Trail Grades

Understand how trail grades work for mountain bikers

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Trails grades Explained

Trail Grades Made Simple: How to Read Trail Difficulty Ratings and Choose the Right Track

Mostly flat with some gentle climbs on smooth track with easily avoidable obstacles such as rocks and potholes

Steep slopes and/or avoidable obstacles possibly on narrow track and/or with poor traction. There may be exposure at the track’s outside edge

A mixture of long, steep climbs, narrow track, poor traction and obstacles that are difficult to avoid or jump over. Generally exposed at the track’s outside edge. Most riders will find some sections easier to walk

Technically challenging. Giant climbs, narrow track and numerous hazards including dangerous drop-offs, sharp corners and difficult obstacles. Expect walking and possibly bike carrying

One-way, purpose-built downhill/free-ride trails for highly experienced riders. These demand supreme bike-and-tyre placement accuracy, may be impassable when wet, and often include large jumps, man-made structures and very steep drop-offs.

Varying track steepness and condition, great for e-bikes can be difficult for standard bikes

Remember

Always ride within your ability and, given current conditions, check that the trail you’re riding is within your skill level before you send it.

riding safety

pre ride, re-ride, freeride

Build confidence, not risk. Start slow with a warm-up lap to check the trail ("Pre-Ride"), go again to learn the features ("Re-Ride"), then let loose once you know what’s coming ("Free-Ride"). This approach helps you ride safer, progress faster, and have more fun.

1.

Pre-ride

Warm up the brain and body by riding the trail at lower speed

2.

re-ride

Lap the trail a few times and get to know the flow and features. Make those smaller adjustments to your timing and technique to build confidence.

3.

Free-ride

Starting small, work your way up to faster speeds and larger features.

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