Ride Levels

The class you take will depend upon your current skill level as well as your FF (fear factor). Here's how to rate yourself:

• Level I: Beginning rider, rides mostly groomed paths or pavement. Fitness level isn't as much of an issue as familiarity with your bike (shifting, braking, form) is.
   
• Level II: Okay, so you know how to shift and brake. Maybe you've even done a few difficult rides that your boyfriend/husband/hardcore significant other dragged you on. But you still can't clear that log and you hate those descents. You, my friend, are clearly a Level II rider. Soon approaching Level III. Nothing like a goal to get you moving.
   
• Level III: Yeah, that's you — you've had your share of hard knocks, but you keep getting back on that machine and trying even harder terrain. Still, you have a few kinks to smooth out in the area of fast, curvy, rocky descents. Maybe you want to enter your first race (or second, etc) and could use a bit more advanced instruction on the bike and in fitness training, nutrition, etc. This level often requires a lot more personal attention and may take a few one-on-one sessions ...it'll be well worth it.