Ride Leader Certification Course

The BICP Ride Leader Online Course certifies participants as BICP Ride Leaders and provides the knowledge, confidence, and structure needed to lead safe, fun, and well-organized mountain bike rides.

Whether you’re looking to start an after-school mountain bike program, help lead summer camps, support bike shop rides, or get involved with local ride clubs, this course gives you the tools to step into a leadership role with confidence. It’s designed for motivated teens and adults (ages 14+) who want to create positive riding experiences in their communities.

This is not a riding skills clinic. Participants should already feel comfortable riding mountain bikes and have personal riding experience. The course focuses on learning to lead others, manage groups, and make sound decisions on the trail.

Start riding. Step into leadership. Grow as a coach.

• Ride Leader (Ages 14+)
  The first step into leadership. Learn how to manage groups, communicate clearly, and lead safe mountain bike rides for beginner-level riders.
• Level 1 Instructor Certification
  Builds on Ride Leader foundations and teaches structured coaching, lesson planning, and skill instruction.
  The Ride Leader course is included in the Level 1 registration. If taken separately, the Ride Leader fee is prorated.
• Real-World Experience
  Use your certification to help lead:
  • After-school mountain bike programs
  • Summer camps
  • Bike shop rides
  • Local ride clubs and community events

What You’ll Learn

The Ride Leader course builds leadership and decision-making skills and teaches participants how to:

• Lead individual or group mountain bike rides in a safe, organized, and professional manner.
• Confidently lead rides for after-school programs, summer camps, bike shop rides, and local clubs.
• Conduct Pre-Ride Assessments to understand rider ability, equipment readiness, and group dynamics.
• Communicate clearly and positively with riders of different ages and skill levels.
• Manage groups on the trail and keep rides running smoothly.
• Choose appropriate trail routes for beginner-level groups.
• Prepare for emergencies and follow Emergency Action Plans.
• Assist instructors and coaches at clinics, camps, and community events.

By the end of the course, participants will have practical tools to build, support, and grow safe-riding programs in their communities.

Course Format & Details

• Format: Fully online, including reading, videos, and a final quiz.
• Length: Approximately 8 hours.
• Completion Window: Must be completed within 30 days of registration.
• Cost: $135 USD plus a $65 USD BICP Ride Leader membership will be added at checkout.

Riders interested in continuing their education:

• The BICP Ride Leader course is included in the price of the Level 1 Instructor Certification.
• If you complete the Ride Leader course before enrolling in Level 1, the cost of the Ride Leader course will be prorated and credited toward your Level 1 registration. (Contact BICP administration before registering for the Level 1 course for your prorated discount code.

Prerequisites

Participants must:

• Be at least 14 years old.
• Hold a current First Aid and CPR certification.
• Have three or more years of mountain biking experience.
• Demonstrate good communication skills and a desire to help others ride safely and have fun.
• Be able to perform basic trailside repairs (flat tires, broken chains, and basic shifting adjustments).

Course Topics

• Preparing for a ride.
• Trail safety procedures.
• Emergency Action Plans.
• Effective communication.
• Group management.
• Pre-Ride Assessments.
• Steps to leading a guided ride.

Certification Maintenance

• $65 USD BICP membership dues are required for 4 years.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification must be maintained.

Your Ride Leader Certification never expires. Each year, upon payment of your BICP membership dues, you will be given access to the most current BICP Ride Leader course. Complete the course within 30days and instantly recertified.