Some things to remember when riding, especially in Southern Arizona.
1: Let someone know where you are going.
2: Take a minimum of 70 oz. of water.
3: Flats happen, carry a spare tube and pump.
4: ALWAYS, ALWAYS wear a helmet.
5: You can increase your positive (anti-crash) karma by carrying out trash you find.
6: If you are new or visiting Southern Arizona, it is best to ride with someone who knows the area before going off on your own.

Rides are rated based on technical and aerobic difficulty. If you are not sure about the suitability of a ride for your skill/fitness level, call the ride leader. Overestimating your fitness and skill can make the ride unpleasant for you and for the other riders.

HILL RATING
1: Slight rolling terrain
2: Rolling hills, no long climbs, low elevation
3: Hilly , longer/more climbs, possible higher elevation
4: Sustained steep climbs and/or higher elevation, advanced riders only

DIFFICULTY RATING
A: Smooth trail/jeep road
B: Some technical challenges but mostly nontechnical
C: Lots of technical challenges (e.g. big/loose rocks, ruts)
D: Highly technical, advanced riders only

Here are some simple steps that most mountain bikers take whether they are going on a group ride or just going out with a couple of friends. If you are just getting started mountain biking, following them will ensure that you enjoy your rides, and that other mountain bikers will enjoy having you along.

• Calling the ride leader. This will (a) let the ride leader know ahead of time how many riders and who they are and (b) give you a chance to confirm that the ride is happening, and that the time and location haven’t changed.

• Showing up on time ready to ride. Ride leaders may wait 10 or 15 minutes, but after that you’re on your own. And “ready to ride” means your bike should be ready to go at the time the ride is supposed to begin. This is not the time to replace brake pads, adjust your derailleur or decide you need to overhaul your bottom bracket.

• Picking the right ride. A ride isn’t any fun if you are struggling, run out of energy or get frustrated because the technical sections are too hard. It’s also no fun for the other riders. While club rides are not races or race training, some are harder, steeper and longer than others. Try to match your fitness and skill levels to the ride so you don’t make the other riders wait too long for you to catch up. If you aren’t certain, talk to the ride leader ahead of time to see if you are up for the ride.

• Having a bike that can make the ride. Are your wheels true? Tires not so worn they won’t make it? Is your headset tight? Mechanical problems are inevitable on a ride, but you should minimize the likelihood by having a bike that is in good working condition.

• Being prepared. This means having food, water and clothing appropriate for the ride. Do you have a spare tube, patch kit, pump, and tools?