What’s it like taking the family mountain biking? The dream is that you will all be in a state of family bliss, riding along together at the same pace, wind at your back, kids smiling, and lots of family bonding.
The reality is that while that can happen, you need to plan and work at it. And don’t be discouraged when the first (or two or three) rides seem overly rough. As you all fall into a routine it will get easier and it will be fun.
Assuming you’re already an avid rider, I’ll spare you the most basic of bike riding tips. But here are four things to consider before you set out with the entire family.
Tip 1: Do the Prep Work
As a cyclist you’re probably good about maintaining your bike. But don’t forget the kid’s bikes or trailer. Basics include proper tire pressure, functioning brakes, and a lubed chain.
You also need to prepare snacks, possibly toys or books for a trailer ride, baby wipes, drinks, and more snacks. Don’t underestimate the power of snacks on a bike ride. And a bike ride might just be the perfect time to allow a treat if the going gets tough. I swear by energy chews like Honey Stinger or Clif Bloks for both fuel and mental incentive when my son needs extra motivation.
Check their helmet for fit and safety. Don’t be one of those parents with a $200 perfectly fit and adjusted helmet while your child has a cut up foam mess – half hanging off his head. Alyssa, a mom, and cyclist from Salt Lake City swears by helmets with visors. “I cannot tell how many skinned chins, skinned faces, and skinned noses we have bypassed by that silly visor taking the fall.”
Finally, before you head out go over common trail etiquette and rules like riding on the right side of the trail, how to pass, and other things you might encounter. This will seem like a long list the first time you go out but they will get the handle of it with practice.
Tip 2: Have Good MTB Gear
Your kids don’t need the latest gear but quality gear goes a long way towards an enjoyable ride. A bike with the proper geometry, shoes with good grip, pads for mountain biking, gloves, hydration pack, and a tow rope are great items to start with.
Kids MTB Gear We Love
Kids Bikes
Luckily kids bike keep getting better and better and now there are a number of bike brands and models to choose from. As you start your shopping there is a general trend to look out for. The brands you are familiar with don’t always have the best geometry or take into account just how lightweight kids are. Smaller brands that you may have never even heard of are the ones offering cutting edge designs with kid specific frames and components. Of course, the price point is higher but the resale value is high and your kids enjoyment will go up.
Our favorite bike brand and model for mountain bikes is Prevelo Bikes. Lars has enjoyed every Zulu model from the 14 inch to the 24 inch. The Prevelo Zulu line is for the kid that rips singletrack, takes on descents, and wants to jump. The Zulus are a descending focused hardtail mountain bike that is also versatile to take around the neighborhood or for tackling longer rides and climbs.
Tip 3: Be Prepared on the Trail
Kids bikes can (and will) break down during rides. Be prepared to fix not only your bike but theirs. If you are not 100% comfortable with emergency bike repairs, bring the gear so someone can help you. In addition, bring along some step-by-step instructions so you can walk yourself through a repair if nobody is around.
Tip: If you don’t have a small tube for your kid’s bike you can use your full size tube in a pinch. On a recent ride my son forgot his 24 inch tube and got a flat. I used my 29 inch tube. It got us through our ride and back to the car.
Tip 4: Adjust your Attitude
Nancy Sathre-Vogel biked from Alaska to Argentina with her two boys so she knows a lot about family bike rides. Her #1 tip is to never doubt your child. And it’s true that they are often capable of so much more than we think or give them credit for. I have often thought a ride was too long or too hard for my son only to have him breeze through it and want to go farther. Of course the other side is not doubting her when she says she is too tired or not in the mood. Try to leave your goals and plans on the back burner and listen to your kids.
Tip 5: Think about the Destination
For adults a ride may be about the journey and exercise but for kids it’s often about the destination. Tanya who writes a family blog called Family Adventures in the Canadian Rockies says, “riding for the sake of riding may work for some kids but for others, riding to a playground, a duck pond, a big bridge, or even ice-cream shop just might be the incentive they need.”
Personally, our most enjoyable and memorable rides have been to a destination. Pick somewhere they love and the ride will become part of that enjoyment.
It’s not always easy but if you have the desire to ride as a family you’ll figure it all out and make it happen. Don’t get overwhelmed by the gear, just get out there and make memories!
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next cycling adventure as a family. Check our destination guides for ideas. Do you have tips to encourage other family to get our there and ride together?