Mike, climbing on trails has a lot to do with technique (you will like this) its also a function of your bikes geometry (which you will also like). Some bikes are much better than others at climbing. Tires have an effect as well. Try not to spin too fast, coming from road work, you will likely try to climb sustained steeps too fast, slow way down, just keep seated (never stand up) and keep your weight forward on the front wheel, don't pull so hard as to lift the front tire off the dirt. A speed of 1-2mph is just fine. BREATHE! you have to breathe and keep O2 flowing...? If your front shock is too soft, it will aslo suck up a lot of energy.? Cross training is essential, even if you are doing vertical leaps or intervals on stairs its a big help. Wall sits are also good. And of course, work on your core, its so important.? Sounds like you are on it.? PS- correct, There's no reason not to ride unless is like 20 degrees (and that's not too cold) or icy.? You ski in much worse.....
Ron
I'm still without equipment to mountain bike. Riding a 3x7 speed cross-trainer with 700x35 tires that I can take ?off-road on milder trails. We don't need no stinkin' shocks, I'm old school in both body and bike. Favorite trail is paved and runs alongside Pennypack Creek in Philly for about 5 miles. Many places to jump off and do short steep climbs. Very pretty, perhaps more enjoyable than traditional roadwork.
One of these days, we need to link up and ride.
Mike
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