Adventure Bike Difficulty Ratings

The following difficulty rating system helps riders understand the technical challenge of trails and routes. Use this chart when rating tracks in our system.

LevelNameDescriptionCharacteristicsRecommended Bike Type
IEasySuitable for beginners and all bike types. Mostly paved roads with some well-maintained gravel sections.
  • Hard-packed surfaces
  • Minimal elevation changes
  • No technical obstacles
  • Small water crossings (up to 4 inches)
Any adventure motorcycle, including large touring models
IIMildSuitable for novice off-road riders. Includes maintained dirt and gravel roads.
  • Some loose surfaces
  • Minor elevation changes
  • Small water crossings (less than 6 inches deep)
  • Some basic off-road skills required
Most adventure motorcycles with appropriate tires
IIIModerateRequires some off-road experience. Includes rougher trails with some technical features.
  • Extended loose gravel and dirt sections
  • Moderate elevation changes
  • Water crossings up to 12 inches
  • Some rocky or rooted sections
Better suited for middleweight adventure bikes
IVChallengingRequires solid off-road skills. Features difficult terrain but generally rideable.
  • Rough, uneven surfaces
  • Significant elevation changes
  • Water crossings up to 18 inches
  • Multiple technical obstacles requiring good skill
Recommended for lightweight adventure bikes or skilled riders
VDifficultFor experienced off-road riders only. Features very technical terrain.
  • Very rough, loose surfaces
  • Steep inclines and declines
  • Deep water crossings (up to 24 inches)
  • Multiple challenging obstacles requiring advanced skill
Best suited for lightweight enduro-focused machines
VIExtremeFor expert off-road riders only. Features extremely demanding terrain and obstacles.
  • Extremely rough, unstable surfaces
  • Very steep, technical climbs or descents
  • Deep water or mud crossings (over 24 inches)
  • Major obstacles requiring expert skills
Only suitable for specialized off-road or enduro motorcycles

Using Difficulty Ratings

  • Ratings are subjective and depend on rider skill, weather conditions, and motorcycle capabilities
  • Always assess your own skill level honestly before attempting challenging routes
  • Weather can significantly increase the difficulty of any trail
  • Consider riding in groups for more challenging routes
  • Always bring appropriate gear and emergency supplies for the difficulty level