Tapia Canyon Mountain Bike Trail in Castaic, CA closed as of May 20th, 2013

TapiaCanyonClosed

This sign now sits next to a barb wired fence at the top of the Tapia Canyon Fire road near the power lines.  It is so frustrating to see as Tapia Canyon, located in Castaic, CA, is one of the most fun places to Mountain Bike in all of Southern California.  According to some people we talked to, it was closed down due to some new homes being built.  I have no idea where they plan on putting homes and I will add to this post once I find out more.

We operate a retail shop and corporate headquarters in Valencia, CA and Tapia is our local riding spot of choice (Just 5 miles away!).  I have been to other MTB trails in Southern California, but none of the trails compare (so far).  This hill was the perfect mix of challenging uphill mixed with multiple single track downhill trails.  We would see people traveling as far as Orange County to ride here.  

I would like to say a few things.  First, I would like to thank everyone that built this trail over many, many years.  You have given me so many hours of enjoyment and I am now hooked on MTB riding.  According to Strava, the trail has been ridden over 5000 times just with those of us who use the Strava app.  I am sure over the years, the total is many times that number.  Here is a YouTube Link to over 2900 videos of people riding Tapia Canyon.

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Tune Ups Audio for Snow Helmets for Under $20

Hey all. As you know, we have a love affair with drop-in speakers for snow helmets. We've just received a closeout order from Giro and were able to get our hands on these boys. They are completely straight and simple: two speakers that fit under your snow helmet ear pads which hook up as a 3.5mm jack to your music device.

Simple Tune-Ups for $20

 

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Which GoPro camera should I buy? Which GoPro camera is the best?

Hero3PicI have been getting a lot of questions about which type of GoPro camera one should buy if interested. I first think it is great that you're looking into finally getting one, especially after watching these X games and all of the great camera angles they were able to capture of the professionals. I've had mine for 2 years and could not be any happier! Just last weekend I attached it to my dog on our hike and posted it to Facebook and got some likes from a few cute girls (because likes mean everything, right!?). I'll post the video later this week. I digress, and provide you with some tips when deciding to purchase your GoPro.

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Outdoor Technology Chips Wireless Bluetooth Drop-in Speakers for Snow Helmets

The First Look at the OT ChipsOne of the latest trends in snow sports electronics that we've come to love is the wireless Bluetooth drop-in speakers for snow helmets phase. We try to get a hold of as many quality products as we can, and thankfully one of our most favorite brands in the market right now, Outdoor Technology, has released their own version of the product. Unfortunately unavailable at the moment, we were able to meet up with our friends at OT at the SIA Snow Show in Denver this past weekend. Here's what we learned.

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Giro Tuneups Wireless Bluetooth 2013: Review

Giro has created a brand new version of their widely known drop-in speakers for snow helmets, the TuneUps. They have an all-new control center with larger buttons and faster response time to ensure the convenience of accessability while you ride the mountains. We've unfortunately received these later in the snow year than we had liked due to Giro having difficult attain their products from the manufacturer. Regardless, we've just received a lot of stock and want to share with you what's new in the 2013 TuneUps by Giro/Skullcandy.

2035135

 

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New Orthaheel Sandals for the Spring/Summer 2013 Collection

Orthaheel

anna

Orthaheel is at it again with many brand new styles for their Spring/Summer 2013 collection. Mostly adding sandals, each includes the famous orthotic footbed so many of us have come to love. We already have a lot of these in stock so be sure to check out the purchase links I've provided. We offer no tax and free priority shipping. Here's a look at the options.

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How to turn your snow helmet speakers/headphones wireless

Wires, wires everywhere!The new wireless trend is only growing. With advancements in technology, it is safe to say that in years to come, merely everything will be wireless. As some can tell, we are very fond of the growing brand Outdoor Technology. They have a brand new product out which converts any speakers, headphones, or device that accepts a 3.5mm jack into a convenient, wireless device. This is especially amazing for those who shred the mountains and enjoy listening to that new mix you made to pump you up. All you do is plug in your 3.5mm device into the converter, instantly making your music experience wire-free. We present the Outdoor Technology Adapt.

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What is the best GoPro camera for snowboarding and skiing?

What is the best GoPro for snow?

The GoPro craze is still very well alive and kicking. You've seen your cousin or friend post their video on Facebook and noticed how many likes they got, now it's time for you to buy your own with that new Christmas money you got from your retired grandparents.

GoPro currently has three models out, the original, HERO2, and HERO3. However, the answer to this question isn't what kind of camera to get (for this I would recommend reading my post about the GoPro HERO3's), but what kind of mounts and accessories you need for your particular interest. Let's review which types are best for snowboarding and skiing

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Beard Beanies: What is the best beard beanie?

The Spacecraft Collective Scout Mask

We've all seen the latest trend floating around -- whether it's at your local community college, shopping mall, or even on the slopes. Beard beanies! To be honest, we think it's pretty damn cool. I rocked it on the mountains last week and got a few comments, and better yet stayed warm at the same time. How convenient? We've checked out a few of the brands and have decided to put the Spacecraft Collective Scout Masks into our inventory.

 

 

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What is the best case for GoPro HD Cameras?

The UK Pro POV20LTIt's very important to keep your expensive GoPro camera safe from unwanted damage, especially since you saved your lunch money to buy it for all of those months. Since you spent so much dough on it, you'll want an affordable case that isn't too costly but actually works. Here at ALS we're huge advocates of the UK Pro brand due to their reliability and manageable prices on their cases. There is a brand new case out for under $30 that I just had to write about. The POV20LT.

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