The Rides Grading System
The Grade given with each ride description in the Pedal Power Rides Library is made up of two parts e.g. M-XX, and is
intended to assist cyclists to choose rides commensurate with their abilities or desires.
The first part of the grade refers to the distance involved, and can be:
| E |
Easy - For any person, no cycling
experience needed. Up to 40 kilometres per day |
| M |
Medium - Between 40 and 80 kilometres per day, or brisk for
shorter distance, for teenage and adult healthy cyclists with geared bicycles |
| MH |
Medium Hard - for fit teenagers and
athletic adults. Up to 100km per day |
| H |
Hard - For more experienced cyclists of
above average ability. Distances may exceed 100km per day and /or be over difficult
terrain. |
| XH |
Extra Hard - for very fit cyclists with
good stamina and determination |
The second part of the grade refers to the terrain and other
conditions, and may be either:
| X |
Easy flat terrain and bitumen surfaces, suiotable
for any type of bicycle |
| XX |
Hilly terrain, possibly involving dirt roads.
Requires geared bike |
| XXX |
Mountainous terrain with hard climbing, possibly
involving goat tracks. Requires low geared bike. |
| XXXX |
Very wet, light amber colour with some
effervescence, very little flavour and even less appeal :-) |
The short flat rides are mainly within the city area, and are suitable for the one-speed
cycles which may be hired
from several outlets around Canberra. The medium distance and terrain rides usually start
from Canberra and visit some attraction in the surrounding country. Many of these rides
could be undertaken on three or five speed bikes, but a little easier and more enjoyable
on ten speeds. Taken at a leisurely pace the shorter rides in this category would be
suitable for the whole family from the age of nine or ten upwards. The long rides,
especially those in mountainous terrain, should be undertaken on ten to 27 speeds,
preferably with wide range gearing. They are intended for regular bicycle riders who wish
to explore the more remote areas of the region.
Tour Description: This gives a brief account of the general
nature of the ride and its attractions, and any considerations which should be taken into
account when planning the ride.
Distance: Unless otherwise stated is expressed in the total
kilometres needed to complete the journey and return to the starting point.
Road conditions, terrain and hazards: Outline the nature and
state of the roads covered, the hilliness or otherwise of the country, and the various
obstacles, such as cattlegrids or wooden bridges, which can make a cyclist's life
difficult.
Points of Interest: The numbered points of interest refer to
the maps accompanying each group of rides. The points include such features as villages,
turn-offs, bridges, rivers and lakes, hills with good views, buildings, and even
radio-telescopes. Of course the occasional pub receives a mention.
Maps: Each ride or group of rides may be accompanied by a map
which outlines the main features of the suggested route. Reference is also made to other
more detailed maps, usually one or more of the Natmap 1:1000000 series. In most cases such
a detailed map will not be necessary, and any road map of the area will suffice. Where the
Natmap is necessary, this is clearly stated in the text.
The rides described on this web site have been contributed over the years by many
cyclists. Pedal Power ACT is not responsible for errors and omissions or any inconvenience
which may result.
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