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      10-15-2017, 10:05 AM   #715
Mr Tonka
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Drives: Something Italian
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: Sweatypeninsula

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Quote:
Originally Posted by wdb View Post
What do you mean by 'trail'? Around here we have everything from old railroad beds (EASY) to rock-strewn trails running up and down hillsides (HARD). Generally speaking the difference between riding on the road and on trails, besides slower speed, is higher demands on balance and handling skills. A rails-to-trails path would not stress either very much; a narrow, rocky path would. The kind of trails may also play into what kind of bike you get. Suspension or no, 26" or 29" wheels, yada yada.
WDB is spot on here. For conversation sake, we'll call narrow rocky path "single track" and rails to trails a dirt path.

On single track, the bolded is largely because you'll be going slower and there will be new forces put against your wheels like roots, rocks, etc... I find it quite surprising how many people fall when riding a mtb slowly through a not very technical, but rooty or rocky section of trail. It's because they generally have the mindset that slower is safer when the come up against these small obstacles. My wife for instance is scared to go fast over the small roots/rocks, which is a safer way to traverse them.

Not trying to scare you, but MTBing on single track vs dirt trails does take a different mindset, it's also more muscularly taxing vs road biking which is generally more cardio work. There a loads of options for elbow, knee, shoulder and chest protection these days. If the trail is technical enough, everyone will go down at some point.

Dirt path which is what the trail around the lake sounds like are often fun with some rolling hills and what not. These trails don't take expensive dual suspension bikes and can have mild challenges on them that are fun to overcome. If you download the Trailforks app and check out some local MTB trails in your area, look for the green trails. They will likely be able to be traversed with your bike. (it's a hybrid of sorts if i remember correctly) Some of them anyway. You may opt to get off and walk over a muddy section or creek crossing, but you'll get an idea of the trail terrain. If you mildly enjoy it on your current bike, you may love it on a MTB.
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