You live in Torrance, CA. I have no idea what your trail experience is,
but if you've ridden the MUni Weekend trails in Santa Barbara, you'll
have some idea. Moab is harder than that. Not harder terrain, but
constant terrain and much higher altitude. ...And it's not all
downhill!
Moab's slickrock is about 1.5 times harder than riding most peoples'
"average" trail. Altitude around 5000' slows you down, and the constant
up, down, up, down wears you out. And when riding on solid rock, You
have to pay much more attention than usual! It's like going to MUni
school.
But in our many years of hosting MUni Weekends here in Norther CA, I
learned that most people want to go on the "hard" rides, so they can
see the top riders in action. They don't mind walking the technical
parts.
So technical is not really an issue. Just remember to ride within your
abilities and you'll be fine. Not used to riding next to very big
drops? Then walk. One rider at MUni Weekend was very lucky to walk out
of the trail after a major fall off the trail!
What is an issue is distance. The Porcupine Rim, for instance, is a
really long ride. If you're not up to the mileage, opt for one of the
turnaround courses. This is a choice you'll be able to make mid-ride.
You'll know by the time you get to the Castle Valley overlook whether
you should turn around or keep going.
So fitness level is key Moab is a harsh environment, with no options on
trails like Porcupine Rim so only commit if you're comfortable going
the distance. There will be plenty of people around to help you figure
this out as well.
--
johnfoss
John Foss
"jfoss" at "unicycling.com" -- www.unicycling.com
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