Message #15678

[jim-ratliff]

riding off road is a more complete work out than road biking, IMO every 1 road miles is = to 2-3 mtb miles. Not to mention off road riding on singletrack is one of the best ways mentally to prepare for skiing.

Plus if want to train do not worry about distance, worry more about how long you can go in time. If that means riding slower to go longer so be it.

Bushwacka:  You meant that the other way around, right?  One mile on mtb is as much work as 2-3 road bike miles.

For my level and style of riding, I don't think the difference is that dramatic.  Lynn and I did a couple of 15 mile rides this past weekend, I would say they were equivalent to 20 miles on the road bike.  I find the road bike more aerobic, since the terrain never really limits speed I can work as hard as I want against wind resistance.  For your faster, harder riding style I can believe your ratio.