Beginners mountain biking course in Sydney

[grw]

Is anyone aware of a good introductory course for mountain biking in the Sydney area? My girlfriend is not particularly confident on the bike and I think she needs advice (from someone other than me).
Fine if its women specific although a quick google seemed to suggest that the women specific courses were more expensive yet had almost the same course description as a general beginners course.
A personal recommendation would be appreciated rather than self promoting websites!
Thanks for any help
Gareth

[alchemist]

A lot of people balk at the costs of mtb courses but wouldn't think twice about paying that or much more for a ski or scuba lesson etc. Most people I know that have done a course have often gone back for another.

At present you don't have too much choice in Sydney; Cyclinic only run occasionaly while AMBC run regular courses for all levels

Also Manly Warringah Mountain bike club are planning to run a course sometime before the end of the year after we had to postpone our last one due to rain. She may also benefit from the occasional chix only social rides.

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[glawrence2000]

Seat down low, lean back, hold on tight, keep off the front brake, hope for the best and pray to the deity of your chosing.

That'll be $50 please.

[AUbicycles]

I know from snowboarding, even though you can do a few runs together, I want to get out and do jumps and get into freestyle type riding while my wife wants to take it easy. We simply go to the snow with a friends and the girls ride together and the boys together. With cycling it is a bit different however if you only ride together you may get frustrated about not being able to push the limits and your partner feels pressured.

One solution if you are out riding together is to split-up - when your partner can set her own pace and doesn't feel subconsciously pushed she can approach riding more relax. If you can find other couples then it could be a good way to enjoy riding to it's fullest. You need a good mixture of riding together and riding to your own limits.

[grw]

Thanks for your help. I've been looking to get some more information on the Manly courses for women...
I think you have it right that the best option might be to split up when on rides. Although I don't necessarily feel the need for speed and big air/ drop offs etc all the time and give my legs enough of a stretch during the week commuting to work, it would still be nice to pick the pace up now and again. I've tried extremely hard to avoid subconciously putting pressure on to go a bit faster but coasting down firetrails applying the brakes is causing me to grind my teeth down and my grin is looking a little forced.
Also any scars I have seem to automatically deem me unsuitable to dole out unsolicited advice.
Thanks again,
Gareth

[Mr888]

What about "gear up girl"?

http://www.gearupgirl.com.au/

An overall confidence booster?

Good luck

[alchemist]

Thanks for your help. I've been looking to get some more information on the Manly courses for women...

It will be on in January, there will be an announcement at the end of the month.

[alchemist]

Rescheduled date January 10



Registration Form here

[grw]

I booked her onto a clinic after picking up a leaflet in the City Bike Depot -I think its called 'Wannaride'. Dealt with Chris who was very helpful.
Anyway, that's one Christmas present sorted... Romance is not dead however. She's getting a new set of lights for her bike too.
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