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Beginner Class: Body Position, Trail Basics, Braking – 8/3
August 3 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Class offered in partnership with Portland Parks & Recreation. Registration required through ActiveNet. Click on the button below.
Rider Experience: From beginners to off-road riders with at least 1 year of cycling experience.
Beginners are riders with some experience but want to be more confident and have more fun riding a bike off road on dirt, grass, and varied terrain. They can shift gears and brake but want to do so with more confidence. They want to learn how to corner, climb, and descend gentle slopes. They are interested in rolling over smaller features. They can ride 2 miles or more on a trail or bike path. This class is for: a beginning rider who may not have taken a cycling class before and wants to improve bike handling skills to handle some more technical features over the course of a progressive four-class series.
During this class: These riders will refine their shifting and braking skills, learn the basic standing position, and explore varying terrain including trails and rolling terrain. They’ll learn to corner, climb, and descend. They’ll also learn slow-riding skills to have fun riding more technical trails with features up to 2” high on uphill terrain, and up to 8” high on downhill terrain. We will also discuss riding in a group and trail etiquette, basic bike fit information, decisions on whether to ride a feature or not, and safe bailout techniques when things get tricky.
Meet: At the west Fred Meyer parking lot, we will ride into the park together. This lot is behind the Fred Meyer, close to NE 99th Ave. and the Gateway MAX station.
Bike: A mountain bike, either a hardtail or full suspension in good working condition with platform pedals, knobby tires, two hand brakes (front and rear), and a seat that can move up and down. Single speeds are OK but a bike with gears will be more fun on the climbs. No worn out tires or kickstands.
Required gear: A properly fitting helmet in good condition and is less than 5 years old. Water bottle and snacks. Clothing appropriate for the weather. Tools for moving the seat up and down if necessary. Pack to carry layers, snacks, tools, and water.
Recommended gear: Full-fingered gloves. Knee and elbow protection. Eye protection. Tools and supplies to change a flat tire (with assistance!).
