FAQ
Is this a high/middle school sport?
YES! We are organized as a part of the SoCal Youth Cycling League, an independent 501(c)3 organization dedicated to bringing Mountain Bike racing to middle and high school youth in Southern California. While we are not a California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) sport, we are absolutely a team sport in every other sense—think of us as a high school sport affiliated with multiple different schools. We accept both girls and boys from grades 6 through 12, and you'll be placed into a group based on your age, ability, and goals​
Do you have to race to be a part of this? (I’m nervous…)?
Racing is absolutely encouraged in our program, but it’s never required. We use racing as a way to teach life lessons and build experiences, yet athletes of all skill levels and interests are welcome—whether or not they choose to race. What makes racing special is that it’s more than just the competition: it’s the camping, team dinners, cheering for friends, pre-race jitters, and night rides. The courses themselves are designed to be fun and approachable, with nothing overly technical, so any team member who regularly practices will be well prepared. Racing is optional, but the experience is unforgettable.
Is it dangerous?
No more than a lot of other sports. Yes, falls can happen, but the coaching staff are all CPR/First Aid certified and ride with the necessary safety equipment. No one is allowed to ride without a helmet, proper shoes and clothing, or a working bike.
​Is this for girls and boys?
YES!!! Our team is open to riders of all backgrounds and identities. We currently have about 40 athletes, with a great mix of riders that reflects the diversity of our community.
​
Wait, you said camping?!
Yes! A large part of the team (accompanied by their parents), including the coaches, choose to camp at the race venues. We have team dinners and group campsites. It's a super great part of the experience! What other HS sport involves camping as an integral part of the experience?!?!​
This sounds cool! But, I’m just starting out, is this right for me?
Yes! If you can ride a bike and want to improve, then YES! We will work with you to help build the skills necessary to tackle any trail. We work with all levels and abilities and build confidence and strength through training and skill development. Our goal is to meet you where you are and provide opportunities for you to improve within your skillset. We believe everyone can level up their skills, from a beginning rider to a Varsity racer.
XC? Nah, I just ride enduro, bro.
That’s awesome! We love to ride enduro too! While we focus on XC racing, we have lots of team members that also ride enduro! Many train both, as XC racing can provide the fitness needed to get through tough sections. In fact, many of the top pros also race XC to build their skills and fitness!
What kind of bike do I need?
A hardtail or full-suspension Mountain Bike. Flat bars, front suspension, that’s it! (No e-Bikes!). The mass produced bikes we find at Walmart or Target are really heavy and not the most reliable. Try to find a “bike shop bike” or Bikes Online that sell brands like Trek, Specialized, Giant, or GT. You don’t need to have the fanciest carbon frame to be competitive! When in doubt, consult with a local bike shop and the EHS/SBC coaches.
What other equipment do I need?
At a minimum you will need a helmet, gloves, riding/safety glasses, water bottle or hydration pack and lights (at least 1000 lumens).
How does an interested rider join the team?
The SoCal League Season officially starts in December with the first race in February. Ideally, new riders will sign up in the fall/early winter but contact us at any time and we’ll see what we can do. In addition to contacting us, you will need to register your rider with the SoCal League, which becomes available October 1. Riders interested in racing must be in 6th-12th grades, but Juniors can also practice with us and ride on the skills
What is "SoCal League"?
A super-rad league dedicated to getting more kids on bikes and having a good time in the outdoors! check them out at www.socalyouthcycling.org
Sounds fun! I live in XYZ neighborhood, can we ride with you?
If you can make it to Salt Creek Recreation center in East Lake by 5:30PM Tuesday, and Thursday, then Yes. Our team’s region is predominantly the Sweetwater School District and is bound by the Pacific on the west, the 8 on the north, south along the west side of the 805, east along the south side of the 54, then south surrounding the 125.
What is the rough team cost?
First, we are an all volunteer organization, so all of our team dues go right back to the team. We request a $180 donation per rider on top of league registration costs. That being said, we are very competitive cost wise with other sports and, depending on the sport, FAR cheaper.
I'm interesting in coaching, where do I get more info?
Yes! We are always looking for more coaches to join the team. You can be an expert rider or a complete beginner. You will register with the SoCal League and need to complete things like a background check and a CPR/first aid course. A big part of coaching mountain biking at this level is simply riding along with the kids and being a positive influence. It’s rewarding and you get in great shape while you do it.
I don't want to be a coach, but I just want to ride with the team, so is it cool if I just come ride?
If you want to ride with the team you have two options:
-
You can fill out a one-time one-day waiver and come “Try It Out” to see if you want to ride/coach with us.
-
You can complete all the registration steps and become a Team rider or Coach
Unfortunately, there is no casual riding with the team. As a casual rider you are not licensed, or insured and have no registered background info.
Do you accept Donations or Sponsorship?
We sure do! See the flyer below for ideas!
Team Sponsor Info/Flyer
OR Just want to make a flat donation to help us reach our goals? Use the QR code below! Thanks!!
What is the time commitment during the season?
Mountain bikers get better by riding! We hold practice three times a week (Tue, Thur and SAT) though many of our racers ride on the off days too. There are five races per season, all of which require travel out of the South Bay. Riders are not required to race (though we encourage it and it’s really fun). The season gets under way in January and finishes in May.