I'm absolutely overwhelmed by the positive support from everyone. Thank you for your incredible support and kindness. I can't say I'm surprised, I have the best community of viewers and subscribers on the planet. You all are amazing. For those who would like to hear the way this challenge has been strengthened by my faith, feel free to fillow along on instagram. @steveinsedona For those who are asking what they can to do help... I'm going to be posting updates to my health journey over on patreon. For $5/mo you can help me keep this business afloat while I recover. If you'd like to keep up with my recovery progress, become a patron today. Patreon.com/hardtailparty Thanks for all the love and support. It means so much to me
I’m in my late 40s and have recently been battling sciatica. My doctor suggested eating more clean food that doesn’t promote inflammation. I have been on the carnivore diet for the past couple of months and it has made a huge difference! The inflammation in my body has decreased enough where I don’t have pain in my sciatic nerve any more. Perhaps this is something that could help you too. Best wishes, and I hope you can get back to better health soon.
You and your videos are just the best. I've completely fallen in love with my HT (Stoic 4 (newer silver version), yes yes not your most favorite :D) after multiple fullsus bikes/ebikes and you have been an inspiration to me in this regard. Your videos are also entertaining in themselves, the way you speak clearly and with expertize. I hope we'll see more from you in a way that is still sustainable and enjoyable for you!
I don't want to play online doctor but I had suffered very similar issues including IBS, a very broken immune system and chronic fatigue for the first 35 years of my life. I even had a heart attack when I was 30. Long story short - through fervent experimentation I landed on Vitamin D. After taking it regularly (Dosis of 2000IE) my symptoms slowly disappeared and are now barely present anymore after about 3-4 years. Don't wanna raise false hope since my troubles were never diagnosed but it doesn't hurt to try either.
I’d like to think I speak for everyone when I say we’d be totally cool with this becoming “Full Suspension Party” so you can keep riding with less pain. Wishing you the best.
My wife has CFS. We've been dealing with it for 10+ years. I/we relate to everything you've discussed (guilt, lack of understanding from others, career limitations, etc). Finding the right balance goes a long way, and it's different for everyone. Perhaps you can do some E Bike conversions or outright E Bike reviews to help manage the exertion while continuing content creation. Prayers for you and your family.
Huge high five to you for being by her side all these years! If I knew nothing else about you, this would be enough to know the type of person you are.
Hey Steve, fellow sufferer of CFS here. Thanks so much for speaking about it. I've had it for 10 years now and I can confirm all of the mental and physical battles you are going through. You so elegantly put all of my struggles into words and I'm very grateful. All the best for you and your family.
Steve, I just wanna say, we love you, not just for the work you've done for literal millions of people, but for how wholesome and amazing your videos have been. All the power to you. Cheers!
Anyone who judges someone's ability or skill level by their appearance hasn't ridden with enough people to realize that people of all shapes and sizes can absolutely shred. So as you said, it says more about them (they don't ride enough). Thanks for sharing your knowledge of bikes and your journey through these health issues.
One of my favorite aspects of this channel is how respectful you are of others on the trail. Your love of biking is palpable and contagious. Keep up the great work.
I was diagnosed with CFS/ME a couple of years ago. I live for mountain biking - it is the thing that brings me joy and is essential for my mental wellbeing. I decided to invest in a Specialized Turbo Levo (full suss e-bike) and it has been a game changer for me! Sometimes someone on the trail may jokingly accuse me of cheating but I know that without it, I could not continue to participate in the hobby that I love so much and I’m every bit as “wiped” at the end of a ride as anyone else so it doesn’t feel like cheating to me lol. Take care of yourself and keep listening to your body. It isn’t easy, I am still learning not to push myself too hard - the crash afterwards is AWFUL. Much love from the UK 👍
This video shows your true character as a man, husband, and father. As a fellow Christian and hardtail rider, I am standing in agreement with you, Tess, and your daughter in faith and prayer for God's grace and healing for you. Thanks for being open and truthful. Get better and thanks for so many great videos.
I stand with you in prayer for Steve and his family. God, give Steve supernatural strength in spite of ME/CFS. God bring Steve opportunity that can support his family. Finally, Lord, I pray that you would be glorified by Steve sharing his faith in you with the world.
This is the first time that I've heard Steve share his Christian faith with us. I'll pray for you and your family to help overcome this and for the community to help you get through this obstacle. Before I found your channel, not many riders were posting about hardtails on such a high level. God must have other greater plans for you.
Thank you for being so vulnerable, Steve! We truly love your content and wish you the absolute best on your journey to recovery. Hang in there brother.
Hi Steve, I’m a fellow sufferer of ME/CFS and am so sad you’re going through this. I’m a year in from being diagnosed after years of searching for what was going on. Your journey sounds so much like my own. Thank you so much for so eloquently speaking on the subject. Videos like this go such a long ways towards increasing awareness.
What a class act you are Steve. The ability you have for prioritizing not just the importance of each component of the hardtail but making each component of your illness come first in order for us to continue enjoying and learning from this great party you host. A different note: I don't care what any those punks say....my bet says you clean it first try while they don't even throw a leg over a saddle. Chin up..get rested. We all love!
Your reviews are the only bike reviews I'm excited to watch, and that's because of your character, not the bikes. For what it's worth, I've been riding for a long time.
@@hardtailparty I was also diagnosed with the same - but my circumstances are different. There are a few things that I've found to help, though it's an uphill battle - like crazy. Point is, two steps forward one step back, but progress nonetheless.
You don't have to explain or give reasons to anyone for your faith. However, having zero faith myself, it is encouraging to hear you express the source of your courage. Ultimately, I hope you're right and I'm wrong. I wish you the best.
Sorry to hear you are having this issue. Invisible disabilities are terrible. I'm sure you'd know already, but Garmin watches literally have a body battery tracker which depletes throughout the day and recharges during sleep. Usage and recharge depend on how stressful your day is and how well you sleep. Maybe something like that could help to monitor your condition.
So sorry dude. Nobody deserves to be shamed for just living life and not bothering anyone. Thanks so much for all the work you’ve put in throughout the years.
As someone who has been diagnosed with MS for 13 years this all sounds familiar. Like you I am very greatful I don't suffer as much as most do. My faith in God is what most allows me to deal with the unknowns the future holds. Praying for you and your health concerns 🙏 Thank you for sharing the role your faith played throughout these challenging times 👊
Hang in there Steve! Life throws us curveballs from time to time and all we can do is try our best to move forward. We are here for you guys! Can’t wait to see what you are able to figure out with the channel moving forward. ❤
Hi Steve - I'm actually not a mountain biker but my husband is & he subscribes to your channel. We just sat & watched this video together & I'm so sorry to hear all you've been going through. I've experienced a "mystery illness" twice in my life with many doctors and tests to figure out what's wrong so I can identify with that experience. I'll be praying for you as time goes on - that God gives you the strength you need for each new day & that He fills your life with continued blessings & hope for the future! Thank you for sharing what you're going through - I know your story will resonate with so many people & have a huge impact!
Steve, thanks for sharing! I have had a very similar story... About 20 years in. Took about 10 years to find hope, joy, and a close to normal amount of energy most days. The journey was tough (and still is) but was some of the best days of my life. Continue to find joy in the moment. I am now able to handle well 2-3 sub hour high intensity rides a week and 1 longer slower but tougher ride a week. Consistency is key. Building a very easy ride base in off season is also key. I pray you find your new lane that works for you and life is even better.
My name is David Ravo, I want to say right out front that I am very proud of you and I want to wish you all the best on finding a course of therapy that could potentially help you. A simple matter for people to comment on your aesthetic, you are an amazing individual. You are very capable, and you showcase to all of us what it’s like to enjoy mountain, biking, and what it’s like to be very knowledgeable in that arena.
I used to work with a research group in ME/CSF. The push and crash cycle used to be what impressed me the most with the ME patients and how long the cycles were. A few patients would with time learn how to manage and would slowly crawl back up and they would become true specialists in their body. 27:40 - this is 100% true. Many people suffer with ME for many years but they find a different way of living and change their activities. Many patients do get better though but the recovery is longer than anyone would want their is a huge challenge.
Steve I'm having undiagnosed heart and fatigue issues and they don't see anything wrong. I am only 42 years old. I hope you can get on the other side of this. I want you to know I love you, and I'm here for you. I wish I could help in some way. I will be here cheering you on and praying for you.
Mate I found your channel when I was getting back into riding. Your message of fun and enjoyment in a scene of fast and cool was refreshing. Integrating this message of fun with the tech side of things made your channel stand out. As a coach myself, your skill as an educator was inspiring. No matter what happens going forward this channel will live on and the values it has promoted in the wider mtb community will be lasting. Cheers for all your work Steve
Love the channel! I feel your pain, I had a tough cancer diagnosis this past summer and its wreaked havoc on my life, my ability to push myself like I used to and sometimes just get out of bed. Keep your head up, stay strong mentally and physically and know this IS NOT HOW EITHER OF US GO OUT! Keep doing your thing. There are 68k+ subscibers on this channel that think the world of you and you have given so much of yourself to teach us! Thank YOU!!!
Steve, As someone who also suffers from an auto-immune disease, thank you for sharing. So many times when i explain how I feel, I am hit with "well, you dont look sick." invisible illnesses are very difficult for the afflicted, as, like you said, many do not take you seriously. Stay strong and remember that there is always a support system out there of people that understand.
This one hit me in the feels...you're a strong person and know you have priorities straight but still a very difficult situation. Prayers for you and the family. HP for life, best channel on TH-cam 🤛
Steve, I am not religious, but respect anyone who is. It appears to be a big part of your life for you and your family. It takes a village and we can all be a bit more empathetic to our follow humans. All the best, sending you and your family positive thoughts and karma!
Suffering from the same thing I think, my legs will feel like cement and its time to push it up hill. Dont care, I enjoy the ride too much. I have built all the bikes I have and its a great feeling going hella fast on a ride I put together from parts collected over the years. Just turned 60 and dont feel like acting my age I guess. Thanx for the sharing!
Dude, I’m very sorry about your diagnosis. One of my favorite jazz pianists, Keith Jarrett, has ME/CFS. I believe he has somewhat recently stopped performing because of the disease. You have my sincerest condolence, and my strongest hopes for better days in the future. Keep up your strong will and desire. I’m proud of you and I truly appreciate what I have learned from you here on Hardtail Party.
MECFS is so tied with long covid, Dianna the science girl is also suffering from this as well. You are loved man, We are here to support you no matter what. I purchased my Paradox V3 because of your review and have loved every video you have ever posted. Please keep us updated to how things are going with you. Much Love!
Your optimism, inner strength and faith that you displayed in this video tell me that you will prevail. Thank you for all you have done for your family, friends and all of us out here in TH-cam world. We’re rooting for you!
Steve, I'm watching /listening to the first part of this and have to finish this later. But that being said, don't f*k around with most docs- do what you can to get seen by the Mayo Clinic. I think there is one in Phoenix. I know there is the main one in MN.
So sorry to hear this, also sorry about the idiots on the internet. Don’t listen to the haters. You’ve spread so much stoke, passion, and knowledge about this sport. I hope you know we’re all pulling and praying for you.
Well said! Your brothers and sisters out here KNOW you'll get through this Steve, and all the others going through it.. God Bless to all the people spreading positive vibes and stoke.
I have had chronic fatigue and was sick for 10 years. I finally gave up gluten and dairy. This has helped me tremendously. I am 56 now and able to ride again when I was 44 I thought it was all over. I couldn't even work for 2 hours. Doctors never diagnosed me with anything
Gutted. You’ve had a huge influence on my riding, almost embarrassing how much. My stable has “Steve” written all over it. You’ve helped me learn the joy of riding after years of foolishly thinking it was about being fast. Thoughts are with you and your family.
Hi Steve - for whatever reason your video just popped up in my stream - I suffered from the same thing in my early 30s (I’m now 63) - I was into many extreme sports and did mountaineering , surfing, rock climbing , mountain bike riding etc etc - back then no medical profession knew anything like CFS existed and just put it down to a psychological disorder and medicated me with drugs - I could not even get out of bed - it felt like I had a 100kg pressing me down - even basic functions was a mission - this also led to massive depression- I was also a born again Christian at the time - I was in that situation for two years and my wife and I (we had two small children) almost lost everything. One morning I woke up (after 2 years) and decided to flush all my meds down the toilet and said God I’m now in your hands and actually prepared myself to die - at that moment something birthed in me - a will to overcome that was strong that nothing would stop me to overcome short of dying - it also led me to a doctor who started administering testosterone clinically and I started eating a much higher protein diet with also creatine - this gave me much needed added strength, broke the depression and slowly but surely I got my body back - it was not easy as it took me 5 years to get back to a semblance (endurance & strength wise) of how I used to be - by age 45 (10 years) I was fitter than I had ever been - now at age 63 I still do downhill Enduro riding with my sons age 28 & 36 - never ever give up
I rarely see any hardtail channels out there, and finding yours was such breath of fresh air. Thank you for providing great content and showing me that hardtails are still very capable machines on trails. I wish you the best on your journey, and looking forward to more of your content!
whoa..... most of what you said is what I'm in right now, the exhaustion and the body pains and the commulative stressors that I do and I'm into, I also have auto immune disease which is ankylosing spondylitis, I had a fused spine, I have limited movements, yet still I keep riding my hardtails, lately I've been thinking I might have push myself so hard and then I saw your video, this adds up to my eye opener, I would open this to doctors too, thank you for sharing and opening your condition, heal up to us Man, God is Good
Your August 2021 video on crank length helped me resolve knee pain by swapping my longer cranks for shorter ones. That made a big improvement in my riding comfort and performance-thank you very much for that. I really appreciate your work and all you have brought to the mountain bike world. I wish you the very best in your life and that you find a way to keep riding.
Super sorry to hear about your illness. I've never commented on TH-cam. But I had to comment. I'm now 61, so a few words I hope will help. I started riding again in 2017 after a few years off the bike. I started watching and became fascinated by your channel. I love hardtails, I've had 3 and 1 full sus. I ended up buying a Chameleon 2021, which I have now put upwards of 5 grand in upgrades. I ride daily and watch your videos specifically. You taught me so much. It was the way you presented the videos. So, I've had 4 knee surgeries, osteoarthritis in feet, both knees, and hip. Can be terribly painful. They told me 3 years ago I could end up with walker or wheelchair, I went riding. Last January I had Afib, which is terrifying. They put me on some crap that wouldnt allow me to ride, keeps your heart rate low. Told cardiologist that didnt work for me, went riding. I showed them my Garmin data from my typical rides of 2 to 3 hours, with heart rate data, they said you are 60 you cant do that, I went riding. Last checkup was perfect, heart running good. I feel for you brother, point is, this sounds stupid but here goes, like Dory, you know the fish? Just keep swimming, or in our case riding. Youre videos are brilliant, I envy your skills. As far as other peoples comments, to me they would mean nothing, maybe its my age. But what other people say, especially online, isnt worth spit. Yes, including mine. Good or bad comments from complete strangers are meaningless. You're doing what you love, have a huge following. Be strong, have faith, God bless, and just keep riding. All the best to you and your family.
Hi Steve, I came to this community from this video that was featured on The Radavist. Since, I have been consuming your content at a whirlwind speed, it is amazing. In an industry that often listens to professional racers before the average end user, you are a breathe of fresh air. I have been riding bikes all my life and selling bikes for over 15 years, I am not a pro racer and I often have to overcome these stereotypes when presenting myself as an authority on the subject. As an 'old school' MTBer I found your conversations on geometry, sizing and riding style on 'modern' MTBs especially helpful professionally. Long story short, thank you for your input into the industry, I believe it is very important and I will be sure to share it as widely as I can. Good luck with your recovery and I hope you are able to find a way to continue to create content in a way that is sustainable for your long term health.
Steve, I'm very sorry to hear about your condition and all the attacks and bullying that you had to go through. It's unfair and unnecessary. You're strong, very smart, sensitive and kind hearted, and this is way more important than your looks. Your reviews have been bringing much joy to my life, so I highly appreciate your openness and showing your vulnerability. This only tells us how bold you are. You're doing the right thing, talking about it'll help. Much love, support and regards from a big fan from Norway.
What incredible bravery to make an incredible video. Your love for MTB hardtails and the content you’ve put out over the years has given you legendary status in my book. Every time I listen to you describe a bike when riding, just takes me back to my riding days in the mid 2000’s 🙂. A dude thousands of miles away, has given me inspiration to go and again buy another steel hardtail after 15 years. I truly wish you and your family all the best, and I hope you can find a solution to help. It truly amazes me how you’ve been subject to negative judgement. The only judging I’ve made with you is how on earth can you ride up those steep rock step ups! Absolutely incredible rider, and very modest. Best regards to you and your family. From Cheltenham, England 🏴
Hi Steve, Thanks for sharing your story. I have ME/CFS and have also spent the last 10 years working in the cycling industry so this really hit home. I’ve suffered with CFS/ME for many years following a bad case of mono in high school. My 2020 crash finally derailed me to the point that I had to stop working as the CEO of the digital marketing agency I’d spent a decade building (heart break) because of daily migraines, disabling brain fog, sleepless nights with night sweats, teeth grinding, extreme sensitivity to light, heat and noises, tonsil stones, swollen neck glands, and the sensation I can only describe as “lead in my bones” every day. I thought it would be enough to decrease my workload but my symptoms only got worse after I stepped back from work. In Dec 2021 after a stressful family moment where I felt my nervous system kick in, I threw out two discs in my neck (C5, C6) and was unable to move, walk, or care for myself for several months. I spent 6 months in physical therapy and was encouraged to get back in shape by my PT - terrible advice that sent me to the gym for a few weeks only to set me up for the worst crash in my life in April 2022. In July 2022, was able to get into Dr. Betsy Keller’s CFS / ME diagnostic clinic at Ithaca College where she determined I have moderate to severe CFS / ME. In short - my neck was not just “thrown out”, but was related to the spinal issues discussed in the article above, and all of my symptoms pointed to an acute CFS / ME crash. Frankly, after a decade of medical professionals gaslighting me, I decided to ignore my CFS / ME as the culprit causing so much destruction. Needless to say, Dr. Keller finally gave me the information and validation to accept the diagnosis and put me on a path to healing. I owe her a great deal of gratitude. I’m writing to share what’s made a huge, noticeable difference for me over the past several months in the hopes it can help others: -Network Spinal Analysis treatments 2x week -Lymphatic Massages 1 x week using an experienced practitioner who I brought Dr.Perrin’s book to and after reading it she was able to begin implementing his methodology. -2 x day at home supine Pilates / core work that relates to stimulating very specific places in my body that are currently inferring with my nervous system - a C-Section scar, a scar in my nose, and lots of work on releasing muscles in my eye sockets that are helping with the sensory overload and migraines. -Sauna 1 x day, followed by ice cold shower rinse -As soon as I think I’m PEM’ing I put ice on my neck and head and take 2 Tylenol -Replacing coffee with tea -Throwing out my scale. I was absolutely obsessed with my weight for 20 years with an extremely healthy but restrictive diet to try to “heal” myself and control ongoing battles with my weight. I’ve finally realized this hyper focus on weight and food was only making my mental and physical health worse than eating intuitively and all organic food. -Heart rate monitoring so that I don’t go over 113 BPM. If I do, I stop and rest. This has arguably been the most effective way for me to Learn how to live in my energy envelope -Planned rest periods leading up to and directly after any event. For instance, if there’s a special dinner I want to attend, I’ll reserve as much energy as possible all week so I’m able to attend for a couple of hours. -Continued masking indoors. Yes, the world seems to have moved on from covid masking, but I know that another big illness could set me back in a massive way, so I continue to mask only indoors in crowded areas where I’m concerned about covid risk, despite being vaccinated. -Removing all toxins, allergens from home - cleaning products, detergents, etc. -I experimented with CoQ10 and NADH but after some initial progress they gave me insomnia The overarching idea here is to get my spine and neck flexible, moving, and free up the brainstem from all the inflammation. Drain the lymphatics that are causing so much brain toxicity via Lymphatic / Perrin’ish massage, and the developing my non-existant core since the C-section so that I can hold my new structure in place. All of this goes along side the nervous system exercises my pilates practitioner developed to retrain my nervous system to “talk” to my core and decrease sensory overload. After doing the above protocol for the past 6-8 weeks I feel a world of difference. I have a long way to go, but I can’t believe for the first time in many years that I’m waking up and feeling a little bit more energy, having a huge decrease in migraines, and am overall feeling significantly healthier. I now have hope for recovery, whereas a few months ago I lived in a constant state of fear that either my quality of life would be so horrible I’d miss the joy of raising my daughter, or that something even more horrible would happen and I’d be bedridden for the rest of my life. Part of healing has been releasing some of this fear. This has been a huge financial and lifestyle commitment - it can feel like a full time job, but it also feels like the only choice I have if I want to not only survive, but thrive for the rest of my life. This is the longest comment I’ve ever left, but I hope my protocol helps provide hope and help to others.
Sorry about how long winded it was but I hope others will find some of my protocol and it can help them too. I’d also be curious to know what blood tests your doctor did?
F what other people say you have been an inspiration. I've been diagnosed recently with hyperthyroidism and before not knowing felt like I was having a heart attack. Lost a lot of weight also. On medication now to get my blood levels to normalize. Things aren't the same now for me as far as riding. I have severe leg cramps, muscle weakness and trouble with sleeping so am tired all the time. Riding my bike has always been therapeutic to me and it has been hard that I can't enjoy it as much as I used to. So I know how you feel to some extent.
You’ve been a great help to me as I have started mountain biking after 10 years of bad health that led to a bone marrow transplant. I’m really sorry you’re having health issues. As someone who has traversed a crippling illness, I wish you well and I hope you reach out to me if you need to chat about how frustrating it is to not be “your” normal. 🏥 🤒 🚴 💪🏼 Thank you for everything you’ve done for the biking world! ❤️
You don't OWE any of us anything. Your health and your family should always be priority. It doesn't matter if you put out a video a day or a video a week or a video a year, you will have an audience here excited to watch it and hear your thoughts. Do what you have to do for YOU and your family. Keep fighting the good fight, and we're not going anywhere. 🤘
Saludos desde Michoacán México, tú haz sido un ejemplo desde que empecé a rodar y la Banshee Paradox que tengo fue gracias a tu review. Te deseo todo lo mejor y pronta recuperación.
Steve, I just started watching your channel and I am extremely sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I will pray for you to have strength and fight this disease with all you can ! As far as “people” and their negativity. Unfortunately we live in a world full of envious losers who experience some sort of false bravery behind their keyboard or cell phone, where they are anonymous. The reality is these are weak, spineless trolls that live hollow and unfulfilling lives. I have been riding mountain bikes since I was in my late 20s and I am just almost 60 years old now. I honestly have only become serious about riding over the last five years and I’ve taken it to a new level by adding the Hardtail experience to my agenda, so your channel and videos are extremely important and helpful! To assume you can judge someone’s mountain biking capabilities by their height, weight, physical appearance, or shape is moronic. I ride with many people that others would consider to have a little extra weight, maybe not the ideal biker physique, whatever you wanna call it, and to judge their presumed riding capabilities by their appearance is the move of a clown. I’ve seen a lot of these so-called types completely dominate in their riding capabilities and crush those you would think appear to fit the description of a “fit biker”. Steve just delete these buffoons from your universe! I look forward to fighting this disease and producing more kick ass content for those that appreciate it! best wishes brother 👍👍👍👍👍
I pray you get well Steve, and get back to riding soon. Your channel is by far the most legitimate and accurate reviews about hardtail. Thank you for everything.
Steve greetings from Poland! You are very valuable person with super intelligence. Don't worry about bad comments, sick people has sick hearts. Always Look on the Bright Side of Life!
Made me choke up to hear the love and care your daughter has for you with her words in her prayers. I've got two little girls - a 3 yr old and six month old - and the love of a little girl is legitimately one the most rewarding feelings on the planet. At least 5x better than hitting the scary jump or drop. Tells me how good a father you are. If you can do that on 20% (or lower) battery percentage a day I think i can manage to be better than i have been. Thanks for the inspiration Steve-o.
Hang in there Steve. I have been inspired by your passion, ability, and dedication to the sport of mountain biking! This is only a minor setback for a person with your positivity and faith. There are better days ahead!
Steve, I'm only 4 minutes in, and I'm hooked and listening, this video will help more than a few people. Hardtails are my life. I Love your channel. Wishing you a speedy recovery
Man, you've done a great job building up Hardtail Party from nothing into a force on the market. When frame manufacturers are quoting your reviews on their webpage and appearing as guests on your channel, you know you've made an impact and a name for yourself. I've followed your journey with great interest since I'm on my own journey to find "the perfect hardtail". Obvsly, no youtube channel can replace real world tests, but you've put a great number of interesting candidates on my radar that I'd otherwise have been unaware of. I wish you the best of luck in your life going forward! I'm certain that you can find a way to incorporate hardtails into your new way of life, whatever it may hold. Be sure to prioritize your health over hardtail though. 🙂
As an owner of a Vision Kilo based, fully Shimano XTR hardtail, I have just found this channel! I am an elderly, slightly overweight, tall man of past 100 kilo and of course don't ride competition in any way, buy just for my own fun of it, after having completely home built my bike from new bought parts all over + a used set of XTR wheels. I have top XTR 9120, oversize disc brakes on my bike as I soon realized how much better a top disc brake functions. I am hardly able to meet you at a time, as a Dane, but I wish You the very best! Finn. Denmark
Steve, all the best to you and your family. We appreciate you! Unfortunately the Internet does empower haters, but there's a lot of love for you out here as well. In all seriousness discovering mountain biking has been one of the best things that has happened to me, and your guidance has been an important part of that journey.
I live in Sedona and Cody is not the person that you want to measure yourself up to. He is a beast on all levels mountain bike and you know that... because Cody is Cody. You should ride with normal humans (like me!). I am a 50 year old normal human and would love to ride easy, moderate or chunk with you, because I am wanting to build my second hardtail and want to pick ur brain on frame and build .... lol. Best of luck and even if we don't ride, I'll see you on the trails at some point.
Steve you have restored my love for hardtails, and I have used your expertise and help through patreon. You are an inspiration to us all. I have always admired your “normal” appearance as refreshing and a great reminder most don’t look like elite athletes, myself included. I will keep you in my prayers. Ride on!
Good luck on your journey. My wife was diagnosed with an extremely rare auto immune condition called EGPA a year and a half ago and we didn't know what the future held. It came on quick and she went from feeling a little under the weather to not being able to walk in just over a month, started 2 months after she retired after a 31 year career as a Lowes store manager. She's doing better, hopefully will keep improving.
Love and respect. I know from experience how difficult it is to talk about chronic health/pain issues and how people react. Side note - I just bought my first hardtail. I assembled it today. Love the channel.
I've been living with a misunderstood neurological condition for almost 25 years now (and I'm only in my mid-40s), so I can relate to your experience. I've had long periods where I've felt almost normal, but the condition does always come back and is often debilitating. Right now I'm able to ride my bike, so I'm having fun while I can. Good luck to you, Steve! Don't lose hope that your condition can improve!
I feel for you man, i have been dealing with fatigue and post-exertion malaise and other symptoms with long covid and have been off exercizing for 9 months. Its so hard and hearbreaking to stop being active as we love to be and just fully rest. I hope you find a way to manage things. Things for me have improved a little over the last few months but still have a long way to go. Not knowing if i will ever be “back normal” is scary and hard for you and your family.
Praying for you and your family steve. You helped me find the perfect bike for me. Thank you for sharing your health struggles and sharing your faith. Faith is also important to me and you have so many people praying for and supporting you. Keep it up! And take care of yourself.
Steve. You are awesome. If anyone ever spoke smack about you, then they are ignorant. You have inspired me to trust my bike. You ride some of the baddest trails in the world and make it look easy. Your review on the Turner Nitrous inspired me to buy that built bike from DT. DT was awesome he made sure I was buying the right size. I’m a 61 year old deputy and am 6’ 222lbs. DT even dropped it off to me and spent a while telling me about it. You were so exuberant about that bike that it was you that sold me. Praying for strength for you. Please keep reviewing. You are a genius that inspires so many.
Your videos are a source of clear, no bullshit information to the whole community. Introducing us all to brands, ideas and ways of thinking about riding we would not have without your channel and Dusty Betty together. Dismiss the haters, body shamers and other negative people. Not worth your time. Your bike skills and deep knowledge base are impressive and inspiring to all us average joes out there who enjoy riding any type pedal bike on two wheels, hardtail or not. The take aways I have gained from your channel over the years have been very helpful in looking at all things MTB and beyond. Take care of your health and family first as you and this channel continue to evolve into what it needs to be for you, your family and your viewers going forward. All the best. You are a true professional.
All I see of you, Steve, and the content on your channel is wholesome, honest, encouraging, inclusive, life-affirming and overwhelmingly positive. You spread a palpable and infectious appreciation for being outdoors in nature, connecting with people and having fun on the bike, as well as a respect and appreciation of the engineering that goes into those bikes and the people that make that happen. You've done an enormous amount of good. There have been times when I've laid in bed and simply listened to a bike review like a podcast and just the sound of the gears changing, the tyres crunching over gravel and the rear wheel skipping across the trail as you brake has been wonderfully calming and therapeutic at the end of a stressful day. I spent a year watching your content before I bought a hardtail, but that humble little bike has been a constant source of joy that I probably would not have experienced had I not found your channel. Its a long comment, but I wanted you to know the different ways and levels in which your content has added positively to my life, so far. My best wishes are with you for your journey ahead.
My stomach dropped when I read the title and vid description. My wife was told since childhood that "It was all in her head", got diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos at 30 years old. Also as a non-believer I'm happy that God brings you comfort and guidance and I'm optimistic for your future. I would enjoy to see you riding an emtb full sus, because I've once heard that there's a party in the mountains and EVERYONE is invited anyway. cheer from Belgium my man, you're cool af.
Stay strong, Steve and im proud pf you forbeing honest. Ive had Epilepsy for 42 years and lately its out of control. I quit the bike shop and haven't ridden in a year. It's hard but giving up not an option! God has had my back my entire life. Ill add you to my prayer list.
Hey Steve, so sorry to hear about your situation. Thanks for being brave enough to share this with us. I’m sure you’re getting all kinds of suggestions so I’m not trying to add to the noise, but, I think it would be worth asking about a sleep study to see if your sleep quality can be improved to improve the “recharging” of your body battery. Keeping you in my thoughts
I am new to your channel. I discovered it, because I‘ve been a Hardtail Fan for years. I have already watched a few of your videos and enoyed them a lot. First of all, I am shocked to hear that people comment on your physique without having any idea about your life circumstances. Why on earth do people feel the need to critique?! If you don’t like it, stop following the Channel. Anyway, thank you for this Video. As you said, you never know if it will help someone struggeling with their health. I wish you lots of strength and I hope that you will find a way to keep riding and enjoying life, even if it’s at a slower pace. Greetings from Switzerland.🍀🍀🍀🍀
Sending love to you and your family!! I am always amazed how you can so naturally narrate your ride experience while casually hucking up a 3' rock or nailing a sketchy drop. I enjoy your content (so relevant when searching for bikes) and also really loved it when Dusty Betty was putting things out as there is very little female (and mom) mtb content.
I'm new to mountain biking an new to your channel. I'm 55yo. When I was 17yo I was diagnosed with CFS. It was a new concept in the medical community back then. I can relate to everything you say. After suffering for 3 years I was miraculous healed. After all these years I still remember the agony. I was so young and had so many things I wanted to accomplish in my future but felt every day as if I was 80yo. Our God still heals. Don't lose hope. I found fasting a few years ago, helps condition the metabolism to provide energy. Low carb and high protein and fat has had an amazing impact in my older age.
Steve, I started watching you years ago and you inspired me to get back on a bike after years and even start my own channel. Praying for you big time, thank you for sharing your story!
Whoa, I can’t even begin to comprehend how you must have been feeling, Steve, but I’m glad you’ve at least found answers and relied on your faith for solace. I’ll pray for you and those dealing with that desease.
I'm absolutely overwhelmed by the positive support from everyone. Thank you for your incredible support and kindness. I can't say I'm surprised, I have the best community of viewers and subscribers on the planet. You all are amazing.
For those who would like to hear the way this challenge has been strengthened by my faith, feel free to fillow along on instagram. @steveinsedona
For those who are asking what they can to do help... I'm going to be posting updates to my health journey over on patreon. For $5/mo you can help me keep this business afloat while I recover. If you'd like to keep up with my recovery progress, become a patron today. Patreon.com/hardtailparty
Thanks for all the love and support. It means so much to me
I’m in my late 40s and have recently been battling sciatica. My doctor suggested eating more clean food that doesn’t promote inflammation. I have been on the carnivore diet for the past couple of months and it has made a huge difference! The inflammation in my body has decreased enough where I don’t have pain in my sciatic nerve any more. Perhaps this is something that could help you too.
Best wishes, and I hope you can get back to better health soon.
Good luck man
You and your videos are just the best. I've completely fallen in love with my HT (Stoic 4 (newer silver version), yes yes not your most favorite :D) after multiple fullsus bikes/ebikes and you have been an inspiration to me in this regard. Your videos are also entertaining in themselves, the way you speak clearly and with expertize. I hope we'll see more from you in a way that is still sustainable and enjoyable for you!
We don't care, you got sick because of your lazy lifestyle 😂
I don't want to play online doctor but I had suffered very similar issues including IBS, a very broken immune system and chronic fatigue for the first 35 years of my life. I even had a heart attack when I was 30. Long story short - through fervent experimentation I landed on Vitamin D. After taking it regularly (Dosis of 2000IE) my symptoms slowly disappeared and are now barely present anymore after about 3-4 years. Don't wanna raise false hope since my troubles were never diagnosed but it doesn't hurt to try either.
I’d like to think I speak for everyone when I say we’d be totally cool with this becoming “Full Suspension Party” so you can keep riding with less pain. Wishing you the best.
My wife has CFS. We've been dealing with it for 10+ years. I/we relate to everything you've discussed (guilt, lack of understanding from others, career limitations, etc). Finding the right balance goes a long way, and it's different for everyone.
Perhaps you can do some E Bike conversions or outright E Bike reviews to help manage the exertion while continuing content creation.
Prayers for you and your family.
Huge high five to you for being by her side all these years! If I knew nothing else about you, this would be enough to know the type of person you are.
E BIKE PARTY :)
Hey Steve, fellow sufferer of CFS here. Thanks so much for speaking about it. I've had it for 10 years now and I can confirm all of the mental and physical battles you are going through. You so elegantly put all of my struggles into words and I'm very grateful. All the best for you and your family.
I have CFS too, so thankful for cfsrecovery helping me recover
Steve, I just wanna say, we love you, not just for the work you've done for literal millions of people, but for how wholesome and amazing your videos have been. All the power to you. Cheers!
Anyone who judges someone's ability or skill level by their appearance hasn't ridden with enough people to realize that people of all shapes and sizes can absolutely shred. So as you said, it says more about them (they don't ride enough). Thanks for sharing your knowledge of bikes and your journey through these health issues.
One of my favorite aspects of this channel is how respectful you are of others on the trail. Your love of biking is palpable and contagious. Keep up the great work.
So true. Man never ever raises his voice at all at any point. An absolute gentelman.
I was diagnosed with CFS/ME a couple of years ago. I live for mountain biking - it is the thing that brings me joy and is essential for my mental wellbeing. I decided to invest in a Specialized Turbo Levo (full suss e-bike) and it has been a game changer for me! Sometimes someone on the trail may jokingly accuse me of cheating but I know that without it, I could not continue to participate in the hobby that I love so much and I’m every bit as “wiped” at the end of a ride as anyone else so it doesn’t feel like cheating to me lol. Take care of yourself and keep listening to your body. It isn’t easy, I am still learning not to push myself too hard - the crash afterwards is AWFUL. Much love from the UK 👍
This video shows your true character as a man, husband, and father. As a fellow Christian and hardtail rider, I am standing in agreement with you, Tess, and your daughter in faith and prayer for God's grace and healing for you. Thanks for being open and truthful. Get better and thanks for so many great videos.
I stand with you in prayer for Steve and his family. God, give Steve supernatural strength in spite of ME/CFS. God bring Steve opportunity that can support his family. Finally, Lord, I pray that you would be glorified by Steve sharing his faith in you with the world.
This is the first time that I've heard Steve share his Christian faith with us. I'll pray for you and your family to help overcome this and for the community to help you get through this obstacle.
Before I found your channel, not many riders were posting about hardtails on such a high level. God must have other greater plans for you.
Thank you for being so vulnerable, Steve! We truly love your content and wish you the absolute best on your journey to recovery. Hang in there brother.
You're such a bright spot in the world of mountain biking that I really want to thank you for what you've given all of us.
Hi Steve, I’m a fellow sufferer of ME/CFS and am so sad you’re going through this. I’m a year in from being diagnosed after years of searching for what was going on. Your journey sounds so much like my own. Thank you so much for so eloquently speaking on the subject. Videos like this go such a long ways towards increasing awareness.
What a class act you are Steve. The ability you have for prioritizing not just the importance of each component of the hardtail but making each component of your illness come first in order for us to continue enjoying and learning from this great party you host.
A different note:
I don't care what any those punks say....my bet says you clean it first try while they don't even throw a leg over a saddle. Chin up..get rested. We all love!
Your reviews are the only bike reviews I'm excited to watch, and that's because of your character, not the bikes. For what it's worth, I've been riding for a long time.
Thank you for watching, it means a ton
@@hardtailparty I was also diagnosed with the same - but my circumstances are different. There are a few things that I've found to help, though it's an uphill battle - like crazy. Point is, two steps forward one step back, but progress nonetheless.
I don't even like bikes 😂 haha
You don't have to explain or give reasons to anyone for your faith. However, having zero faith myself, it is encouraging to hear you express the source of your courage. Ultimately, I hope you're right and I'm wrong. I wish you the best.
Thanks for everything, bro.
Sorry to hear you are having this issue. Invisible disabilities are terrible.
I'm sure you'd know already, but Garmin watches literally have a body battery tracker which depletes throughout the day and recharges during sleep. Usage and recharge depend on how stressful your day is and how well you sleep. Maybe something like that could help to monitor your condition.
So sorry dude. Nobody deserves to be shamed for just living life and not bothering anyone. Thanks so much for all the work you’ve put in throughout the years.
Lots of love from here Steve. Prayers out to you and your family. I’ll be looking for ways I can help. ❤🙌🙌🙌
Wishing you all the best! You have a whole community of riders supporting and rooting for you!
I have the greatest community ever. Thank you for the kind wishes.
As someone who has been diagnosed with MS for 13 years this all sounds familiar. Like you I am very greatful I don't suffer as much as most do. My faith in God is what most allows me to deal with the unknowns the future holds. Praying for you and your health concerns 🙏 Thank you for sharing the role your faith played throughout these challenging times 👊
Hang in there Steve! Life throws us curveballs from time to time and all we can do is try our best to move forward. We are here for you guys! Can’t wait to see what you are able to figure out with the channel moving forward. ❤
You two are awesome. You both bring so much knowledge to the online MTB and you bring a lot of kindness too.
Hi Steve - I'm actually not a mountain biker but my husband is & he subscribes to your channel. We just sat & watched this video together & I'm so sorry to hear all you've been going through. I've experienced a "mystery illness" twice in my life with many doctors and tests to figure out what's wrong so I can identify with that experience. I'll be praying for you as time goes on - that God gives you the strength you need for each new day & that He fills your life with continued blessings & hope for the future! Thank you for sharing what you're going through - I know your story will resonate with so many people & have a huge impact!
Ah, my dude, sorry you're going through this. Best wishes and all the love. 🙏
Steve, thanks for sharing! I have had a very similar story... About 20 years in. Took about 10 years to find hope, joy, and a close to normal amount of energy most days. The journey was tough (and still is) but was some of the best days of my life. Continue to find joy in the moment. I am now able to handle well 2-3 sub hour high intensity rides a week and 1 longer slower but tougher ride a week. Consistency is key. Building a very easy ride base in off season is also key. I pray you find your new lane that works for you and life is even better.
My name is David Ravo, I want to say right out front that I am very proud of you and I want to wish you all the best on finding a course of therapy that could potentially help you. A simple matter for people to comment on your aesthetic, you are an amazing individual. You are very capable, and you showcase to all of us what it’s like to enjoy mountain, biking, and what it’s like to be very knowledgeable in that arena.
I used to work with a research group in ME/CSF. The push and crash cycle used to be what impressed me the most with the ME patients and how long the cycles were. A few patients would with time learn how to manage and would slowly crawl back up and they would become true specialists in their body.
27:40 - this is 100% true. Many people suffer with ME for many years but they find a different way of living and change their activities. Many patients do get better though but the recovery is longer than anyone would want their is a huge challenge.
This hit me deep. And possibly an answer to some of my own prayers. Much love, brother.
Steve I'm having undiagnosed heart and fatigue issues and they don't see anything wrong. I am only 42 years old. I hope you can get on the other side of this. I want you to know I love you, and I'm here for you. I wish I could help in some way. I will be here cheering you on and praying for you.
Mate I found your channel when I was getting back into riding. Your message of fun and enjoyment in a scene of fast and cool was refreshing.
Integrating this message of fun with the tech side of things made your channel stand out.
As a coach myself, your skill as an educator was inspiring.
No matter what happens going forward this channel will live on and the values it has promoted in the wider mtb community will be lasting.
Cheers for all your work Steve
Love the channel! I feel your pain, I had a tough cancer diagnosis this past summer and its wreaked havoc on my life, my ability to push myself like I used to and sometimes just get out of bed. Keep your head up, stay strong mentally and physically and know this IS NOT HOW EITHER OF US GO OUT! Keep doing your thing. There are 68k+ subscibers on this channel that think the world of you and you have given so much of yourself to teach us! Thank YOU!!!
Thank you for being brave and sharing such personal experiences. Wishing the best for you and your family.
Steve, As someone who also suffers from an auto-immune disease, thank you for sharing. So many times when i explain how I feel, I am hit with "well, you dont look sick." invisible illnesses are very difficult for the afflicted, as, like you said, many do not take you seriously. Stay strong and remember that there is always a support system out there of people that understand.
You have our support! Keep making awesome content and doing what you love.
This one hit me in the feels...you're a strong person and know you have priorities straight but still a very difficult situation. Prayers for you and the family. HP for life, best channel on TH-cam 🤛
Steve, I am not religious, but respect anyone who is. It appears to be a big part of your life for you and your family. It takes a village and we can all be a bit more empathetic to our follow humans. All the best, sending you and your family positive thoughts and karma!
Suffering from the same thing I think, my legs will feel like cement and its time to push it up hill. Dont care, I enjoy the ride too much. I have built all the bikes I have and its a great feeling going hella fast on a ride I put together from parts collected over the years. Just turned 60 and dont feel like acting my age I guess. Thanx for the sharing!
you're going to get through this. your videos are the reason i ride a hardtail, and you continue to inspire riders everyday
Dude, I’m very sorry about your diagnosis. One of my favorite jazz pianists, Keith Jarrett, has ME/CFS. I believe he has somewhat recently stopped performing because of the disease. You have my sincerest condolence, and my strongest hopes for better days in the future. Keep up your strong will and desire. I’m proud of you and I truly appreciate what I have learned from you here on Hardtail Party.
Thank you for your heartfelt concern
MECFS is so tied with long covid, Dianna the science girl is also suffering from this as well. You are loved man, We are here to support you no matter what. I purchased my Paradox V3 because of your review and have loved every video you have ever posted. Please keep us updated to how things are going with you. Much Love!
All the best to you from Switzerland. You’re such an impressive personality.
Your optimism, inner strength and faith that you displayed in this video tell me that you will prevail. Thank you for all you have done for your family, friends and all of us out here in TH-cam world. We’re rooting for you!
Steve, I'm watching /listening to the first part of this and have to finish this later. But that being said, don't f*k around with most docs- do what you can to get seen by the Mayo Clinic. I think there is one in Phoenix. I know there is the main one in MN.
So sorry to hear this, also sorry about the idiots on the internet. Don’t listen to the haters. You’ve spread so much stoke, passion, and knowledge about this sport. I hope you know we’re all pulling and praying for you.
Well said! Your brothers and sisters out here KNOW you'll get through this Steve, and all the others going through it.. God Bless to all the people spreading positive vibes and stoke.
I have had chronic fatigue and was sick for 10 years. I finally gave up gluten and dairy. This has helped me tremendously. I am 56 now and able to ride again when I was 44 I thought it was all over. I couldn't even work for 2 hours. Doctors never diagnosed me with anything
Gutted. You’ve had a huge influence on my riding, almost embarrassing how much. My stable has “Steve” written all over it. You’ve helped me learn the joy of riding after years of foolishly thinking it was about being fast. Thoughts are with you and your family.
It’s funny, when I finished building up my Honzo CR one of the first things I thought was ‘Steve would like this bike’
Hi Steve - for whatever reason your video just popped up in my stream - I suffered from the same thing in my early 30s (I’m now 63) - I was into many extreme sports and did mountaineering , surfing, rock climbing , mountain bike riding etc etc - back then no medical profession knew anything like CFS existed and just put it down to a psychological disorder and medicated me with drugs - I could not even get out of bed - it felt like I had a 100kg pressing me down - even basic functions was a mission - this also led to massive depression- I was also a born again Christian at the time - I was in that situation for two years and my wife and I (we had two small children) almost lost everything. One morning I woke up (after 2 years) and decided to flush all my meds down the toilet and said God I’m now in your hands and actually prepared myself to die - at that moment something birthed in me - a will to overcome that was strong that nothing would stop me to overcome short of dying - it also led me to a doctor who started administering testosterone clinically and I started eating a much higher protein diet with also creatine - this gave me much needed added strength, broke the depression and slowly but surely I got my body back - it was not easy as it took me 5 years to get back to a semblance (endurance & strength wise) of how I used to be - by age 45 (10 years) I was fitter than I had ever been - now at age 63 I still do downhill Enduro riding with my sons age 28 & 36 - never ever give up
I rarely see any hardtail channels out there, and finding yours was such breath of fresh air. Thank you for providing great content and showing me that hardtails are still very capable machines on trails. I wish you the best on your journey, and looking forward to more of your content!
whoa..... most of what you said is what I'm in right now, the exhaustion and the body pains and the commulative stressors that I do and I'm into, I also have auto immune disease which is ankylosing spondylitis, I had a fused spine, I have limited movements, yet still I keep riding my hardtails, lately I've been thinking I might have push myself so hard and then I saw your video, this adds up to my eye opener, I would open this to doctors too, thank you for sharing and opening your condition, heal up to us Man, God is Good
Your August 2021 video on crank length helped me resolve knee pain by swapping my longer cranks for shorter ones. That made a big improvement in my riding comfort and performance-thank you very much for that. I really appreciate your work and all you have brought to the mountain bike world. I wish you the very best in your life and that you find a way to keep riding.
Super sorry to hear about your illness. I've never commented on TH-cam. But I had to comment. I'm now 61, so a few words I hope will help. I started riding again in 2017 after a few years off the bike. I started watching and became fascinated by your channel. I love hardtails, I've had 3 and 1 full sus. I ended up buying a Chameleon 2021, which I have now put upwards of 5 grand in upgrades. I ride daily and watch your videos specifically. You taught me so much. It was the way you presented the videos. So, I've had 4 knee surgeries, osteoarthritis in feet, both knees, and hip. Can be terribly painful. They told me 3 years ago I could end up with walker or wheelchair, I went riding. Last January I had Afib, which is terrifying. They put me on some crap that wouldnt allow me to ride, keeps your heart rate low. Told cardiologist that didnt work for me, went riding. I showed them my Garmin data from my typical rides of 2 to 3 hours, with heart rate data, they said you are 60 you cant do that, I went riding. Last checkup was perfect, heart running good. I feel for you brother, point is, this sounds stupid but here goes, like Dory, you know the fish? Just keep swimming, or in our case riding. Youre videos are brilliant, I envy your skills. As far as other peoples comments, to me they would mean nothing, maybe its my age. But what other people say, especially online, isnt worth spit. Yes, including mine. Good or bad comments from complete strangers are meaningless. You're doing what you love, have a huge following. Be strong, have faith, God bless, and just keep riding. All the best to you and your family.
I come here for truth, and you never fail to deliver. You have and will continue to have a major impact on my life. Grateful for you, brother.
Hi Steve, I came to this community from this video that was featured on The Radavist. Since, I have been consuming your content at a whirlwind speed, it is amazing. In an industry that often listens to professional racers before the average end user, you are a breathe of fresh air. I have been riding bikes all my life and selling bikes for over 15 years, I am not a pro racer and I often have to overcome these stereotypes when presenting myself as an authority on the subject. As an 'old school' MTBer I found your conversations on geometry, sizing and riding style on 'modern' MTBs especially helpful professionally. Long story short, thank you for your input into the industry, I believe it is very important and I will be sure to share it as widely as I can. Good luck with your recovery and I hope you are able to find a way to continue to create content in a way that is sustainable for your long term health.
Steve, I'm very sorry to hear about your condition and all the attacks and bullying that you had to go through. It's unfair and unnecessary.
You're strong, very smart, sensitive and kind hearted, and this is way more important than your looks.
Your reviews have been bringing much joy to my life, so I highly appreciate your openness and showing your vulnerability. This only tells us how bold you are. You're doing the right thing, talking about it'll help.
Much love, support and regards from a big fan from Norway.
Stay strong, Steve! You’re a great guy and your channel is awesome. I wish you strength, health and happiness, and a full recovery.
Praying for you and your family Steve. You've given us all so much to be grateful for.
What incredible bravery to make an incredible video. Your love for MTB hardtails and the content you’ve put out over the years has given you legendary status in my book. Every time I listen to you describe a bike when riding, just takes me back to my riding days in the mid 2000’s 🙂. A dude thousands of miles away, has given me inspiration to go and again buy another steel hardtail after 15 years.
I truly wish you and your family all the best, and I hope you can find a solution to help.
It truly amazes me how you’ve been subject to negative judgement.
The only judging I’ve made with you is how on earth can you ride up those steep rock step ups! Absolutely incredible rider, and very modest.
Best regards to you and your family. From Cheltenham, England 🏴
We will be praying that through this video that the hardtail party community will put you in touch with the specialist you need!
Hi Steve,
Thanks for sharing your story. I have ME/CFS and have also spent the last 10 years working in the cycling industry so this really hit home.
I’ve suffered with CFS/ME for many years following a bad case of mono in high school. My 2020 crash finally derailed me to the point that I had to stop working as the CEO of the digital marketing agency I’d spent a decade building (heart break) because of daily migraines, disabling brain fog, sleepless nights with night sweats, teeth grinding, extreme sensitivity to light, heat and noises, tonsil stones, swollen neck glands, and the sensation I can only describe as “lead in my bones” every day. I thought it would be enough to decrease my workload but my symptoms only got worse after I stepped back from work. In Dec 2021 after a stressful family moment where I felt my nervous system kick in, I threw out two discs in my neck (C5, C6) and was unable to move, walk, or care for myself for several months. I spent 6 months in physical therapy and was encouraged to get back in shape by my PT - terrible advice that sent me to the gym for a few weeks only to set me up for the worst crash in my life in April 2022.
In July 2022, was able to get into Dr. Betsy Keller’s CFS / ME diagnostic clinic at Ithaca College where she determined I have moderate to severe CFS / ME. In short - my neck was not just “thrown out”, but was related to the spinal issues discussed in the article above, and all of my symptoms pointed to an acute CFS / ME crash. Frankly, after a decade of medical professionals gaslighting me, I decided to ignore my CFS / ME as the culprit causing so much destruction. Needless to say, Dr. Keller finally gave me the information and validation to accept the diagnosis and put me on a path to healing. I owe her a great deal of gratitude.
I’m writing to share what’s made a huge, noticeable difference for me over the past several months in the hopes it can help others:
-Network Spinal Analysis treatments 2x week
-Lymphatic Massages 1 x week using an experienced practitioner who I brought Dr.Perrin’s book to and after reading it she was able to begin implementing his methodology.
-2 x day at home supine Pilates / core work that relates to stimulating very specific places in my body that are currently inferring with my nervous system - a C-Section scar, a scar in my nose, and lots of work on releasing muscles in my eye sockets that are helping with the sensory overload and migraines.
-Sauna 1 x day, followed by ice cold shower rinse
-As soon as I think I’m PEM’ing I put ice on my neck and head and take 2 Tylenol
-Replacing coffee with tea
-Throwing out my scale. I was absolutely obsessed with my weight for 20 years with an extremely healthy but restrictive diet to try to “heal” myself and control ongoing battles with my weight. I’ve finally realized this hyper focus on weight and food was only making my mental and physical health worse than eating intuitively and all organic food.
-Heart rate monitoring so that I don’t go over 113 BPM. If I do, I stop and rest. This has arguably been the most effective way for me to Learn how to live in my energy envelope
-Planned rest periods leading up to and directly after any event. For instance, if there’s a special dinner I want to attend, I’ll reserve as much energy as possible all week so I’m able to attend for a couple of hours.
-Continued masking indoors. Yes, the world seems to have moved on from covid masking, but I know that another big illness could set me back in a massive way, so I continue to mask only indoors in crowded areas where I’m concerned about covid risk, despite being vaccinated.
-Removing all toxins, allergens from home - cleaning products, detergents, etc.
-I experimented with CoQ10 and NADH but after some initial progress they gave me insomnia
The overarching idea here is to get my spine and neck flexible, moving, and free up the brainstem from all the inflammation. Drain the lymphatics that are causing so much brain toxicity via Lymphatic / Perrin’ish massage, and the developing my non-existant core since the C-section so that I can hold my new structure in place. All of this goes along side the nervous system exercises my pilates practitioner developed to retrain my nervous system to “talk” to my core and decrease sensory overload.
After doing the above protocol for the past 6-8 weeks I feel a world of difference. I have a long way to go, but I can’t believe for the first time in many years that I’m waking up and feeling a little bit more energy, having a huge decrease in migraines, and am overall feeling significantly healthier. I now have hope for recovery, whereas a few months ago I lived in a constant state of fear that either my quality of life would be so horrible I’d miss the joy of raising my daughter, or that something even more horrible would happen and I’d be bedridden for the rest of my life. Part of healing has been releasing some of this fear.
This has been a huge financial and lifestyle commitment - it can feel like a full time job, but it also feels like the only choice I have if I want to not only survive, but thrive for the rest of my life. This is the longest comment I’ve ever left, but I hope my protocol helps provide hope and help to others.
Thank you so much for sharing your journey. That sounds awful. So much of it resonated with me, thank you.
Sorry about how long winded it was but I hope others will find some of my protocol and it can help them too. I’d also be curious to know what blood tests your doctor did?
I wish you the best and that you and your family find strength to go through this
F what other people say you have been an inspiration. I've been diagnosed recently with hyperthyroidism and before not knowing felt like I was having a heart attack. Lost a lot of weight also. On medication now to get my blood levels to normalize. Things aren't the same now for me as far as riding. I have severe leg cramps, muscle weakness and trouble with sleeping so am tired all the time. Riding my bike has always been therapeutic to me and it has been hard that I can't enjoy it as much as I used to. So I know how you feel to some extent.
You’ve been a great help to me as I have started mountain biking after 10 years of bad health that led to a bone marrow transplant. I’m really sorry you’re having health issues. As someone who has traversed a crippling illness, I wish you well and I hope you reach out to me if you need to chat about how frustrating it is to not be “your” normal. 🏥 🤒 🚴 💪🏼
Thank you for everything you’ve done for the biking world! ❤️
You don't OWE any of us anything. Your health and your family should always be priority. It doesn't matter if you put out a video a day or a video a week or a video a year, you will have an audience here excited to watch it and hear your thoughts. Do what you have to do for YOU and your family. Keep fighting the good fight, and we're not going anywhere. 🤘
Saludos desde Michoacán México, tú haz sido un ejemplo desde que empecé a rodar y la Banshee Paradox que tengo fue gracias a tu review. Te deseo todo lo mejor y pronta recuperación.
Steve, I just started watching your channel and I am extremely sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I will pray for you to have strength and fight this disease with all you can !
As far as “people” and their negativity. Unfortunately we live in a world full of envious losers who experience some sort of false bravery behind their keyboard or cell phone, where they are anonymous. The reality is these are weak, spineless trolls that live hollow and unfulfilling lives. I have been riding mountain bikes since I was in my late 20s and I am just almost 60 years old now. I honestly have only become serious about riding over the last five years and I’ve taken it to a new level by adding the Hardtail experience to my agenda, so your channel and videos are extremely important and helpful! To assume you can judge someone’s mountain biking capabilities by their height, weight, physical appearance, or shape is moronic. I ride with many people that others would consider to have a little extra weight, maybe not the ideal biker physique, whatever you wanna call it, and to judge their presumed riding capabilities by their appearance is the move of a clown. I’ve seen a lot of these so-called types completely dominate in their riding capabilities and crush those you would think appear to fit the description of a “fit biker”. Steve just delete these buffoons from your universe! I look forward to fighting this disease and producing more kick ass content for those that appreciate it! best wishes brother 👍👍👍👍👍
I pray you get well Steve, and get back to riding soon. Your channel is by far the most legitimate and accurate reviews about hardtail. Thank you for everything.
Steve greetings from Poland! You are very valuable person with super intelligence. Don't worry about bad comments, sick people has sick hearts. Always Look on the Bright Side of Life!
Nashville loves you Steve. Stay positive and be strong brother. We’ll be praying for you.
Made me choke up to hear the love and care your daughter has for you with her words in her prayers. I've got two little girls - a 3 yr old and six month old - and the love of a little girl is legitimately one the most rewarding feelings on the planet. At least 5x better than hitting the scary jump or drop. Tells me how good a father you are. If you can do that on 20% (or lower) battery percentage a day I think i can manage to be better than i have been. Thanks for the inspiration Steve-o.
Man, I'm so sorry to hear this. You're in our prayers. Never give up, ever. 🙏
Hang in there Steve. I have been inspired by your passion, ability, and dedication to the sport of mountain biking! This is only a minor setback for a person with your positivity and faith. There are better days ahead!
Steve, I'm only 4 minutes in, and I'm hooked and listening, this video will help more than a few people. Hardtails are my life. I Love your channel. Wishing you a speedy recovery
Man, you've done a great job building up Hardtail Party from nothing into a force on the market. When frame manufacturers are quoting your reviews on their webpage and appearing as guests on your channel, you know you've made an impact and a name for yourself. I've followed your journey with great interest since I'm on my own journey to find "the perfect hardtail". Obvsly, no youtube channel can replace real world tests, but you've put a great number of interesting candidates on my radar that I'd otherwise have been unaware of.
I wish you the best of luck in your life going forward! I'm certain that you can find a way to incorporate hardtails into your new way of life, whatever it may hold. Be sure to prioritize your health over hardtail though. 🙂
Steve’s impact on the hard tail market cannot be overstated!
Thanks so much Scott, great to hear from you.
Steve, sending positive vibes from Mexico, your the man!
Saludos amigo
As an owner of a Vision Kilo based, fully Shimano XTR hardtail, I have just found this channel! I am an elderly, slightly overweight, tall man of past 100 kilo and of course don't ride competition in any way, buy just for my own fun of it, after having completely home built my bike from new bought parts all over + a used set of XTR wheels. I have top XTR 9120, oversize disc brakes on my bike as I soon realized how much better a top disc brake functions. I am hardly able to meet you at a time, as a Dane, but I wish You the very best! Finn. Denmark
Steve, all the best to you and your family. We appreciate you! Unfortunately the Internet does empower haters, but there's a lot of love for you out here as well.
In all seriousness discovering mountain biking has been one of the best things that has happened to me, and your guidance has been an important part of that journey.
Longtime watcher, first time commenter.
Praying for you, will continue to do so. 🙏
I live in Sedona and Cody is not the person that you want to measure yourself up to. He is a beast on all levels mountain bike and you know that... because Cody is Cody. You should ride with normal humans (like me!). I am a 50 year old normal human and would love to ride easy, moderate or chunk with you, because I am wanting to build my second hardtail and want to pick ur brain on frame and build .... lol. Best of luck and even if we don't ride, I'll see you on the trails at some point.
Thank you for sharing your story and your faith! Prayers for you & your family!
Steve you have restored my love for hardtails, and I have used your expertise and help through patreon. You are an inspiration to us all. I have always admired your “normal” appearance as refreshing and a great reminder most don’t look like elite athletes, myself included. I will keep you in my prayers. Ride on!
Good luck on your journey. My wife was diagnosed with an extremely rare auto immune condition called EGPA a year and a half ago and we didn't know what the future held. It came on quick and she went from feeling a little under the weather to not being able to walk in just over a month, started 2 months after she retired after a 31 year career as a Lowes store manager. She's doing better, hopefully will keep improving.
Love and respect. I know from experience how difficult it is to talk about chronic health/pain issues and how people react.
Side note - I just bought my first hardtail. I assembled it today. Love the channel.
I've been living with a misunderstood neurological condition for almost 25 years now (and I'm only in my mid-40s), so I can relate to your experience. I've had long periods where I've felt almost normal, but the condition does always come back and is often debilitating. Right now I'm able to ride my bike, so I'm having fun while I can. Good luck to you, Steve! Don't lose hope that your condition can improve!
I feel for you man, i have been dealing with fatigue and post-exertion malaise and other symptoms with long covid and have been off exercizing for 9 months. Its so hard and hearbreaking to stop being active as we love to be and just fully rest. I hope you find a way to manage things. Things for me have improved a little over the last few months but still have a long way to go. Not knowing if i will ever be “back normal” is scary and hard for you and your family.
Praying for you and your family steve. You helped me find the perfect bike for me. Thank you for sharing your health struggles and sharing your faith. Faith is also important to me and you have so many people praying for and supporting you. Keep it up! And take care of yourself.
Steve. You are awesome. If anyone ever spoke smack about you, then they are ignorant. You have inspired me to trust my bike. You ride some of the baddest trails in the world and make it look easy. Your review on the Turner Nitrous inspired me to buy that built bike from DT. DT was awesome he made sure I was buying the right size. I’m a 61 year old deputy and am 6’ 222lbs. DT even dropped it off to me and spent a while telling me about it. You were so exuberant about that bike that it was you that sold me. Praying for strength for you. Please keep reviewing. You are a genius that inspires so many.
Take care of yourself and your family Steve. I've always appreciated your honesty and your intense love for the bicycle world.
Your videos are a source of clear, no bullshit information to the whole community. Introducing us all to brands, ideas and ways of thinking about riding we would not have without your channel and Dusty Betty together. Dismiss the haters, body shamers and other negative people. Not worth your time. Your bike skills and deep knowledge base are impressive and inspiring to all us average joes out there who enjoy riding any type pedal bike on two wheels, hardtail or not. The take aways I have gained from your channel over the years have been very helpful in looking at all things MTB and beyond. Take care of your health and family first as you and this channel continue to evolve into what it needs to be for you, your family and your viewers going forward. All the best. You are a true professional.
All I see of you, Steve, and the content on your channel is wholesome, honest, encouraging, inclusive, life-affirming and overwhelmingly positive. You spread a palpable and infectious appreciation for being outdoors in nature, connecting with people and having fun on the bike, as well as a respect and appreciation of the engineering that goes into those bikes and the people that make that happen. You've done an enormous amount of good. There have been times when I've laid in bed and simply listened to a bike review like a podcast and just the sound of the gears changing, the tyres crunching over gravel and the rear wheel skipping across the trail as you brake has been wonderfully calming and therapeutic at the end of a stressful day. I spent a year watching your content before I bought a hardtail, but that humble little bike has been a constant source of joy that I probably would not have experienced had I not found your channel. Its a long comment, but I wanted you to know the different ways and levels in which your content has added positively to my life, so far. My best wishes are with you for your journey ahead.
My stomach dropped when I read the title and vid description. My wife was told since childhood that "It was all in her head", got diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos at 30 years old. Also as a non-believer I'm happy that God brings you comfort and guidance and I'm optimistic for your future. I would enjoy to see you riding an emtb full sus, because I've once heard that there's a party in the mountains and EVERYONE is invited anyway. cheer from Belgium my man, you're cool af.
You are stronger than this! Best wishes for you.
Stay strong, Steve and im proud pf you forbeing honest. Ive had Epilepsy for 42 years and lately its out of control. I quit the bike shop and haven't ridden in a year. It's hard but giving up not an option! God has had my back my entire life. Ill add you to my prayer list.
Hey Steve, so sorry to hear about your situation. Thanks for being brave enough to share this with us. I’m sure you’re getting all kinds of suggestions so I’m not trying to add to the noise, but, I think it would be worth asking about a sleep study to see if your sleep quality can be improved to improve the “recharging” of your body battery. Keeping you in my thoughts
I am new to your channel. I discovered it, because I‘ve been a Hardtail Fan for years. I have already watched a few of your videos and enoyed them a lot. First of all, I am shocked to hear that people comment on your physique without having any idea about your life circumstances. Why on earth do people feel the need to critique?! If you don’t like it, stop following the Channel.
Anyway, thank you for this Video. As you said, you never know if it will help someone struggeling with their health. I wish you lots of strength and I hope that you will find a way to keep riding and enjoying life, even if it’s at a slower pace. Greetings from Switzerland.🍀🍀🍀🍀
Thanks for the kindness. Welcome to the party.
Thank you so much for all you have done for the community. Prayers for your health, family, and next steps.
My wife is a Kinesiologist and she has a vile called MEC150 to help detect MEC variants and treat.
Keep smiling, love the journey.
Sending love to you and your family!! I am always amazed how you can so naturally narrate your ride experience while casually hucking up a 3' rock or nailing a sketchy drop. I enjoy your content (so relevant when searching for bikes) and also really loved it when Dusty Betty was putting things out as there is very little female (and mom) mtb content.
I'm new to mountain biking an new to your channel. I'm 55yo. When I was 17yo I was diagnosed with CFS. It was a new concept in the medical community back then. I can relate to everything you say. After suffering for 3 years I was miraculous healed. After all these years I still remember the agony. I was so young and had so many things I wanted to accomplish in my future but felt every day as if I was 80yo. Our God still heals. Don't lose hope. I found fasting a few years ago, helps condition the metabolism to provide energy. Low carb and high protein and fat has had an amazing impact in my older age.
Steve, I started watching you years ago and you inspired me to get back on a bike after years and even start my own channel. Praying for you big time, thank you for sharing your story!
Whoa, I can’t even begin to comprehend how you must have been feeling, Steve, but I’m glad you’ve at least found answers and relied on your faith for solace. I’ll pray for you and those dealing with that desease.
Praying for you, Steve. Thank you for being brave enough to be so candid and open. I'm sure sharing your experience will help folks.