Our new LTYA Youth MTB program for 1st–5th graders is designed to spark a lifelong love of riding in a fun, supportive, and confidence-building environment. Young riders will learn foundational bike skills, trail safety, and teamwork while exploring the outdoors alongside their peers.

What makes this program truly special is our team of dedicated volunteers- experienced coaches who have spent years developing riders from 5th through 12th grade, including guiding athletes on an 8 time State Championship team. They bring not only technical expertise, but also a passion for mentorship, encouragement, and helping every child feel successful on the bike.

Whether your child is brand new to riding trails or eager to build skills, this program offers a safe and inspiring place to grow, have fun, and be part of a positive cycling community.

• Level 1: 6-8 years old
• Level 2: 9-11 years old

Fall Mountain Biking

• Helmet - Less than 5 years old that fits your child’s head well without moving around while they ride.
• Footwear - Closed-toe (non-Croc like) shoes that fasten by laces, straps or buckles
• Bike - Bike with knobby tires, gears, and two hand brakes. Bike tires should be no smaller than 20 inches.
• Bike repair items - A replacement tube that fits your child’s tire. (dropped off at day one check-in and returned at the close of the program if they are unused.
• Snacks/Hydration - Kids should always bring a snack and hydration with them 

• Gloves - full-finger gloves to protect hands from abrasions in the case of a fall
• Eye protection - generic sports glasses to protect from dust and debris (and bugs) kicked up while riding
• Windbreaker / light rain jacket - weather conditions change throughout the season; your child should be prepared to ride in the conditions that are present on the day. Sessions will be altered or canceled if the weather conditions are unsafe.
• Athletic /Cycling shorts - Loose-fitting athletic shorts or pants. Cycling-specific shorts are not required but some kids may be more comfortable.

1. What ages/grades are allowed?

   1. We are aiming for two groups: 1st, 2nd, and Beginner 3rd Graders (Level 1) and then Advanced 3rd graders ,  & 4th grade, 5th Grade (Level 2).  Exceptions can be made as needed to put the child in the most appropriate group to their riding ability. We want the kids to be safe and have fun!

2. Are you going to be biking on difficult trails?

   1. Our goal is first and foremost to have fun! We will start on flat grass, progress with some games (cones, balance skills, etc.) and then the coaches will evaluate if and when it’s safe to proceed on beginner trails. Everything is aimed to be age appropriate and avoid excessive risk.

3. What kind of bike do we need?

   1. Great question. We are working to secure some discounts with local bike companies and retailers, but in the the two most important elements are fit and weight.
      Fit info can be found here and here.
      Weight: the less “stuff” on the bike the better. At this age we don’t need shocks and bottles, or even kickstands.  All of those things add unnecessary weight that just makes it harder for the kids to handle the bike. Simpler is better!

4. Are there coaches or do the parents have to ride with their kids?

   1. We will definitely need some volunteer parents to step up and help coach the pods (just like other LTYA sports), but not every parent needs to ride with the kids (not a requirement).

5. We have a sixth grader who is interested in mountain biking but he just turned 12 is he too old?
   
   i. He would be too old for this LTYA program, but he would be *perfect* for the LT MTB team, which runs 5th-12th grade and no prior experience required. LTMBteam.com.