FAQs

Q: I'm not sure my child will dig this, can we test it out first? 

A: Yes! Just fill out the free liability waiver and come try a practice or two. Be sure to check in with one of the coaches about any questions or concerns that may come up. 

Q: How much does this program cost?

A: Once you are sure your child is interested in the program, we ask that you pay the $60 Junior Mountain Bike Program fee. If that fee is steep enough to keep your child from participating, please chat with one of the coaches about scholarship opportunities. We want all kids on bikes! If your child is also interested in racing as an official Stage 1 team racer, you will also need to pay the $40 Club Membership ($150 for a family). 

Q: What kind of bike does my child need?

A: A bike with front and rear brakes (no coaster brake - ie pedal backwards to stop), and gears. If you aren't sure about what you have or what you should look for, please reach out to the team and we'll help you out. If you are looking for a new or used bike, AirLine Cycles is the very best place to start! 

Q: What kind of protective gear does my child need?

A: Helmets are required. MIPS protection is best. Full finger gloves are also suggested. Any other padding that helps to make your child feel confident but not constrained is welcomed. 

Q: How often are practices?

A: Girls practice will be held on Tuesday nights at Nathan Hale Ray Middle School. Co-ed practice will be held on Friday nights at locations TBD (most often Camp Ingersoll or Hurd State Park). Practice begins the week of March 19, 2023 and run through the end of June. Informal group rides also tend to continue through the summer. 

Q: Can parents participate?

A: Absolutely! We encourage it. Just please wear a helmet. 

Q: What should we expect at practice?

A: The first half of practice will be focused on learning one or two specific skills in a safe and controlled environment. Participants will often be separated into smaller groups based on age and ability so that coaches can adequately manage the team. The second half of practice usually includes a group trail ride. We encourage parents to bring their bike and participate! Fair warning, practice is scheduled for an hour but do often run long, especially as we gain daylight in the evenings. It's not a bad problem to have, but it can be hard to get kids off bikes once they get started!

Q: What if my child cannot attend a practice?

A: No worries! Practices are fun but we don't generally take roll. You get out what you put in!

Q: How can I find out about schedule updates do to weather or other factors?

A: This season we are planning on using the BAND app for day to day updates including last minute changes to practice schedules. Be sure to sign up!

Q: Will my child be required to race?

A: Team members are encouraged to race in the two Stage 1 sponsored bike races (mountain biking in the spring; cyclocross in the fall) but these are NOT mandatory. Beyond these sponsored races, many members of the team travel to participate in race series in the region. Speak to one of the team coaches if you are interested in more information about racing opportunities. 

Q: How can I purchase team clothing for my child or myself?

A: There are often opportunities to purchase t-shirts or other swag. Coaches will notify the team when these opportunities exist. We also highly encourage team hand-me-downs as riders outgrow their Stage 1 goods.  If your child is a Stage 1 Club Member and racing as an official Stage 1 team member, team branded racing kits can be purchased through the Pactimo team store.