Who would win an race up a steep trail, a professional trail runner or a professional mountain biker?

Question

I'm a pretty average runner who loves running up trails and much to my surprise I always seem to be passing mountain bikers and am yet to be passed by one. have I just come across alot of slow bikers or is running up trails faster than biking?

Answer 1

You know I've seen that too man.  I ride and when I first started out I had no idea how to attack a hill.  I would look over at a jogger and think - dang - I am not much faster than them... or -dang- I better get moving or their gonna pass me!

It's about equal really when you think of it - if both are of equal fitness/strength.  On the one hand the bike has gears and a transfer ratio of power from the legs... but it also is an additiona l25-35lbs (or more!) to lug up the trail while the runner just has some flimsy shorts and running shoes.

Yeah you are rocking the trails on foot and passing some folks who fear pain.  Hill riding is all about embracing the pain, welcoming it and hitting it hard.  

Gravity... the great equalizer!

FYI - Most normal human cyclists who use their lowest "granny" gear are probably going between 6-8 mph uphill.   The Tour guys can do a sustained 10-20mph easily depending on the slope.

Answer 2

Running up trails is faster, why don't u try to bike up a trail?

Answer 3

Being a mtn bike racer I can tell you there are times when getting off the bike and running is faster. The bikers you find on the trail most of the time would rather ride slow than get off their bike. But when racing it is all about getting there first and if it means running a section or two so be it.