Going mounted is a much faster way to travel than the alternative of walking, especially when winged and other fantasy mounts are available. Anyone can ride a well-trained horse or similarly docile mount, but more wild or powerful mounts may require greater riding skill to control. A better rider will be able to ride more quickly than novice riders in general.
Better riders also fare better in adverse riding conditions and can fight from horseback more proficiently and with less likelihood of being unhorsed. Each level in Riding improves the characters chances of maintaining balance in the saddle from turn to turn and of staying in the saddle even when unbalanced.
Would you play a riding character? Let us know in the comments below! The full mounted rules coming this Friday.