Riding Solo vs. Riding with the Crew: Which Do You Prefer?

Mountain biking offers a thrilling escape into nature, whether you’re carving down trails alone or shredding with a tight-knit crew. Each riding style has its own unique benefits, and understanding which suits you best can enhance your experience on the trails. Should you ride solo, embracing solitude and self-reliance, or rally your crew for camaraderie and shared stoke? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each approach.

The Joy of Riding Solo

Freedom and Flexibility

Riding solo means riding on your own terms. You control the pace, choose your route, and take breaks when you need to—without worrying about slowing anyone down or keeping up. Want to session a technical section over and over? Go for it. Prefer an early sunrise ride or a spontaneous post-work rip? The trail is yours.

Mental Clarity and Focus

There’s something meditative about hitting the trails alone. The rhythmic pedal strokes, the sound of tires crunching on dirt, and the wind against your skin create a flow state that clears the mind. Solo rides offer a chance to disconnect from daily stress, process thoughts, and gain a sense of mental clarity.

Skill Development

Riding alone forces you to be self-reliant, which can accelerate skill progression. Without the pressure of a group, you can focus on personal weaknesses, practice technical skills, and build confidence at your own pace. Plus, handling trail obstacles solo strengthens problem-solving abilities and enhances bike-handling skills.

The Challenge of Self-Motivation

Solo riding requires a strong sense of discipline. Without the energy of a group pushing you forward, it’s easy to cut a ride short or skip a tough climb. Staying motivated takes extra effort, but the reward is a deeper sense of personal accomplishment.

The Power of Riding with a Crew

Motivation and Accountability

There’s nothing like a riding crew to push you beyond your limits. Whether it’s chasing a faster friend down a descent or getting hyped up for a tricky feature, the collective energy fuels progression. Plus, planned group rides create accountability—you’re less likely to bail when your crew is counting on you.

Safety in Numbers

Mountain biking carries inherent risks, and having a group means help is close by if something goes wrong. Whether it’s a mechanical issue or a crash, your crew has your back. This added security can also encourage riders to take on new challenges with confidence.

Social Connection and Stoke

One of the greatest aspects of riding with a group is the shared experience. The high-fives after a successful drop, the banter at the trailhead, and the post-ride debrief over tacos and beers create lasting memories. Mountain biking is more than a sport—it’s a community, and your crew is a big part of that.

Pacing and Line Choice Insights

Riding with others exposes you to different riding styles and line choices, helping you learn new techniques. Watching an experienced rider navigate a rock garden or hearing real-time feedback on your form can be invaluable for progression.

Finding the Right Balance

So, which is better—riding solo or with the crew? The truth is, both have their place. Some days, you might crave the solitude and personal challenge of a solo ride. Other times, you’ll want the camaraderie, motivation, and shared excitement of a group session.

A balanced approach can elevate your overall riding experience. Ride solo to fine-tune your skills, build mental toughness, and enjoy the solitude. Ride with a crew to push your limits, learn from others, and celebrate the sport together. No matter how you ride, the important thing is to keep rolling, exploring, and enjoying every moment on the trails.

Which style do you prefer?

Drop a comment and share your favorite riding experience—whether it was a solo adventure deep in the mountains or an epic group session with your best riding buddies.