Top 7 Tips for Mountain Biking with Kids
Tips for mountain biking with kids – Your kid is finally old enough/big enough to start riding a real mountain bike with you. Welcome to the club! It has taken years for you to get here. We are excited for you and your family. Now what?
Be aware that getting your kids to like mountain biking and ride with you can be a big investment and a long, arduous process. If your kids dig it right-off-the-bat, congratulations. You’re a long way ahead of most families.
Our family has already gone through the tough stuff with getting our kids started on mountain bikes. We’re not experts and it was not always easy. We have made many, many mistakes. There have been buckets of tears and a few total melt-downs – mostly but not solely from the kids.
Some of the things we’ve learned the hard way as our family has gained experience mountain biking are contained in the articles below. Click a link to read our tips for mountain biking with kids.
01 – Set The Foundation And Ride Often
Start by imparting basic skills to your kids, such as proper body positioning, braking techniques, and cornering. Consistent practice and frequent rides are key to fostering their love for mountain biking.
02 – Have The Right Mountain Bike And Gear
Equipping your child with appropriate mountain biking gear is crucial for building their confidence and ensuring a comfortable ride. Discover our recommendations to set your young rider up for success.
03 – Prepare To Ensure Success
“Take care of yourself first”, “the key to happiness is low expectations”, and “Know when to quit” are just a few of the tips for preparing your mindset for a successful mountain bike outing with your kids.
04 – Don’t Get Hangry
Avoiding hunger-induced meltdowns is paramount to enjoying mountain biking with kids. Pack plenty of trail snacks to keep energy levels up and spirits high throughout the ride.
05 – Choose Trails Wisely
Selecting suitable trails can make or break the biking experience for your family. Learn how to identify trails that offer the right balance of challenge and enjoyment for riders of all skill levels. Here are our tips to help you find a mountain bike trail that produces smiles for miles.
06 – Recognize Hard Work
Celebrate your kids’ progress and perseverance on the trails. Acknowledging their achievements fosters confidence and encourages continued growth as mountain bikers.
07 – Enjoy The Journey
Make the most of the post-ride experience by creating a positive atmosphere on the journey home. Reflect on the day’s adventures and bond as a family over shared experiences and memories.