• Take A Kid Mountain Biking Day

    2024 Take a Kid Mountain Bike Day
    March 23rd | 10:00am-12:00pm | Sylvan Island Park - Moline, IL

    FORC volunteers teaching bike skills during the 2012 TAKMBD.

    FORC volunteers teaching bike skills during the 2012 TAKMBD.
    FORC is once again hosting a Take a Kid Mountain Bike Day. The goal of this FREE world wide event is to get kids outdoors and active by introducing them to mountain bikes and off-road trails.

    Participants will go over basic bike skills and maintenance items in a short MTB-101 type class and then hit the trails for a beginner paced group ride with emphasis on putting the previously learned skills to use.

    Meet at the shelter across the bridge on Sylvan Island. (directions here)

    2024 TAKMBD flier.

    Download the event flier.

    RSVP at the TAKMBD Facebook Event.

    Healthy snacks and drinks will be provided for participants after the ride.

    This event is free to all! Recommended for ages 6-16. Parents are welcome to participate!

    Helmets are required for participation.

  • Upcoming Events

    Take A Kid Mountain Biking Day

    Sat. Mar. 23rd 2024 - 10:00am to 12:00pm

    MTB 101 Skills Clinic

    Sat. Mar. 23rd 2024 - 1:00pm to 3:00pm

    Advanced Youth Skills Clinic

    Sat. Mar. 30th 2024 - 9:00am to 12:00pm

    Sylvan Island Stampede MTB Race

    Sat. Apr. 6th 2024 - 8:00am to 4:00pm

    Illiniwek Abermination MTB Race

    Sat. May. 4th 2024 - 8:00am to 4:00pm

  • MTB Trail Etiquette

    • Ride Open Trails: Respect trail and road closures — ask a land manager for clarification if you are uncertain about the status of a trail. Do not trespass on private land. Obtain permits or other authorization as required. Be aware that bicycles are not permitted in areas protected as state or federal Wilderness.

    • Leave No Trace: Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. When the trail is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.

    • Control Your Bicycle: Inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations, and ride within your limits.

    • Yield Appropriately: Do your utmost to let your fellow trail users know you're coming — a friendly greeting or bell ring are good methods. Try to anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners. Bicyclists should yield to other non-motorized trail users, unless the trail is clearly signed for bike-only travel. Bicyclists traveling downhill should yield to ones headed uphill, unless the trail is clearly signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic. In general, strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one.

    • Never Scare Animals: Animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement or a loud noise. Give animals enough room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses, use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife are serious offenses.

    • Plan Ahead: Know your equipment, your ability and the area in which you are riding and prepare accordingly. Strive to be self-sufficient: keep your equipment in good repair and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.