HOG Chapter 411
Ride Level Ratings
Rating
Road Description

1

 

 Road is relatively straight with gentle open curves, low to intermediate speeds, full view of roadway ahead, wide shoulders with no inherent side of road activity (driveways, animals or frequent intersections).

2

 

 Road is relatively straight with gentle to sweeping radius curves, intermediate speeds, gentle rise hills, access shoulders with limited side of road activity.  (Driveways & occasional intersections, animals)

3

 

 

 Road begins to have sweeping curves requiring some technical ability, intermediate speeds, hills create sight distance issues, shoulders are narrow or graveled, increased side of road activity.  (Driveways both visible & hidden, animals & wildlife, frequent intersections).  Interstate highway travel minimal or at low volume times or locations, and/or no need to keep group in tight riding formation.

4

 

 

Technical curves with some decreasing radius or hidden sight distance, switch back curves, intermediate to fast speeds, numerous sight distance issues, narrow road,
12 – 14 foot lanes, gravel shoulders or challenging pull-off’s, possible chance of animal encounter or on-coming traffic in your lane.  Interstate highway travel included at normal to heavy traffic volume.

5

 

 

 As technical as it gets! 12 foot lane narrow mountain roads with possibility of debris in the roadway, decreasing radius & blind curves, switch backs, speeds are usually low due to attendant dangers, no shoulders, numerous sight distance issues, likely chance of animal encounter or oncoming vehicle in your lane. Interstate highway travel included at normal to heavy traffic volume, fairly compelling reasons to keep group in tight riding formation.

Mountain roads or scenic byways in Colorado may have all 5 riding levels throughout their length. Needs, plans, road conditions may dictate alternate routes – rides are rated according to planned route(s). 
Riders should always be aware of their skill level & riding ability & plan to participate accordingly. Riders - especially new to group, are encouraged to indicate this & any related concerns (i.e. “I need a little
more room when making turns from stop sign” etc.) – so that those near in riding formation can help & all can be safe/comfortable; rides designated @ levels 1 or 2 lend themselves to this mentoring.

Should circumstances arise for whatever reason – the Road Captain for the trip has the final say regarding decisions affecting group riding safely.  An alternative trip plan may be announced, including such possibilities as:separating the group into 2 sections – each to have a Road Captain & Sweep if possible;  slowing down the 2nd group to better accommodate skills, conditions, safety;  announcing plans to gather at a designated place/time.  All riders can then make decisions as to which group to join.