REI Outdoor School

Elite '09

49

412

Jenny L.

Sunnyvale, CA

9/11/2006

Now that REI has an Outdoor School, I can learn how to use all their gear and have fun while I'm at it! Brad and Jean are the best instructors for the introductory mountain biking class.  They designed creative drills to build your confidence for bunny hopping over logs and maneuvering through tight switchback turns on flat terrain in the parking lot during the morning.  After practicing these drills, you get a chance to apply your newfound skills on the trails in the afternoon.

The trail in China Camp from the Corte Madera store is relatively flat without any major hills for climbing.  However, it still has its share of nooks and twigs on the dirt trail to provide some obstacles for a challenging 8 mile ride through the woods.  It's a gorgeous trail site near the water with some wild life, such as deers, jack rabbits, and wild turkeys.  

The class from 9am to 3pm is $35 for members and it includes free Novarro bike rentals.  It's totally worth $15 for a lifetime membership at REI because you're bound to buy stuff there and get dividends back on your investment in gear.  Moreover, the quality of their gear is great.  The bikes we used had very responsive disc brakes and Shimano deore components, such as the derailers.  They also offered a selection of bikes designed for women.  

After taking the class, you'll learn how to prepare for a safe bike trail trip, adjust your bike, and ride it properly and effectively.  I realized how many bad habits I had to correct after taking the class.  There is always something you can learn from the guides and the other participants.  I was surprised that I didn't bruise myself at all and they helped rebuild the confidence I needed to get back into mountain biking after falling sideways and forwards two months ago.  Brad will get off his bike and make sure you don't fall by trying to catch you on the tight turns.  As I said, the guides are educational, patient and super supportive.  Let's not forget how fun and awesome they are!

Best of all, we were good and time allowed the class to treat themselves to a scenic drive of Marin.  This included passing by some historical sculpture landmarks near Lucky and Fifer Drive as well as homes of George Lucas and Sean Penn.  Best of all, we made a pit stop at Fairfax Scoop for fresh homemade ice cream!  This was a great idea for a class and the perfect way to end it on a sweet note.

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