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Why Road Cyclists Should Mountain Bike
Written by
Michael Nystrom
Are you tired of the same local training routes with the same group of cyclists? Including some mountain bike rides to your training plan is a great way to add variety and improve your cycling skills overall. There are a number of reasons why all road cyclists can benefit from getting a little dirty.
Improve Bike Handling
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Mountain biking is the ultimate way to increase your bike handling skills. The varied, technical terrain helps develop quick reflexes and a light-on-your-feet pedaling style. These two skills translate directly to road cycling and are especially valuable on high-speed descents.
Add Some Variety
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Sure you can switch up your route on your road bike, but mountain biking comes in all shapes in sizes. Whether you're into cross-country, downhill or freeride, mountain biking has something to offer all road cyclists—and can be a welcomed breath of fresh air when you're deep in a training block.
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Your Next RaceSay Goodbye to Cars
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Sharing the road with cars is not only inconvenient, it's simply more dangerous. While it's not without its own set of hazards, mountain biking is a great escape from sharing the road with cars. Plus, you won't be breathing in emissions directly from the source.
Boost Explosiveness
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Most road rides feature long, sustained efforts, but mountain biking requires rapid changes in speed due to the varied terrain. The power and strength required to climb the next hill or accelerate over an obstacle will translate to more pep in your sprint on the road bike.
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Your Next RaceGain a New Perspective
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You've likely ridden all your local road routes multiple times, but you may not have ventured out into the hills. These single-track trails are a fun way to see your town from a different, less trodden perspective. This new sense of exploration can help renew and revitalize your relationship with cycling as a whole.
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Your Next RaceConnect With Nature
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A little dirt never hurt anyone—especially when it comes to mountain biking. Enjoy wildflowers, local fauna and scenic vistas while simultaneously getting a solid workout. Err on the side of caution, though. It's best to give critters their space when in their territory.
Find New Friends
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For obvious reasons, road cycling seems to attract more Type-A personalities. If you're looking for a fresh new perspective on the sport, befriend a mountain biker (or join a local club). They're likely to be extremely laid back and are looking for a genuine good time on two wheels. What's better than that?
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Your Next RaceIt's Just Plain Fun
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The swooping descents, technical terrain and fresh air during a mountain bike ride can bring a smile to the face of even the most hardened road cyclist. Dust off that mountain bike hanging in your rafters, grab a buddy and hit the trails one afternoon—you'll be pleasantly surprised with how much of a workout it can be.