For many people "off-road" means railway trails, towpaths and the like. They're avoiding traffic not tarmac and an inferior surface is just a price worth paying for freedom from pollution and danger. If that's your motivation you'll generally keep to passably surfaced tracks within the capability of a hybrid, trekking or touring bike. It is important to take into consideration the capabilities of your group, both in terms of fitness and experience when planning any mountain biking excursion.

Real off-road riding definitely implies something more challenging. And if you want to get even further away from it all, into places where the only trail is rough, rocky and rooty, a mountain-bike will be wanted. Mountain Biking and cycling in general are fantastic sports to introduce into you Pack, Troop or Unit. Days out as well as longer expeditions can be a very important part of the Scouting programme... make them part of your programme.

Further information is available from the Cyclists Touring Club.