In the dynamic world of mountain biking, the traditional approach of categorizing riders into specific levels may not always be the most effective method for skill development. At Be-Spoke, we've shifted our focus from rigid rider levels to a more nuanced emphasis on skills. In this blog post, we'll explore six compelling reasons behind our approach and how it contributes to a more tailored and supportive learning environment.
One of the primary challenges with rider levels is the ambiguity that often surrounds them. Riders frequently find it difficult to accurately assess their skill level, and interestingly, we've observed that women tend to underrate themselves. To address this, we believe in providing a more transparent and specific framework that allows riders to better understand their riding habits and skills.
The term "intermediate" encompasses a broad range of skills, and not all riders classified as intermediate are at the same skill level. Our level framework offers a granular breakdown, acknowledging the diversity within the intermediate category. This ensures a more accurate description of riders' abilities, promoting a more effective learning experience.
Many riders progress without mastering all the fundamental skills required for advanced riding. Small yet significant techniques are often overlooked, hindering progression. Our focus on skills allows us to identify and address these gaps, ensuring that riders receive comprehensive training for a well-rounded skill set.
Incorporating riders with varying levels of experience in a single lesson fosters collaboration and support. More experienced riders can provide guidance, encouraging less experienced riders to step out of their comfort zones. This collaborative atmosphere promotes a positive learning environment and accelerates skill development.
By concentrating on specific skills rather than levels, we eliminate the pressure of tackling challenging terrains immediately. We advocate for practicing basic skills on easier terrain initially, allowing riders to focus entirely on skill improvement. Once these foundational skills are honed, riders can confidently progress to more challenging terrain as needed.
Even riders who consider themselves advanced can benefit from ongoing skill development. However, labeling sessions as "intermediate" may discourage advanced riders from participating. Our approach encourages all skill levels to join sessions, ensuring that even experienced riders continue refining their techniques and learning new skills.
In the world of mountain biking, prioritizing skills over rigid rider levels paves the way for a more inclusive, supportive, and effective learning experience. Our commitment to a comprehensive skill-based approach reflects our dedication to helping riders of all levels reach their full potential on the trail.
Below is the framework we commonly use to help us gauge what skills or tracks are appropriate for our sessions.
Our indicative level framework