Do you mountain bike alone?

[dirtygirl1]

I also ride alone most of the time but follow a lot of the simple rules that have already been posted

1. I never ride alone at night or at dusk. All of the dangers mentioned in this thread are more prevalent at night

2. I ride in familiar areas. If I am new to an area I'll ride there first with my DH or a group of girls ... after that, I am ok riding it alone

3. I always carry tools and know how to fix my bike

4. I ride in places that have traffic (other people ride/hike there). I like riding alone but i also like to know that civiliation is close by when i am alone. I used to ride at a spot where i'd ride for 6 hours without seeing another soul. This started to freak me out after a while -- it was one of the few mtb spots around in that area. We've moved since then and my new haunts are all popular - I prefer seeing a few like-minded souls out on their bikes in the woods!!!

5. I always tell my DH where I am going and when I will be home

6. I carry a cell phone, extra food, extra water, and a few essential First Aide supplies

7. If the spot i am riding in is isolated I will carry bear spray

I think that's it!

All the best - enjoy summer on the trails!!!