I started riding mtb because it made me stronger and more balanced on my horses (I ride competitive dressage at higher levels). Now, I ride with my DH (though he can kick my a$$ any day of the week off road). I'm just beginning road and I have to say, its almost a zen thing. I prefer to be on my own, just listening to the chain click, the road hum of the tires, etc. Its my time to not have to listen to my trainer yelling at me, my boss paging me, my dogs barking, my cat meowing, my DH asking where his keys are, my kids calling "mommy, can I (insert something you say 'no' to here)", bad news on NPR, my car brakes squealing.......