Are you looking to get into mountain biking, but don’t know where to start? Are you a new mountain biker that is confused by terms like enduro, singletrack, green level trail, etc…? Maybe you’re an experienced biker that is looking to make the switch from the road to dirt. If any of these situations sound familiar, then this might be the course for you.
Our beginner level mountain bike course is designed with the complete novice in mind. Class participants will learn the basics of bike equipment, trail safety and bike etiquette, before diving into the fundamental bike skills needed for a day on the trail. The lessons will consist of some "classroom" instruction, fundamental skills practice, and some trail time. Our goal is to introduce you to the sport of mountain biking, teach you the fundamental skills needed to get out on the trail, and help build confidence that will inspire you to get out and practice more on your own.
Hartley Park has some of the easiest multi-use (mountain bike) trails in Duluth and is a great place for beginners to learn. Our course will spend time on Old Hartley Road Trail, which is a wide, flat, gravel trail that is great for learning basic biking skills. We will then progress to the green (beginner level) Tunnel Trail and Pines Loop, both of which are relatively flat and smooth single-track trails, that are a great introduction to biking on dirt.
Individuals must be 15 years old (under 18 must be accompanied by parent or guardian) to participate and should have a moderate level of fitness. Mountain biking may require maneuvering around or over small rocks, roots, and other obstacles. During a beginner level lesson, we may cover anywhere from 2-3 miles of riding, with some groups covering close to 5 miles of trail. While we will be traveling at a relatively slow pace, mountain biking is not without danger and falls can happen.
Cost is $15 for HNC members (discount applied in cart), and $25 for non-members. Price does not include bike, which can be rented for $15 (50% of our normal rental rate). Hartley’s bike fleet consists of fat tire bikes, which will generally be heavier, slower, and less maneuverable than their mountain bike counterparts, but can be a good bike for beginners to learn on due to their increased traction and stability. Helmets are required and are included with bike rental (extras will be available at no charge for those with a bike but no helmet). If you bring your own bike, it must have front and rear handbrakes, and all components need to be in good operating condition. 27.5” or 29” tires with at least 2” width are recommended. HNC reserves the right to request bike rental if the bike that is brought does not meet our standard.
