Mountain Biking
Shred Sisters – Course Selection & Skill Level FAQ
Jan
Helping you choose the right program with confidence.
How do I know which level is right for me?
Choosing a level is less about being “good enough” and more about finding the learning environment where you’ll feel supported, confident, and challenged at the right amount. Review our Level Descriptions to see which one fits most of your current skills, comfort, and goals. If you feel you match some of two levels, that’s completely normal — the next questions below will help you decide.
I’m between two levels. Should I choose the lower or the higher one?
If you’re in between levels, choose based on your learning style and personality:
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If you prefer to build confidence first and master the foundations, choose the lower level.
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If you enjoy being challenged and don’t mind practicing skills that feel new or outside your comfort zone, choose the higher level.
Both options will help you progress — it’s about where you’ll enjoy the experience the most. If you’re still unsure, we’re happy to help you decide.
What if I choose the wrong level?
Our goal is for you to feel supported and successful. If after the first session we see that another level would be a better learning environment for you, we’ll do our best to adjust your placement if space allows. In many cases, riders simply need one or two sessions to find their groove—trust that you’ll grow into your group.
Our coaches are experienced at working with different skill levels within a group. There’s power in both reinforcing the basics and being challenged—coaches work with everyone to ensure your riding improves and you become more confident.
Can I move to a different level during a multi-week program?
Possibly, though it can be challenging depending on program timing and availability. We assess requests case-by-case based on space and group dynamics. While we want you riding with women who match your pace, skills, and confidence, schedule logistics may limit our flexibility.
Note: We review all groups prior to the course start. If we feel a different level would be more appropriate based on registrations and participant forms, we’ll reach out to discuss options with you
What do I need to be comfortable doing for each level?
Here’s a general guide about how riding typically feels at each level:
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Prerequisites:
Must be comfortable riding doubletrack gravel trails and to expect to ride singletrack trail 90% of the time— for first-time riders or those very new to mountain biking.
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Skills Focus: Learning bike balance, basic braking, shifting, and simple turns.
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Trail Rating: Green Singletrack
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Obstacle Size: Small bumps, tiny roots, minimal rocks — nothing technical or steep.
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Prerequisites: Can ride green trails with confidence and easy blue trails
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Skills Focus: Riding on gentle hills, basic climbing and descending techniques, cornering, and handling small obstacles.
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Trail Rating: Green to easy Blue (gentle slopes, mild turns).
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Obstacle Size: Small roots, small rocks, minor bumps — some variation in terrain.
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Prerequisites: Confident on green trails and most blue trails with the ability to climb and descend moderately steep singletrack under control, comfortable rolling over small obstacles, and ready to progress through technical terrain.
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Skills Focus: Riding moderate trails with control, refining climbing and descending skills, tackling medium roots, rocks, and obstacles. Able to maintain speed with smooth bike handling.
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Trail Rating: Blue (moderate, more technical sections).
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Obstacle Size: Medium roots, rocks, small logs — manageable but requires technique.
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Prerequisites:
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Skills Focus: Riding more technical terrain, handling tighter corners, larger obstacles and introduction to drops & jumps. Developing efficiency and flow on longer rides.
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Trail Rating: Blue to easy Black (more technical, steeper sections).
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Obstacle Size: Medium-large roots and rocks, small to medium drops, tight turns, small to medium jumps — requires good bike control.
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Prerequisites: Comfortable on technical trails, including challenging climbs, descents, and obstacles. Can do small jumps & drops,
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Skills Focus: Mastering technical features, steep climbs, challenging corners, and high-speed control.Wheelies, Manual, Bunny hop, Nose Pivot, Medium Jump, and Medium Drop. Ready for complex trails and confident riding in varied conditions.
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Trail Rating: Black (technical, steep, challenging terrain).
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Obstacle Size: Large roots, rocks, drops, jumps, and technical features — requires strong skills and confidence.
I’m confident going downhill, but climbing is hard for me. Which level should I pick?
This is very common! Choose based on the overall riding experience you want, not just your strength or weakness. If your downhill skills match a higher level but climbing or fitness is holding you back, you can still join that level as long as you’re motivated to grow. Climbing skills can be learned and improved during the program. If you want a confidence-first approach, choose the lower level to build a strong foundation.
Another great alternative is to look at our downhill specific clinics.
Do I need a certain level of fitness to join?
All fitness levels are welcome. Courses are designed for skill development, not racing or endurance. You should feel comfortable riding for 1.5–2 hours with short breaks. If fitness is a concern, choose the level where you’ll enjoy the pace most — you’ll naturally build strength throughout the program.
I’m nervous about holding the group back. What should I do?
We hear this all the time — you’re not alone. Our programs are designed to support women at similar levels, and our coaches create a welcoming, encouraging space where everyone learns at their own pace. If matching the group is your biggest worry, choose the level where you’re confident in most skills — confidence helps you learn faster. And remember: no one is judging your pace, and you won’t be left behind.
Can someone help me choose?
Absolutely! If you’re unsure, tell us a bit about your riding experience, comfort level, and goals — we love helping women find the perfect fit. We’ll ask a few questions and guide you to the level where you’ll feel supported and excited to learn.
