Picture InfoA perfect autumn riding day in the Lake District.
Photo; D. Chadwick

Peak Mountaineering

Mountain biking

Mountain biking skills courses

Both our skills courses are based in the Peak District because it’s got some fantastic terrain and brilliant circular rides for all abilities – and we live nearby so we know all the best rides!  However, we do run these courses in other locations if required. Give us a call to discuss your requirements.  On both courses our emphasis is always on lots of ‘doing’ rather than lots of talking simply you learn quicker that way – and it’s more fun!

1-Day Introductory Skills

Our introductory skills course suits anyone who can ride a bike confidently on roads but hasn’t sampled the delights of off-road riding yet.  We will cover lots of essential skills on terrain that gradually increases in difficulty to let your skills progress at a level that suits you.  We match the ride to the fitness levels within the group but on this course rides will usually be around 15-20km in length.

Skills covered will include;

  • Safety and trail etiquette
  • Basic bike maintenance and set up
  • How to deal with simple mechanical problems on rides and issues to consider when choosing equipment.
  • Introductory climbing and safe descending.
  • Techniques for cornering safely
  • Tackling trail obstacles such as tree roots and drop-offs.
  • Finding information on suitable rides to continue your development

By the end of this course you will be confident to move your riding on and to plan and ride some routes under your own steam – or maybe move on to our intermediate course….

  • 1 day
  • Maximum Ratio 1:6
  • Cost £75 per person
  • Non-residential 

Please check our Course Calendar for upcoming courses

2- Day Intermediate Skills Course

Our intermediate level course is suited to riders who have done a reasonable amount of riding on bridleways and forest tracks and want to move on to more challenging terrain.  The rides we undertake will be on technical terrain with plenty of adventurous features to hone your skills on!  Rides will be selected to match the fitness levels within the group but will usually be around 25-30km in length.  

Skills covered will include

  • Developing correct body position for technical climbs and descents
  • Climbing techniques for open climbs and technical terrain
  • Descending techniques for open terrain and steep technical terrain
  • How to control speed and pick suitable lines through difficult terrain.
  • Cornering confidently and in control.
  • Tackling difficult trail obstacles.
  • Selecting suitable routes and essential navigation techniques.

By the end of this course you will fell confident to try just about anything the British Isles can throw at you – enjoy!

  • 2 days
  • Maximum Ratio 1:6
  • Cost £130 per person
  • Non-residential 

Please check our Course Calendar for upcoming courses

How many flat tyres must one man patch, before you can call him a man?

Ralph Dylan