Level Descriptions
These levels provide basic guidance to determine which level you should choose for your rider. We encourage all riders to develop their skills at their own pace and comfort. For many riders this means taking the same class multiple times to ensure a safe and positive transition to the next level.
Remember, time behind the handlebars generates success. Practice, patience, and perseverance lead to control and confidence.
Level 1: Learn to Pedal
Connecting the dots to finding our pedals and building self confidence
- Have no experience with a bicycle whatsoever
- Have experience with training wheels or strider type bicycles
- May be fearful / hesitant / resistant / emotional
- Struggle to hold their balance on a bike
Level 2: Rookie Rider
Getting used to pedaling, early control and the joy of riding blank
- Can start, pedal and stop on their own
- Cannot stand while pedaling
- Cannot shift their gears or ride one handed
- Feels uneasy riding downhill or over obstacles
Level 3: Novice Rider
Strengthening bike handling and control
- Can start, pedal and stop on their own
- Cannot stand while pedaling
- Cannot shift their gears or ride one handed
- Feels uneasy riding downhill or over obstacles
Level 4: Intermediate Rider
Developing awareness beyond the bike
- Can stand while pedaling, accelerate, control speed downhill & stop suddenly
- Can shift their gears and ride one handed
- May feel uneasy/unstable riding on beginner/intermediate dirt trails
- Lacks situational awareness with other riders, pedestrians, or cars
Level 5: Proficient Rider
Introduction to trail rides both dirt and paved
- Experience riding in varying terrains paved/dirt
- Overall good control of bike: stand, shift, accelerate, stop
- Has situational awareness & communication skills for other riders, pedestrians or cars
- Can ride 5-10 miles in a group
Level 6: Independent Rider
Confidently riding where we want!
- Experience riding varied terrain, busy paved to more advanced dirt trails
- Can maneuver their bike readily and without hesitation or help
- Has good trail/road etiquette with other trail users or drivers
- Can ride 10-20 miles in a group
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Lead Instructors:
Mike Friedman: Founder of Pedaling Minds, 2008 Olympian, former professional cyclist – Multi National Champion, Paris Roubaix, Milan San Remo, Flanders.