Group Ride Information
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Group Ride Season Schedule
Group rides are posted on our website and will be promoted via instagram
Subscribe to the MWDL group ride calendar here.
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Typical Ride Schedule
First 30 minutes: (Trailhead) Ride overview, intros, trail etiquette reminder, questions
Ride: (Trail) Duration dependant on type or ride – see ride description for specific rides here.
Final 15 minutes: (Trailhead) Wrap-up
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Group Ride Structure and Size
Group Rides are social rides that include a group leader (front of the group) and a sweep (last person in the group).
Group rides typically include 5-15 riders. We don’t know ahead of time since we don’t require sign-ups for the majority of group rides.
Depending on the size of the group and availability of MDL riders, the group may split into smaller groups.
GROUP RIDE CATEGORIES
OPEN
Open group rides are no-drop social rides that will include plenty of stops to rest, scope out features, and chat. These rides are perfect for folks that are beginner mountain bikers.
Intermediate
Intermediate group rides are designed for riders with a solid grasp of basic skills and moderate fitness levels, our rides offer the perfect blend of challenge and camaraderie.
Advanced
Advanced group rides are focused on working on some of the advanced features our trails have to offer! Our advanced group rides are an opportunity to work on skills you are familiar with. There will be plenty of time to discuss features on the trail, but these rides are not led by coaches.
Group rides vary in technical difficulty, pace, and distance. See specific ride descriptions for the needed skill level for each ride here.
MDL Leader expectations
Group Ride participant expectations
Group ride leaders will facilitate a ride that focuses on safety, a pace that fits the entirety of the group, inclusivity and fun.
Group ride leaders will be equipped with a flat kit, and a basic first aid kit. MDL leaders are not trained in first aid or bike repair.
Group ride leaders are happy to answer questions but won’t be teaching any specific skills. Our skills clinics are a great option for that!
Group ride leaders are committed to ensuring an inclusive and welcoming space for all participants.
Please bring everything you anticipate needing for a ride: water, working bike, helmet and other desired safety gear, any desired snacks, and any repair or first aid supplies that feel essential to you.
Group rides are a great way to build community and with that participants are expected to respect other riders identities, skill level, etc. Group rides may be a more relaxed pace than you’re used to riding in order to accommodate the group pace – please be patient and supportive of all riders!
Have fun and ride within your limits! Check-in with a group ride leader if anything is feeling off or uncomfortable for you.
MDL hosts rides specifically for marginalized genders. FTW / anyone but cis-men are welcome at our rides! Here’s a great resource defining FTW from our friends at GreaseRag.