NWTA is hosting an Introduction to Ride Leader Training in partnership with Elaine B. Bikes.

NWTA is hosting an Introduction to Ride Leader Training in partnership with Elaine B. Bikes. This training is a basic introduction to leading rides and what tasks need to happen before, during & after a ride, and what to do if something goes wrong. This training is designed to increase the confidence of anyone interested in leading, co-leading, or sweeping (riding at the back) a ride at any level. 

You will learn how to describe the trail, pace your group and set expectations for the ride. We will discuss the difference between a skills/clinic instructor and a ride leader, important safety considerations and even practice skills to help you monitor your riders and what to do if something unexpected happens along the way! This class is also a good introduction to leading rides for anyone interested in becoming a certified Ride Leader. (Visit https://icp.bike/ride-leader/ for more information)

Leading or helping with group rides is a fun way to find riding buddies, share enthusiasm for mountain biking, build community and grow the sport. As a ride leader you will be introducing people to new ways to enjoy a ride more comfortably, safely, and confidently. You will also be increasing trail stewardship by getting riders at any level, especially beginners into the sport or a new to them trail system and creating community for folks new to the area. This training is open to all levels of riders; beginner to advanced. 

Note: This is not a skills clinic, and skills will not be coached at this clinic

This class is limited to NWTA members (see other information on how to become a member if you are not already). 

Pre-registration for this training is required.

Topics covered in training:

• Preparing for a ride, including planning and the ride, 
• Learning what goes in your backpack and what to bring along
• How to assess whether a rider is at a level to enjoy the ride you’re planning
• How to manage the group and what to do if something goes wrong
• How to describe upcoming trail features
• Practice leading and sweeping a ride
• Discussing liability: what is your exposure? Do you need insurance or permits?
• Recommendations for additional education and resource
• This training can help prepare a person to succeed in the BICP’s standalone Ride Leader Certification online course. This certification is not necessary to hold group rides for NWTA.

Qualifications & Commitments:

• Represent and follow NWTA trail etiquette 
• Ability to commit to leading 1-2 rides per year, weekday evenings or weekends (sign up link)
• Understand the difference between a ride leader and an instructor. A ride leader is watching out for safety concerns and cannot teach/coach on skills
• Understand that leading a ride, is not hosting a clinic/ teaching skills
• Knowledge and comfort of local trails
• Enjoying riding in a group setting
• Willingness and ability to create a safe and fun engaging environment
• Current First aid/CPR certification or a Wilderness First Aid certification is highly recommended for ride leaders (it is not required for attendance in this training)

What to bring:

Required Gear: 

• A properly fitting helmet in good condition 
• 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
• Bike: For this class, you may bring a mountain bike or hybrid in good working condition with tires suitable for dirt trails. No kickstands or street/smooth tires. Flat pedals are recommended but not required. Fenders are OK as long as they don’t make noise or interfere with the seat, because we may move the seat up and down for some demos

Recommended Gear:

• Full fingered gloves
• Knee and elbow protection
• Eye protection
• Tools and supplies to change a flat tire

Date, Time & Location:

Wednesday, May 31st 2023, Gateway Green, 5p-8p

A social to be hosted afterwards

Other information:

Northwest Trail Alliance (NWTA) is a membership organization dedicated to creating, enhancing, and protecting mountain bike riding opportunities; advocating for trail access; promoting responsible mountain biking; and building, maintaining, and riding sustainable trails. Membership dollars support all of NWTA’s work, including hosting ride leader trainings such as these. Please support the local MTB community and our work through membership: https://nw-trail.org/join/

Have questions? Email e[email protected] or [email protected]