Quote Originally Posted by Irulan View Post
Just because a trail is farther out or not heavily used doesn't mean we shouldn't take care of it for others that come behind us.
Ditto, ditto, ditto. And the others "that come after us" include the flora and fauna who depend on that habitat not being eroded.

Learning to brake early is so crucial. All that dishing that occurs before turns? It's caused by people who don't look ahead and keep their speed appropriate to the trail conditions. It not only damages the trail, it makes the trail much less fun to ride.

/my soapbox

Oakleaf, I do agree that mtn biking is a terrific way to improve handling skills all the way around, not just being comfortable with slides and fishtailing. You'll learn how much the momentum of your body controls the bike's direction and also improve balance, particularly at slow speeds.