Topic: Ride Group Classifications? A, B and C

[AlwaysGoForward]

Ok, so I am new to the neighborhood. I heard someone talk about being a "B" rider or a "C" rider. What does this mean? Should be an "A" rider before attempting the black diamonds at Alafia? Is there an equivalence between rider ratings (A/B/C/etc) and trail ratings (black, blue, green, etc)? Thanks for the education. Google was no help!

[EllsRider]

The A - B C ratings are random names for the different groups at group rides. The fastest riders go out with the A group and so on so forth. Any name could have been used to designate the groups. Don't ever mis-categorize a rider.      B+ riders do not like being tagged as B riders. Heaven forbid you mistakenly say that a B rider was riding in your C group. And of course, former A riders do not like to be reminded that they used to ride out front with the A group.      

[Garry]

I take that you are not a member of SWAMP yet, so don't get the newsletter.  But this quarters newsletter on pg. 11 details the different groups.

A & B+ Group - gonzo riders
- maintain fast, aggresive pace
- posses advanced level riding skills
- knowledgable of trails, or at least be able to read a map
- carry tools, know how to use them

B Groups - experienced riders
- will split into medium pace (B) and relaxed pace (B-) groups
- intermediate level riding skills
- reasonable knowledge of trails - group does wait at intersections for everyone to catch up
- carry tools, posses minimum mechanical skills, but will receive assistance from group if there is a problem

C Group - new to off road riding
- slow pace - shorter route
- minimal riding skills required
- no knowledge of trails needed
- carry spare tube, will receive assistance from ride guide if there is a problem