure. I had a really close call with a cracked rib. I am 60 years old and only took up mountain biking about a year ago. I see folks doing crazy stuff on their bikes and say to myself. Maybe if I had taken up those sport when I was 15 years old or so... my objective is to be as safe on the trails as possible, have fun, and get a good workout.
GREAT DECISION
I watch for the mountain biking outside , nature , adventures . I don't watch your videos to see you get hurt . I especially like this decision because I'm 56
and still mountain bike , but take it easier now days and I am actually having more fun now days because of the little risk factors .
Thanks again for another great video .
Mark from Maryland
Thanks Mark! Yeah it is more fun when you know you aren’t going to try stupid stuff you could easily get hurt on!
Toogy, good to see you back! I fully understand where you are, you are not alone. Many have crashed hard, and departed the sport due to injury. Physical, psychological, or both. Glad you chose to return! Keep at it and push the boundaries a little at a time. It's pushing the boundaries that brings the excitement back to the sport. On the other hand it must be balanced against the reality that failure has consequences. I crashed on a local trail, and it still haunts me. I need to go back and ride that trail again, and not crash! I think I will try it again this season. It really rattled me and I also came to know that nagging feeling in the back of the mind, the doubt and fear that kills motivation, I struggle with it, and the vicious circle you describe, from time to time as well. I hope you are able to get out, and find freedom, and get lost in the flow of the ride this season. I'm looking forward to your future content!
Thanks man! I've been out a few times this year and already starting to feel much better, I find being in a little better shape definitely helps! I've been hitting the trainer and riding gravel etc. lately and that is really helping me!
Hey good luck on getting back into riding. With the number of crashes you’ve been through including your big wipeout I’m not surprised that was a bit of a scare and reality check for you. Just scale it back though as you mentioned and hopefully you can start enjoying riding again.
Thanks man!
Sick to see you back 🤘 I’ll see you at sea otter!
cool! make sure to say hi!
Glad your still riding! I'm getting older at 52 and I'm a big guy and at 335 lbs. I'm built for fun not for speed anymore! But I still ride 2 times a week!
Keep riding & be safe!
Thanks Greg!
Good luck. Stay on the bike!!! Less jumps, more technical stuff.
sound advice!
J adore vtt mais les culbutes et chutes ca fait mal tant que l on ne se casse pas trop on recommence....mais le plaisir est là avant tout...courage...fun...;-)
That’s how I ride. I ride pretty fast and whatnot but I don’t jump much at all. Just tiny jumps and small drops.
yeah that sounds good to me!
I’m certainly a jumper, but I totally respect your decision. It is just as quick to progress technically with smaller features as the bigger jump type of progress. Feet on the pedals!
yep! and I still have LOTS to progress on, bike control, bunny hops, faster cornering etc etc.
Yeeeaaaahhhh dude! Welcome back and welcome to the Dial it Back club 😅. We’ll have to get you back out for a bikepacking trip this year!
yeah man! I'm happy to be part of the dial it back club!! and yes we need to revisit that bikepacking trip we were going to do!
glad to see you riding mtb again brother! greetings from Philippines!!!
Thank you!
good to see you back man! just get out and have fun even if its not jumping and gaps. I got my new FS bike and just started the gravel game so excited for this season Cheers
Fun is what it’s all about!
Good to see you back on the bike. I've been there a few times in my life . It can be hard and each has a different way of getting over it. Glad to see you're finding a way.
Thanks man! Hope to see you on the trail one day!
@@ToogyHowser trail or gravel ride, we should make it happen.
Glad you're back out riding dude! Nothing wrong with taking some time off when you aren't feeling it. Come out to Quebec and we'll ride Mont Ste Marie, then we'll paddle out to an Island on Lac Ste Marie for some camping!
yeah man! let's plan it! or maybe even Camp Fortune?
The toogster's back!
Let's see some Diverge content - You should give the "big loop" in Toronto a shot
170KM!! holy smokes lol I'd rather come visit your new neck of the woods and check out some trails there!
Keep on keepin’ on brother!
Welcome back bro! Just ride and have fun!! Don’t need to hit the big jumps and whatnot. Just enjoy the ride!! Where do you get your riding clothes from? I’ve been having a heck of a time to find riding clothes for big guys like myself and your a big dude too lol. So I’m just curious because I’d love to get some nice riding clothes at some point!
I get most of my riding gear from Fox Racing Canada, size XXL lol, I don't wear size XXL in anything else, but riding gear always tends to run a little small.
Appreciate your vulnerability, fell off and broke my neck a year ago and feel your fear, but also revelling in beating it ride by ride.
Wow man! good on you for getting back to it! How did you break your neck if you don't mind me asking?
@@ToogyHowser High speed OTB, on my way home. First thought after I could move my feet was “oh no, what will I do tomorrow now my bikes wrecked?”
Good to see you back Toogey.!
Won't lie, I kinda liked the crash montage. :-) Glad you're back at it!
Thanks man! I'm glad I'm back it at it too!
Nice to see you back on the bike man. 💪😎
Thank you!
Hey good to see you back on here.
Thanks James!
Great Video, Same thought process as an older snowboarder.
Thanks and yeah I imagine it's the same thing!
Glad your back man. Keep up the push. Seen you been back on Zwift. If you feel the urge to race......try XC. Tires on the ground most the time and it makes you wanna train more.
yeah maybe once I get my fitness back I'll try XC, the one XC race I did 4 years ago was a real eye opener lol, I wish hardwood did the singletrack classic race still, I'd try it again!
Cudos to the crash compilation. Actually impressive
haha, you should check out my complete crash compilation video! lol ua-cam.com/video/L-WQr7LM7bI/v-deo.html
Welcome back.
Welcome back
Just found your channel. I am 24 and recently crashed on a jump and separated my A/C. You perfectly summed up how I feel getting back on the bike. Thanks for the inspiration!
Glad you found the video inspirational!
Ya I’m going to be 55 this Aug and I’m just happy getting out on trails .
yep! Just gotta keep at it!
Just ride for you and enjoy it, that’s all that should matter to a rider
So glad your back. I hope to see you on the trails.
Welcome back!!
I’ve learned to balance risk/reward with age as well. Nothing wrong with that. I personally think if you want longevity on your bike it’s a must. We also have to think of ourselves off the bike. We all have lives and responsibilities that we need to be able to do. Even if the content isn’t what it was it doesn’t matter. Just have fun doing what you’re doing and take us all along for the ride.
Yep, it's all about just having fun!
I appreciate this. I had a rotator cuff surgery last spring, by the time I was ready to ride again in the fall I got covid. Never really felt like I had energy after covid but better now. Trying to get the stoke back this spring. Keep it up!
Good luck man! it's hard to stay motivated! That is why I registered for the race, give me a reason to stick to it, plus I know I have way more fun on the bike when I'm in reasonable shape!
Nice to see you are back. Gradual progression and not rushing into too difficult stuff too fast is also, ease I to it. And yes not a good idea to do these high risk stuff now atleast, you need to have skill level back up and strength, stability to do it, feel good. I've never tried that big drops or done any gap jumps, gap jumps can also snap forks, even good ones. But ride easier stuff, and even that, ease in to like you probably plan on now.
Thanks man!
We're about the same age, and we started at the same time, both on Roscoes.. That's how I found your channel
Anyways, I saw how fast u progressed, thought I was just being an old wuss, but then I saw ya take some hard slams quite a few times. This time I thought you might have really took a hit.. Glad to see you're back on a bike.
Thanks man!
That’s how I felt when I tore my ACL in right knee playing soccer back in 1994, I was 18 yrs old. After surgery, took me 7 years to get back to playing. All because of that mental fear of getting injured again.
The struggle is real! Just starting to feel like myself on the bike again now
Damn you had your own crashes to fill up a Friday Fails. I’ve been racing motocross and mountain bikes for the better part of 30 years and coming back after a injury is a tough task but that’s something you have to work through as if you’re not ready I believe the chance to re-injure yourself is higher when the confidence is low.
Glad you're back Toogy and hopefully we meet up on the trails. 2021 sounds like it was a hard year for you and 2022 is shaping up to be a tough year for me for a few reasons but mountain biking has always been my way to relieve stress - just go and enjoy your bike and ride whatever you are comfortable with at the time.
Hopefully we do meet up some time this year! And good luck for 2022! It sucks when life gets in the way!
Happy to hear that you found your way to ride. I have followed similar principles. Anyway, here in Finland we have mostly flat forests.
Welcome back, maybe get some coaching to help with technique? But it’s about fun so keep it rubber side down
Honestly, never watched your videos before, but I totally relate to this one and to the way you feel. I think the approach you chose is very healthy, you do mountain biking for joy, so it is better to have fun and not be anxious thinking about riding. Best of luck!
yep, doing it for fun is the key!
Good to see you, bro. I absolutely understand where you're coming from. Just enjoy riding trails again, don't worry about big jumps! I look forward to seeing this year's videos! Cheers, mate!
Cheers!
Mad respect! Keep it real man. I totally support your decision. I just feel that because of these UA-cam videos all of us have to get to the road gaps as soon as possible. I think you came to a great conclusion. Mountain biking can be super fun even if you stick to the blue and easy blacks. If you like jumps, a lot of bike parks have super cool jump lines with all table tops. All the fun and no serious consequences. Wish you all the best and looking forward to great content. Have fun and stay safe.
yeah I am definitively guilty of trying bigger features than I was comfortable with "for youtube"
Toogy! Glad to see you back at it! Been looking out for a video from you with some type of update. We are about the same age, so, I can relate to not wanting to get out of your comfort zone with bigger features. Doesn't mean you can't get out there and enjoy a good shred o a tech trail or some with different "wheels in the air" options. Looking forward to more updates! Cheers, Derek
yeah man! I still want to become a better rider and push myself, just don't need to do the stupid stuff, no need to just SEND IT lol
@@ToogyHowser Maybe I will run in to you at Hydrocut this season. Would be awesome to connect for a ride with the infamous TH!
Just go on cool rides and crush brews man. We missed ya.
Good luck at Sea Otter Jeff!
Thanks Pete!
Nice to see you back. When one watches professionals doing these drops and huge jump lines they think it's easy...nope. There are also huge consequences to screwing up a drop or landing. I'm in my late 50's and it hurts when you fall. I love mountain biking but I don't want to kill myself either. Keep it up - get riding, do what you feel comfortable doing and don't feel pressured to perform above your abilities. Keep the rubber side down.
Yep! exactly, I don't need to prove anything to anyone!
Have you ever taken a private lesson? For me it really helped me to ride safely with a good base foundation to progress. Im 46 and would have killed my self at Horseshoe last weekend without the 2 hour private. I also taken multiple privates at Hardwood.
I haven't, but I might do that soon!
Welcome back Toogy
Nice trail
yeah just wish the descent was longer!
Fear is logical after a big injury like that, take your time to get comfortable again and I'm sure you'll find that spark as your confidence returns
Thanks man! yeah I'm hoping by getting my fitness back will help my confidence!
@@ToogyHowser for sure it will!
I would love for you to come down to niagara to do some of the trails here and maybe let you in on a few pointers
Sounds like a plan!
@@ToogyHowser not this weekend but how about the following Saturday
@@joes4224 the next few weekends are already booked, but maybe after that?
@@ToogyHowser sounds good let me know when and I will make sure I will be good to go for the day.
I broke my clavicle last year as well so I know the struggle!
Yeah it’s been tough! But I think I’ve finally turned a corner and feeling comfortable on the bike again!
Glad you are back on the bike and didn’t give up🤘
How did you find the trainer?
Thanks! Trainer is going well! Getting up every morning at 5:30 and trying to do at least 45 mins on it!
im thinking blue might be all the way or at least higher this year by looking at the list of trails they added to the conditions report list. butter up listed as a climb trail. must be buttered stuff in reverse
oh really? I talked to the organizer a few weeks ago and they said it would be about half way up, we shall see! Either way I gotta get my climbing legs fired up!
@@ToogyHowser im still not used to the climbs at boler this season so far
I'm 50 and I know a few middle aged guys who are right where you are about the risk. Some of them are switching from 160mm travel bikes to 130 or 140mm bikes because it discourages them from doing risky stuff. And as a side effect it improves your climbing.
yeah I'd love a shorter travel bike, but don't want to give up the big bike just yet! I still am interested in bike parks, just not big features!
@@ToogyHowser you'd probably love a Devinci Troy
Where is the trail area in the first clip? Looks like southern ontario to me
holy shit your crash montage is longer than some people's entire mtb careers
haha, and that's the short crash reel lol
You had the courage to expose yourself. I respect that. Just don’t spot pedalling
Thanks man! I’ll keep pedaling!
I almost Quit , A Coyote Bite me and I got beat up by a Girl . I was At a low . So i trapped the Coyote and put it in her Apartment . Seemed like a good Idea ,At the time . So I'm riding again ,Mostly running from the Girls But my time is down and im more confident . Good luck .
So with staying tires on the ground are you sticking with the big travel bike or going with a cross country type bike with less travel
I don't know man, I still think I want to ride downhill parks, just not hit the big drops and jumps etc. Ideally I'd have a FS XC bike and this enduro rig, but I can't afford both lol.
@@ToogyHowser it's hard to have 4 bikes for all different types of riding
@@andrewchambers2053 I know! I only have two bikes right now!
Don't be ashamed or apologetic. You like me are no longer a young buck. I have toned my riding down alot in my early 40s. To much to risk in my life outside biking by getting a major injury. I still do what feels like techy sucide climbes and gnarly downs but the high consiquance stuff is gone from my riding. Now I live through my son and take him to our killer bike park in Brantford, watching him get the high air. I still do the small stuff at the park but tecky single track is where I thrive.
No need to be embarrassed or feel any lesser of a rider. There are plenty of kick ass trials out there with smaller features that are more demanding and technical then open wide trail jump lines, that still challenge you but are of low injury consiquance.
Sadly there is to much enthisis on freeride and enduro type riding by the industry to push the expansive bikes.
Any thing 130 mm travel and under is now considered a down country or cross country bike. Yet they are super capable.
Hold your head high Toogy, maybe we will cross paths soon as we are both Southern Ontario riders. Looking forward to your contant and glad your healed up.
yeah I still love technical single track and chunk... I think! lol
gotta wonder why you did not run, or weight lift or get into HIIT or functional training.
I have not good excuse other than I lost all motivation , I should have been doing something you're right!
I stopped riding because of time restraints by the time we get to the trail I might as well turn around and just head home.
And also the ridiculous cost associated with mountain biking. I haven't mountain biked for 15 years and decided that I want to get back into it .I went to a bike shop to look for a bike I had a couple thousand dollars thinking I get a really nice bike only to find out that that will barely get me into a bike that is capable so I ended up getting a rockhopper specialized expert model.
Needless to say I've already pushed it beyond its capabilities and I will not be spending more than a couple Grand on a bike.
I actually walked into a local specialized bike shop saw the prices and just walked out, the salesman came out and asked what was wrong and I told him and he talked me into buying a rockhopper. But geez...
And before you people start about being poor I'm not I'm a contractor and make really good money I just can't see the logic and spending $10,000 on a bicycle. I would much rather have a ATV or a MX bike for that much...
yeah man I totally get that, I am sick of driving over an hour to get to some place decent to ride, makes riding a trail almost feel like an all day commitment! and the cost of everything in the industry going through the roof, it's a couple of reasons I'm really down on the sport lately....
Once was enough eh?
yes totally lol