1ST GRADE

Kids must ride a pedal bike independently (no training wheels) and must be confident riding on single-track dirt trails. Bikes with hand brakes and gears are highly encouraged (no coaster brakes, please). Wheel size is not a factor at this age as long as the bike fits the rider.

The main goals of our 1st-grade programs are to build team camaraderie and expand a rider’s curiosity and excitement for riding their bike! Coaches will teach basic skills of shifting, braking, climbing, and descending, reinforce trail etiquette, and encourage proper balance on two wheels standing out of the saddle with level pedals.

Parents should not attend practices. At this age, we believe riders learn and grow most when they can attend practice without their parents!

Each Spring and Fall semester runs for 8 weeks, followed by a 9th week to make up for any weather-related cancellations. Each team practices 1 day per week. Practices are 1 hour 30 minutes. Practices will meet at a different trailhead/location each week (See Practice Location Schedule). You can register for multiple teams to practice multiple days per week. View our course catalogs for scheduling details.

We allow up to 20 riders per day with 4 coaches, plus an additional 10 riders in the all-girls group. On the first day of practice, our most experienced coaches will split the 20 co-ed riders into teams of 10 based on riding style, personality, buddies, and a little bit of coaches’ magic. The all-girls group will stick together! These teams of 10 will ride together with 2 coaches for the remainder of the season.
*This is a NEW program format for our Kinder age group! See our 2024 New Programs FAQ for more information!*

• Pedal bike with no training wheels and hand brakes (no coaster brakes, please). Hand brakes are highly recommended.
• Helmet
• Close-toed shoes
• A backpack that your rider can easily carry with water and a healthy snack.
• Clothing appropriate for the weather
• Riding gloves are encouraged but optional