Mountain Biking - Since I mostly road ride, how does this stack up?

This is the first year I've been doing any riding in a long time. I've started using the big chainring for normal cruising, and use the middle ring for off road. With the big ring and cog # 6 or 7 I can maintain about 12-13 mph. I'm just curious how that compares to other peoples' riding. I get a good workout, and I have to say that taking slight road inclines is getting easier. I know I'll never be as fast as a roadie (had one, didn't like it), but speed is not what I'm after.

but speed is not what I'm after.

Then you're doing just fine.

Great... thanks. :)

I'm just curious how that compares to other peoples' riding.

it all depends on the terrain you are riding (technical v lots of climbing v fire road/ jeep trail v hike a bike

sometimes you average 14 mph

other times you average 4 mph

This is the first year I've been doing any riding in a long time. I've started using the big chainring for normal cruising, and use the middle ring for off road. With the big ring and cog # 6 or 7 I can maintain about 12-13 mph. I'm just curious how that compares to other peoples' riding. I get a good workout, and I have to say that taking slight road inclines is getting easier. I know I'll never be as fast as a roadie (had one, didn't like it), but speed is not what I'm after.

sounds about right.

Most of my XC riding here in Southeast Michigan averages 10-14 mph. 14mph trails are more open with less navigating involved, where 10mph has less straight aways and lots of navigation involved. With those average speeds you are passing most riders along the way and being passed seldom.

It's not about speed and power. It's about fluid motion and finesse. At least that's what the ladies say.

Great... thanks for the responses. ;)