How To Prepare For The Whole Enchilada - Moab's Most Famous Mountain Bike Trail
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- čas přidán 23. 11. 2020
- I can remember doing my research before my first launch down the Whole Enchilada. Wondering what to expect, asking myself "can I ride the whole enchilada? Am I ready for this? How hard is this going to be?"
So, after years of riding this trail behind me, I thought I would put together this trail guide to help newcomers get a better sense of what they were in for.
The Whole Enchilada is touted as one of the best mountain bike trails in the world. And the best part? It should be within reach for most intermediate bike riders - but, only after some preparation. You don't want to go into this ride without knowledge of what you're in for, and how to navigate some of the challenges that lay ahead (and I'm not even talking challenging trail features).
I hope this video helps. But if you have any additional questions, feel free to drop me a comment! - Sport
I rode it the first time at age 53, good intermediate rider used to riding eastern muddy rooty stuff, it was a blast. I rose to the occasion, got in the zone and started riding way over my skill level stopping only a couple of times to hike it. I think my buddies were impressed.
Yeah buddy! That trail is so good at helping you find your flow and get in the zone! Glad you loved it!
Ha, I did most of it a couple of days ago and I’m positive it made me a better rider, also not sure why if i was so scared how come i couldn’t wipe the smile off my face! Will do again some day!
Rode this in 2014, renting the bike the clerk asked how much water I bring, how I store it and so on. Instructed me to take the first shuttle bus and be back at 2pm or they send search and rescue. They didn´t trust a european guy on the trail in boiling hot June. ;) I did a bike trip through all of Utah, so I was prepared. A local girl (shoutout to TAT) and I had a blast! At the end we took a shortcut out because we helped a group of teenage riders on inappropriate bikes - they had so much flats, loosing time and ran out of water. So I second every word in the video, large groups take more time and energy... Stay hydrated can´t be pointed out enough.
This was an awesome video. I loved your style of guiding through a trail. It’s not just “go this way” and “This section is tough.” It’s detailed without giving too much away so that we can experience the trail for ourselves and still discover the ins and outs. This makes me want to get out there as soon as possible. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks bud! I enjoyed making this one for sure!
That looked fun. Great commentary
Thanks bud! It is fun! If you ever get the chance, I HIGHLY recommend it!
That was the best breakdown of the the trail that I've seen on CZcams. Thanks for taking the time to make this video.
This trail is definitely on my Bucket List!
Dude, you're killing it. Such an informative and fun video to watch. Hope you're able to keep them coming!
Thanks bud! That's the dream! Building out the van now so we can hopefully hit the road and discover more trails/make more videos!
Thanks so much for this video - it was so helpful! My brother and I watched it the night before and it was spot on. Felt like we really knew what we were getting into, but also got us excited.
Definitely dh casing tires. This is a bucket list ride for sure .
Doesn't hurt! I go as far as to ride with CushCore for that extra piece of mind!
Thanks for this video. I'm riding the trail tomorrow and this is very helpful as what to expect. Thanks !
You're gonna have a blast! Send it bud!
Good one mate. Indeed whole enchilada is the ultimate test for rider and equipment. Once you know your tires, you know your pressures, you know your suspension and you have intermediate set of skills ...you just have to connect it all.
Another cracking video. I'd absolutely love to ride some of your trails
You totally should Martin! Stoked you like the video!
Man… what a great video.!! 👍
Thank you
Rode this a few times many years ago and hitting it in a few days again so I can't wait. Good video as your advice is pretty much spot on.
Thanks homie! How was your recent rip?
@@DustyTrailsMTB trip was great. Was riding solo and it was a HOT one. So due to those factors I did not get to stop and play anywhere and road pretty cautious. I ran out of water at the very end as I road into the bike shop since I had to ride back into town. Man what a fun ride though!!!!
Thanks for making these videos. Next best thing to riding them
Thanks man. Thats quite the complement!
Awesome informative video! I’m loving the Misfits sticker🤘
That was really well done. Your narration gave useful info instead of pointless fluff (“Big rock right there...” Yes, we could see it) and I always appreciate genuine trail sounds like tires on dirt rather than musical score. Nice work. Subscribing.
Thanks man! It was a fun video to make! I wanted to keep the trail visuals linear so y'all could get a sense of the trail even with the sound off. And then narrate the helpful info on top of that.
Lots of work, but im glad it payed off.
Did you find this video cus you're prepping for your own ride down The WE?
@@DustyTrailsMTB Some riding buddies who have never ridden TWE were talking about a September trip and I forwarded your video to give stoke. I'm not sure if I'll be able to join them though. At least I've had the good fortune to have ridden it a few years ago. Thanks for replying.
Great video man just getting in to riding again and this is super inspiring thanks🤩
Glad to help in any way! Go shred it bud!
Thanks for the overview and I am just starting get into bikepacking and mountain biking. With some practice and time, I am hoping to work up to this skill level.
Get it bud!
Great video. Very helpful.
Come out and find out for yourself! 🤘
This is a great video! Your commentary is spot on and I appreciated the small trail maps you put in at the bottom right corner of the video. I found your channel through Weekend Mountain Biker. I look forward to watching more of your content
Yeah bud! I love what Weekend Mountain Biker is doing. Such a cool concept!
And thanks for the kind words! I'm stoked that little trail map worked out! I hope to keep improving the production value while staying "on brand", ya know?
Hey, was that you that posted a video of you nearly falling off the right side of a bridge on Reddit the other day?
@@DustyTrailsMTB Definitely, I will try and drop some constructive criticism where I can on your upcoming videos since you're actively trying to improve your production value
@@DustyTrailsMTB Ya it sure was! I plug my channel on there every once and a while so I try to contribute content on that page as well
@@nobrakesjake3571 that looked so sketchy! I came across a few bridges like that in the PNW. Kept telling myself there is no way you could fall off something like that. But then. If you did? It would be catastrophic!
Just did this trail for first time with a buddy of mine. It can't be overstated - bring water. What you think is enough, double it. Same with food. Bring simple sugar snacks, then endurance based snacks. Also, have all the tools needed to fix your bike on trail. I got a puncture at 3/4 mile mark and sealant wasn't sealing. I also broke a rear spoke shortly after at the 2nd mile mark. We were able to the bike repaired and pushed on. The heat and fatigue settles in at the UPS. Keep going, don't take too many breaks as time is limited. I am speechless at the riding experience, so much fun, but also brutal. It will test your bike, your mind, and your stamina to keep going.
Exactly this!
Such a great, informative video!
Thanks bud! I hope it helps people enjoy one of my favorite trails! Have you ridden it?
I have not ridden it but it's on my bucket list. @@DustyTrailsMTB
This is the best explainer for WE I've seen. I was able to ride it from Kokopelli at the end of October and it is definitely a bucket list ride. Not sure I'd suggest just any intermediate rider hit it, I think an upper intermediate rider who is comfortable on single black trails should be fine even if they have to walk a few features. A big travel bike is your friend too, especially on Porcupine Rim with its miles on end of high speed tech that feels like an enduro stage. An aggressive trail bike or enduro bike will definitely make the miles of high speed chunder easier on your hands and joints. I consider myself to be a borderline intermediate/advanced rider, comfortable on single black and a few double black and rode it on a Ripmo and felt fine on it though I did walk the Snotch like most people.
Thanks homie! It's a super fun trail for sure. Glad you dig the video.
I do think intermediate riders can handle it, as i was an intermediate rider my first time and survived! (Heck, I still am!) 😄
Gotta say, your vids are pretty fantastic (and quality) and I can't believe how few views you have on most of them. Keep on riding and creating man!
Thanks dude! Will do! And if you have any idea how to get more views and subs, I'm all ears! 😁
@@DustyTrailsMTB Honestly man, it sounds like it's just a crapshoot as a smaller YTer - the content is well produced, but not overdone, and not clickbaity like some of the other guys can be at times *cough singletrack sampler cough*, it does look like you've had a few posts take off on r/mtb lately so I'd say just keep it up! And adding to the repertoire of what you have for trail vids (like I think I found your channel originally through your Oil Well Flats video, where there are zero other decent videos of the trail system). The graphics and narration are all on point!
Thanks for the thoughtful response! The plan is to just keep at it! I'm having fun, and that's been the most important thing to me.
My goal has anyways been to put the trail first, so that viewers can learn what to expect if they are looking to ride the same trail. Sometimes that means I need to do more to explain the experience. Other times the footage speaks for itself.
I have a few videos coming up that aren't as exciting as some others, but because good video representation of those trails doesn't exist, I wanted to put something out there so users of Trail Forks or MTB Project had videos to reference. We'll see how it goes! 🤞
@@DustyTrailsMTB Yeah man, I've always considered trying to throw some footage together and make a channel, but it honestly seems like so much work and I'm sure it is - my biggest concern was also that it might turn into riding for getting footage, not riding to have fun, but it seems like you've kept that under control. Keep it up though and I'll definitely keep an eye out for your stuff!
sitting here in my room 3 minths from 50, and I just decided HOW to spend my 50th! Im training for this!!!! thanks for the video
Dude! You will not be disappointed! What a way to celebrate 50! But be careful, it can be DANGEROUSLY hot in July. This ride is best done in the fall or spring. People do it in July, but their stories include lots of suffering! Lol
Very nice Vid. Great commentary and of course, the scenery. I am hoping to get out that way for the first time this September so I'm doing my intel lol
Thanks bud! I'm kinda jealous. There is nothing quite as special as riding the WE for your first time! So awesome.
Fantastic video. Tks.
Hey, Thank YOU!
Thanks for this video. Looking forward to riding this in September!
@ Adam Dunne have you ridden this yet this month?
I also want to know what you thought!
My thought is to come down and camp for a week or two, doing sections of the trail a couple times, and sessioning the harder/more fun parts of the sections as well. I’m hoping that will get my mind and body right for the whole thing. I’ll do one year of intensive bike park and trail-riding here in CO to prep for the whole bit. After watching this video, I’m so stoked for this....thanks!
Dude. You got this bud! What trails in CO are you using to train?
Great trails. I did it all on a hardtail last year. Can't say I would recommend that.
Haha. Good to know for certain. I've had people ask if it's doable. Good to get a first hand account.
@@jonathanstehlik7843 Hi there- I am a hardtail rider and will probably be renting a dually for this ride- what level of bike would you recommend? 150mm, 160mm etc... I ride a 140mm HT and don't really know how a dual suspension would translate
I'm 68 and have ridden TWE each of the last 6 years, but in the fall, when it's really beautiful. Water, a little food, a windbreaker - it's a good 30 degrees colder at Burro compared to Moab - and a little more water(!) and you're fine. Oh, and drinking a 16 oz. bottle of water on the shuttle up is a good idea. At my age, the 45 minute shuttle (and lack of bathroom break opportunities) is an issue, so starting that bottle of water at time :30 helps a lot. Really, TWE is only 28 miles. If, at Kokopelli, you add in "Jimmy Keen" which I sometimes do it brings it up to 34 miles and bypasses the Kokopelli road section. I can't bring myself to include the distance back to town as part of the ride; more of a chore.
Preflight your gear! Armor up. If a group is catching you...let them pass!
The hardest part is the ride back to town, IMO. There is some limited parking in the area where the trail ends. Anything you can't ride, you can walk and there are no big surprises.
Dude! Nice add. Thanks for keeping the conversation alive!
oh man!
nice memory I have in 2014 when I did this.
I think they've changed it some since then! It's probably time to come back!
Thanks for this video. Heading to Moab to ride this in October. Have only been to Moab in April before this coming trip and could never ride the Whole Enchilada, only Porcupine Rim
Dude. You're gonna love it. Porcupine might be the best section of singletrack on the ride. So you've already got that under your belt. But the feeling of starting so high, and connecting all those different ecosystems on a bike ride is really what it's all about.
@@DustyTrailsMTB I'm pumped for this!!!
Great video
Thanks homie!
Mate what a sensational ride! Nothing even close to that in Australia. I pick up my 9.8 tomorrow and I was wondering what tires your running? I think I recall a video of you saying 2.5 up front 2.4 rear. How does that setup treat you on extended climbs and longer rides? Keep up the good work love your efforts!
Thanks Craig! I'm glad you dig the video! You've got to be so stoked about new bike day!
I never thought I'd say this, but I really enjoyed the 2.6 tires that came stock on the bike. I ran them down, which is surprising, because I've typically only made it a week or so on bontrager rubber before flatting them. BUT I am running cushcore.
I'm now on some 2.5 Assegai tires in front and back. They are slow rolling for sure. But also, super grippy. I actually noticed it most on a slow, techy, rocky trail, where I dropped my psi by a pound or 2.
It's a lot of tire, and probably overkill. Another combo I've seen is an Assegai up front with an Aggressor in the back.
Cheers!
Nice video!👍 well edited and narrated. I've thought about trying this out. Looks super fun. I'm a solid intermediate rider with rheumatoid arthritis, so I try to be mindful of what trails I ride. It isn't the rocky features of this trail that would really bother me, it is over 30 miles of it that I think would put me in pain. Maybe trying the half would be a good idea. I've ridden a couple trails in Moab and some in the St George area, so I'm pretty familiar with that type of terrain.
Oof. Rheumatoid arthritis sounds brutal. I have gout, which is just awful and I've had to see a few rheumatologists in my day to figure out my health. Sucks.
But yeah. Try a half enchilada ride! Porcupine Rim is probably the best section of singletrack anyway!
@@DustyTrailsMTB Gout is actually what my doctor originally thought. Hopefully, your gout is ok. Was/is it in your toes?
Maybe I can see if a friend would do the half with me. The Porcupine part does look really fun.
SICK! I wanna ride this!
Dude. You absolutely should. This ride changed a lot about how I feel about biking, and made me love big epic rides. You would love it.
@@DustyTrailsMTB Oh I believe you. Now I just need to get myself and my bike out there... :D Maybe next year!
Awesome video. I'm running this trip back after covid cancelled it. Do you have any recommendations on bike shops? I found poison spider bikes in Moab is the best.
Also, thoughts on doing it solo? I'd rather not, but I'm not sure if local shops do guides or groups?
I am also partial to Poison Spider! Good people.
I think you can find groups, or private guides, but really, it can be handled solo.
And if you really wanna ride with friends, make some new ones on your shuttle ride up! You'll have plenty of options!
What tires work best on this trail - so many different types of terrain!!!
Oh man, you got me hype to ride this beauty one day. Maybe even this fall even. How much of a bad idea would it be to attempt this in early august?
You gotta check this trail out! Just maybe wait til the fall and avoid that August heat!
Avoid august at all cost. I just did it on 2nd July, 2022 and the heat settled in at LPS. It was almost unbearable.
Can you share your camera setup? I love this stable footage.
We'll be out there in 2 weeks! So stoked!
Shop owner at my LBS advised against riding this alone. He straight-up said it was dangerous.
I'll be breaking this up into 2 days as we'll be doing our hiking in the morning / early afternoon.
Awesome video footage! Care to share your camera and gimbal equipment? Is your set up chest-mounted?
Thanks for posting!
Dude. You're gonna have so much fun!
At the time I was running a Hero 7 on a Karma Grip attached to a stuntman chest mount.
4K/24fps/protune on with color set to flat
@@DustyTrailsMTB Thanks for the reply!
Probably doing that on my specialized enduro. The features don’t bother me, it’s the length. Gotta make sure I’m well fed and hydrated.
It's an endurance game for sure!
Wow!! Looks amazing!! I am going next month, but I do not know anyone. Could you please give me some advice . Is easy ride by myself. Are some guides?
I'm not sure of any commercial guides, but I'm sure you could hire a private guide. Skilled riders do ride this trail solo, as you certainly won't be alone out there.
You may also want to check out Navajo Rocks and Captain Ahab!
@@DustyTrailsMTB Thanks a lot!! I saw Navajo and Captain..awesome!! I can not wait!!!
Well, me and a buddy were going in a few weeks and now he’s out. I’m still going though and going to hire a guide. I’m an intermediate rider and most of my “normal” rides are closer to 9 or 10 miles. But I’ve ridden some Black Diamond trails in Pisgah near me and also Sedona. So say a prayer for me 😁
You got this homie. Qnd if you don't hire a guide, I'm sure you can just join the friends you'll meet on the shuttle!
Looks like Mars dude 🤯
Right?! One of my favorite things about riding in Moab!
Did you add in the jimmy keen loop? You mentioned the twe being 34 miles, trail forks has it at 27 unless you ride jimmy keen also. Am I missing something? Ride back to town maybe? Thanks
I've never done the Jimmy Keen add on. But that milage should include the long slog back to town on tired legs!
I am a Florida rider that wants to try this out. I can jump, drop, pump, etc... but I have pretty much zero experience with technical downhill or chunk. The only "downhill" I've ridden is Ridgeline and Rocky Ridge in Dupont. Is it possible to ride this trail slow enough that I can handle it without that skill set?
Hey bud!
I've never ridden dupont, so its really hard for me to say. It's not a very technically challenging trail drop by drop, feature by feature. But it all adds up to be a very long day. Without lots of experience testing your endurance, this might prove to be too long of a ride. Like I said, it took my buddy and I 8.5 hours our first time (and that was with lots of long rides behind us).
But, I can't say. I've never seen you ride, and you may very well crush it. I would try a number of trails in the area before committing to this. You won't be disappointed with Navajo Rocks or even a half enchilada day.
Whatever you decide, have fun!
Actually the original meaning of "The Whole Enchilada" was that you rode up from Moab to Burro Pass, then rode down. I should add that I began riding Moab in the mid eighties. They didn't have shuttles back them. LOL and no suspension whatsoever. Not sure when the entire trail went into existence.
Damn. Thats a hell of a ride. I've talked with a few locals who've done it. I'd need to make a few lifestyle changes before I could attempt that! Lol
I've done WE probably about 6 times and I've never seen it that dry! Some places were just all sand! Crazy!
It's getting eaten up, thats for sure!
It's not so blown up in the early months but like you said it's hard to tell when Burro is rideable.
I'd love to time this ride with good tacky dirt. One can dream!
Going in September. I’m confident, but know my limits. Going to be chill, the entire way. This will likely be one and done - at age 51.
You say "one and done" then the next thing you know you'll have this urge to show all of your friends the lines!
@@DustyTrailsMTB Ha! Who knows? Sedona is also on the bucket list.
Mine too!
i just did it today all of it and i havnt gone biking in two years without knowing anything about it
Nice dude! Way to crush! Did you come back after your ride and watch this?
@@DustyTrailsMTB it was on my recommended after i think google was spying on me and gave me videos about it
The Kokopelli Trail doesn't get much press because it's a crappy, washboardy road. I just want to point out that this can be very tricky and dangerous when you're trying to slow down before what looks like a wide turn. Don't break your wrist and have to do the last 80% with one hand (like me). It's not a spot where you can make up time if you felt slow on Burro, for example.
Very good point. Listen to this guy!
I did this back in the day, I've never ridden lift-served downhill but that's the easy answer if you ride a bunch of downhill and do this on a trail bike- remember you have to pedal up at the beginning you'll be fine. oh and layers of clothing and water. on a 26 inch wheel porcupine rim SUCKED!
Have you ridden the Palisade plunge yet? If so I was wondering how TWE compared in difficulty?
I haven't. I really want to, but I just from friends that are much better riders than I that it's SUPER exposed. More so than Portal in Moab.
@@DustyTrailsMTB I’m sorry I maybe didn’t word my question correctly. I have ridden the plunge, I would like to ride TWE but have not. I was trying to figure out if I am physically ready for a trail like TWE.
I know that may seem like a question I should know the answer to, but it’s my first year riding mtb and I’m a little unsure of things. I have a strong Moto back ground so I’m good on the technical stuff. It’s the fitness end of things I’m unsure of. I felt good doing 32 miles of the plunge, will I be able to do 30+ miles of TWE? Anyway I know that’s impossible for you to know, just wanted to clarify. Thanks for responding! I’ll just have to give it a try!
Love the bike design czcams.com/users/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L and functionality. It is hard to align the front tired to center the disk brakes. The brake wheel touches the stationery side of the brake caliper and pad. I aired the tire up to 40 psi as the markings say 40-60psi. Left the house for a few hours and came back to an exploded innertube.All in all it seems to be a good bike. Have not ridden it yet though so that's the max of my knowledge. Update, put a new innertube made sure the tire was set properly and it did the same thing in under 20 minutes as second pic shows.
I was running 203mm Rotors funny and rear by this point. But that's not necessary for a ride like this.
What month did you ride this? I’m headed to Moab November 10th
I normally shoot for late September, early October fire the best chance at a full lap. But I think the first time I rode it was in November. Fingers crossed.
Whether you get the full pull or not, you're in for a good time!
I really want to ride Moab, but I'm super nervous about doing this trail, lol. How much would it destroy a Giant Stance (trail bike)?
Giant makes some great bikes. I bet you do fine. Just be prepared in case (which is what I would say for any brand/ model bike). Send it!
@@DustyTrailsMTB I just re-rode probably the closet thing I have to a practice Enchilada near me today, lol; and I felt good! It got me thinking maybe I can handle this with a new Ice-Tech in front and putting my new DHF tire on! Thanks for the vote of confidence too ;)
What do you think of a highly efficient 190 /190 enduro bike for this ride?
190/190 sounds more like a DH bike to me! Lol. I would think that's more bike than you would need, and it would be a lot to push around. There are lots of peddle-y bits on this trail despite its profile.
But yeah, if it's efficient, you love the bike, and you know what to expect, then why not?
@@DustyTrailsMTB Pole Vikkela is the bike.
Chingon !
I'm so uncultured I had to Google this! 🤣 so now I feel dumb, but also badass!
Can I make it as a skilled roadbiker? Should I make some drill before doing it or am I totally lost and i should give up? Thank you ❤
I would not suggest it. There are a lot of skills specific to offroad mountain biking that I think you'd need in order to get down safely, in a reasonable amount of time. Its a long day, and a lot of miles over pretty challenging terrain.
There are a number of trails in moab better suited to test your skills. Check out the Navajo Rocks area if you want to dip your toes in first!
@@DustyTrailsMTB hey, many thanks for letting me know. 🙏
Is there drinking water along the whole enchilada to refill?
There is not! Make sure you pack plenty. I normally have a full camel pack and water bottle. I'll leave my hip pack behind on this one.
Nice Edit!!!! Shot blocks . . . . Lick’m and Stick’m to the top tube. . . . It saves time and you don’t need to stop.
No issues with assembly for me czcams.com/users/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L but I could see where some might benefit from using an experienced bike assembler/mechanic. I'm an older rider starting back after a 10 year break. This bike exceeds my capabilities and has been easy to get comfortable riding. I'm mostly on easy trails with almost no street riding and have not been disappointed with the performance of the bike. My fitness level is far below what I previously rode with and because of that the mileage is going on the bike slowly. While I'm losing weight slowly, the bike seems to tolerate my 220 pounds just fine. The bike has been used by several family members ranging from 5'5" - 5'9".
Not sure what you mean. Can you elaborate? Are you wondering what the maximum insertion depth is?
Great video. I’d love to see the same on other classic rides. Insta-sub.
Thanks Mark! Any classics in mind?
Can you camp when doing this trail?
I bet you can. I don't know the names of the campgrounds, but I think a few wouldn't require you to deviate from the trail very much.
Anyone know what shop blocks are?
Shot Bloks!
@@DustyTrailsMTB Found it. Thanks!
@1:34....That's what she said. :)
Haha. Nice one!
Do folks cycle to the top?
The occasional madman will!
12:06 when you think you have speed on your side
doable alone for an advanced rider?
Totally. But if anything does go wrong, you are pretty far out there. But also, it's doubtful there won't be others on the trail at the same time. Go send it!
Ebike friendly???
Unfortunately, no. Which is odd considering the high levels of motor sports going on in Moab!
I need the chicken enchilada, maybe a blue
Check out the Raptor Route first then! There are lots of super fun blue trails in Moab!
I want twizzlers
I'm not sure i get the reference, but Twizzlers are always a good time, so we'll go with it!
@@DustyTrailsMTB reference? There is no reference. I simply wanted twizzlers. I ended up getting some and they were amazing
This was a good video. But saying you’re not “technically” riding the Whole Enchilada if you skip Burro Pass is a bit silly. Since you really aren’t technically riding the Whole Enchilada unless you forego the shuttle and ride from town.
Ha! Totally. I've learned my mistake since publishing this. Still, I'd argue that the definition has shifted over the years to mean the ride from the top of Burro. I wouldn't say I've ridden the Whole Enchilada if I was dropped off at Porcupine Rim, so where would You make the cut off?
I'd hit the first tree and would need an airlift out 😁
Then start down on Porcupine Rim where there aren't any trees! 😆 ok. Maybe there are a few trees.
Less talking, more riding.
No issues with assembly for me czcams.com/users/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L but I could see where some might benefit from using an experienced bike assembler/mechanic. I'm an older rider starting back after a 10 year break. This bike exceeds my capabilities and has been easy to get comfortable riding. I'm mostly on easy trails with almost no street riding and have not been disappointed with the performance of the bike. My fitness level is far below what I previously rode with and because of that the mileage is going on the bike slowly. While I'm losing weight slowly, the bike seems to tolerate my 220 pounds just fine. The bike has been used by several family members ranging from 5'5" - 5'9".
I looked up Trek's sizing charts. Looks like at 5.7 you should be on a M/L hope you find the bike you're looking for!