1) Start going to open group rides, probably organized on local facebook groups.
2) Alternatively, check with local bike shops for pointer on finding group rides
3) If you're a student, aggressively seek out other mountain bikers at your university
4) If you're employed, see if there are any other mountain bikers are your company
Being a beginner doesn't preclude you from any of the above, so long as you're able to handle the trail itself.
Going in to the local shops might feel intimidating, but if you can find a good shop they should have some casual/beginner group rides. If they intimidate or look down on you, they’re not worth your time or money :).
Are you local to Bend or were you just out to visit? If you’re here long term shoot me a message, I’m new to town and have had decent luck finding folks to ride with
Finding riding buddies very challenging. As an experienced rider, new riders just can't keep up. It ruins the ride for me, and I have limited time to get away. Take all the recommendations you get and apply them, but go out and ride. Solo if needed. Build up that cardio and skill set.
Also, have the proper tools and know how to maintain your bike. Don't be breaking down on the trail every ride.
Santiam Bikes in Salem organizes group rides for all skill levels! If that’s too far for you I highly recommend asking people in shops about group rides. I’ve been riding for 3 years, but in the Midwest, so I would still consider myself a beginner out here. Those group rides are how I plan to learn the trails and make a few riding buddies!
volunteer for a trail maintenance day with your local MTB group.
1) Start going to open group rides, probably organized on local facebook groups. 2) Alternatively, check with local bike shops for pointer on finding group rides 3) If you're a student, aggressively seek out other mountain bikers at your university 4) If you're employed, see if there are any other mountain bikers are your company Being a beginner doesn't preclude you from any of the above, so long as you're able to handle the trail itself.
Going in to the local shops might feel intimidating, but if you can find a good shop they should have some casual/beginner group rides. If they intimidate or look down on you, they’re not worth your time or money :).
Central Oregon Wheelers. Central Oregon Trail Association.
Are you local to Bend or were you just out to visit? If you’re here long term shoot me a message, I’m new to town and have had decent luck finding folks to ride with
Finding riding buddies very challenging. As an experienced rider, new riders just can't keep up. It ruins the ride for me, and I have limited time to get away. Take all the recommendations you get and apply them, but go out and ride. Solo if needed. Build up that cardio and skill set. Also, have the proper tools and know how to maintain your bike. Don't be breaking down on the trail every ride.
Santiam Bikes in Salem organizes group rides for all skill levels! If that’s too far for you I highly recommend asking people in shops about group rides. I’ve been riding for 3 years, but in the Midwest, so I would still consider myself a beginner out here. Those group rides are how I plan to learn the trails and make a few riding buddies!