It’s an all too familiar scene: a lone rider slowly crawling up a steep, long climb on a heavy, old mountain bike. They appear frustrated, out of breath, and alone. Yet at the top of the hill, there she is: leaning on her super-light bike, eating an energy bar, and not a bit out of breath. There is no doubt that this is a Mountain Bike Couples Ride.

The next moment is crucial: how will Speedy greet Newbie at the top? Is the ride going to end in silence? Is Newbie going to turn around and ride back to the car in a rage? Will a helmet be thrown angrily into the woods?

It can be a lot of fun to mountain bike with the love of our life. But, when your fitness or skill levels differ, it can be challenging. So, with these tips, let’s hit the trails together and keep the love alive.

advertisement

Let the Slower Rider Set the Pace

If they are frustrated that they aren’t keeping up with you, acknowledge that and even blame their heavier, older bike (but beware: you may end up shopping for a new bike with them a few hours later).

You may want to allow the slower rider to ride in front as your ride your breaks, or you may be able to ride ahead a bit and wait at intersections or circle back. Communication is key! Allow them time to relax when they reach you – there’s nothing like the non-stop stop; those waiting at the top take off as soon as the last rider reaches the summit, basically flipping off those slower riders!

Encourage But Don’t Coach

If they ask you for advice, encourage them – remember when you first started mountain biking? Saying “Good job” with the enthusiasm of a wet noodle is unlikely to get any points. Instead, celebrate your summit victory, catch your breath, and enjoy the view (and a bite to eat!). If they insist on a mountain biking pointer, don’t take this as an invitation to micromanage their form. Try offering advice that helped you when you first started, but if the advice doesn’t stick, try not to get frustrated and instead go with the flow if there are a few hike-a-bike stretches.

Stay Together and Keep it Fun.

You’ll be less likely to get your heart rate as high or shred the knar as hard if you focus on being together. Of course, it may look slower to others on the trail, but have you ever considered the long-term consequences: looking impressive to that stranger on the trail or having the remote possibility of having a romantic evening that night?

advertisement

Maybe skip the epic six-hour day with 7,000 feet of climbing. Instead, plan a short, attainable ride that may even seem too short. It’s better to leave them wanting more than to have your partner return to the car with cramps or crying. Take a route that both of you will enjoy, and maintain a conversation to keep you both engaged and attached. Remember, this isn’t a race; this isn’t a workout. It’s a date.

Hopefully, these tips will help you master the art of spending a day together on mountain bikes as a couple without drama. And maybe a newfound love of mountain biking will start to bloom in your significant other’s heart.

advertisement