Mountain Biking Marin
The Ultimate Bike Experience

Bike Tours & Skill Clinics - Testimonials

Carl Coletti (San Francisco, United States)

Celia Graterol understands the physical and mental aspects of taking a person with a lot more desire than common sense and pointing them in the right direction in my case DH (downhill....).
Being a former road racer having been off of a bike for twenty years and deciding that downhill courses looked like way more fun than being on a road bike, a little voice in the back of my mind told me that i might seek some sort of instruction to limit any injuries related to lack of proper form and general trail cluelessness.
A google search for downhill instructors in San Francisco / Marin led me to Celia Graterol.
Celia's skills, patience and understanding all played a major part in my realizing my dreams of blasting down Fairfax, Mount Tam and Pacifica downhill trails hitting rock gardens, steep descents, jumps, drops, cornering and feeling comfortable and confident at speed. Celia never hesitated to walk through ...talk through...go through....review....the mental and physical barriers associated with this type of riding . Celia's riding technique and understanding of theory are only rivaled by her sense of humor and personality perfectly suited to teaching in some of the most beautiful outdoor classrooms in the world....
Celia is truly a mountain bike midwife of dreams.
My bike and i thank her for our two wheeled deliverance.

Keith Wensel (Alberta, Canada)

Anna Bishop (Administrative Associate, Google Earth/Maps/Local)

Celia and the Mountain Biking Marin gang organized one of the best company outings we've ever been lucky enough to attend. We had as many experience levels and interests as we did participants, and yet Celia managed to plan a trip that was challenging, interesting, and mind-clearing for everyone. Every last detail was taken care of--from lunch to poison oak remedies--so we could really concentrate on bonding as a group and enjoying the gorgeous scenery. It takes a lot to drag this team away from the office for a day, but there was surprising little nervous I-Phone scanning since everyone was so thrilled to be out on the beach and in the Headlands. From our most advanced outdoor enthusiasts to first time mountain bikers, Celia ensured everyone had a great trip. Thanks for an amazing experience...we'll be back!

Tom McGraw (Chief Executive Officer, FNB BANCORP, San Francisco, United States)

I have had the delightful opportunity to ride my mountain bike through spectacular west Marin mountain trails with Celia Graterol. Celia is, in a word, wonderful! Her passion for riding is only surpassed by her skill as a guide and teacher. She takes the time to clearly describe routes and techniques on challenging trails. Her supportive guidance builds confidence in the rider and that is very empowering and Celia has a marvelous sense of humor. She's awesome.

Andrea Frias (Marin, United States)

Celia has a striking personality that makes her a joy to ride with. She never pushed me too hard and was always there to offer her years of experience to help me clear the more hairy areas. Sure, I'm a beginner, and those so-called hairy areas probably weren't too horrible, but you know what I mean. She knows exactly which trail to take you on and matches your pace so you're not pushing yourself. Her fabulous humor makes the ride all the more enjoyable. She's a wonderful teacher and I'd love to continue our lessons in the future.

Andrea riding in the Marin Headlands, Marin County, California.

Andrea descending Mt. Tam via Coastal View singletrack, Marin County, California.

Michelle Wharton (Hawaii, United States)

I had a great ride! Celia knew every inch of the trail and gave me a heads up of what was to come around every corner. At one crossing, she even got off her bike to block and wave me away from a dangerous drop. I will definitely ride with Mountain Biking Marin next time I'm in town. (Michelle is the founder of Adventure X Fitness, providing personal training, thriathlon coaching and massage therapy).

Kristy DeCoursey (Sonoma, United States)

Celia, I want to thank you for being the one to answer my email for help in mountain biking. It's truly been a pleasure to be taught by you. You made the learning fun and easy, and it felt like being coached by a friend. Thank you very much. Kristy.

Kristy climbing in the Headlands, Marin County.

Dave Runacre (United Kingdom)

Having always wanted to ride the areas made famous by the Marin bike company this was a great day out. Celia can create a ride that will suit your level of riding and skill – from beginner through hardcore riders looking for technical and endurance riding.

If you are based in SF then this is a definitely worth a day out – whether you are into biking or not. Celia can collect you in town and recommend excellent bike hire. The bikes are full suspension Marins and in great condition (rare for any hire bike). The views across the Bay area from the hire shop is stunning enough but then you get driven by Celia to Marin county over the Golden Gate Bridge. The whole journey is just half an hour but you go from dramatic city skyline to beautiful countryside.

The ride itself has something for everyone and Celia will provide all the support and coaching you need. The trails offer some excellent views so make sure you take a camera.

After the ride you can stop for a beer and a chat with the other bikers who have been on the trail before you get to enjoy the same panoramic views of the city and bay as you get dropped back off in the city.

Dave with a gorgeous view of Mt. Tam at Tamarancho, Fairfax, Marin County, California.

Dave descending a singletrack and clearing the rock at Tamarancho, Fairfax, Marin County, California.

Charles Nichols (United Kingdom)

I had a totally FANTASTIC day with Celia exploring the mountain bike trails at Tamarancho (Marin county). This was the single best day’s mountain biking experience ever. Celia knows the area well, where to hire good equipment, and how to match the right mountain to the abilities of the individual rider. But with Celia you don’t just get a tour. I learned a lot from her gentle coaching style, and my technique has improved dramatically as a result, in particular dealing with ‘switchbacks’ (very tight hairpin bends to the Europeans). Her patience was admirable as I got to grip with new techniques, until I mastered these turns.

Celia is a rare find and I unreservedly recommend for individual, group and corporate hospitality tours where you’re looking for a real adventure amongst stunning scenery, and some of the world’s most exciting mountain bike trails. Five star rating – highly recommended.

Charles enjoyes a stop by the B-17/Broken Dam intersection at Tamarancho, Fairfax, Marin County, California.

Charles riding the singletracks of Tamarancho, Fairfax, Marin County, California.

Arnab Chatterjee (United Kingdom)

Celia is not only a frighteningly good rider, she knows the tracks and the trails really well. Anecdotal, interesting and relaxed, ...."she pushed me to a level where I
had been comfortable once, many years ago, by being cheerfully relentless and encouraging my competitve streak. Within a few hours, I was fully zoned in and admiring not only the technical ride but the extraordinary landscape. The actual service was flawless, with pick up and drop off, bike rental advice, post ride gps mapping and follow up emails. My only concern with this testimonial is that next time I am back, Celia will be fully booked up.

Alan Loving (San Francisco, United States)

Riding with Celia in Marin County made for a complete experience. She is pleasant, knowledgeable about the area, bikes and riding technique. Most importantly, she is patient! I would never have found the areas she showed me, let alone ridden them. Thanks for a great day. I'll be back.

Alan and Mario with Celia during a ride in the Marin Headlands, California.

Sean Benward (East Bay, United States)

Celia, It was you who inspired me four or five years ago to race. It was your positive words of encouragement that gave me the confidence and motivated me to take the first step, sign up and race. I have never looked back and I keep looking forward to the next race like a kid waiting to open their Christmas presents on Christmas morning, I am healthier and much more passionate about cycling as a result. For this, I owe you a BIG THANKS. It goes to show you how valuable a kind supporting word can be. I am honored to be part of your legacy.

Christine Schick (Berkeley, United States)

Honestly, I miss your infectious spirit and fun-loving nature, too! But when I get back I will certainly start riding with you and the ladies again. Absolutely!! And maybe you and Dana can teach me how to catch air without dislocating my shoulder.