Teaching Mountain Biking Fundamentals
At RYCC, it is our mission to get more kids on mountain bikes.
There are many kids in our community that would love the opportunity to learn mountain biking, but don’t have a family member who can teach them, or don’t have the means to ride regularly.
RYCC is happy to take new riders and teach them the fundamentals of mountain biking so they can be safe and have fun on our local trails.
Boys and girls from anywhere in the Greater Rochester area grades 5 through 12 are welcome to join our club regardless of their skill level.
Your are not required to race as a member of RYCC, but to be covered by our insurance, we require all our riders to be registered with NICA NY.
What we Teach
Our curriculum was developed by the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) and if focused on fun and safety.
We teach mountain bike riding skills including braking, body position, cornering, hills, balance, trail selection, safety, etiquette, trail stewardship, bike setup, and bike maintenance.
How We Teach
During our club rides, we break into groups of kids with similar skill levels. This is done with very small ratio of riders to each coach, often one to one.
Initially, we’ll teach the fundamental skills in a grassy field. Once the riders have mastered the basics, we move to “green” level beginner trails in the woods.
Green trails are wide (often 3′ or more across) with a firm/stable surface, with minimal gradients, and only small obstacles (2 inches or smaller in height).
Once riders have mastered green trails, they will start to be integrated with the more experienced riders. Riders will continue to receive coaching to help them progress without being singled out.
The Coaching Staff
RYCC has a large number of men and women that actively volunteer their time to the club.
All of these coaches are trained and certified through NICA NY.
Level 2 and Level 3 coaches have been formally trained in how to teach mountain biking in a safe and fun manner. They also have up-to-date first-aid and CPR training.
Level 1 coaches have been formally trained in how to assist during practices to boost the fun and safety of the student athletes.
Please contact us to learn more about how we can help get you out on the trails.