Do I need a guide to go on a mountain bike tour? There are advantages to riding with a group tour and also there are advantages of riding solo. Now, both of them have some social elements. The great thing...
Now, both of them have some social elements. The great thing about that is that somebody who loves to be around people or somebody who is a little more introverted can really mix it up. I mean, you know when I go out on a road ride on some days, I just want to go out and decompress, so I will do that. Other days, I know that there are a group of guys going out and I can jump in with them. I would say, mountain biking sometimes is little bit better to do with somebody, just because of the risk of maybe being isolated or in the case of having something happening; it's always nice to have a friend there if you get a flat tire and you have already used your tube. Maybe they can at least lend you theirs to help you out. I do not go ride my bike by myself all the time.
I would generally recommend that a newbie try to find at least one other person to go out with. Call your local bike shop and ask if they have any beginner groups. There is a group called "Ride Like a Girl" for female riders who want to ride mountain bikes, but not deal with the testosterone factor, so to speak. They want to just go out and be around other ladies who want to learn about riding. So, it's all about finding a group that can help you out. Like I said, bike shops are good places to call and start to ask about the beginner rides. For any advice- that's where you start. Or if you have a friend that you want to get involved, get them involved with you.
