Discovering the Thrill of Mountain Biking: Join a Group Ride

Are you reading to discover the thrill of mountain biking? If so, join a group ride, and get ready to explore everything MTB has to offer.

NEW HOBBIES

Hobbies help you dive deep into a new interest. When you start a new hobby, you need to learn the lingo, manners, and behaviors of fellow enthusiasts. You also aim to improve your skills.

Is your latest hobby mountain biking?

If so, you’re not alone. Mountain biking goes beyond leisurely rides; it’s about tackling singletrack trails. Anyone can ride a bike, but you’re here to become a mountain biker.

THE CHALLENGES OF JOINING A GROUP RIDE

The challenge? None of your friends ride bikes. Some might even prefer hiking (yikes). Riding around your neighborhood helps you get comfortable on your bike. However, you have questions: How can I improve? Where do I find trails? How do I navigate roots and rocks? Why do my feet slide off the pedals? These questions are best answered by experienced riders.

ARE GROUP RIDES SCARY? ARE GROUP RIDES INVITING?

Join a group ride.

A group ride consists of locals who share your interest in mountain biking. They’ve faced the same questions and are excited to help you. Group riders are eager to share their enthusiasm with you.

But won’t group rides be hard for a new rider? Absolutely. You’ll expose your limited skills and nerves to a group of strangers who are fitter and more skilled.

If it were easy, everyone would do it. Even hikers.

WHY JOIN A GROUP RIDE?

You need to step out of your comfort zone to improve. Group ride members, especially the leaders, are there to help you enthusiastically. Remember, everyone in that group was once the slowest rider, struggling to keep up. Now, it’s your turn.

I’ve ridden all over the province, and I assure you, there’s a group ride near you. There are advanced, intermediate, and beginner groups. You’ll find mixed groups, gender-specific, and gender-inclusive groups. Any group you want to ride with is out there. Or, a local shop or trail organization can help you start one.

NEXT STEPS FOR JOINING A GROUP RIDE

Explore the ONtrail Calendar to find a group ride near you. Soon, you’ll be shredding trails like never before. Before long, you might even lead a group, helping new riders build their skills.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel so you don’t miss our upcoming video about the Bateman’s Group Ride.