Mountain biking and technology have become inseparable for many of us. GPS devices track every turn, Strava logs our every climb and power meters deliver a steady stream of data. But what if leaving it all behind—no metrics, no screens, no notifications—could actually make riding more enjoyable?
Whether you’re battling for KOMs or analyzing wattage, the constant hum of tech can sometimes distract us from the raw joy of riding. A Finnish study, and a story about one rider’s tech-free transformation, highlight why unplugging could be the reset you need.
The study: freedom on two wheels
Researchers at the University of Jyväskylä in Finland surveyed over 1,000 recreational athletes to uncover the reasons they chose to recreate without sports technology. Their findings? Ditching the devices brought a profound sense of freedom, a stronger connection to the ride and a deeper appreciation for the sport itself.
More than metrics: escaping the digital race
For mountain bikers, it’s easy to get consumed by data. Strava leaderboards, lap times, elevation gain—these numbers can turn a casual ride into an unrelenting competition. The Finnish study revealed that stepping away from the stats can shift the focus from performance to experience.
When you’re not chasing PRs or KOMs, you notice more—the crunch of dirt under your tires, the rhythm of your breath, the sunlight filtering through the trees. It’s about connecting with the trail, not the screen.
The dark side of digital: a Strava story
Take my buddy as an example. He was a KOM addict. Strava’s live leaderboard had turned his casual rides into all-out races. Every stolen KOM notification pinged his phone and wrecked his week. On a family vacation, he couldn’t enjoy the beach or time with his kids. He was sulking, desperate to get back on the trails to reclaim his “throne.”
Eventually, he realized he had a problem. Strava wasn’t enhancing his riding—it was draining the joy from it. So, he quit cold turkey. Today, he rides for himself again, free from the pressure of chasing KOMs. “Riding is fun again,” he says, 60 days into his Strava detox.
Freedom to flow: rediscovering the joy
One of the key findings of the Finnish study was the sense of liberation riders felt when they unplugged. Without waiting for your GPS to sync or worrying about your heart rate zones, riding becomes simpler and more spontaneous.
And there’s more: study participants reported a newfound appreciation…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Canadian Cycling Magazine…