CorsairMac,
Just in case you decide to try mountain biking in ABQ here are a few links. The first one is for general riding in New Mexico, the second is for womens mountain biking in Albuquerque.
http://www.swcp.com/~nmts/clubs.htm
http://www.unm.edu/~bon1972/
I find that the foothills are a perfect place to start learning (or the bosque) and as you progress you can eventually hit the mountains (sandia's or cedro).
Enjoy,
Snowtulip
