AMBCS Race Catagories

 Juniors  typically race for 45 min to 1 hour hours at  a  individually comfortable speed  for 3  miles. on a modified course. 

 This is the first step in mountain bike racing. This  is  for riders who have just started riding and have not mastered many of the basic trail skills.  Rookies typically race for 45 min to 1 hour hours at  a comfortable speed  for 3 to 6 miles. on a shortened course. This is for the new riders considering going CAT3 maybe next year. These riders  are often local  trail enthusiasts . 

 This is the beginner level category everyone starts here. Cat 3 riders typically race courses for 45 minutes to an hour. This is meant for riders who may not have the skill level or fitness level to race at a higher level. It’s the largest category in the series.

CAT 3 is often 2 laps on a course or about 12 miles

 This is the next step up from Cat 3. This meant for riders who have both more fitness and skill level. They typically race for 1.5 to 2.0 hours at a faster speed than the Cat 3 riders. These riders often race outside the local area and within the region. 

CAT 2 is often 3 laps on a course  or about 18 miles

 This is the highest local level. These riders are one step below a professional rider. They typically race for 2.0 to 2.5 hours at a very fast pace. They often race at national level events throughout the country. 

 CAT 2 is often 4 laps on a course 

 These are the guys who you see on TV when you are lucky enough to catch a mountain bike race being broadcast. They are top level, and very fast. They race at the national and international level, and as the category name implies, are often paid to ride .

Classes are groupings based on items other than skill level. They may include age, weight, type of bike being raced, etc.
The AMBCS recognizes the following Classes:

• Clydesdale – Meant for anyone weighing over 220 pounds.
• Single Speed – Anyone who is crazy enough to race a bike with only one gear the same distance category 2 riders race is eligible to race this category.
• 60+ Category – Right now this is comprised of men who are racing age 60 or older and willing to race the Category 2 distance.

An electric bicycle is a motorized bicycle with an integrated electric motor used to assist propulsion. 

The use of an  e-bikes expand recreational opportunities for the public, including for people with limitations stemming from age, illness, disability, or fitness, and in more challenging environments, such as high altitudes or mountainous terrain.  

Electric assist [mountain bikes] capabilities [are] (limited by speed, wattage, output algorithms, etc.). 

USAC E-Bike Policy  General Downloads

E-bikes on MTB Trails 

Due to Covid - 19 restrictions please pre-register online before a race. 

• Go to the AMBCS  Race Calendar and identify the  event you are interested in. 
• Locate the registration page or link  for the race.
• Select the category you desire. Category MTB Upgrades USAC
• Follow the registration instructions
• AMBCS HARD PLATE (timing chip used in every race).
• Pay Dirt (Optional).
• Ask questions if needed! 
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Remember to have fun.
• Getting Started Article by Liv
• XC Explained by bike radar

Note:  A day license may be required if you don't have a USA Cycling Race License.  A "Day License" may is often the best option if you don't race 10+ races in a season.