The ability categories are Novice, Sport, Expert and Elite. Expert and Elite riders are highly advanced and experienced. They are able to ride the most advanced technical terrain and have the experience to know when to get off the bike and run. Experts and Elites are at the peak of physical strength and endurance, and have the mental stamina to ride through significant pain.
Sport class riders generally race the same courses as Expert riders. They are experienced mountain bike racers and are able to ride much of most technical terrain. While not quite physically at the same level as Expert riders, they are in excellent physical condition. Sport riders have developed important racing skill such as passing in awkward conditions and pacing.
Novice riders are most often beginner racers. They are not necessarily able to ride all the technical terrain, or complete all the climbs that Sport and Expert riders can. Novice race courses are often, but not always, shorter or easier than Sport or Expert courses. |
