Fall Intermediate Mountain Bike Lessons

Saturday Intermediate 4 Week Program for ages 8-14

This Intermediate Mountain Biking Program is designed for children who have a foundational understanding of biking and are ready to refine their skills. The program will emphasize safe riding techniques, enhance bike handling abilities, and build confidence while navigating various trail features. The curriculum will incorporate skill development, trail etiquette, and fun challenges to keep participants engaged.

Saturdays - September 20, September 27, October 4 and October 18 (Three Stage Mountain Bike Area lesson) 

Time: 10 am to Noon

Locations:

Loree Forest - 729153 Side Rd 21, Clarksburg -Located south of Thornbury on County Road 2, east of Victoria Corners where parking is available at the top of the hill on Sideroad 21

Three Stage Mountain Bike Area - Corner of 2nd Line and 6 Sideroad, Blue Mountains.– From Collingwood, follow Grey County Rd. 19 southwest towards Osler Bluffs ski hill; take 19 to the top of the hill. Moments later, turn south on 2nd Line, a dirt road. Drive south ’til you meet Side Road 6 and park where you can. Two trails going south get you in. Meet at parking lot the corner of 6 Sideroad and 2nd Line (East of Gibraltar)

Program Outline

Week 1: Core Skills and Safety

Bike Fit and Maintenance

• Importance of bike fitting
• Basic maintenance checks (air pressure, brakes, chain)
• Safety gear overview

Body Position and Control

• Advanced body positioning for various terrains
• Weight distribution techniques
• Practicing balance through drills (e.g., slow riding, track stands)

Week 2: Technical Skills Development

Navigating Obstacles

• Introduction to small jumps and drops
• Techniques for riding over logs, roots, and rocks
• Drills to enhance obstacle negotiation skills

 Cornering and Line Selection

• Understanding line choice on trails
• Techniques for effective cornering
• Cornering drills on flat and inclined surfaces

 Week 3: Climbing and Descending Techniques

Uphill Riding Skills

• Techniques for climbing steep hills
• Proper gear selection and pacing strategies
• Climbing drills on a variety of terrains

Control on Descents

• Descending strategies and body positioning
• Learning how to manage speed and braking
• Practice on various downhill sections

 Week 4: Trail Etiquette and Final Challenge

Trail Awareness and Etiquette

• Importance of trail etiquette and safety while riding
• Understanding trail signs and navigation
• Group riding techniques and communication

Challenge and Celebration

• Fun skills course incorporating all learned techniques (obstacles, corners, climbs)
• Timed challenges and group competitions
• End-of-program celebration with certificates of completion and group reflections

Program Benefits:

• Development of advanced biking skills
• Engaging and safe environment for learning
• Social interaction with peers and team-building activities
• Focus on fitness and love for outdoor adventure

Required Gear:

• Mountain bike (in good mechanical condition)
• Properly fitting helmet (mandatory)
• Appropriate riding attire and closed-toe shoes
• Water bottle and energy snacks
• Optional: Basic repair kit and personal tool 
  Own a lightweight bike - ideally has shocks, and weighs less than 40 lbs.
  Your rider must be able to ride at least 10 km per day.

**Registration Information:

Participants will be encouraged to register early due to limited spots. This program promises to elevate riding skills and provide a memorable experience for young bikers!

NOTE: YOU MUST FULLY READ, UNDERSTAND AND EXECUTE THIS WAIVER PRIOR TO REGISTERING.