Quote Originally Posted by VenusdeVelo
VW...welcome to dirt!

One thing I did notice though that you'll enjoy is mountain bike really helped my road riding skills. Road riding allows more planning time for gear changes, etc. Mountain biking requires more split second decisions, like you have a more complex dashboard in front of you waiting to see what the trail brings. So this was an extra bonus to doing both.


<==Smile on your face after a great mountain bike ride
This is definitely true. I feel road riding gives me ability aerobically and MTB gives me handling skills. There is a ying-yang to both disciplines. Slow, steady tough climbing on the mountain bike helps me climb on the road bike. And my handling skills on a road bike are awesome. I can usually handle obstacles, changes in pavement etc without problem.

One thing a good friend (and very strong MTB rider) told me... if you really want to get good on doing MTB, you really need to concentrate on that. Time on the bike is necessary. Once your MTB skills are developed, then go back to the road bike.

Bottom line, have fun. I always feel like a little kid while doing a fun, twisty, single track - whoop-ee!!!