E-MTBCRETE Route Grading System

Route ratings are subjective and can vary between different trail systems and locations.

The system below has been specifically designed for E-MTB riders exploring the rugged landscapes of Western Crete.

This E-MTBCRETE grading system assesses routes by:

  • Percentage of the route that is off-road — off-road % is an indicator, not a rule. Tracks can be concreted or tarmacked, reducing the amount of off-road.
  • Elevation gain — recorded and calculated across the ride on my Hammerhead GPS device.
  • Gradients — shown as the minimum % and maximum % Uphill and Downhill across the ride.
  • Surface condition and technical difficulty — routes in Western Crete are all composite in nature, combining tarmac, double and single track gravel, dirt, rock gardens, rocky paths and tracks, scree, and drop-offs.
  • Features — may include Rock Gardens (e.g. “from 14.1 km to 14.2 km” + % grade) and Hike-a-Bike sections (e.g. “from 3 km to 3.4 km” + % grade).
  • Battery use — E-MTB battery levels are a guide only. During a ride you should monitor your battery to ensure you have enough power for the entire trip. Factors such as terrain, motor assistance level, and riding style can significantly impact battery consumption.

Grade 1 – Green (Easy)

Suitable for most people in good health, beginners, and easy recovery rides.

  • Off-Road: 10–20%
  • Elevation Gain: up to 200 m
  • Uphill / Downhill Gradients: 5% / 10%
  • Surface: Tarmac, loose gravel
  • Features: None
  • Battery: ECO / TOUR

Grade 2 – Blue (Moderate)

Suitable for fit leisure riders with some off-road experience.

  • Off-Road: 30–40%
  • Elevation Gain: 200–400 m
  • Uphill / Downhill Gradients: 5% / 15%
  • Surface: Tarmac, smooth gravel, firm dirt tracks, loose gravel
  • Features: Ruts, small rocks
  • Battery: ECO / TOUR

Grade 3 – Red (Difficult)

Suitable for confident, proficient mountain bikers with good off-road skills.

  • Off-Road: 40–50%
  • Elevation Gain: 300–600 m
  • Uphill / Downhill Gradients: 10% / 20%
  • Surface: Tarmac, smooth gravel, dirt roads, loose gravel, rocky trails, uneven ground
  • Features: Climbs, tight turns, drops <30 cm
  • Battery: TOUR / E-MTB

Grade 4 – Black (Severe)

Suitable for expert riders with advanced skills and fitness. Commitment and high levels of skill are required to navigate the trail.

  • Off-Road: 50–70%
  • Elevation Gain: 500–700 m
  • Uphill / Downhill Gradients: 15% / 25%
  • Surface: Tarmac, gravel, dirt roads, rocky trails, loose stones, exposed and unstable ground
  • Features: Rock steps, long descents, tight switchbacks
  • Battery: E-MTB / TURBO – carry spare

Grade 5 – Magenta (Extreme)

Suitable for highly skilled riders with extensive experience and fitness. Very fast and steep descents with large drop-offs and jumps; unavoidable obstacles require high skill and commitment. Exposure and risk are significant factors; terrain and surface conditions can change rapidly.

  • Off-Road: 70–100%
  • Elevation Gain: 600–1,200 m
  • Uphill / Downhill Gradients: 15% / 30%
  • Surface: Tarmac, gravel, dirt, rocky, loose, unstable, goat tracks, scree, ledges
  • Features: Drops >30 cm, hike-a-bike, technical exposure
  • Battery: TURBO / E-MTB – 2 batteries
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