• Mountain Biking 101

    Participants at Mountain Biking 101 skill class receiving instruction

    Saturday March 23rd 2024 - 1:00-3:00 pm
    Sylvan Island Park - Moline, IL

    What is MTB-101?

    Mountain biking 101 is an introductory skills clinic that will cover topics to get you riding and enjoying off-road trails. Skills covered will include: braking, bike/body position, cornering, how to navigate common obstacles found on trails, and basic bike maintenance/repair. We also encourage those who recently started riding trails to participate. You may pick up some new skills or even find help mastering an old one.

    After the instructional portion of the clinic, we will head to the trails on a group ride to put your newly learned skills into practice.

    This event is free to the public (all ages welcome).

    Rider learning to navigate a simulated trail obstacle during a Mountain Biking 101 skills clinic.

    Requirements

    • You supply the bike.
    • Make sure your bike is in proper working order (see below)
    • Participants must bring/wear a helmet.
    • Bring the gear you would take with you on a ride (water, multitool, extra tube, & tire pump)

    Before You Come

    Make sure your bike is in good working condition. Run through this quick list of things to check:

    • Tire Pressure. 25-35 psi is good start for MTB. Don't inflate the tires to the pressure listed on the tire sidewall; that is the max inflation pressure and much too high for trail riding. Too much air will cause the bike to be uncomfortable, bounce over roots and bumps, and be harder to control. Too little can cause cause pinch flats, bent rims, and unexpected loss of traction.
    • Lube Chain Lube the chain to reduce annoying noise and add longevity to the drivetrain. Don't use WD40 (not an actual lubricant). Get a chain lube from the bike store that is formulated specifically for bikes. Apply it liberally to a clean chain and wipe off the excess to avoid attracting more dirt.
    • Adjust Brake Levers/Gear Shifters Having the brakes and gear shifters in the correct position is essential for good bike control. Check out this video on how to properly set up brake lever and gear shifter position.
    • Adjust Seat Height/Position Seat height is very important for riding comfort and bike control. Check out this video to see how to properly set up your seat.

    We will cover some of these topics during the class, but probably won't have time to make adjustments to everyone's bikes at that time.

    Location

    This event will be held at Sylvan Island Park in Moline, IL. Meet near the shelter across the bridge.

  • Upcoming Events

    May Membership Meeting

    Mon. Apr. 29th 2024 - 5:30pm to 8:00pm

    Illiniwek Abermination MTB Race

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

    June Membership Meeting

    Wed. May. 29th 2024 - 5:30pm to 8:00pm

    FORC Side Thrill Ride MTB Race

    Sun. Jun. 2nd 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.