Quote Originally Posted by north woods gal View Post
Have to say, this has been quite a remarkable biking year for me. I've conquered a lot of my fears about riding more difficult technical MTB trails and have learned how to ride over things like logs and rocks rather than go around them (my usual play it safe me). Much stronger and adept on the steep climbs, too. Can't believe that I've been MTB riding all these years and never learned this stuff, but really never had access to these more technical trails, before. Trails in most areas I've lived, before, were tamer, by comparison. Old as I am (mid 60s), still never too late to learn, I guess. Sure is fun, though.
That is remarkable and admirable! I am still a total wussy on technical MTB stuff. When I got my first MTB ten years ago, I tried to ride some trails that were above my skill level -- actually, at that point anything off-road was above my skill level -- fell a few times, banged myself up, and backed off. I hated the bruises, scrapes, whiplash, and other pains. I continued with the MTB but really riding just gravel roads and double-track trails that had some tough climbs and fast descents but no switchbacks, rocks/roots, logs, etc. That is still what I prefer. Since we are traveling full-time and not always near medical care in case the worst were to happen, the risk is just not worth it to me. But I totally admire those who do it!