Is Mountain Biking for me?

[youngsman]

What's the best way to see if I'd enjoy mountain biking? I'm looking for exercize and a way to get on the hills and trails during the summer.

Live in Twin Cities
Never been mountain biking.
don't own gear.
don't know anybody who mountain bikes.
52 yr old male
ski 40 days a year
reasonable shapeI apologize because I know this question must have been asked and answered many times, but I couldn't find the information.

Thanks.

[Mountain Jam]

I would suggest giving it a shot, being that your an avid skiier you'll find that this is a sport that will give you the same kind of adrenaline rush as bombing down a hill. The gear/maintainance is expensive and time consuming, but you could get yourself started on an entry level bike for a few hundred. If you want to get out and ride a local trail sometime let me know I am more than willing to show you the ropes and let you ride one of my bikes to see if it's something you would like to get into. Just shoot me an PM. Peace, Dave

[flombe]

Another way to try it out is to sign up for one of Erik's (the bike man) very nice full suspension demo bikes. They have two Specialized Stumpjumper FSR's at the St. Louis Park location.

Take it to Theo Wirth or Harmon Park/Salem Hills for a spin.

If you find you like it and you get set up, this forum is a great way to learn about the local scene, meet other riders, find group rides, etc.

Good luck!

[soupboy]

Exactly. Get a rental and hook up with some folks for a group ride at Theo or Leb.

Another way to try it out is to sign up for one of Erik's (the bike man) very nice full suspension demo bikes. They have two Specialized Stumpjumper FSR's at the St. Louis Park location.

Take it to Theo Wirth or Harmon Park/Salem Hills for a spin.

If you find you like it and you get set up, this forum is a great way to learn about the local scene, meet other riders, find group rides, etc.

Good luck!

[Danimal]

Ride and be merry.

[manual63]

don't know anybody who mountain bikes.

You do now!

[Tetreves]

I've found XC skiing and mountain biking tend to use a lot of the same muscle groups. They compliment each other very well.

Check the "trails" link on the main page. I would recommend starting on the beginner lap at Lebanon Hills, or the River Bottoms west of Lyndale.

[manual63]

If you do go out for your first ride, check out the Riding Tips (http://www.morcmtb.org/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=62) section. Good info for your first ride and what to bring there.