Fifty Plus (50+) - I sold my MTB today

I sold my MTB today

Dirt, sand, rocks scare the crap out of me. Maybe I should start with a little background; I’ve pretty much always been a roadie. Like many of us I got back into riding after the kids and career obligations started to lessen and my waist had expanded. I even took a part-time job at a bicycle shop just for fun and discounts.

Back in 86 when I “temporarily” hung-up my cleats, mountain bikes were just starting to hit the shops. So I had no experience and little understanding of MTB’s even BMX was after my time. As I watched and learned about MTB’s I got excited about them. So about eight months ago I “got me one” full suspension, carbon, etc.; all the bells and whistles. I figured “go big or go home”, anyway there are basically 2 types of MTB riders the first and most common, people that ride them like beach cruisers and never venture off into the wild, much like the majority of 4X4 truck owner that never 4X4, and then there are the people that actually use there MTB for what it was made for, dirt! And that was what I wanted to do. Yep, I could just see myself riding up and over the Rockies or the Alps on the beautiful green side of a mountain like in a Coors or a Nature Valley commercial. Well, as Snoopy said, “Life is full of rude awakenings.”

I’m not going to get into the different schools of MTB’s downhill, cross-country, single-track, etc., but one thing is true; all MTB’s are dogs on the road. MTBs belong in their element, dirt, sand, rocks, and hills. That’s where my problem started. Being a roadie dirt, sand, rocks scare me, when my rear wheel starts to slide I panic if I get air under me I feel fear down to my core. These things are the way of the MTB’er but to me and a majority of roadies they are preludes to a crash, visions of road rash, bruises, broken bones, bent frames, scraped paint and tacoed wheels flash in my head. I even tried body armor, knee, elbow, shin, and shoulder pads, to bolster my confidence. The padding didn’t help, just made me look ridiculous, like an elderly Tron player.

Last week I went on another MTB ride with a young 25-year-old friend of mine, we only did seven miles of canyon riding I was totally exhausted. The bursts of high energy needed for MTBs is very different from the strength and endurance needed on a road bike. Four days earlier I had completed a century on my road bike but after less than an hour on the MTB and only seven miles I was done, wiped out, kaput. The kid spent more time waiting for this “old man” then riding. Not to mention my dirt fears. I finally came to the obvious and undeniable truth; I wasn’t and never would be a mountain biker. If any of you are over 50 and still able to climb rocky trails, bunny hop switchbacks and balance on boulders my helmets off to you. I sold my MTB today.

Sorry that it didn't work out for you. I still enjoy riding offroad. I am more of a roadie at heart and I have gradually grown to where I am taking fewer risks in the dirt, but I still like it.

When you miss it, I have one I can sell you! lol

Keep the mountain bike and ride with guys your own age. It is a blast to be able to switch between the two styles. I am 56 and rode my first century last October. I was surprised how much MTB strength and endurance I lost training for the century for two months. But I really enjoy them both. My bunny hopping has improved with clip in pedals, but there are still a bunch that I channel my CX self and just hike up a few. I have enough scar tissue. I am 56, and think that the trails are really more fun, you don't have to dress for a wind tunnel and there are no fuel fumes.

Yea, rocks and roots and such scare me, but I love gliding through the woods on some nice rolling singletrack. During the winter mountain biking lets you get out of the wind and cold. At least around here it does. I wouldn't think of getting out on an exposed bike trail on a cold and windy day, but those are great days to spend riding in the woods.
In fact, that is what I plan on doing tomorrow. The high is expected to reach 18 degrees F. Only problem is keeping your water from freezing.

I hope you got a fair price. Your bike would have been a real "cherry" to be picked.
I always have my doubts when I see expensive bikes advertised as "Lightly used by a semi-retired gentleman. Only 87.5 miles on it." I laugh out loud when the ads go on to say "New chain and cassette"

Keep the mountain bike and ride with guys your own age. It is a blast to be able to switch between the two styles. I am 56 and rode my first century last October. I was surprised how much MTB strength and endurance I lost training for the century for two months. But I really enjoy them both. My bunny hopping has improved with clip in pedals, but there are still a bunch that I channel my CX self and just hike up a few. I have enough scar tissue. I am 56, and think that the trails are really more fun, you don't have to dress for a wind tunnel and there are no fuel fumes.

+1, I literally SUCK at mountain biking, but it is a blast. I learned years ago that I can't hope to keep up with the younger riders. You know guys in their 30's and 40's. Dual sus is great for older folks as it saves the back. Riding a road bike helps with riding a MTB, but only so much, then it's simply conditioning to ride a mountain bike.
The comment about a mountain bike riding very poorly on the road is very true, especially late model MTBs. I have a Rockhopper and a FSR XC and both are dogs on the road, they actually ride only fair on gravel MUPs. But put them on a single track trail with lots of roots, logs, switchbacks and climbs and they are in their element.

For 16 years I rode mountain bikes. They did everything- Offroad- and road 100 milers. A Change of tyres to slicks for road rides over 50 miles was all I had to do. Then 4 years ago I Got a road bike.

I do enjoy the road bikes but still have a couple of MTBs and the Offroad Tandem. Only problem is that the fitness required in each discipline is different. High intensity short bursts for the MTB's and Lasting endurance for the road riding.

I may now be a roadie- but if I want fun then it is out with the MTB and get very tired very quickly.

I fully understand not getting into the off-road thing. I know that for me, when I'm off road, I'd rather be hiking. It's just a personal preference about the pace at which I want to move in different environments.

Thanks for the report. I'm tempted to get a mountain bike, but only to be able to ride car-free on some dirt roads that are seldom traveled. Roads like this:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3480/4010041146_43af5242d4_o.jpg

These are often travelled- by bikes- horses and Ramblers

South Downs Way in Sussex and only 6 miles from my door.

182071 182072

Just face it- If you have hills like this that close- you have to ride them.

Can't give it up. Mountain biking is my safety valve to remind me that cycling is FUN, when too many commuting miles of fumes, suburban traffic and schedule pressure make me begin to question why I do it. I don't have great technical skills, but a fast ride down singletrack is a pure rush like a drug. And when I feel like a mellower day, the forests around here have many fire roads with little or no traffic that can be cruised on to pleasant vantage points.

I sold my MTB today

Last week I went on another MTB ride with a young 25-year-old friend of mine, we only did seven miles of canyon riding I was totally exhausted. The bursts of high energy needed for MTBs is very different from the strength and endurance needed on a road bike. Four days earlier I had completed a century on my road bike but after less than an hour on the MTB and only seven miles I was done, wiped out, kaput. The kid spent more time waiting for this “old man” then riding. Not to mention my dirt fears. I finally came to the obvious and undeniable truth; I wasn’t and never would be a mountain biker. If any of you are over 50 and still able to climb rocky trails, bunny hop switchbacks and balance on boulders my helmets off to you. I sold my MTB today.


At our local mountain bike club we sometimes joke about taking a hot-shot roadie out for a trail ride. They do get really tired. However, they'd soon get acclimated if they had a mind too.

I find road lacks the stimulation of the mountain bike and I love to be in the woods, so I do 98% trail riding even at 71. Once you fall a few times, you get over the apprehension. I don't bunny hop and it's unnecessary for switchbacks. It's too risky too when there's a steep drop-off waiting for a mistake.

If your aggressive on the trail, you don't need to worry about doing intervals. They just occur naturally.

Al

Thanks for the report. I'm tempted to get a mountain bike, but only to be able to ride car-free on some dirt roads that are seldom traveled. Roads like this:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3480/4010041146_43af5242d4_o.jpg

You don't need a MTB for roads like that. A cyclocross bike or a road bike with clearance for wider tires would be perfect for that.

A "friend" of mine gave me a really nice full suspension MTB yesterday so I could try getting off the road and on the trails. Not sure it will work. I may be giving it back soon, just as you sold yours. We will see.

You don't need a MTB for roads like that. A cyclocross bike or a road bike with clearance for wider tires would be perfect for that.

Good to know. Now I have a reason to check out "Second Life Bikes":
http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2010/11/bike_shop_in_asbury_park_serve.html

Love to do both. Different experiences, different joys. While riding on beautiful roads and chalking up miles gives incredible satisfaction, navigating through the woods, crossing a stream, taking on the technical challenge of a demanding trail offers something else and personally touches my senses in a deeper way. Both are challenging, rewarding and help you know that you are still alive. There are always riders better, faster... than you. Unless you're in a race. it's not a race. Enjoy the ride, the companionship, the exercise and especially the journey.

Since the bike is already sold... no sense trying to talk you into riding trails again but... as I get older I find myself on the mountain bike more and more. I always thought myself a roadie at heart as well but as I get older the road scares me more and more. Of course I live in the "big city" and crazy cars and people driving them are everywhere. A week doesn't go by when there is a story in the newspaper about someone getting killed.

Yes mountain biking is hard. I always tell people "get a hint... "mountain" is in the title..." Lots of climbing involved and its hard. The technical aspects are hard as well but I look at it like this... as I get older, I need to challenge my brain more and more. What better way than doing what I like - riding - and being out in nature. As nature starts to disappear I want to be in it as much as possible.

Look at this and tell me its not beautiful and fun!

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o288/bcipam/IMG_3232.jpg

Coming down into Blackstar Canyon from the Main Divide...

For those interested, give it a go. I see lots of older dudes on the trails (in fact, most are old - I think it takes an older guys or gal's patience). There are easier trails, one with less risk. I no longer do the really gnarly, steep, rutty, dangerous stuff... no need. I stick with steep climbs and fun singletack.

^^ I like everything you said Pamestique. And yes, that pic is beautiful and looks like loads of fun!

I gave up MTB years ago because I couldn't afford to keep replacing broken parts after every ride. I don't have a lot of places to ride nearby, either. One nice state game area a mere 2 miles away, but the trails there got old after the first trip there. I guess I'm just a roadie at heart.

I agree that mountain and road are both good. In either case, you have to start riding the kind a challenges that are (mostly) comfortable for you, then work up to the more difficult bits as you gain experience and skill.

I love mountain biking, but I don't do the jumps or weave through the rock gardens . . . just don't feel like I have the skill (or desire) to do that. On the other hand, there are lots of trails, even single-tracks, that really aren't terribly difficult.

Regarding the feeling of the MTB tires sliding out; true, but it's just another aspect to get used to. So, you sold the moutain bike (sorry about that!) . . . you may find you really miss it!

Rick / OCRR

Since the bike is already sold... no sense trying to talk you into riding trails again but... as I get older I find myself on the mountain bike more and more. I always thought myself a roadie at heart as well but as I get older the road scares me more and more. Of course I live in the "big city" and crazy cars and people driving them are everywhere. A week doesn't go by when there is a story in the newspaper about someone getting killed.

Yes mountain biking is hard. I always tell people "get a hint... "mountain" is in the title..." Lots of climbing involved and its hard. The technical aspects are hard as well but I look at it like this... as I get older, I need to challenge my brain more and more. What better way than doing what I like - riding - and being out in nature. As nature starts to disappear I want to be in it as much as possible.

Look at this and tell me its not beautiful and fun!

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o288/bcipam/IMG_3232.jpg

Coming down into Blackstar Canyon from the Main Divide...

For those interested, give it a go. I see lots of older dudes on the trails (in fact, most are old - I think it takes an older guys or gal's patience). There are easier trails, one with less risk. I no longer do the really gnarly, steep, rutty, dangerous stuff... no need. I stick with steep climbs and fun singletack.

Couldn't resist this (and also the image of the fire (logging) road in Washington St. (I think) from another poster! The latter reminds me so much of my first forty years on Vancouver Island (:( now in SW Ontario), the former of my other 'ideal' cycling venue.
Both of you are fortunate indeed. Anyway ... although I only returned to cycling nine years ago, after a very long time away, and although I ride both mtb and road, I am very much 'at heart' a (admittedly, a non-technical) x-country mountainbiker.
I'll put it this way: I ride 'paved' probably 90% of the time, given where I live and given that I don't believe in 'driving (somewhere) to ride', but if I lived (as I used to) somewhere with ready access to dirt roads and singletrack, I wouldn't even think of owning a road bike.

It just depends on what you like. I find long, flat, straight rides, just for the sake of racking up miles somewhat monotonous. A few rides like that every now and then are OK, but not all the time. My road bike is definitely the least used. Road riding is good when you're trying to get somewhere.
I prefer to explore the gravel roads and trails that few other people see. I love beginner to intermediate level mtb trails. I love getting far away from everything and looking over at my mtb and seeing how that little piece of metal pipe with some wheels on it got me there.

I like riding out in the boonies enough that when my balance goes, I'll take to them on an an offroad trike or quad. Not so good for singletrack, but doubletrack and forest service roads would be fine riding. I'm not such a great cyclist that my ego would be set back that much...:lol:

I like riding out in the boonies enough that when my balance goes, I'll take to them on an an offroad trike or quad:

Actually, balance and reflexes won't go at all at least to 71 which is my age. I attribute it partly to technical trail riding and partly to maintaining those fast-twitch fibers with weight training. Fast twitch degenerate most quicly. Some researchers claim that f.t. can almost totally dissappear with age. They control balance/reflexes.

Al

I totally understand, infact I too I'm going to sell my Jamis Durango 3 hardtail and get a new fitness road bike, keep my other for "utility and backup"! I have chronic Reiter's Syndrome and found that my major joints just can't take the "pounding" of off-road riding anymore!

The last time I rode trails with a group of younger riders I broke a rim.

I sold my mtb once I figured out that going downhill on trails scared the crap out of me. I don't have that problem on the road.

I feel the same way. I'll never be a mountain biker. But I kept mine for the occasional trail ride. Sometimes it's just too beautiful to not do. But I ride it like a roadie. I don't slide, I keep both wheels on the ground and I hate the loose stuff.

Here's a photo I shot of my wife on the Flume Trail in Tahoe. I'm not ready to never ride this again.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3271/2759701101_2dbf6d97b9.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ccorlew/2759701101/)
Tricia rides the Flume Trail (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ccorlew/2759701101/) by ccorlew (http://www.flickr.com/people/ccorlew/), on Flickr

I prefer to explore the gravel roads and trails that few other people see. I love beginner to intermediate level mtb trails. I love getting far away from everything and looking over at my mtb and seeing how that little piece of metal pipe with some wheels on it got me there.

Dude, you read my mind:thumb:

Where are you from in IL? I live in the end with all the hills. I thought the rest was corn fields.

4 Years ago- Before I got a road bike- I used to love getting out on the trails round our way. Hardtail was the way to go for (Lack of) expense- lightness for XC and manoueverability. Still feel that is the way to go- although the Tandem did get a Thud Buster suspension post for comfort. 4 years of road and I have lost some of that offroad ability. Can still do the technical stuff but the fast downhills are taken a lot slower now.

But the fun element of mountain biking has to be tried to be believed. Just imagine climbing that scree covered slope for a mile with the lack of grip that ensues- That MUDDY grass covered hill where you have to look for the available grip to get to the top- or the root covered singletrack that you have to take at speed- just so you can bunny hop up the 12" ridges that will stop you dead if you don't- or the drop off that gives the stomach a turn as you realise that if you don't come down soon- it is going to be a heavy landing.

Been there- done that but now realise that more than the bike would break if I were to go at it as aggressively as I used to.

I've had a monogamous relationship with my Xizang mountain bike for over 15 years. No intention to trade her for a skinny tired thing, nor to add any others to my stable of one. I began with thick-tired bikes back in the 1950's and when MTBs came along, that's the direction I went.

As I've aged, my little gal has changed to accommodate my needs. Riser stem and bars, and a second set of tires/wheels with Marathon Plus road tires, have helped me adjust to more mellow road and hardpack rides. There are ways to 'morph' the bike to keep up with your physical changes and interests.

I'm very satisfied with a stout, strong and reliable mountain bike that can adapt for me.

I tried my first trail mountain bike ride yesterday with the bike a friend of mine sent to me. I was scared most of the time. The only time I felt safe was when the bike was stopped. Now, I have to say I did travel one flat trail through the woods with lost of turns, a few dips and some roots, but no rocks and steep downhill single track where you are out of control bouncing through rocks and roots.

I plan to box this puppy up and send it back. I got tired of being scared very quickly.

I would think it would be wise before running around on trails scaring one's self, an understanding of the required techniques for riding safely would be in order. Apparently not.

If one doesn't understand how to ride in the classic "attack" position, then you are very vulnerable to damage. It's a stupid name "attack", but I guess it sounds better to young folks than "safe".

The attack position keeps you from going over the bars in all conditions, handle rock-strewn steep downhills and fly around rough turns at phenominal speed. That's after some practice and experience of course.

Get a copy of Mastering Mountain Bike Skills, second edition, By Brian Lopes & Lee McCormack. Then you'll be safe and fear free; or at least far safer than road riding.
I've been mountain biking on advanced trials in the N Georgia/Tenn./NC mountains for about 10 years now starting around 61. I still keep up with latest literature to make sure I'm safe while having a ball. Nothing like a refresher once in a while as you tend to get sloppy.

What scares me are the roads full of SUVs, trucks and dysfunctional drivers on cell phones and old people who shouldn't be driving. I have several books on riding roads safely as well. My favorite is written by a NY City messenger rider. Now there's a survivor.

Al

I really like my old school, non-suspension mountain bike, but it admittedly sees more use onroad than off. I have neither the coordination nor the fast-twitch musculature required for hard-core technical mountain biking, to I stick to multitrack fire roads and the like.

Dude, you read my mind:thumb:

Where are you from in IL? I live in the end with all the hills. I thought the rest was corn fields.

I live north of St. Louis, along the river. We have hills (and swamps) here too.

Well guys I did get myself a rigid 29er it’s a GT Peace. Was about $500 and that’s a fraction of the carbon. I’ve got to say I like riding old dirt roads what some call fire roads. But you can keep the rocks, mud and sand. See you out there.

Some folks have gone from full suspension to 29er hard tails. The bigger tires, especially run tubless (tube-type tires with out tubes) and very low pressures with Stan's provide a lot of comfort. Though 29ers are faster in some conditions, the higher gearing is not all that suited to climbing for us old guys or those suspceptible to knee problems. Some have gone to 29" front wheels and 26" rear wheels because of that.

The lefty Canondale is easily converted to 29 front and some manufacturers offer bikes with the 29/26 combination.

Al

I'm really glad you brought that up. I'm having a new rear wheel built using a new Shimano XTR disc hub and a new Mavic 719 V-brake rim, 36 spokes.

But because my GT Xizang is a vintage titanium-framed hardtail mtn. bike, I'm staying with the 26" V-brake setup on the back. I want to step up to a new front suspension fork that can handle disc brakes in the front. And you mention going with a 29" wheel. I like the concept. Especially for my intended uses - some off-road, some cross country, and some real touring... Simply by changing out the wheels/tires.

Thanks for the idea of mixing 26" rear with a 29" front!


Some folks have gone from full suspension to 29er hard tails. The bigger tires, especially run tubless (tube-type tires with out tubes) and very low pressures with Stan's provide a lot of comfort. Though 29ers are faster in some conditions, the higher gearing is not all that suited to climbing for us old guys or those suspceptible to knee problems. Some have gone to 29" front wheels and 26" rear wheels because of that.

The lefty Canondale is easily converted to 29 front and some manufacturers offer bikes with the 29/26 combination.

Al

Or a hybrid with knobby tires.

I'm really glad you brought that up. I'm having a new rear wheel built using a new Shimano XTR disc hub and a new Mavic 719 V-brake rim, 36 spokes.

But because my GT Xizang is a vintage titanium-framed hardtail mtn. bike, I'm staying with the 26" V-brake setup on the back. I want to step up to a new front suspension fork that can handle disc brakes in the front. And you mention going with a 29" wheel. I like the concept. Especially for my intended uses - some off-road, some cross country, and some real touring... Simply by changing out the wheels/tires.

Thanks for the idea of mixing 26" rear with a 29" front!

Be careful. The larger wheel and the required longer fork will change the geometry of your bike in more ways than just the larger wheel diameter. Your bike will have slower steering and higher center of gravity at a minimum. another option might be going with a 650B (27") front wheel. It will still compromise the handling, but not as much as a 29" wheel. Some frames can be converted to 650B front and rear, but many things need to be considered. Much discussion of 650B and 69ers at this forum. http://forums.mtbr.com/forumdisplay.php?f=135

Be careful. The larger wheel and the required longer fork will change the geometry of your bike in more ways than just the larger wheel diameter. Your bike will have slower steering and higher center of gravity at a minimum. another option might be going with a 650B (27") front wheel. It will still compromise the handling, but not as much as a 29" wheel. Some frames can be converted to 650B front and rear, but many things need to be considered. Much discussion of 650B and 69ers at this forum. http://forums.mtbr.com/forumdisplay.php?f=135

True, it will slow the steering by increasing the effective head tube angle so it shouldn't be dangerous. A higher center of gravity of the rider can be an advantage for handling. And of course a full 29 is even higher yet.

An acquaintance of mine went from 26 to a 29 with a Canondale lefty as suggested by his local bike shop. The bike shop owner told me that he had added a spacer to the lefty fork to reduce travel. So far the rider loves it.

How it turns out will depend on the original head tube angle. If it's a slow stearer to begin with like for a more downhill bike, it might be a real dog.

I probably would not like it as I can't imagine living with that much slower steering. I ride a cross-country racing frame with 73/73 seat and head tubes which are noted for very quick turning/handling. However, my acquaintance has raced for many years (he's 65) and a much better biker than me.

Another negative I can think of is possibly frame stress. The warranty on my 2008 (acquired in 2010) Santa Cruze Blur XC frame will be voided if I exceed a 4" travel fork which is equivalent to raising the effective head-tube angle. I don't know the specific reason why they void the warranty.

The too, you have to make sure there will be adequate stand-over height. It's tough to provide suspension, stand-over height and 29" wheels all together.

All in all, there is a case for buying a frame designed for the 26/29 set up.

Al