Level 2 Instructor Certification
The Bike Instructor Certification Program (BICP) is a globally recognized provider of professional certification for cycling instructors, establishing industry standards for safe, effective, and inclusive instruction.
Program Overview
The BICP Level 2 Instructor Certification is a professional training program that certifies participants as Intermediate Skills Instructors. This course builds on the instructional framework established in Level 1 and prepares instructors to teach intermediate mountain bike skills safely and effectively, using structured progressions aligned with the BICP Minimum Ride Standard.
The program emphasizes advanced skill analysis, rider assessment, error detection, biomechanics, teaching strategy, and progression design. Participants refine their ability to deliver clear demonstrations, apply appropriate keywords, select effective teaching terrain, and coach riders while increasing technical skill development.
This certification strengthens instructor competency in managing dynamic trail environments and teaching intermediate-level riders with professionalism, clarity, and precision.
Course Format and Length
The BICP Level 2 Instructor Certification is delivered through a blended learning format that includes:
- A three-day, in-person certification course.
- Approximately 30 hours of required online coursework must be completed 2 weeks prior to the in-person training.
The online prework includes review of the Ride Leader and Level 1 Fundamental Skills Modules, as well as Level 2 Intermediate Skills instruction. Each chapter includes a quiz. All prework must be completed two weeks prior to the in-person course.
Instructional methods include classroom-based learning, on-bike demonstrations, guided teaching simulations, terrain evaluation, rider assessment exercises, and formal evaluation.
Course Fees and Membership
Cost: $750 USD + $65 USD BICP annual membership.
A BICP 4-year annual membership plan is required for this certification.
Certification holders must:
- Maintain annual membership dues ($65 per year, recurring).
- Maintain current First Aid and CPR certification.
The Level 2 certification is valid for four years from the date issued. Recertification is required every four years.
In-Person Testing Agenda
Day 1 – Advanced Instruction Foundations
- Review of instructional philosophy and teaching standards.
- Stability and biomechanics for intermediate skills.
- Site and terrain selection for skill development.
- Skill breakdown, demonstration standards, and key teaching cues.
- Teaching intermediate progressions.
Day 2 – Intermediate Skill Development and Analysis
- Error detection and correction strategies.
- Supervised practice teaching sessions.
Day 3 – Assessment and Certification
- Teaching simulations and evaluations.
- Demonstration of the BICP Minimum Ride Standard.
- Rider assessment and terrain management evaluation.
- Final evaluations and individualized feedback.
- Certification outcomes and next steps.
Participant Prerequisites
Participants must meet the following prerequisites prior to attending the course:
- BICP Ride Leader Certification (included with Level 1).
- BICP Level 1 Certification or equivalent from an approved outside organization.
- Current First Aid and CPR certification.
- Minimum of three years of mountain bike experience.
- Volunteer or professional experience in a bike-related role.
- Minimum age of 16.
- Ability to perform basic trailside repairs.
- Strong communication skills.
- Demonstrated desire to help others progress safely and enjoy cycling.
Instructional Philosophy
BICP certification courses focus on teaching skills, not learning them. Participants are expected to arrive prepared and comfortable performing required riding skills at or above the BICP Ride Standard.
In this framework:
- Performing a skill demonstrates proficiency.
- Teaching a skill demonstrates mastery.
This distinction ensures certified instructors are fully prepared to teach confidently and safely in real-world program settings.
Equipment Standards
BICP requires flat pedals in all mountain bike certification courses.
Flat pedals encourage active, engaged feet and proper footwork development. When riders apply these foot engagement principles to clipless systems, they become stronger and more dynamic riders.
Flat vs. clipless pedals is not an either/or decision — it is an “and.” Developing dynamic footwork in flat pedals enhances ankle mobility, pedaling efficiency, and overall riding performance.
Professional Application
The BICP Level 2 Instructor Certification strengthens instructor capacity to teach intermediate riders in youth, adult, and team-based settings. Certified instructors are trained to:
- Deliver structured intermediate skill progressions.
- Conduct rider assessments and apply terrain-appropriate instruction.
- Identify and correct complex skill errors.
- Maintain high standards of safety and risk management.
- Model professional conduct in dynamic trail environments.
Level 2 certification advances instructor competency and supports continued professional development within the BICP pathway.
Intermediate Skills
- Trackstand
- Advanced Braking
- Steep Descending
- ¼ Punch Front Wheel Lift
- Manual Front Wheel Lift
- Level Lift
- Basic Drops
- North Shore Dismount
- Intermediate Cornering
- Basic Berm Cornering
- Basic Pumping
- Introduction to Bunny Hop
- Basic Jumping