Mountain bike grade scales
The difficulty of a route reflects your own perception and personal assessment as a rider. To provide an objective classification, Tracea uses a scale that distinguishes between physical fitness and riding technique. Discover our mountain biking difficulty scale.
The aim of the classification is to help you accurately assess your own level. This will enable you to get a better idea of where you stand and choose a course that is perfectly suited to you.
Based on your self-assessment and following a discussion, we will be able to direct you towards a suitable programme, or create a «tailor-made» programme that best meets your expectations and abilities.
Technical level
Level 1 (introductory)
Open to everyone, whether beginners or experienced riders trying out enduro or « All-Mountain«, having never or rarely gone mountain biking in the mountains. We’ll cover the essential technical skills for descending and climbing on fast-flowing trails. You’ll have Level 2 well and truly under your belt!
Level 2
For keen mountain bikers who already have several mountain biking experiences. You’ve got the hang of changing gears, can modulate your braking, and are able to clear obstacles by lightening the bike, as well as ride up or down short, steep sections. Mountain bikers wishing to improve their descending skills on singletrack that is rarely steep, sometimes technical (stones, roots, etc.) but not exposed. Ideal for strengthening the fundamentals to achieve the holy grail of Level 3!
Level 3
For mountain bikers who are already good at descending and confident in their technique. You’re able to tackle hairpin bends, ride along a banked trail without hesitation, control your braking, and negotiate small obstacles (such as roots, rocks and steps) The long, sustained descents (which become progressively easier as the ride goes on) are sometimes steep, often technical, occasionally exposed but rarely dangerous. By the end, you’ll be an experienced rider – or even a real whizz on the bike!
Level 4
Expert level, a regular and experienced rider. You’re able to negotiate hairpin bends, ride along a banked trail, control your braking, and navigate obstacles such as tree roots, rocks and steps. The descents are long and sustained, often steep, frequently technical and occasionally exposed. You’re here to push yourself even further!
Physical Level
Level 1 (introductory)
For mountain bikers and/or occasional to regular exercisers who want to keep fit and approach mountain biking in a «chilled» and gradual way. The effort required will be kept to a minimum, with gentle gradients or by using shuttle services. We’ll mainly be riding on gentle 4×4 tracks and wide trails. No stress – let’s take it easy!
Level 2
For mountain bikers who ride occasionally and/or are regular exercisers. We’ll be riding on progressively challenging 4×4 tracks and single tracks, with the occasional steep climb. Expect an elevation gain of between 600m and 1,000m per day.
Level 3
For keen mountain bikers or keen sports enthusiasts who enjoy a challenge and exercise regularly. You’re fit and usually go on one full-day mountain bike ride a week and/or several shorter ones. We’ll be tackling climbs that are already substantial in terms of length and gradient, with the possibility of having to push or carry your bike. Expect elevation gains of between 800m and 1,400m per day.
Level 4
Sport is your thing, and you do it almost every day! You enjoy a challenge and are very fit. You know your limits and are capable of sustaining intense effort over several days in a row. We’ll be cycling up climbs that are substantial in terms of length and gradient, often involving pushing or carrying your bike. Expect elevation gains of between 1,400 and 2,000 metres per day.