What’s the Difference Between Railbiking and Traditional Biking?
From mountain biking to road cycling, biking is one of the most versatile and enjoyable ways to explore the outdoors. But if you’re looking for a unique twist on the biking experience, railbiking may be for you. While both traditional biking and railbiking are fantastic ways to explore scenic routes, they’re surprisingly different as far as mechanics, settings, and overall experience. Let’s take a closer look at how the two compare.
What Is Railbiking?
Railbiking involves riding a specially designed bike along inactive or repurposed railroad tracks. The railbikes are equipped with guide wheels that allow them to glide along the rails effortlessly. Railbiking is gaining popularity as an eco-friendly activity that offers access to remote areas otherwise inaccessible by road or trail.
Key Differences Between Railbiking and Traditional Biking
1. Terrain and Accessibility
Traditional Biking: From mountain trails and city streets to bike paths and country roads, you can ride a traditional bike almost anywhere. While it’s versatile, you may encounter obstacles such as traffic, pedestrians, or other cyclists.
Railbiking: Because it’s limited to railroad tracks, railbiking offers a controlled and predictable ride. The tracks often pass through lush forests, over bridges, and alongside rivers, offering breathtaking views away from the hustle and bustle of roads.
2. Physical Demand
Traditional Biking: Traditional biking requires more skill as riders must navigate uneven terrain, steer, and balance. Hills and turns can be physically challenging, even for the most experienced cyclists.
Railbiking: With minimal steering involved and a flat track, railbiking requires minimal skill. Some railbikes even have electric-assist options, making them accessible to riders of all fitness levels.
3. Speed and Freedom
Traditional Biking: Traditional biking allows for greater freedom to explore. You can adjust your speed, choose your own path, and stop whenever and wherever you like.
Railbiking: While railbiking offers a smooth and steady ride, your speed is generally slower and controlled by the group or guide. The fixed track means you can’t stray from the route or set your own pace.
4. Environmental Impact
Traditional Biking: While traditional biking is a sustainable form of transport, heavy use of trails can contribute to erosion or require maintenance.
Railbiking: With railbiking, old railroad tracks are given a new life as the unused infrastructure is repurposed. The minimal disturbance to the environment makes it an eco-friendly activity.
5. Social and Group Appeal
Traditional Biking: The social aspect of traditional biking is more flexible. It can be done as a solo adventure, a casual ride with a friend, or as a group cycling event.
Railbiking: Many railbikes are built for two or more riders, making it perfect for families, couples, ore friends to enjoy the experience together.
Is Railbiking or Traditional Biking Right for You?
Choosing between railbiking and traditional biking depends on what you’re looking for in your adventure:
Go Traditional If…
- You love the freedom to explore diverse landscapes.
- You’re seeking a workout and enjoy the challenge of different terrains.
- You want a versatile activity you can enjoy almost anywhere.
Try Railbiking If…
- You want a unique experience and a change from the usual bike ride.
- You prefer a more relaxed pace with stunning, uninterrupted scenery.
- You’re looking for a group-friendly activity accessible to all fitness levels.
Enjoy the Ride with Joy Rails
Railbiking and traditional biking each have their own charms. While traditional biking offers freedom and flexibility, railbiking brings a sense of novelty and exclusive access to hidden landscapes. No matter which you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a day exploring nature, getting active, and creating lasting memories.
Joy Rails will be back on the tracks for another season of unforgettable railbiking in the Spring and Summer of 2025. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.