I’ve just read over on the Fat Cyclist website that his wife Susan has finally lost her long battle with cancer. My heart goes out to Elden and his family and I’d like to extend my deepest sympathies; at the same time, they’re not alone.

We’ve all had experience of losing people far too soon. Sometimes, it comes with the sudden force of a sledgehammer, other times it’s heralded by the slow drip-drip loss of vitality. It’s difficult to take either way.

I have nothing to say that doesn’t sound trite. This news comes closer to home than many readers will realise – occassionally though, real life has to intrude on our mountain bike obsession. If there’s one thing I’m proud of it’s that our mountain biking community, both real and online is about more than the bike (to paraphrase Lance Armstrong).

With some of our fellow riders having had or currently experiencing their own issues over the past months it’s worth remembering what a strong group of buddies have formed over something so simple as riding a bike.

If you have a chance, take a few minutes to appreciate your loved ones; then, if you have a few minutes more, go out and ride. Simple things are important.