I used to listen to music all the time when I would ride. XC, DH, what ever. If I was out on a multi use trail I would keep one speaker out of an ear so I could here if anyone was coming. When I raced (dh) I would always have the headphones on and the music cranked up. It helps me to relax while on the course and I usually set the songs up so certain parts of the song will coencide with certain stunts on the course. I would also use a song that would end just shy of the best times down the hill and try and finish before the song. Sort of racing the music rather then the time
As for my choice of music, some good old Metalica, Zombie or Ministry.
