Tiny Ones Summer 2022

This camp is designed for our youngest riders and is focused on PLAY/SOCIAL SKILLS and RIDING SKILLS.

PLAY/SOCIAL SKILLS

Plenty of time for free play is offered while we move through the trails. Children can play on boulders and logs, play with sticks to build forts,… We encourage pretend play to help our younger public build their social skills. 

RIDING SKILLS

Our sessions bring emphasis on the following skills:

• Stance and balance, learning to stand up, going downhill with pedals leveled…
• Brakes and gears: when and how to use them.

AGE AND SKILLS

For PK-K riders (as of September 2022), from beginners to intermediate riders.

Riders are grouped depending on the rider’s experience and skills. 

Kids ride with their coach in little pods of three or up to six kids for two coaches.

Note that we try our best to accommodate your requests but our coaches have the best perspective and expertise to offer the optimal experience for your child and the other riders. 

INSTRUCTOR RATIO

Instructor to rider ratio is 1:3 to allow for safety, confidence building, and maximum individualized attention to each rider’s physical and emotional needs.

Each camp is limited to 12 riders maximum.

GEAR

For ages 4 to 6, we recommend 12” wheels or larger with at least one handbrake. No coaster brakes or training wheels please. 

SCHEDULE AND LOCATION

• • 8:30 AM-11:30 PM

• Two-day camps

• We meet directly at Phil’s TH (at the bottom of the road past the parking lot) or at the Welcome Center off Cascade Lakes Highway.

Two camps only: 

• July 6-7

• July 27-28

COST 

Two-Day camp $240

Little Ones Summer 2022

We offer two-day camps or four-day camps.

These camps are focused on PLAY/SOCIAL SKILLS and RIDING SKILLS.

PLAY/SOCIAL SKILLS

Plenty of time for free play is offered while we move through the trails. Children can play on boulders and logs, play with sticks to build forts,… We encourage pretend play to help our younger public build their social skills. 

RIDING SKILLS

Our sessions bring emphasis on the following skills:

• Stance and balance, learning to stand up, going downhill with pedals leveled…
• Brakes and gears: when and how to use them.
• Vision: anticipating and line choices. 
• Cornering skills for more advanced riders.

AGE AND SKILLS

This program is designed for our younger riders, for 1st to 3rd graders (September 2022), from beginners to intermediate riders.

Riders are grouped by age for better focus, age-appropriate activities, and terrain choices. Within the age groups, depending on the rider’s experience and skills, kids ride with their coach in little pods of four or up to eight kids for two coaches.

Note that we try our best to accommodate your requests but our coaches have the best perspective and expertise to offer the optimal experience for your child and the other riders. 

INSTRUCTOR RATIO

Instructor to rider ratio is 1:4 to allow for safety, confidence building, and maximum individualized attention to each rider’s physical and emotional needs.

Each session is limited to 20 riders maximum.

GEAR

• For ages 6 and 7 we recommend 20” wheels or larger with at least one handbrake. 

No coaster brakes or training wheels please.

• For ages 8 and 9 we recommend 24″ wheels or larger, two hand brakes. Gears are recommended but not mandatory. No slick tires.

These recommendations are approximative and always depend on your child’s size.

SCHEDULE AND LOCATION

• 8:30 AM-12:30 PM

• We meet directly at Phil’s TH (at the bottom of the road past the parking lot) 

Two-Day camps: 

• June 20-21

• July 11-12

• August 1-2

• August 17-18
• August 22-23

Four-Day camps:

• June 27-30

• July 25-28

• August 8-11

COST 

Two-Day camp $175

Four-Day camp $350

Youth Mountain Bike Camps Summer 2022

Our Summer camps have one main objective: having fun on the bike!

It’s a time to discover the trails or know them better, and some skills are reviewed in order to keep the riders safe (braking, body position,…).

In order to participate in Youth camps, riders need to have a minimum  24” mountain bike (hardtail or full suspension) with two hand-brakes, gears and mountain bike tires (no slick tires). The bike must be in perfect riding condition. 

Check How to Choose a program and Kids Bike set up guidelines for more details.

The riders are also responsible to bring their own gear (helmet, knee pads, backpack, etc…). Although not mandatory, knee pads, elbow pads, gloves and glasses are highly recommended.

INSTRUCTOR RATIO

1:5 to allow for safety, confidence building, and maximum individualized attention to each rider’s physical and emotional needs.

Each session is limited to 20 riders maximum.

AGE AND SKILLS

Youth Mountain Biking Camps are designed for 4th and 5th graders only (as of September 2022).

From true beginners to advanced riders.

Depending on the rider’s experience and skills, kids ride with their coach in little pods of five or up to ten kids for two coaches.

Note that we try our best to accommodate your requests but our coaches have the best perspective and expertise to offer the optimal experience for your child and the other riders. 

SCHEDULE,  LOCATION and COST

• • 8:30 AM-1:30 PM

• Riders and their caregivers meet their coaches directly at Trailheads. 

Two-Day camp  $180

• June 22-23

• July 20-21

Three-Day camp  $270

• August 3,4,5

Four-Day camp  $360

• August 29- September 1st

Junior Weekly Mountain Bike Rides

AGE and SKILLS

For Middle and High School riders (as of September 2022).

For recreational riders, from intermediate to advanced. 

No beginners for the Summer, please. Beginner riders can join in the Fall of 2022.

DESCRIPTION

Riders are grouped according to age, skill and endurance levels to move better as a group and choose appropriate trails.. 

Instructor to rider ratio is 1:5 to keep safety our first priority and offer the best-individualized approach in our rides. 

Transitioning from our spring training sessions, our Weekly Junior Rides allow us to discover different trails away from the city. 

With the exception of a few rides where we ask parents to drop off their riders at Phil’s or Welcome Center, we shuttle our riders to different trailheads through the summer. 

Depending on the rider’s level, some of the rides include Flagline, Tiddlywinks, Tyler’s Traverse, Mrazek, Metolius Windigo, South Fork, North Fork, Farewell, etc…

Junior Rides are limited to 10 riders maximum.

SCHEDULE and LOCATION

Monday 3 PM- 6:30 PM

• June 27
• July 4*, July 11, July 18, July 25
• August 1, August 8, August 15*, August 22, August 29*

Riders meet in the parking lot of the Best western Peppertree at the exception of the three following dates: 7/4 (Phil’s Trailhead), 8/15 (Welcome Center), 8/29 (TBD).

*Caregivers are responsible for dropping off their children on these dates.

REGISTRATION

$490

Enduro/Downhill Camps Summer 2022

AGE AND SKILLS

For riders ages 9  to 17 with intermediate to advanced skills only.

We exceptionally allow 8 years old shredders to join with invitation or referral. Please contact Virginie directly at 503-914 7616 or virginie@BendEnduranceAcademy.org to discuss your child’s riding skills and experience and/or set up an evaluation time if necessary.

Absolutely NO BEGINNERS please.

Riders are grouped by age and ability. 

DESCRIPTION

This four-day camp is for the kids who are attracted by gravity and enjoy riding downhill more than pedaling up. We are shuttling our riders on average twice a day. 

Trails include but are not limited to Funner, Tiddlywinks, Taylor’s Traverse, South Fork, Mrazek,… with Tuesday at Mt Bachelor Bike Park. 

Each camp is limited to 20 riders total with a ratio of 5 riders maximum per coach.

While each day is about having fun and making friends who share the same passion, it is also about learning better downhill-specific skills and maneuvers involving body position, cornering, dropping, jumping, line choices, etc…

GEAR

• We highly recommend riders to have a full-suspension bike.
• Riders are responsible to bring their own helmets.
• Full face helmets and knee pads are mandatory for the day at Mt Bachelor Bike Park .You can rent a full face helmet for this day at Mt Bachelor’s rental.
• Gloves, elbow and knee pads are recommended (we do have elbow and knee pads to borrow if needed).
• Eye protection in the form of goggles or glasses is recommended.
• A backpack or waist belt with at least 2 liters capacity.

SCHEDULE and MEETING LOCATION

Our Enduro/DH  camps run from 9 AM to 4 PM.

New this year, our camps run for four days only, Monday to Thursday. 

We meet in the parking lot of the Best Western Peppertree and shuttle our riders in our Bend Endurance Academy vans. 

• July 4-7

• July 18-21

• August 15-18 

COST

$400 

Tickets for the Bike Park are not included in the registration fee. Families are responsible to sign up waivers with Mt Bachelor and purchase their own prior to the camp.

Multi Activities Camps Summer 2022

DESCRIPTION

Our Multi-Activities camps are targeting kids who want to enjoy different kinds of experiences and activities in beautiful Central Oregon outdoors! This year, our camps are back for two days only.

• DAY ONE: mountain biking in the morning and climbing (outdoor) in the afternoon.
• DAY TWO: mountain biking in the morning and rafting in the afternoon (Deschutes River).

Each mountain bike ride leads to the start of the next activity. The trails used are rated blue with some up and down and a very few rock gardens. 

We shuttle our campers at the beginning of the day in our BEA vans. As of now, masks are still mandatory while driving.

Our instructor/camper ratio doesn’t exceed 1:6 (1:5 for the younger group).

GEAR

Your child needs a bike, a helmet and a bike pack. 

All the climbing gear and rafting gear will be lended but if your child possesses their own climbing equipment, feel free to send them with them.

AGE and SKILLS

For kids ages 8 to 15.

These camps target intermediate riders. ABSOLUTELY NO beginner bikers.

No experience necessary in climbing or rafting. 

SCHEDULE and LOCATION

Wednesday -Thursday from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.

Meeting in the Best Western Peppertree’s parking lot.

• June 29-30

• July 13-14

• August 10-11

• August 24-25

COST

$300

DESCRIPTION

We have designed this program with our younger public in mind, those who have not yet transitioned to a bike with pedals, those who have never spent time away from their caregivers, those who have never spent time in a group setting, those who are not used to the outdoors,….

We spend one hour and half together, riding a bike and developing a great sense of balance. We build forts, we explore nature, create art, read a story,…

Each rider comes with their own push bike, a helmet and a small backpack to carry water and snack.

AGE AND SKILLS

This program is designed for PS-PK riders who are not yet riding a bike with pedals.

For the child who has never been on a pushbike to the one close to transitioning to a bike with pedals.
Kids ride with their coach in little pods of three or up to six kids for two coaches.

Note that we try our best to accommodate your requests but our coaches have the best perspective and expertise to offer the optimal experience for your child and the other riders.

Visit How To Choose a Program in our “More Info” Tab.

INSTRUCTOR RATIO

Instructor to rider ratio is 1:3 to allow for safety, confidence building, and maximum individualized attention to each rider’s physical and emotional needs.
Each session is limited to 6 riders only.

SCHEDULE AND LOCATION

Pushbike sessions are offered on Friday from 10:00am to 11:30am.
Riders and their caregivers meet us directly at Phil’s Trailhead.

Our Summer program offers two different sessions of four weeks each:

• First Session from June 24 to July 15.
• Second Session from July 29 to August 19.

COST and REGISTRATION

$240 for each session of four weeks.

Payment Plan available with one installment ($100 deposit).
Feel free to apply for financial aid if needed.

Register for one session at a time or both after May 28, 2022.

Beginner/Intermediate Women MTB Summer 2022

Riding with other women is empowering! Due to popular demand we are offering more sessions for women throughout the summer.

Either you want to keep learning more skills or work on specific trails features, just want to meet other riders, or want to discover new trails, we are adapting our sessions to your goals and needs. Our rides/sessions are guided/coached by our women coaches only with a ratio of 1:6 maximum.

AGE and SKILLS

These sessions are for women of any age (no, really!), from true beginners to intermediate riders, for women who are very beginner mountain bikers or have been riding with us or on their own for more than a year.

If needed, riders are divided into smaller groups for a better experience, depending on their skills, fitness level and goals.

This program is designed for those who have joined us in the spring and want to keep progressing throughout the summer, as well as women who have never mountain biked or have a year or so of mountain biking experience, and want to learn all the basic skills of mountain biking or refine them. 

Skills include: 

1. Position and balance: stability, balancing, range of movement, neutral, ready and climbing positions
2. Operation of controls: efficient cadence, shifting technique, speed control, breaking
3. Terrain awareness: trail scanning, line choice, decision making, anticipation
4. Direction control: leaning the bike more than the body, rotational body movements
5. Pressure control 
6. Timing and Coordination
7. Intro to some maneuvers: dropping, riding skinnies,….

We also discuss gear and bike fitting during this class.

LOCATION and SCHEDULE 

All riders meet directly at trailheads to be determined by your coach.

Thursday, from 4 to 7PM

We offer two different sessions of four weeks each.

• Session 1: June 23 to July 14

• Session 1: July 28 to August 18

REGISTRATION and COST

$160/4 week session

Women Rides for Intermediate to Advanced Riders

AGE and SKILLS

These sessions are for women 18 and older, from intermediate to advanced riders only. NO beginners please (see Thursday sessions).

If needed, our riders are divided into two groups for better experience, depending on their endurance, fitness and skills level. 

DESCRIPTION

Transitioning from our Spring training, our Women Rides allow us to spend four hours together and discover different trails away from the classic Phil’s or Welcome Center meeting spots. It is a time to put in practice all the skills approached in the Spring. None of these trails are for beginner riders, they are rated between blue and black.

Our rides are guided by our women coaches only, Bonnie, Casey, Rebecca and Natasha.

Each ride starts from a different location. Riders meet directly at trailheads and are responsible to organize themselves if there is a shuttle option.

Some of the rides include, but are not limited to Southfork, Northfork-Farewell, Flagline*, Tiddlywinks, Tyler’s Traverse, Mrazek, Metolius Windigo, etc…

*Flagline is only open for session 2.

SCHEDULE

Friday 3 PM-7PM 

We offer two different sessions of four weeks each.

• Session 1: June 24- July 15
• Session 2: July 29- August 19

REGISTRATION 

$200/4 week session

Private Sessions

AGE and SKILLS

Private sessions are for all ages, from absolute beginners to advanced riders, from learning to ride a two wheels bike to learning to drop and jump. 

DESCRIPTION

The only one on one instruction where we are 100% dedicating our attention to your kid! Together we can decide on the length of the session, day and time, and recurrence if desired. You can also have a voice on which instructor you would like to have. We determine the location depending on the riding skills of the rider.

Each session runs for a minimum of 1.5 hours with 30 minutes increment. 

REGISTRATION and COST

The cost of a 90 minutes session is $90.

Register for Private Lessons HERE.

For questions, contact our cycling director at virginie@BendEnduranceAcademy.org 

Semi Private Sessions

AGE and SKILLS

Semi-private sessions are for all ages, from absolute beginners to advanced riders. Ideally, the group should have similar skills and ages for a better experience overall. 

DESCRIPTION

We started our Semi-private sessions under Covid-19 circumstances. Pods of kids who were already doing “class” together or friends who would rather skip the group sessions and exposure to more kids. Semi-private sessions are also ideal for homeschooled/online children who want to ride at a more convenient time during the day. You gather a minimum of two riders to a maximum of five, and we work the details with you. Together we can decide on the length of the session, days and times, and recurrence. You can also have a voice on which instructor you would like to have. We determine the location depending on the riding skills of the riders.

Each session runs for a minimum of 1.5 hours with 30 minutes increment.  

REGISTRATION and COST 

The cost of a 90 minutes session is $150 for the whole group (we divide the price between the number of riders. For example, three different families pay $50 each). Maximum of five riders per group.

Contact our cycling director directly at virginie@BendEnduranceAcademy.org for registration. 

DESCRIPTION

Preschool on a pushbike!

We have designed this program with our younger public in mind- those who have not yet transitioned to a bike with pedals, have never spent two hours away from their caregivers, have never spent time in a group setting, or are not used to the outdoors.

We will spend one and a half hours together, riding our bike and developing a great sense of balance. We build forts, we explore nature, create art, and other activities that will build creativity and social skills.

Each rider provides their own pushbike and a helmet. 

AGE AND SKILLS

This program is designed for PS-PK riders who are not yet riding a bike with pedals. All skill levels are welcome, from children who have never been on a pushbike up to riders close to transitioning to a pedal bike but need a little extra help. Kids ride with their coach in little pods of three or up to six kids for two coaches.

Note that we try our best to accommodate your requests but our coaches have the best perspective and expertise to offer the optimal experience for your child and the other riders.

Visit How To Choose a Program for more information. 

INSTRUCTOR RATIO

Instructor to rider ratio is 1:3 to allow for safety, confidence building, and maximum individualized attention to each rider’s physical and emotional needs.

Each session is limited to 9 riders maximum. 

SCHEDULE AND LOCATION

Choose between Monday or Tuesday session, from 10am to 11:30am.

Riders and their caregivers meet us directly at Phils Trailhead (by the pumptrack).

Our Spring program offers two different sessions.

Early Spring Session from March 28 to April 26, 2022

Late Spring Session from May 2 to May 31, 2022

EARLY SPRING SESSION

MONDAY: March 28, April 4, April 11, April 18, and April 25

TUESDAY: March 29, April 5, April 12, April 19, and April 26

LATE SPRING SESSION

MONDAY: May 2, May 9, May 16, May 23 (no ride on Memorial Day*)

TUESDAY: May 3, May 10, May 17, May 24, May 31 

COST and REGISTRATION

EARLY SPRING SESSION:

MONDAY: $225 (once a week for five weeks)

TUESDAY: $225 (once a week for five weeks)

LATE SPRING SESSION:

MONDAY: $180 (runs for four weeks only)*

THURSDAY: $225 (runs for five weeks)

Payment Plan available with one installment ($100 deposit).

Feel free to apply for financial aid if needed on our Scholarships page.

Register for one session at a time or both after January 22, 2022.

DESCRIPTION

This program is focused on PLAY/SOCIAL SKILLS and RIDING SKILLS 

PLAY/SOCIAL SKILLS

Plenty of time for free play is offered while we move through the trails. Children can play on boulders, logs, and with sticks to build forts. We encourage pretend play and everything the younger public needs to build their social skills. 

RIDING SKILLS- through games and activitiesOur sessions bring emphasis on the following skills:

• Stance and balance, learning to stand up, rolling over small roots and rocks, going downhill with pedals leveled, being relaxed…
• Brakes: when and how to use them.
• Gears (when available): when and how to use them.

The week before the first session, new riders are invited to schedule a Meet and Check visit with their coaches. This gives us the opportunity to check our riders bike and gear, as well as their riding ability. It helps get the kids grouped easily before the first ride. It’s also a time to meet our riders and their caregivers personally so you can share any concerns or questions. 

AGE AND SKILLS

This program is designed for PK-K riders only from true beginners* to intermediate riders.

In order to participate in the Tiny Ones program, riders need to be able to start their bike on their own* though and have a bike with at least one hand brake and mountain bike tires (no slick tires or coaster brakes please). Visit How To Choose a Program and Kids Bike set up guidelines for more details.

Riders are grouped by skills and endurance level after the first session, as well as gear set up. We use four different levels for our grouping, from True Beginner, Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced.

Kids ride with their coach in little pods of three or up to six kids for two coaches.

Note that we try our best to accommodate your requests but our coaches have the best perspective and expertise to offer the optimal experience for your child and the other riders.  

INSTRUCTOR RATIO

Instructor to rider ratio is 1:3 to allow for safety, confidence building, and maximum individualized attention to each rider’s physical and emotional needs.

Each session is limited to 12 riders only. 

SCHEDULE AND LOCATION

Choose between Monday and/or Thursday sessions, from 3 to 5pm.

Riders and their caregivers meet us directly at the trailheads. The first three sessions start from Phil’s TH (at the bottom of the road past the parking lot) and the last two sessions start from the Welcome Center off Century drive.

Our Spring program offers two different sessions.

• Early Spring Session runs for five weeks from March 28 to April 28, 2022
• Late Spring Session runs for five weeks from May 2 to June 2, 2022

 EARLY SPRING SESSION

• MONDAY Tiny Ones 3-5 PM 

From Phil’s Trailhead: ALL EARLY SPRING SESSIONS WILL STAY AT PHILS FOR 2022

• THURSDAY Tiny Ones 3-5 PM

From Phil’s Trailhead: ALL EARLY SPRING SESSIONS WILL STAY AT PHILS FOR 2022

Meet and Check for new riders lasts 20 minutes, March 14th 2022 

LATE SPRING SESSION

• Monday Tiny Ones 3-5 PM

From Phil’s Trailhead: May 2, May 9, May 16From the Welcome Center: May 23 (no ride on Memorial Day*)

• Thursday Tiny Ones 3-5 PM

From Phil’s Trailhead: May 5, May 12, May 19From the Welcome Center: May 26, June 2Meet and Check for new riders lasts 20 minutes, April 25 2022 

COST and REGISTRATION

EARLY SPRING SESSIONS:

• MONDAY: $300 (runs for five weeks)
• THURSDAY: $300 (runs for five weeks)

LATE SPRING SESSIONS: 

• MONDAY: $240 (runs for four weeks only)*
• THURSDAY: $300 (runs for five weeks)

Payment Plan available with one installment of a $100 deposit. Feel free to apply for financial aid if needed. 

DESCRIPTION

This program is focused on RIDING SKILLS mostly with still some emphasis on PLAY/SOCIAL SKILLS, adapting the ratio to the needs of each group.

RIDING SKILLS

Our sessions bring emphasis on the following skills:

• Stance and balance, learning to stand up, being centered, going downhill with pedals leveled, being relaxed…
• Brakes and gears: when and how to use them.
• Vision: anticipating and line choices.
• Cornering skills for more advanced riders with bike/body separation.

PLAY/SOCIAL SKILLS

Plenty of time for free play is offered while we move through the trails. Children can play on boulders and logs, and play with sticks to build forts. We encourage pretend play and everything the younger public needs to build their social skills. 

AGE AND RIDING LEVELS

This program is designed for 1st to 3rd grade riders, true beginners* to intermediate riders.

In order to participate in the Little Ones program, riders* need to be able to start their bike on their own and have a bike with two hand brakes, gears and mountain bike tires (no slick tires please).Visit How To Choose a Program and Kids Bike set up guidelines for more details.

Riders are grouped by skills and endurance level after the first session.Kids ride with their coach in little pods of four or up to eight kids for two coaches. Note that we try our best to accommodate your requests but our coaches have the best perspective and expertise to offer the optimal experience for your child and the other riders.

The week before the first session, new riders are invited to schedule a Meet and Check visit with their coaches. This gives us the opportunity to check our riders bike and gear, as well as their riding ability. It helps get the kids grouped easily before the first ride. It’s also a time for our riders and their caregivers to meet their coaches personally and share any concerns or questions.

INSTRUCTOR RATIO

Instructor to rider ratio is 1:4 to allow for safety, confidence building, and maximum individualized attention to each rider’s physical and emotional needs.

Each session is limited to 20 riders maximum. 

SCHEDULE AND LOCATION

Choose between Tuesday and/or Friday programs, from 3 to 6pm.

Riders and their caregivers meet us directly at the trailheads.The first three sessions start from Phil’s TH (at the bottom of the road past the parking lot) and the last two sessions start from the Welcome Center off Century drive.

For the more advanced groups, your child’s coach may suggest a different meeting location towards the end of the program (meeting at Green gate or Wanoga Sno-Park for example).

The EARLY SPRING session runs for five weeks, from March 29 to April 29.

The LATE SPRING session runs for five weeks from May 3 to June 3.

EARLY SPRING session:

TUESDAY Little Ones 3-6 PM

• ALL EARLY SPRING SESSIONS WILL STAY AT PHILS FOR 2022

FRIDAY Little Ones 3-6 PM

• ALL EARLY SPRING SESSIONS WILL STAY AT PHILS FOR 2022

New rider’s Meet and Check, Monday, March 28 between 5:15 PM and 6:15 PM at Phil’s location.

LATE SPRING session:

TUESDAY Little Ones 3-6 PM

• Start at Phil’s Trailhead: May 3, May 10, May 17
• Start at the Welcome Center: May 24, May 31

FRIDAY Little Ones 3-6 PM

• Start at Phil’s: May 6, May 13, May 20
• Start at the Welcome Center: May 27, June 3

New rider’s Meet and Check, Monday, May 2 between 5:15 PM and 6:15 PM at Phil’s location. 

COST & REGISTRATION

EARLY SPRING session is $330

LATE SPRING session is $330

You can register for one session or both starting January 22, 2022.

Payment Plan available with one installment ($100 deposit).

Feel free to apply for scholarships if you need assistance.

DESCRIPTION

Riders and their caregivers meet their coach directly at Trailheads. Each session balances a mix of fun rides, endurance building, and skill practice with an emphasis on the following skills from less experienced to more experienced riders:

• Position and balance: stability, balancing through a range of motion
• Operation of controls: cadence, shifting technique, speed control, breaking
• Terrain awareness: trail scanning, line choice, decision making, anticipation
• Direction control: leaning the bike, rotational body movements
• Pressure control: pumping, absorbing

In order to participate in Youth MTB, riders need to have a mountain bike (hardtail or full suspension) with two hand-brakes, gears and mountain bike tires (no slick tires). The bike must be in perfect riding condition. 

Check How to Choose a program and Kids Bike set up guidelines for more details.

The riders are also responsible to bring their own gear (helmet, knee pads, backpack, etc…). Although not mandatory, knee pads, elbow pads, gloves and glasses or goggles are highly recommended. 

AGE & SKILLS

Youth Mountain Biking is designed for 4th and 5th graders only. For the recreational riders, from true beginners to advanced riders.

Riders break into smaller groups based on their skills, endurance levels and goals. Instructor to kids ratio is 1:5 to allow for more individualized coaching and confidence building.  

SCHEDULE & LOCATION

The first few sessions of each program start from Phil’s TH (lower parking lot)  and move to the Welcome Center off Century Drive for the last ones. In order to offer more challenging trails with different features, the more advanced group may also start from a different location later in the program. Your coach will let you know if this is the case.

Each session runs for three hours from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM Monday and/or Friday.  

EARLY SPRING session:

ALL EARLY SPRING SESSIONS WILL STAY AT PHILS FOR 2022

• MONDAY (five-week program) from March 28 to April 25
• FRIDAY (five weeks) from April 1 to April 29 

LATE SPRING session:

• MONDAY (four weeks) from May 2 to May 23
• FRIDAY (five-week program) from May 6 to June 3 

REGISTRATION & COST

You can register your rider for one Youth MTB once a week or twice a week (register separately) for EARLY SPRING session or LATE SPRING session or both after January 22, 2022.

EARLY SPRING:

• Monday- $270
• Friday- $270

LATE SPRING:

• Monday- $216
• Friday- $270 

Payment Plan available with one installment ($100 deposit). Consider applying for financial aid if you need to.

DESCRIPTION

Instructor to rider ratio is 1:6 Each session balances a mix of fun rides, building endurance and skill practice with an emphasis on the following skills from less experienced to more experienced riders:

• Position and balance: stability, balancing, range of movement, neutral, ready and climbing positions
• Operation of controls: efficient cadence, shifting technique, speed control, breaking
• Terrain awareness: trail scanning, line choice, decision making, anticipation
• Direction control: leaning the bike, rotational body movements
• Pressure control: pumping, absorbing

A mountain bike is needed to participate in the program, hardtails or full suspension. The bike must be in perfect riding condition.

The riders are responsible to bring their own gear (helmet, knee pads, backpack, etc…). Visit How to Choose a Program for more information. 

AGE and SKILLS

Junior Mountain Biking is for Middle School and High School riders.

The program is developed for recreational riders, from beginner to advanced. Riders are grouped according to skills and endurance levels to focus on further progression.

SCHEDULE and LOCATION

Wednesdays 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM 

The EARLY SPRING session runs for five weeks from March 30 to April 27.

ALL EARLY SPRING SESSIONS WILL STAY AT PHILS FOR 2022

The LATE SPRING session also runs for five weeks from May 4 to June 1.

Riders meet directly at Trail Heads with the first few rides starting from Phil’s TH (lower parking lot) and moving to the Welcome Center off Century Drive. The advanced group’s coaches may suggest a different location towards the end of each Spring session to allow access to more difficult trails. They will inform you if needed. 

REGISTRATION and COST

EARLY SPRING Junior MTB: $200.

LATE SPRING Junior MTB: $200 

Registration for one or both Spring sessions opens January 22, 2022.

Payment with one installment available ($100 deposit). Consider applying for financial aid if needed.

DESCRIPTION

This program is for the kids who are attracted by gravity and enjoy riding downhill more than pedaling up. Our 4 hours sessions allow us to shuttle our riders two to three times. Trails include but are not limited to Funner, Tiddlywinks, Taylor’s Traverse, South Fork, Mrazek, Whoops…   While each session is about having fun and making friends who share the same passion, it is also about learning better mountain biking and downhill specific skills and maneuvers involving body position, cornering, dropping, jumping, etc…

• Position and balance: stability, balancing, range of movement, neutral, ready and climbing positions
• Operation of controls: efficient cadence, shifting technique, speed control, breaking
• Terrain awareness: trail scanning, line choice, decision making, anticipation
• Direction control: leaning the bike, rotational body movements
• Pressure control: pumping, absorbing

The riders are responsible to bring their own bike and gear (full face helmets or half shell helmets, elbow pads, gloves, glasses or goggles, and knee pads are recommended). Full suspension bikes are highly recommended for this program although not mandatory.

This program is limited to 20 riders. 

AGE & SKILLS

For 4th grade to highschool riders with intermediate to advanced skills only. Absolutely NO beginners please (Youth MTB and Junior MTB are more appropriate programs for beginners).

We will sometimes allow little shredders from 3rd grade to join with invitation or referral. Please contact Virginie directly at 503-914-7616 or virginie@BendEnduranceAcademy.org to discuss your child’s riding skills and experience and/or set up an evaluation time if necessary.Visit How to Choose a Program for more information.

We regroup riders by age and ability with a coach/riders ratio of 1:5 (1:6 with the older group) 

SCHEDULE & MEETING LOCATION

We meet in the parking lot of the Best Western Peppertree and shuttle our riders in our Bend Endurance Academy vans.The program runs on Wednesday from 3pm to 7pm.We have two consecutive sessions of five weeks each.

The EARLY SPRING session runs from March 30 to April 27.

The LATE SPRING session runs from May 4 to June 1st. 

REGISTRATION & COST

EARLY SPRING Enduro/DH $350* (5 sessions)

LATE SPRING Enduro/DH $350* (5 sessions) 

*BEA Cascade Armory mountain bike jersey included with registration.

Payment plan available with one installment ($100 deposit). Consider applying for a scholarship if needed.

AGE & SKILLS

For 4th grade to high school riders with intermediate to advanced mountain biking skills only. Absolutely NO beginners please (Youth MTB and Junior MTB are more appropriate programs for beginners).

Early Spring program will be reviewing some more basic jumping skills.

Late Spring program we will move to more advanced jumping skills. 

Visit How to Choose a Program for more information. We exceptionally allow little shredders from 3rd grade to join with invitation or referral. Please contact Virginie directly at 503-914 7616 or virginie@BendEnduranceAcademy.org to discuss your child’s riding skills and experience and/or set up an evaluation time if necessary. 

DESCRIPTION

We are excited to continue our Jumping program. Under the supervision and instruction of our coaches, your kid can learn better jump skills in a safer environment.

The first session riders will spend their instruction time at the Redmond Pumptrack (riders meet in the parking lot of the Best Western Peppertree and ride BEA’s van). The next four sessions, riders meet directly at The Lair.

Our coach/riders ratio is 1:6. While each session is about having fun and making friends who share the same passion, it is also about learning better jumping specific skills, to learn more tricks and jump more safely.

The riders are responsible to bring their own bike and gear (full face helmets are HIGHLY recommended for the Lair, knee pads and elbow pads too). Dirt Jumpers are a plus but not necessary for this program; BMX or mountain bikes are acceptable. The bike must be in perfect riding condition.

SCHEDULE & MEETING LOCATION

For the first session of each program we meet in the parking lot of the Best Western Peppertree and shuttle our riders in our Bend Endurance Academy vans to the Redmond pumptrack.

5 Week program – Wednesdays, 3-6pm 

REGISTRATION & COST

Early Spring Program: $290 (5 sessions)

Late Spring Program: $290 (5 sessions)

Our spring program is limited to 12 riders.

AGE AND SKILLS

For girls from middle school and high school. This program is designed with recreational riders in mind, all levels are welcome. Riders are grouped by age, skills, fitness, goal and experience. 

DESCRIPTION

Riding with other female riders can be pretty powerful and less intimidating! These sessions are organized for girls and by women only. Bring a friend with you and make plenty of new ones!

The first few rides start from Phil’s Trailhead and move to the Welcome Center off Century Drive. The more advanced group may start from a different location such as Green gate or Wanoga when their coach feels the group is ready; they will let you know ahead of time if they need to.

Our instructor to kids ratio is 1:5 to allow our instructors to offer the best-individualized approach in our training. An extra “floater” instructor is also available if needed.

Each session balances a mix of fun riding, building endurance, and skill practice with an emphasis on the following skills from less experienced to more experienced riders:

1. Position and balance: stability, balancing, range of movement, neutral, ready and climbing positions
2. Operation of controls: efficient cadence, shifting technique, speed control, breaking
3. Terrain awareness: trail scanning, line choice, decision making, anticipation
4. Direction control: leaning the bike, rotational body movements, body/bike separation
5. Pressure control: pumping, absorbing

A mountain bike is needed to participate in the program, hardtails or full suspension. The riders are responsible to bring their own bike and gear (helmet, knee pads, backpack, etc…). The bike must be in perfect riding condition. 

Visit How to Choose a Program for more details. 

SCHEDULE and LOCATIONS

3 PM to 6 PM each Wednesday 

The EARLY SPRING session runs for five weeks from March 30 to April 27

The LATE SPRING session runs also for five weeks from May 4 to June 1 

REGISTRATION and COST

EARLY SPRING Girls MTB $300

LATE SPRING Girls MTB $300 

Payment Plan available with one installment ($100 deposit). Consider applying for financial aid if needed.

Women Rides

Riding with other women is empowering! Whether you want to learn some new skills or work on specific trails features, meet other riders, or want to discover new trails, we work your goals and needs into our sessions.

Our rides/sessions are guided/coached by our women coaches only with a ratio of 1:8 maximum. 

AGE & SKILLS

These sessions are for women of any age (no, really!), from true beginners to intermediate riders.

We offer a Women True Beginner-Beginner program as well as an Intermediate program. Within each program, our riders are divided into smaller groups of eight (maximum) for a better experience. Groups depend on skills, fitness level, and goals.

The Women True Beginner-Beginner program is designed for those who have never mountain biked or have a year or so of mountain biking experience, and want to learn all the basic skills of mountain biking or refine them. 

Skills include: 

• Position and balance: stability, balancing, range of movement, neutral, ready and climbing positions
• Operation of controls: efficient cadence, shifting technique, speed control, breaking
• Terrain awareness: trail scanning, line choice, decision making, anticipation

We also discuss gear and bike fitting during this class.

The Women Intermediate program is designed for those who feel at ease enough on the mountain bike to challenge themselves to the next level. Participants should have 2+ years of mountain biking experience.

We review the above skills if needed and tackle the following ones:

• Direction control: leaning the bike more than the body, rotational body movements
• Pressure control: absorbing, pumping
• Timing and Coordination

We also teach basic bike mechanics such as changing a tube (even if you ride tubeless, it’s handy!), fixing a broken chain, adjusting your gears… 

LOCATION and SCHEDULE 

All riders meet directly at trailheads but at different locations depending on the program.

• The Women True Beginner-Beginner program starts from Phil’s Trailhead for the first few rides and moves to the Welcome Center for the last ones.
• The Women Intermediate program meets at a different location each week. Your coach sends an email a few days ahead. Feel free to suggest some spots too!

We offer an afternoon session on Tuesday as well as a morning session on Thursday for each program.

• EARLY SPRING TUESDAY session from 3 PM to 6 PM, March 29 to April 26
• EARLY SPRING THURSDAY session from 10 AM to 1 PM, March 31 to April 28
• LATE SPRING TUESDAY session from 3 PM to 6 PM, May 3 to May 31
• LATE SPRING THURSDAY session from 10 AM to 1 PM, May 5 to June 2 

REGISTRATION and COST

The cost is the same for Women True Beginner-Beginner and Intermediate.

EARLY SPRING: $200 (five weeks)

LATE SPRING: $200 (five weeks) 

Register for the EARLY SPRING or LATE SPRING programs or both, starting January 22. Payment plan available with a $100 deposit.

NEW! Men’s Rides

For men who want to learn some new skills or work on specific trails features, meet other riders, or want to discover new trails. We are adapting our sessions to your goals and needs.

Our rides are guided/coached with a ratio of 1:8 maximum. 

AGE & SKILLS

These sessions are for men of any age (no, really!), from true beginners to intermediate riders.

We offer a Men True Beginner-Beginner program as well as an Intermediate program. Within each program, our riders are divided into smaller groups of eight maximum for a better experience, depending on their skills, fitness level and goals.

The Men True Beginner-Beginner program is designed for those who have never mountain biked or have just a few years of mountain biking experience, and want to learn all the basic skills of mountain biking or refine them. 

Skills include: 

• Position and balance: stability, balancing, range of movement, neutral, ready and climbing positions
• Operation of controls: efficient cadence, shifting technique, speed control, breaking
• Terrain awareness: trail scanning, line choice, decision making, anticipation

We discuss gear and bike fitting during this class. We also teach basic bike mechanics such as changing a tube (even if you ride tubeless, it’s handy!), fixing a broken chain, adjusting your gears…

The Men Intermediate program is designed for those who feel at ease enough on the mountain bike to challenge themselves to the next level. Participants should have 2+ years of mountain biking experience.

We review the above skills if needed and tackle the following ones:

• Direction control: leaning the bike more than the body, rotational body movements
• Pressure control: pumping, absorbing
• Timing and Coordination

LOCATION & SCHEDULE 

All riders meet directly at trailheads but at different locations depending on the program.

• The Men True Beginner-Beginner program starts from Phil’s Trailhead for the first few rides and moves to the Welcome Center for the last ones.
• The Men Intermediate program meets at a different location each week. Your coach sends an email a few days ahead. Feel free to suggest some spots too!

All our Men programs run on Fridays. We offer a morning program from 10 AM to 1 PM, and an afternoon program from 4 PM to 7 PM.

• EARLY SPRING session runs from April 1 to April 29
• LATE SPRING session runs from May 6 to June 3

REGISTRATION & COST

The cost is the same for Men True Beginner-Beginner or Intermediate.

EARLY SPRING session: $200 (five weeks)

LATE SPRING session: $200 (five weeks)

Register for the EARLY SPRING or LATE SPRING session or both, starting January 22. Payment plan available with a $100 deposit.

Homeschool Little Ones

DESCRIPTION

This program is focused on RIDING SKILLS with some time for PLAY/SOCIAL SKILLS.

RIDING SKILLS

Our sessions bring emphasis on the following skills:

• Stance and balance, learning to stand up, being centered, rolling over small roots and rocks, going downhill with pedals leveled, being relaxed…
• Brakes and gears: when and how to use them.
• Vision: anticipating and line choices. 
• Cornering skills (for more advanced riders).

PLAY/SOCIAL SKILLS

Plenty of time for free play is offered while we move through the trails. We encourage pretend play and everything the younger public needs to build their social skills.  

AGE AND SKILLS

This program is designed for 5 to 8 years old riders from true beginners* to intermediate riders. In order to participate in the Homeschool Little Ones program, riders* need to be able to start their bike on their own.5-6 years old need to have a bike with at least one hand brake (no coaster brakes) and mountain bike tires (no slick tires please).

7-8 years old need to have a mountain bike with two hand brakes and gears. Visit How To Choose a Program and Kids Bike set up guidelines for more details.

Riders are grouped by age, skills, goals and endurance level after the first session.Kids ride with their coach in little pods of four or up to eight kids for two coaches.

Note that we try our best to accommodate your requests but our coaches have the best perspective and expertise to offer the optimal experience for your child and the other riders.

 For safety reasons BEA’s coaches reserve the right to refuse a rider to participate if the bike is unsafe or unrideable for them. The bike will need to be fixed before starting or returning to the program. For the same reasons, if your child is unable to start his/her bike independently, our coaches may ask you to come back when the skill is mastered or switch to one on one private setting. 

INSTRUCTOR RATIO

Instructor to riders ratio is 1:4 to allow for safety, confidence building, and maximum individualized attention to each rider’s physical and emotional needs.Each session is limited to 16 riders maximum. 

SCHEDULE & LOCATION

The EARLY SPRING program runs for five weeks on Mondays from March 28 to April 24, 9:30am to 12pm.

• Start at Phil’s Trailhead: March 28, April 3, April 10
• Start at the Welcome Center: April 17, April 24

The LATE SPRING program runs for four weeks on Mondays only from May 1 to May 22, 9:30am to 12pm.

• Start at Phil’s Trailhead: May 1, May 8 
• Start at the Welcome Center: May 15, May 22

Our more advanced group may start one or twice from a different location like Green Gate or Wanoga Sno-Park; your coach will let you know if they feel that the group is ready to venture on different trails. 

COST & REGISTRATION

EARLY SPRING session is $225 

LATE SPRING session is $180

You can register for any of the two programs or both starting January 22, 2022. Please consider asking for a scholarship if you need it. Payment plan with one installment available ($100 deposit).

Homeschool Youth Mountain Biking

AGE AND SKILLS

Homeschool Youth Mountain Biking is designed for 9 years old and older.For the recreational riders, from true beginners to intermediate. Riders break into smaller groups based on their skills and endurance levels. Instructor to kids ratio is 1:5 to allow for more individualized coaching and confidence building. 

DESCRIPTION

Each session balances a mix of fun rides, building endurance, and skill practice with an emphasis on the following skills from less experienced to more experienced riders:

1. Position and balance: stability, balancing through a range of motion
2. Operation control: gears and brakes, how and when to use them
3. Terrain awareness: trail scanning, line choices, decision making, anticipation
4. Direction control: leaning the bike, rotational body movements, bike/body separation
5. Pressure control: absorbing, pumping

In order to participate in Homeschool Youth MTB, riders need to have a mountain bike with two hand-brakes, gears and mountain bike tires (no slick tires).

Check How to Choose a program and Kids Bike set up guidelines for more details.

For safety reasons and respect for the other riders, BEA’s coaches reserve the right to send a rider home if the bike is unsafe or unrideable for them. The bike will need to be fixed prior to return to the program. 

SCHEDULE & LOCATION

Riders and their caregivers meet directly at Trailheads. The first few sessions start from Phil’s TH (lower parking lot) and later on move to the Welcome Center off Century Drive. For the more advanced groups, our coaches may suggest a different start such as Green Gate or Wanoga if they feel their riders are ready for more challenging trails. They will inform you a week before if they need it.

Each session runs for two and half hours on Monday from 9:30am to 12pm.

The EARLY SPRING session runs for five weeks on Mondays from March 28 to April 25.

• ALL EARLY SPRING SESSIONS WILL STAY AT PHILS FOR 2022

The LATE SPRING session runs for four weeks on Mondays from May 2 to May 23. 

• Start at Phil’s Trailhead: May 2, May 9 
• Start at the Welcome Center: May 16, May 23

REGISTRATION & COST 

EARLY SPRING session is $200 

LATE SPRING session is $160 

You can register for any of the two programs or both starting January 22, 2022.

Payment plan with one installment available ($100 deposit). Please consider asking for a scholarship if you need it.

Cascades Academy

DESCRIPTION

Our rides mostly focus on riding skills with still some emphasis on play/social skills for the younger kids. We recognize the need for these skills while we move through the trails. Children can play on boulders and logs, build forts, etc… We encourage pretend play and everything the younger public needs to build their social skills. 

RIDING SKILLS

Our sessions bring emphasis on the following skills:

• Position and balance: stability, balancing through a range of movements
• Operation of controls: cadence, shifting technique, speed control, breaking
• Terrain awareness: trail scanning, line choice, decision making, anticipation
• Direction control: leaning the bike, rotational body movements (for more advanced and older riders).
• Pressure Control: Pumping, absorbing

AGE AND SKILLS

This program is designed for 1st to 5th grade riders  from true beginners* to intermediate and advanced riders.

Kids are grouped by age, skills, goals and endurance level after the first session.

*In order to participate in the program, riders need to be able to start their bike on their own and have a bike with two hand brakes, gears and mountain bike tires (no slick tires or coaster brakes please). Riders need to show up with their helmet and bike ready to ride. Gloves, glasses, knee pads, and elbow pads are recommended.

For safety reasons, BEA’s coaches reserve the right to refuse a rider to participate if the bike is unsafe or unrideable. The bike will need to be fixed before starting/returning to the program. For the same reasons, if your child is unable to start his/her bike independently, our coaches may ask you to come back when the skill is mastered. Visit Kids Bike set up guidelines for more details. 

INSTRUCTOR RATIO

Instructor to rider ratio is 1:4 to allow for safety, confidence building, and maximum individualized attention to each rider’s physical and emotional needs. Kids ride with their coach in little pods of four or up to eight kids for two coaches.

If you or your child requests to ride with a friend or a sibling, note that we will move both riders in the level of the less advanced rider if necessary.  Note that we try our best to accommodate your requests but our coaches have the best perspective and expertise to offer the optimal experience for your child and the other riders. 

SCHEDULE AND LOCATION

Thursday, from 3:30pm to 6:30pm.

Bend Endurance Academy coaches pick up the riders directly from Cascades Academy’s campus and drop them off at the Best Western Peppertree in town, after their ride.

We offer two sessions this Spring, running for four weeks each.

• The EARLY SPRING program runs from April 7 to April 28.
• The LATE SPRING program runs from May 5 to May 26.

COST & REGISTRATION

Each program costs $260.

Enroll for EARLY SPRING and/or Late SPRING after January 22, 2022. 

Payment Plan available with one installment ($100 deposit). Please apply for tuition assistance if needed.

Bend International School

DESCRIPTION

Our rides mostly focus on riding skills with still some emphasis on play/social skills for the younger kids. We recognize the need for these skills while we move through the trails. Children can play on boulders and logs, build forts, etc… We encourage pretend play and everything the younger public needs to build their social skills. 

RIDING SKILLS

1. Position and balance: stability, balancing through a range of movements
2. Operation of controls: cadence, shifting technique, speed control, breaking
3. Terrain awareness: trail scanning, line choice, decision making, anticipation
4. Direction control: leaning the bike, rotational body movements (for more advanced and older riders).
5. Pressure Control: Pumping, absorbing

For our younger public, we recognize the need for social skills and breaks while we move through the trails. Children can play on boulders and logs, build forts, etc… We encourage pretend play and everything the younger public needs to build their social skills.  

AGE AND SKILLS

This program is designed for K to 8th grade riders from true beginners*, beginners to intermediate and advanced riders.

Riders are grouped by age, skills, endurance level and goal after the first session.

*In order to participate in the program, riders need to be able to start their bike on their own and have a bike with two hand brakes, gears and mountain bike tires (no slick tires nor coaster brakes please). Riders need to show up with their helmet and bike ready to ride. Gloves, glasses, knee pads, and elbow pads are recommended.

For safety reasons BEA’s coaches reserve the right to refuse a rider to participate if the bike is unsafe or unrideable. The bike will need to be fixed before starting/returning to the program. For the same reasons, if your child is unable to start his/her bike independently, our coaches may ask you to come back when the skill is mastered. 

Visit Kids Bike set up guidelines for more details. 

INSTRUCTOR RATIO

Instructor to rider ratio is 1:4 for kids 3rd grade and below to allow for safety, confidence building, and maximum individualized attention to each rider’s physical and emotional needs.

Kids ride with their coach in little pods of four or up to eight kids for two coaches.Instructor to rider ratio is 1:5 for riders 4th grade and above. 

If you or your child requests to ride with a friend or a sibling, note that we will move both riders in the level of the less advanced rider if necessary. We always try our best to accommodate your requests but our coaches have the best perspective and expertise to offer the optimal experience for your child and the other riders.  

SCHEDULE AND LOCATION

Monday, from 3:30pm to 7:00pm.

Bend Endurance Academy coaches pick up the riders directly from Bend International School and drop them off at the Best Western Peppertree in town, after their sessions.

Most rides start from Phil’s trailhead and the Welcome Center but the advanced and intermediate riders in older groups may be shuttled to other trailheads (Wanoga, Green Gate,…).Our Spring program offers two different sessions:

• EARLY SPRING Session runs for five weeks from March 28 to April 25.
• LATE SPRING Session runs for four weeks from May 2 to May 23.

COST & REGISTRATION

EARLY SPRING Session- $295 

LATE SPRING Session- $240 

You can purchase one session or two sessions early on after January 22, 2022.

Spring sessions will be limited to 20 riders. We offer a Payment Plan with one installment ($100 deposit) as well as Tuition assistance for those who need it.

Trinity Lutheran School Spring 2022

DESCRIPTION

This mountain biking program is offered by Bend Endurance Academy.

Our riders are picked up directly from school at 3pm.

RIDING SKILLS

Our sessions bring emphasis on the following skills:

• Position and balance: stability, balancing through a range of movements
• Operation of controls: cadence, shifting technique, speed control, breaking
• Terrain awareness: trail scanning, line choice, decision making, anticipation
• Direction control: leaning the bike, rotational body movements (for more advanced and older riders). 

AGE AND SKILLS

This program is designed for riders 8 to 12 years old, from true beginners to intermediate and advanced riders.

Kids are grouped by age, skills, goals and endurance level after the first session.

Riders are responsible to bring their bike and equipment to school in the morning of the ride.

For safety reasons, BEA’s coaches reserve the right to refuse a rider to participate if the bike is unsafe or unrideable. The bike will need to be fixed before starting/returning to the program. Visit Kids Bike set up guidelines for more details.

INSTRUCTOR RATIO

Instructor to rider ratio is 1:5 to allow for safety, confidence building, and maximum individualized attention to each rider’s physical and emotional needs. Kids ride with their coach in little pods of five or up to then kids for two coaches.

Note that we try our best to accommodate your requests but our coaches have the best perspective and expertise to offer the optimal experience for your child and the other riders. 

SCHEDULE AND LOCATION

Tuesday, from 3:00pm to 6:30pm.

Bend Endurance Academy coaches pick up the riders directly from Trinity Lutheran School and drop them off at the Best Western Peppertree in town, after their ride.

We offer two sessions this Spring, running for four weeks each.

• The EARLY SPRING program runs from April 5 to April 26.
• The LATE SPRING program runs from May 3 to May 31.

COST 

Early Spring: $260 (four sessions). 

Late Spring: $325 (five sessions). 

Payment Plan available with one installment ($100 deposit).Enroll directly from Bend Endurance Academy’s website

Private Sessions

AGE and SKILLS

Private sessions are for all ages, from absolute beginners to advanced riders, from learning to ride a two wheels bike to learning to drop and jump. 

DESCRIPTION

The only one on one instruction where we are 100% dedicating our attention to your kid! Together we can decide on the length of the session, day and time, and recurrence if desired. You can also have a voice on which instructor you would like to have. We determine the location depending on the riding skills of the rider.

Each session runs for a minimum of 1.5 hours with 30 minutes increment. 

REGISTRATION and COST

The cost of a 90 minutes session is $90.

Register for Private Lessons HERE.

For questions, contact our cycling director at virginie@BendEnduranceAcademy.org 

Semi Private Sessions

AGE and SKILLS

Semi-private sessions are for all ages, from absolute beginners to advanced riders. Ideally, the group should have similar skills and ages for a better experience overall. 

DESCRIPTION

We started our Semi-private sessions under Covid-19 circumstances. Pods of kids who were already doing “class” together or friends who would rather skip the group sessions and exposure to more kids. Semi-private sessions are also ideal for homeschooled/online children who want to ride at a more convenient time during the day. You gather a minimum of two riders to a maximum of five, and we work the details with you. Together we can decide on the length of the session, days and times, and recurrence. You can also have a voice on which instructor you would like to have. We determine the location depending on the riding skills of the riders.

Each session runs for a minimum of 1.5 hours with 30 minutes increment.  

REGISTRATION and COST 

The cost of a 90 minutes session is $150 for the whole group (we divide the price between the number of riders. For example, three different families pay $50 each). Maximum of five riders per group.

Contact our cycling director directly at virginie@BendEnduranceAcademy.org for registration. 

How to Choose a Program

Many factors influence which programs are best for your child.

Age, Ability, Goals, Equipment & Experience

Age limits do not define ability but they keep riders in appropriate social settings with their peers. Please respect the age limits when you enroll. Start in a slower group or easier program to learn the basics. This fixes “gaps” in skills and promotes faster learning and means more fun and safety for everyone!

• Pushbikes: PS-PK, all levels are welcome.
• Tiny Ones: PK-K, all levels are welcome but need to be able to start their bike on their own.
• Little Ones: 1st-3rd grade, all levels are welcome, from true beginners to intermediate recreational riders. 
• Youth Mountain Biking (or Youth MTB): 4th-5th grade; recreational riders, all levels are welcome.
• Junior Mountain Biking (or Junior MTB): Middle School and High School; recreational riders, all levels are welcome.
• Girls Mountain Biking (or Girls MTB): 6th grade and above; recreational riders, all levels are welcome.
• Enduro/DH: 4th grade and above. ABSOLUTELY NO BEGINNERS, from intermediate to advanced riders only. 3rd graders can join through invitation, recommendation, or evaluation only. Contact our cycling director for details at Virginie@bendenduranceacademy.org
• Enduro/Downhill Racing Team: 4th grade and above, with 3rd graders under invitation only. ABSOLUTELY NO BEGINNERS, from intermediate to advanced riders only.
• Women Mountain Biking (or Women MTB): 18+, all levels are welcome. If you are new to mountain biking or have less than two years of mountain biking experience, choose True Beginner-Beginner program. For Intermediate-Advanced program, you should have 2+ years of mountain biking experience and be comfortable riding black trails. For those with road biking experience, consider yourself a beginner mountain biker as riding trails requires very different set of skills.
• Men MTB: 18+, all levels are welcome. If you are new to mountain biking or have less than two years of mountain biking experience, choose True Beginner-Beginner program. For Intermediate-Advanced program, you should have 2+ years of mountain biking experience and be comfortable riding black trails. For those with road biking experience, consider yourself a beginner mountain biker as riding trails requires very different set of skills.

Riding Goals

All our programs have the same goals:

• Having fun together.
• Making new friends.
• Learning new skills.
• Learning to ride in a group safely and courteously.
• Creating long-lasting respect for & appreciation of our trails and natural environment.
• Exploring new trails and making improvements on familiar ones.
• Gaining fitness and confidence so our kids want to ride more.

If your child wants to enjoy a fun ride while learning some skills, Tiny Ones, Little Ones, Youth MTB, Junior MTB, and Girls MTB are the perfect fit.Girls are welcome to all our programs, not only Girls MTB!

Enduro/DH programs focus on gravity specifically: we shuttle our riders for more time riding down!

If your child wants to race Enduro and/or Downhill, our racing Team welcomes everyone at an intermediate to advanced level. We encourage at least one race per season.

If your child enjoys more time in the air, Jumping is the right program.

Friends & Siblings

We encourage riders to group-up with their friends if it is appropriate for the group and the chosen program.

For safety reasons, we move kids who want to ride together to the level of the least experienced riders.

The Equipment (see specific kids bike set up guidelines for more details).

We outline the minimums or recommendations for bikes and gear — this is a huge safety concern for us if a rider’s bike is either unsafe or not correct for the group for which you have enrolled, so please follow these guidelines and ask for assistance if needed.

If a rider shows up with a bike that is unrideable or unsafe, BEA reserves the right to send the rider home and ask to fix the bike before the following session. 

If you don’t have the time nor the skills to fix your child’s bike, we suggest taking your bike to a local bike shop for a check-up and tune before enrolling in our programs. Our safety checks can only make assessments — we cannot fix major problems. Bikes need constant maintenance; the more your kid rides, the more hours you’re gonna have to spend on his/her bike!

• For ages 2 and half to 4 years old, we recommend a pushbike or 12″ wheels bike with at least one hand brake-no coaster brake (bike pedal brake). No slick or plastic tires.
• For ages 4 to 7 we recommend 16” wheels or larger with at least one hand brake -no coaster brake (bike pedal brake). Gears are recommended but not mandatory. No slick tires.
• For ages 7 and 8 we recommend 20″ wheels or larger, two hand brakes. Gears are highly recommended. No slick tires.
• For age 9+ we recommend a minimum 24″ or 26″ wheels mountain bike with 2-brakes and gears required.
• For our Enduro/DH and Racing program, we highly recommend riders to have a full-suspension bike. Full face helmets and knee pads are mandatory for some rides in the Enduro/DH program. Eye protection in the form of goggles or glasses are highly recommended.
• For the Jumping program, we recommend a dirt jumper but a BMX or a mountain bike work too.

Contact Natasha if you need help with bikes and gear protection.

Specific Kids Bike Set Up and Gear Guidelines 

Source www.pmbia.org | © 2019 PMBI Association

Equipment set up and maintenance is a key part to managing risk, especially with children. A bike that is not working or fitted properly to a child, greatly increases risk. Kids mountain bikes are not just smaller versions of an adult mountain bike. There are some key things to consider to ensure the bike is safe and comfortable for your child to ride.

TIRE PRESSURE

Kids are smaller and weigh less, and this is more so the younger they get. We see tires with too much pressure in them. This compromises traction, comfort and therefore safety and enjoyment. A good judge to measure suitable tire pressure for any rider, is if the rider themselves can “squash” the tire. With this exception of perhaps really 4 years old, this holds true most of the time and is a good reference point to at least start determining tire pressure.

Regardless, a kid’s tire pressures can be as low as 8 or 10psi, ranging up to 20psi, depending on the kid and the type of bike/tire. With the advent of kids 20” fat bikes, these figures are perfectly reasonable. An adult should be able to squash a 4 – 6 yr old’s bike tire, pretty easily.

BRAKES

Kids typically have smaller and weaker hands, so it’s important that the brakes are set up accordingly. 

• LEVER ANGLE: Similar to an adult bike, the lever angle should be slightly higher than the angle of the forearms, when standing. 4 – 6 yr olds sit down a lot. Lever angle should be mostly set up for sitting down, rather than standing, and therefore by slightly higher.
• LEVER REACH: Take the time to ensure the lever reach is such that your child does not need to roll their wrists forward, to reach the lever. Bring the lever as close to the grip as is needed, and then adjust the brake accordingly (so the ‘bite’ point is still reasonable and the brake responsive).
• BITE POINT (see picture): For any kid learning to use hand brakes for the first time, it can help to bring the bite point of the brake closer to the bars. This makes the brake less responsive, while they are learning on gentle terrain and slow speeds. As soon as they are comfortable using the front brake gradually, adjust the bite point back to normal, to ensure correct braking power. However, a closer bite point will make it easier for smaller hands to brake with more power.

Bite point

• BRAKE CABLE FRICTION: Poorly maintained cable brakes can significantly reduce the braking power, when a kid has smaller and/or weaker hands. Many kids’ bikes are dangerous simply because the child cannot squeeze the lever hard enough, to brake effectively. When we also consider that kids can get tired more easily, especially their hands, this problem can be made even worse. 

• HYDRAULIC DISC BRAKES: This is why we recommend hydraulic disc brakes, when possible, even for kids bikes. This is because they are much more reliable from a maintenance point of view and are often much smoother and easier for the kids to operate. It’s less about how powerful the brake is but more about how easy it is for the kids to use. More powerful brakes mean your child doesn’t have to squeeze as hard, meaning less fatigue which is very important.

SEAT HEIGHT

NEW RIDERS: Any kids newer to riding, can have a lower seat, so their feet can touch the ground, when seated on the bike. This is especially true for kids around 4 – 6 years old. Their ability to react and recover when they lose stability is lower. Typically, if they start to fall, they fall! Allowing them to comfortably touch the ground (almost flat feet) while seated, is key to allowing them a margin of error to recover. Also, newer riders tend to sit down a lot more since they haven’t developed the same balance and control of the bike, to enable them to stand up with confidence.

Pros: More confidence inspiring, safer, easier for kids to learn, easier to start and stop.

Cons: Less power when pedaling and potentially more fatigue.

BIKE FIT

Kids can grow very quickly! It is therefore reasonable to expect that at some point, a kid’s bike may be too small or too large, and within reason, this is okay. Bikes that are a bit too small can be a good learning tool, as can bikes that are a bit too large. However, safety is paramount, so if the size of a kids bike is simply making it difficult for them to ride safely, a new bike will definitely be recommended. Thinner grips, smaller seats and pedals, can also help make a bike fit more comfortably and safely.

Bike fit can also be adjusted based on the type of riding. Some rides that are on pavement/gravel road could have a bike fit with a higher seat. When trying an easy single track, the seat could be lowered. This will promote the best position for strength and mobility. Higher = better position for strength. Lower = better for getting on and off and pedaling while standing.

This cheeky monkey is between bike sizes; he’s getting a little big for his 16” but is still a bit small for his fat tire 20” bike. 

He can start and stop easily on his 16” but it has no gears and smaller wheels. He can both reach the ground with his toes and has good leg extension on the seat. This is a sign the bike may soon be too small.

He needs help to get started on his 20” bike, but once he’s going, he finds it much easier to keep up with everyone, because of the bigger wheels and gears.There’s always pro’s and con’s to bikes that are too small or large!

CLOTHING & PROTECTION

Kids mountain bikes are better than ever. This also means more kids on real, single track mountain bike trails. Consequently, these kids are at more of a risk of getting hurt, than ever before. It’s therefore crucial that kids not only have well maintained and properly fitted bikes, but also the good quality and correctly fitted helmets, shoes, gloves and body armor.

HYDRATION PACKS

While great for carrying water, snacks, a spare tube and so on, these also double as great back/skin protectors. With kids’ specific packs available, these are a great option!

CARRYING PACKS – ✴ Encouraging kids, even from an early age, to carry their own gear and supplies, is great to teach them independence and self-reliance.✴ Kids are carrying their own water, spare tube, snacks and even a spare set of underwear!✴

The pack can also double as some great protection in the event of a crash.

GLOVES

Good quality kids’ gloves can be hard to find. We recommend gloves without padding on the palm. This often makes it more difficult to grip and squeeze the handlebars.

KNEE & ELBOW PADS (both, not one or the other!)

Cheap pads are more likely to be uncomfortable (the kids won’t want to wear them), and they often move in a crash, reducing their effectiveness. However, good kids pads like those from IXS or GForm, are fantastic for improving confidence, safety and comfort.

HELMETS

It’s quite common to see kids with both poor quality and poorly fitted helmets. Again, safety comes first. If your child doesn’t have a suitable helmet, they must find one before starting any lesson or program with BEA. No exceptions. 

Yes! This helmet looks great.

No, this helmet needs adjustment.

✴ Helmets should fit the same way as an adult helmet. Snug and level, slightly above the eyebrows. Strap should be snug but not tight.

✴ If the strap is undone, the helmet should stay on when the person tips their head upside down.

How do you define Ability?

• “True Beginners”-first time on a bike or still needing help getting started, not comfortable on a bike — they require one-on-one attention from coaches to remain safe. 
• “Beginners” – less than two years riding but can ride independently and can be mixed into a group-setting. Still working on good balance and proper stance.
• “Intermediate” – 2+ years of experience, at ease on the bike (can stand pedals leveled when needed). Might be more interested in pursuing a harder progression, and try to push themselves on more difficult terrain.
• “Advanced”- many years of experience, can ride all black trails and can start giving back to their peers while they pursue their own goals.

Recreational vs racing?

“Recreational” riders enjoy riding and want to improve but aren’t immediately interested in advanced skills or racing.

Why is Age requirement so important?

Minimum ages are set to create peer groups. While many younger riders can demonstrate good skills, they often need to remain with their peers instead of moving up too quickly. Younger riders get tired more quickly and while they may keep up at the beginning of the session, they may not have the stamina of an older child to finish.

How does the WaitList work?

• All our programs have caps. This is so we can provide your child with the best experience by keeping our instructor to riders ratio low. 
• The enrollment form shows how many spots are left.
• If a program is FULL please register for the Waitlist. We will update everyone on the waitlist up to a week before the program begins.
• We will not take payment unless your child is accepted into the program.

How does Tuition work?

• Payment is due partially or in full at registration. 
• A $100 deposit is required to register.
• We offer a payment plan with three installments.
• Tuition assistance can be filled directly from our website at least two weeks prior to the start of the program.
• Contact our Mountain Biking Program Director at virginie@BendEnduranceAcademy.org if you need help with payment or help getting a scholarship through others foundations and organizations.

Can I have a Make-Up Day?

• We do not offer to make up days if you miss your session.
• Riders are expected to show up on the days they’ve signed up to attend.
• There is no official make up day or refund for specific program days canceled due to bad weather or natural disasters like fire/smoke. But we always try our best if it’s possible, depending on our coaches availability.

How do you set up groups?

• We begin with age and then adjust by ability/experience/motivation.
• Riders and parents must communicate with their Coaches about their desires, goals, and aspirations but it is the Coach’s final decision about who rides in which groups. Riding in a “slower group” is sometimes important for proper skill and personal development — it is not a penalty.
• Riders must earn their progression by showing respect for their Coaches & peers while exhibiting dedication, motivation, and improvement.
• We listen to your requests or those of our riders. If two riders/families want to ride together, we put the riders in the group level of the less experienced riders (both sides must agree).

Is BEA a Racing Program?

• Our mission is to offer a full range of mountain biking options from Absolute Beginners to Advanced Recreational Riders and Racers!
• Racing is available for Enduro and Downhill only (no CX, XC, road or BMX).
• Must be at least an intermediate rider to race.
• No racing experience necessary.
• Racing is available for those who are interested but it’s always optional. Racing is hard. Riding bikes should be fun! Sometimes those are the same, sometimes they’re not.

 Does BEA rent bikes?

• • NO but we have a few loaners for emergencies or families with low income.
  • Contact natasha@bendenduranceacademy.org
  • Check The Hub Cyclery for any purchase or service. Mention the BEA family and you’ll receive a 15% discount on bikes, parts and service. Don’t forget to thank TJ!

Camps & After School Programs | Natasha West | natasha@bendenduranceacademy.org

Race Team | Ryder Talcott | ryder@bendenduranceacademy.org