Rocky Mountain Thrills

LEVEL 1: I can control the speed and the direction of my bike on flat, open terrain. I want to start riding off-road on green-rated singletrack trails. I should consider taking a lesson or enrolling in a camp to help prepare for the trip.

LEVEL 2: I’ve been riding a mountain bike consistently for at least 1 season, I’m capable of controlling bike speed and direction on smooth doubletrack and rolling singletrack trails. I should consider more riding time and enrolling in a lesson or camp to help prepare for the trip.

LEVEL 3: I’ve been riding consistently for at least 2 years. I’m able to climb and descend under control on moderately steep singletrack with loose rocks and some roots. Trails with mild exposure at times is no problem for me and I know when to walk a section that might be too difficult. It would be wise to get some extra practice prior to my trip.

LEVEL 4: I’ve been mountain biking for 3+ years and I’m very confident riding all types of singletrack. I can handle technical features like small drops and jumps and can descend technical steep sections, including rock and uneven roots. I’m comfortable riding with exposure and know when to walk a section that might be too difficult.

LEVEL 5: I’m an advanced rider who can ride fast with flow and style. I can ride very technical trails including jumps, drops, and narrow elevated trail sections. Can ride confidently on all types of terrain and I am perfectly comfortable on thin and exposed sections of trail.

LEVEL 1: I’m moderately active and can ride for an hour or two on flat terrain before getting tired. I am comfortable with a sustained output at a relaxed pace for up to 4 hours a day. After 3 consecutive days I will hit my limit.

LEVEL 2: I exercise up to 3 times a week for 30 minutes or more and lead a healthy lifestyle. I’m comfortable with output at an athletic pace and I can ride for up to 4 hours per day for 4 consecutive days. If needed, I’m comfortable pushing and hiking with the bike.

LEVEL 3: I lead an active and healthy lifestyle. I ride and exercise on a regular basis and I can ride at a moderate pace with some added intensity for 3 to 6 hours a day, 5 days in a row.

LEVEL 4: I am very active, I exercise more than 3 times per week, and I’m comfortable with sustained challenging periods of anaerobic exercise. I go for a ride every chance I get and my days off are generally spent riding big epics. I can ride at a solid pace for 6 or 7 hours a day, up to 6 days in a row.

LEVEL 5: I am a serious training athlete. I eat well and follow a workout or ride schedule that includes 5+ days per week of exercise and riding. I’m comfortable with a sustained challenging pace with long periods of anaerobic exercise for 5+ days in a row.