Mountain Bike Trail Leader

Mountain Bike Trail Leader and Advanced Mountain Bike Leader

Learn the skills to guide group rides on off-road routes and trails.

The Mountain Bike Trail Leader (MBTL) course and Advanced Mountain Bike Leader course are usually run within the South Downs National Park and instructs group leadership, navigation and mechanics.  


Both courses take place over three days, with an evening theoretical session on day one, followed by two full days of theoretical and practical studies.


The MBTL is designed to enable leaders to take young people off-road, using  rights of way including bridleways, and get them back safely.  


The Advanced course builds on the foundation gained through the MBTL and increases skills specific to leading groups on red terrain and off road.


The courses includes dealing with problems of dangerous environments and peaceful co-existence with other outdoor pursuits. Off road racing and competition are also covered.


All courses are continuously assessed in terms of demonstrating ability to handle groups, especially in the setting of goals and limitations appropriate to the age, aptitude and ability of young people.


These courses will equip you to:

  • Lead groups of adults, young people and children on rides
  • Manage groups with a range of riding experience 
  • Prepare for rides, anticipate and minimise safety factors
  • Develop and apply risk assessments, operating procedures and dynamic risk management
  • Provide fun, engaging and developmental sessions for your participants
  • Understand access rights across the UK and beyond
  • Complete and review rides, using self-reflective principles

Key Content:


Mountain biking is one of the most accessible, enjoyable introductions to group cycling. Cycling UK's Mountain Bike Leader course enables you to lead groups on gentle terrain less than 600m above sea level and without the need for riders to steer a path around obstacles.  Cycling UKs Advanced Mountain Bike leader enables you to lead groups on red terrain.


The course includes tuition for your own off-road skills, and assessment of your new-found skills.


Please note: Experience of red terrain is necessary for both courses as training will likely include riding at a level above that of Trail level terrain. 


Prerequisites:

  • At least one year's experience of regular riding in easy off-road terrain - a minimum of 30 rides
  • Comfortably ride in Red Terrain
  • Have ridden in poor weather
  • Logbook of rides
  • Ability to ride 16km in Off Road terrain
  • 16 Hour Outdoor First Aid Course
  • Minimum age 18
  • Non-technical riding - relatively smooth tracks and trails
  • Terrain : Non-technical riding - relatively smooth tracks and trails
  • Basic. Hold a valid first aid certificate

Prerequisites for the Advanced course:

  • As above plus certification as a Mountain Bike Trail Leader 

NB: Once you are a Mountain Bike Leader, there is currently no annual fee, to stay current you need an up to date logbook and 16hr+ / 2 Day outdoor First Aid certificate.


Mountain Bike Trail Leader Cost: £275 exc.Vat

Advanced Mountain Bike Leader Cost: £375 exc.Vat


Dates: 

Mountain Bike Trail Leader - 

Please contact us to express your interest.


Advanced courses - Dates TBC. Please get in contact to confirm your interest.

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