The UO Outdoor Program is holding a free mountain biking clinic Saturday aimed at teaching beginning and intermediate riders essential trail skills and trail etiquette.
Outdoor Program staff member Suzanne Hanlon hopes the clinic can eliminate some of the fright and insecurity of trail riding to make it a more enjoyable and less painful experience.
“It’ll be a lot like us sharing the hard knocks before you have to experience them,” Hanlon said. Hanlon, who has lead several similar clinics in Montana, will deliver the clinic along with Ed Fredette of the UO Outdoor Program.
After loading up the bikes at 9 a.m., a van will take participants to the McKenzie Ranger Station area.
The McKenzie River Trail offers something for every ability level. A rolling terrain builds experience in beginners, while advanced riders can find challenges in the lava section farther up river from the trail head.
“McKenzie River Trail is the best,” Hanlon said. “It’s beautiful, and you can hear the water all the way.”
Lava is a unique surface to ride on, Hanlon said, “And it hurts if you make a mistake!” As an added bonus, if participants would like to come back to this trail in the future, they can take the LTD bus to the McKenzie Ranger Station for free, where the trail begins. This way, they don’t have to worry about finding a ride or how to cram their bikes into the tin can if they find one, Hanlon said.
During the drive, Hanlon will deliver the first part of the clinic — a low-down on trail etiquette. Once there, the obstacle course will teach in a hands-on manner how to conquer trail features, such as roots, rocks and creases, maintain traction, increase balance and manage multiple obstacles without becoming overwhelmed.
An obstacle course highlight is Hanlon’s “bike ballet” designed to hone riding balance skills.
Finally, riders try to match their skills to the challenges of the McKenzie River Trail terrain.
“It’s all about gaining control over the route rather than being subject to the route,” Hanlon said.
The free clinic is by sign-up only, and limited to about ten participants. The only costs are gas expenses and collective van rental, which should add up to approximately $5 per person. The van leaves the Outdoor Program Barn at 9 a.m. sharp and returns about 5:30 p.m.
Participants must sport a positive attitude, bring plenty of smiles, wear a helmet, and bring their own bikes, appropriate clothing, water and a sack lunch. More information, sign-up and trip details are available at the UO Outdoor Program office in the EMU or by calling 346-4365.