Kids Guide to Mountain Bike Racing

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Technical features to look out for:

As well as steep ascents and descents and jumps there are various technical features on the course that the competitors have to tackle:

Rock gardens – a series of rocks that are very hard to ride over. Good technical skill is needed.

Drop-offs - a sudden drop down on the trail – watch the riders shift their body position to get down them

Berms – a rounded corner or curve in the trail with a steep side which riders will approach at speed.

Roots – tree roots can be awkward to ride over, especially if they are wet and slippery.

What to watch out for?

Riders tackling “technical” features like big jumps and rocks.
Riders getting off and pushing over technical features
Mud if it’s raining!

With half term behind us and the clocks gone back, the school run looks a little different now. Darker mornings and early sunsets mean it’s a good time to make sure everyone feels confident and visible on their bikes for the weeks ahead.

If you’ve been meaning to try cycling to school, there’s still no pressure to do it every day. Even once a week is a great way to keep riding through the colder months and stop it from feeling like a big deal.

Good lights, front and rear, are now essential for many journeys, along with reflective details on bags and clothing. Warm layers, gloves and waterproofs make a big difference to how much everyone enjoys the ride, and it’s worth checking tyres and brakes as wet leaves and frosty mornings arrive. Allow a little extra time, and stick to routes you know well while everyone gets used to riding in the dark.

Whether it’s the ride to the school gates, a weekend spin through crunchy autumn leaves or a festive lights ride as Christmas approaches, every journey this winter is a chance to stay active, have fun and make cycling part of family life.

Explore our guides to bike lights, winter cycling kit and route planning, and get tips to help your family keep cycling to school with confidence all winter long.