Man found after NSW mountain bike ride

A man who failed to return from a mountain bike ride after becoming separated from his friends in bushland east of Goulburn in the NSW Southern Tablelands has been found alive and well.

The man, believed to be aged in his 50s, had been missing since 5.45pm on Sunday, when he failed to return from a group ride in Wingello State Forest.

His friends alerted police after their own search failed to find him, and an extensive search began alongside SES staff and the Rural Fire Service.

The man was found about 4.40am on Monday safe and well and was checked by paramedics as a precaution, but does not appear to have suffered any injuries, police said.