Mountain Biking Programs
The Bend Endurance Academy Mountain Biking Program strives to be at the forefront of youth mountain biking. Our programs are designed to inspire and fuel the next generation of mountain bikers and focus on developing well-rounded bikers who respect the mountain biking community, the trails, and the outdoors in general. Every program is designed with the idea that at the end of the season our kids have become stronger and better riders while having fun.
Our mountain bike coaches bring years of teaching or coaching mountain biking as well as other outdoor sports or programs. They all carry a professional and holistic approach to coaching and mentoring youth. We are committed to providing a safe and encouraging place for every single individual to grow as a biker and as a person. We value respect for the sport and the other riders, and a willingness to continually strive for improvement.
All our coaches have a First aid or Wilderness First Aid, Concussion and Safesport trainings, to recognize, reduce and respond to misconduct and abuse. Our coaches work hard to be the coach that each individual needs on any given day and support our kids in all aspects of their development.
Every mountain biking program is designed to fit your child’s age, ability, and goal. If you are not sure which one is the best for your child, contact our mountain biking Director to discuss options together.
SUMMER 2023 PROGRAMS- Registration Open!
Summer 2023 Programs
BendRacing, the premier adventure racing company, is excited to team up with the Bend Endurance Academy to host two Adventure Race Camps this summer. Adventure racing is a multi-disciplined event, where teams of 2, 3 and 4 use a map and compass to bike, run/trek and paddle their way to different checkpoints on a set course. Kind of like an outdoor adventure athlete scavenger hunt!
This program would aim to teach youth all the skills that are needed to have fun and succeed in this sport – orienteering, mountain biking, off trail trekking/running, paddling, river safety and rock climbing/ropes skills all while working as a team and learning how to be more adaptable and resilient.
Each day we will focus on a specific skill, and at the end of the week we will hold an event where students can use their new skills!
Our program is designed to inspire, to build community, to work through challenges as a team and to learn how to communicate with one another all while being outside. It is designed with the idea that at the end of the camp, they will have learned skills to help them complete a mini adventure race with their family and friends.
Our Adventure Race coaches bring over 100 years of adventure racing combined, we have taught many teams, individuals and youth the basic skills that are needed in adventure racing. They come with a professional and holistic approach to coaching and mentoring youth. We are committed to providing a safe and encouraging space for every single individual.
EQUIPMENT
Kids should have their own bike plus basic bike repair kit (tube, CO2/ pump), hydration pack with water carrying ability and enough room for layers, running shoes, snacks, helmet, sunglasses, layers, sunscreen, hat and GRIT! If they have a harness or climbing equipment we encourage them to bring it as well on the appropriate days.
SCHEDULE & MEETING LOCATION
Sessions are 9am-1pm Monday-Friday. Participants will meet at the BEA office and be shuttled to different locations each day.
Dates:
- June 26-30 (2-4th graders) (Register here!)
- July 17-21 (5-7th graders) (Register here!)
Cost:
$560 for the week
We have designed this program with our younger public in mind. This session is for those who have not yet transitioned to a bike with pedals, who have never spent time away from their caregivers, have never spent time in a group setting, or maybe just getting used to being 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, and help foster independence in your rider. Caregivers are encouraged to leave during the sessions.
Each rider comes with their own push bike, a helmet and a small backpack to carry water and snacks.
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.
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 9:30am-11am
Riders and their caregivers meet us directly at Phil’s Trailhead.
Our Summer program offers two different sessions of four weeks each:
First Sessions from July 7- 28th
Second Session from August 4th-25th
$180 for each 4 Week Session
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 and 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 2023), from beginners to intermediate riders.
Riders are grouped depending on the rider’s experience and skills.
Riders should be able to start and stop their own bike. If you are unsure if your rider fits this criteria, please reach out to the MTB program director.
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.
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 AM
All 2-Day camps
- 7/5-7/6
- 7/10-7/11
- 7/24-7/25
- 8/7-8/8
- 8/21-8/22
Riders meet directly at Phil’s TH.
2 Day Camp: $160
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 2nd graders (September 2023), from beginners to intermediate riders.
Riders are grouped by age for better focus, age-appropriate activities, and terrain choices.
Riders need to be able to start and stop their bikes on their own. If you are unsure if your rider fits this criteria please reach out to the program director.
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.
GEAR
For this age we recommend 20” wheels or larger with at least one handbrake.
No coaster brakes or training wheels please.
These recommendations are approximative and always depend on your child’s size.
Riders should also have a pack with water, a tube that fits their bike, and a snack.
SCHEDULE AND LOCATION
8:30 AM-12:30 PM
We meet directly at Phil’s TH.
2-Day
- 7/10-7/11
- 7/26-7/27
- 8/7-8/8*
3- Day
- 8/21-8/23*
4 Day
- 7/17-7/20*
2 Day Camps: $180
3 Day Camps: $270
4 Day Camps: $360
*After Camp Climbing Add on Available
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 these 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.
The riders are also responsible to bring their own gear (helmet, knee pads, backpack, etc…). Although not mandatory, knee 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.
AGE AND SKILLS
This camp is designed for 3-4th graders only (as of September 2023).
From true beginners to advanced riders.
SCHEDULE, LOCATION and COST
8:30 AM-1:30 PM each day.
2-Day
- 7/12-7/13
- 8/23-8/24
3-Day
- 7/31-8/2*
- 8/14-8/16
4-Day
- 7/17-7/20*
Riders and their caregivers meet their coaches directly at Phil’s Trailhead.
2 Day: $220
3 Day: $330
4 Day: $440
*After Camp Climbing Add on available
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 these 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.
The riders are also responsible to bring their own gear (helmet, knee pads, backpack, etc…). Although not mandatory, knee 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.
AGE AND SKILLS
This camp is designed for 5-6th graders only (as of September 2023).
From true beginners to advanced riders.
SCHEDULE, LOCATION and COST
8:30 AM-1:30 PM each day.
2-Day
- 7/12-7/13
7/24-7/25
4-Day
- 6/26-6/29
Riders and their caregivers meet their coaches directly at Phil’s Trailhead.
2 Day: $220
4 Day: $440
AGE and SKILLS
6-8th grade riders (as of September 2023).
For recreational riders, from intermediate to advanced.
No beginners for the Summer, please. Beginner riders can join in the Fall of 2023.
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 sessions, these 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…
These rides are limited to 10 riders maximum.
SCHEDULE and LOCATION
Mondays 3 PM- 6:30 PM
Two 4 week sessions:
- Mondays, 7/3-7/24
- Mondays, 7/31-8/21
Pickup at BEA office
Price $300 for each 4 week session.
AGE AND SKILLS
For riders ages 9 to 14 with intermediate to advanced skills only.
We exceptionally allow 8 years old shredders to join with invitation or referral. Please contact the MTB program director 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 for every session.
Eye protection in the form of goggles or glasses.
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.
Camps run Monday to Thursday.
Session options:
- 7/3-7/6
- 7/31-8/3
- 8/14-8/17
We meet in the parking lot of the BEA office and shuttle our riders in our vans.
Price: $550
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.
Women’s 3-Week Beginner Rides
Riding with other women is empowering!
Either you want to learn some new 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!), and tailored towards beginner riders.
Within each program, our riders are divided into smaller groups of six maximum for a better experience, depending on their skills, fitness level and goals.
The Women 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.
LOCATION and SCHEDULE
These programs run for three weeks each to help our riders see some progression while also accommodating busy summer schedules! All riders meet directly at Phil’s Trailhead.
There are two, three week courses:
Tuesdays, July 11, 18, 25. 4-6pm.
Tuesdays, August 1, 8, 15. 4-6pm.
PRICING
Each 3 week program is $100
Women’s Intermediate Shuttled Rides
If you are looking to try more downhill focused rides, these are for you! Our shuttled women’s rides will drop you off at the top of the trails. Students will work with all female coaches on trails such as Tiddlywinks, Tylers, South Fork, Whoops, etc.
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, and tailored towards intermediate riders.
The Women Intermediate program is designed for those who feel at ease enough on the mountain bike to challenge themselves to the next level.
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
Timing and Coordination
LOCATION and SCHEDULE
These programs will meet at a different place each week as we will be shuttling different routes each time. Route and meeting location will be decided on each week based on the riders and the conditions of the trails.
Dates: 7/12, 7/19, 7/26, 8/2, 8/9, 8/16*, 8/30*
Time: 3-7pm
*these days will most likely be riding Flagline
PRICE
$60 per 4hr shuttled ride.
Women’s Multi-Sport Camp
Multi-activity camps aren’t just for the kids anymore! These two day camps are designed for women who are interested in trying new things in a fun, encouraging environment with experienced coaches. These camps are built to accommodate all levels of rider and climber.
Day 1: Enjoy a shuttled ride with all woman coaches. Ride will be decided based off our groups of riders skills and interests! We will drop riders off at the start of trails at Wanoga, Swampy, or another local trail.
These rides are meant for beginner to intermediate riders of any age. We will cover a range of skills from body positioning, operation of controls, terrain awareness, cornering, etc.
For questions about mountain biking, contact info@bendenduranceacademy.org
Day 2: Climb at Smith Rock with Cate, our Climbing Director and Rosa, our AMGA single pitch guide! We’ll start the day going over risk management, knots to know, and the basics of climbing movement. Then we’ll get on some awesome climbs for the rest of the day, tailored to the group’s experience and comfort level. This is a great way to get a taste of rock climbing in a fun, supportive environment.
For questions about climbing, contact cate@bendenduranceacademy.org
Location and Schedule
Both days for each session will start at the BEA Facility (222 SE Reed Market Rd, Suite 200)
Session 1: Saturday-Sunday | July 22-23, 8am-3pm
Session 2: Tuesday-Wednesday | August 22-23, 8am-3pm
Price
$250 for two day camp
DESCRIPTION
Our Multi-Activities camps are targeting kids who want to enjoy different kinds of experiences and activities in beautiful Central Oregon outdoors!
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.
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 13.
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 BEA facility parking lot.
Session Dates:
- 7/26-7/27
- 8/9-8/10
COST
$400
More Info coming Summer 2023!
SPRING 2023 PROGRAMS
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 6 riders maximum. If we reach a full class, we will open another session.
SCHEDULE AND LOCATION
Tuesday, from 10:45am to 12:15pm.
Riders and their caregivers meet us directly at Phil’s pumptrack.
Our Spring program will run 5 weeks, May 2-30, 2023
COST and REGISTRATION
5 sessions- $225
Payment Plan available with one installment ($100 deposit).
Feel free to apply for financial aid if needed on our Scholarships page.
*Note BEA’s refund policy: “If the organization cancels an entire program due to weather (thunder, lightning, snow or rain situations causing unsafe activity) or natural disasters (fire, flood, etc…), a 50% refund is provided. This refund does not apply to canceling specific program days due to weather or natural disaster.” Although we always try our best, we may not be able to offer a make-up day either.
Enroll Now
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 activities
Our 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 beginners* to intermediate riders.
If your student is just getting started on a pedal bike, please reach out to our Mountain Bike Program Director and we will discuss how to best accommodate your kid!
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.
SCHEDULE AND LOCATION
Choose between Monday and/or Thursday sessions, from 3 to 5pm.
Riders and their caregivers meet us directly at Phil’s trailhead. This program will stay at Phil’s for the entire session.
Monday: April 17th-June 5th 2023 (seven sessions, no ride Memorial Day)
Thursday: April 20-June 8th 2023 (eight sessions)
COST and REGISTRATION
Monday- $420 (seven sessions)
Thursday- $480 (eight sessions)
*Note BEA’s refund policy: “If the organization cancels an entire program due to weather (thunder, lightning, snow or rain situations causing unsafe activity) or natural disasters (fire, flood, etc…), a 50% refund is provided. This refund does not apply to canceling specific program days due to weather or natural disaster.” Although we always try our best, we may not be able to offer a make-up day either.
Payment Plan available with one installment of a $100 deposit. Feel free to apply for financial aid if needed.
Enroll NowDESCRIPTION
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 2nd grade riders, true beginners* to intermediate riders.
In order to participate in this 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 Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday programs, from 3:15 to 6:15pm.
Riders and their caregivers meet us directly at the trailheads.
Sessions will start at Phil’s Trailhead.
For the more advanced groups, your child’s coach may suggest a different meeting location towards the end of the program (meeting at the Welcome Center, Green gate, or Wanoga Sno-Park for example).
- MONDAY 3:15-6:15pm, April 17-June 5th 2023 (7 sessions, no ride Memorial Day)
- TUESDAY 3:15-6:15 PM, April 18-June 6 2023
- THURSDAY 3:15-6:15 PM, April 20-June 8 2023
COST
Monday- 7 sessions, $462
Tuesday- 8 sessions, $528
Thursday- 8 sessions, $528
Payment Plan available with two installments ($100 deposit).
Consider applying for scholarships if you need help.
*Note BEA’s refund policy: “If the organization cancels an entire program due to weather (thunder, lightning, snow or rain situations causing unsafe activity) or natural disasters (fire, flood, etc…), a 50% refund is provided. This refund does not apply to canceling specific program days due to weather or natural disaster.” Although we always try our best, we may not be able to offer a make-up day either.
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 3rd-4th grade riders, true beginners* to intermediate riders.
In order to participate in this 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 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday programs, from 3:15 to 6:15pm.
Riders and their caregivers meet us directly at the trailheads.
Sessions will start at Phil’s Trailhead.
For the more advanced groups, your child’s coach may suggest a different meeting location towards the end of the program (meeting at the Welcome Center, Green gate, or Wanoga Sno-Park for example).
- MONDAY 3:15-6:15pm, April 17-June 5th 2023 (7 sessions, no ride Memorial Day)
- TUESDAY 3:15-6:15 PM, April 18-June 6 2023
- THURSDAY 3:15-6:15 PM, April 20-June 8 2023
- FRIDAY 3:15-6:15 PM, April 21- June 9 2023
COST
Monday- 7 sessions, $460
Tuesday- 8 sessions, $530
Thursday- 8 sessions, $530
Friday- 8 sessions, $530
Payment Plan available with two installments ($100 deposit).
Consider applying for scholarships if you need help.
*Note BEA’s refund policy: “If the organization cancels an entire program due to weather (thunder, lightning, snow or rain situations causing unsafe activity) or natural disasters (fire, flood, etc…), a 50% refund is provided. This refund does not apply to canceling specific program days due to weather or natural disaster.” Although we always try our best, we may not be able to offer a make-up day either.
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
This session is designed for 5th-6th 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 and LOCATION
Sessions start from Phil’s Trailhead.
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 from 3:15 PM to 6:15 PM Wednesday and/or Friday.
WEDNESDAY- April 19-June 7th
FRIDAY- April 21-June 9th
REGISTRATION and COST
Wednesday (8 sessions)- $430
Friday (8 sessions)- $430
Payment Plan available with two installments ($100 deposit).
Consider applying for financial aid if you need to.
*Note BEA’s refund policy: “If the organization cancels an entire program due to weather (thunder, lightning, snow or rain situations causing unsafe activity) or natural disasters (fire, flood, etc…), a 50% refund is provided. This refund does not apply to canceling specific program days due to weather or natural disaster.” Although we always try our best, we may not be able to offer a make-up day either.
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
Wednesday 3:15 PM to 6:15 PM
The Junior Fall program runs for seven weeks from April 19th-June 7th 2023.
Riders meet directly at Phil’s trailhead.
The advanced group’s coaches may suggest a different location towards the end of the program to allow access to more difficult trails. They will inform you directly if they decide to do so.
REGISTRATION and COST
Wednesday Junior MTB: $320
Payment with two installments available ($100 deposit)
Consider applying for financial aid if needed.
*Note BEA’s refund policy: “If the organization cancels an entire program due to weather (thunder, lightning, snow or rain situations causing unsafe activity) or natural disasters (fire, flood, etc…), a 50% refund is provided. This refund does not apply to canceling specific program days due to weather or natural disaster.” Although we always try our best, we may not be able to offer a make-up day either.
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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).
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 and MEETING LOCATION
We shuttle our riders in our Bend Endurance Academy vans. Meeting location TBD.
This program runs Wednesday from 3pm to 7pm for eight weeks, April 19-June 7, 2023.
REGISTRATION and COST
$500 (8 sessions)
Payment plan available with two installments ($100 deposit).
Consider applying for a scholarship if needed.
*Note BEA’s refund policy: “If the organization cancels an entire program due to weather (thunder, lightning, snow or rain situations causing unsafe activity) or natural disasters (fire, flood, etc…), a 50% refund is provided. This refund does not apply to canceling specific program days due to weather or natural disaster.” Although we always try our best, we may not be able to offer a make-up day either.
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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
LOCATION and SCHEDULE
For the first week, all women’s sessions meet at Phil’s Trailhead. After that, you will communicate with coaches about where to meet.
- TUESDAY sessions from 3:15 PM to 6:15 PM, April 18th-June 6th 2023
- THURSDAY sessions from 10 AM to 1 PM, April 20th-June 8th 2023
REGISTRATION and COST
Women Beginner (Tuesday or Thursday): $310 (8 sessions)
Women Intermediate (Tuesday or Thursday): $310 (8 sessions)
Payment plan available with two installments ($100 deposit)
*Note BEA’s refund policy: “If the organization cancels an entire program due to weather (thunder, lightning, snow or rain situations causing unsafe activity) or natural disasters (fire, flood, etc…), a 50% refund is provided. This refund does not apply to canceling specific program days due to weather or natural disaster.” Although we always try our best, we may not be able to offer a make-up day either.
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.
AGE & SKILLS
These sessions are for adults of any age (no, really!), from true beginners to intermediate riders.
We offer a 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 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 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
LOCATION and SCHEDULE
For the first week, all sessions meet at Phil’s Trailhead. After that, you will communicate with coaches about where to meet.
- Friday sessions from 3:15 PM to 6:15 PM, April 21st-June 9th 2023
REGISTRATION and COST
Beginner (Friday): $310 (8 sessions)
Intermediate (Friday): $310 (8 sessions)
Payment plan available with two installments ($100 deposit)
*Note BEA’s refund policy: “If the organization cancels an entire program due to weather (thunder, lightning, snow or rain situations causing unsafe activity) or natural disasters (fire, flood, etc…), a 50% refund is provided. This refund does not apply to canceling specific program days due to weather or natural disaster.” Although we always try our best, we may not be able to offer a make-up day either.
Homeschool (1st-4th Grade)
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 4th grade riders, true beginners* to intermediate riders.
In order to participate in this 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
Riders and their caregivers meet us directly at the trailheads.
Sessions will start at Phil’s Trailhead.
For the more advanced groups, your child’s coach may suggest a different meeting location towards the end of the program (meeting at the Welcome Center, Green gate, or Wanoga Sno-Park for example).
- WEDNESDAY, April 19- June 7th 2023, 9:30am-12:30pm
COST
Wednesday- 8 sessions, $528
Payment Plan available with two installments ($100 deposit).
Consider applying for scholarships if you need help.
*Note BEA’s refund policy: “If the organization cancels an entire program due to weather (thunder, lightning, snow or rain situations causing unsafe activity) or natural disasters (fire, flood, etc…), a 50% refund is provided. This refund does not apply to canceling specific program days due to weather or natural disaster.” Although we always try our best, we may not be able to offer a make-up day either.
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 7:00pm.
Bend Endurance Academy coaches pick up the riders directly from Cascades Academy’s campus and drop them off in town (location TBD)
This program runs for eight weeks, from April 20- June 8, 2023
COST AND REGISTRATION
$440
Payment Plan available with two installments ($100 deposit).
*Note BEA’s refund policy: “If the organization cancels an entire program due to weather (thunder, lightning, snow or rain situations causing unsafe activity) or natural disasters (fire, flood, etc…), a 50% refund is provided. This refund does not apply to canceling specific program days due to weather or natural disaster.” Although we always try our best, we may not be able to offer a make-up day either.
Cascades Academy will send the registration link directly to their families.
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
- 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
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’s campus and drop them off in town (location TBD)
This program runs for eight weeks, from April 17- June 5, 2023 (7 sessions, no ride Memorial Day)
COST
BIS Fall program: $340
We offer a Payment Plan with two installments ($100 deposit) as well as Tuition assistance if needed.
Bend International School will send the registration link directly to their families.
*Note BEA’s refund policy: “If the organization cancels an entire program due to weather (thunder, lightning, snow or rain situations causing unsafe activity) or natural disasters (fire, flood, etc…), a 50% refund is provided. This refund does not apply to canceling specific program days due to weather or natural disaster.” Although we always try our best, we may not be able to offer a make-up day either.
Enduro/DH Racing Team 2023
AGE AND SKILLS
For 4th to 12th grade riders with intermediate to advanced skills only.
Absolutely NO beginners please (Youth MTB and Junior MTB are more appropriate programs for beginners).
No racing experience is necessary.
We exceptionally allow little shredders from 3rd grade to join with invitation or referral. Please contact Ryder directly at ryder@BendEnduranceAcademy.org to discuss your child’s riding skills and experience and/or set up an evaluation time if necessary.
We regroup riders by age, ability, goals and fitness with a coach/riders ratio of 1:5 (1:6 with the older group)
The riders are responsible to bring their own bike and gear (full face helmets, knee pads, goggles and chest protector are mandatory for riding in any bike park).
The bike must be in perfect riding condition. For safety reasons and respect for the other riders, BEA’s coaches reserve the right to refuse a rider to participate in a session if the bike is unsafe or unrideable. The bike will need to be fixed before starting or returning to the program.
SCHEDULE
Spring Schedule (4/1-6/11): Cost = $1,000.00
Saturday Practices 9-4p
Dates: 4/1, 4/8, 4/22, 4/29, 5/6, 5/13, 5/27, 6/3
Thursday Practices 4/6, 4/13, 4/20, 4/27, 5/4, 5/11, 5/18, 5/25, 6/1, 6/8
Total Practice Hours: 86
Races:
CDC- Hood River, OR (Post Canyon) 5/20-5/21 (2-day) 2hr55min/145miles
Summer Schedule (6/13-8/31): Cost $1,800.00
Tuesdays & Thursdays 9a-4p. (14 hours/week)
Dates: 6/13, 6/15, 6/20, 6/22, 6/27, 6/29, 7/6, 7/11, 7/13, 7/18, 7/20, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/10, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 8/31
*We will spend some time doing Video Analysis (indoors) during these sessions
Total Practice Hours = 133
Races:
NW Cup- Tamarack, ID (Tamarack Bike Park) 6/23-6/25 (3-day) 6hr15min/345miles
CAES- McCloud, CA (Mount Shasta Ski Park) 7/15 (1-day) 4hr10min/230miles
*Gravicross Bend, OR (Mount Bachelor) TBD (8/12-8/13?) Local
***Additional coaching for other races will be based on interest, require a minimum of three students, and cost around $100.00 per student, depending on the location.
Fall Schedule (9/2-10/28): Cost = $1,000
Saturdays 9-4p
Dates: 9/2, 9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28
Thursday Practices 9/7, 9/14, 9/21, 9/28, 10/5, 10/12, 10/19, 10/26
Total Practice Hours = 84
Races:
CAES- Ashland, OR (Lithia Park) 9/30 (1 day) 3hr30min/185miles
PRICING
Spring @ $1,000.00
Summer @1,800.00
Fall @ $1,000.00
***If registering for all three at one time @ $3,800.00
Please consider applying for financial aid if needed.
The cost of registration does NOT include the Bike Park Tickets. Riders are responsible to purchase their own Season Pass directly from Mt Bachelor’s website.
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!
- PS-PK, all levels are welcome.
- PK-K, all levels are welcome but need to be able to start their bike on their own. If your student cannot start or maintain momentum on their own, contact info@bendenduranceacademy.org
- 1st-2nd grade, all levels are welcome, from beginners to intermediate recreational riders. Need to be able to start their own bike and maintain momentum.
- 3rd-4th grade; recreational riders, all levels are welcome.
- 5th-6th grade; recreational riders, all levels are welcome.
- 7th-8th grade; 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 info@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 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.
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.
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 us 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 info@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 | info@bendenduranceacademy.org
Race Team | Ryder Talcott | ryder@bendenduranceacademy.org
Mountain Biking Coaches
ryder talcott
PMBIA Level 1 Coaching Certification
Bonnie Randolph
PMBIA Level 1 Coaching Certification
young choi
Desmond Garrott
Kalden Charrette
Kalden was born and raised in the San Juans mountains of Colorado. He started riding at two and started racing road and XC when he was seven. For the last several years he traveled full time around the country and internationally with his family riding bikes and being roadschooled. Last year his family settled in Bend and he started racing enduro. He also loves to surf and play guitar. His favorite trail is The Whole Enchilada in Moab.
Evan Grover
Andrew Galbraith
PMBIA Level 1 coaching certification.
Natasha West
Natasha is a lifelong Oregonian who originally moved to Bend to attend OSU Cascades. She loves helping kids find joy and independence in the outdoors. Favorite Trail in Bend: South Fork
PMBIA Level 1 Coaching Certification
Gina Reid
Gina has been mountain biking for a little longer than she cares to admit. She has raced XC and then DH professionally. She loves being outdoors surrounded by trees. Helping riders find their confidence by using her 30+ years of cycling experience is what drew her to BEA. She has a soft spot in her heart for women riders, beginners, kids and any rider in need of a little breakthrough.
Alisha Smith
Alisha is a mother of two boys ages 8 & 11. After growing up in Southern California she moved to Bend, OR in 2018 and hasn’t looked back. She has always been an athlete and found her passion for mountain biking in early 2021. Being newer to the sport, she has a fresh take on what beginner rider’s need to learn to build confidence riding.
With her experience teaching Children’s Mindfulness classes, being a parent, and receiving coaching herself, she has a strong foundation to support your child. She believes in making things fun, safe, and providing simple tips to take their stoke for riding to the next level.
Her favorite mountain biking trails in Bend are Metolius Windigo & South Fork.
Rebecca Bell
Lauren Hartich
Lauren has lived in Bend and pedaling bikes since she was two. She is one of our high school coaches who is always eager to get outside after school wether it’s coaching, skiing, hiking, or running. She believes nature has such a positive impact on mental health and wants to spread positivity with others. Her favorite trails are in the mountains of Colorado but loves Phil’s canyon in bend.
Jack Brill
Jack is one of our high school Assistant Cycling Coaches. He moved to Bend when he was 12 and has been biking with BEA ever since, first as a student and now as a coach. He raced cross country for two years until realizing his passion for biking was not centered around racing, but instead for teaching and riding for fun. Jack recently completed an outdoor leadership course with NOLS where he backpacked for 21-days through the Bighorn Mountains in Wyoming. Jack loves riding at Phil’s and ripping the downhill at Bachelor. His favorite trail in Bend is Lower Whoops.
Nick North
Dr. Nick is a well-traveled Doctor of Physical Therapy and licensed USA Cycling Coach, originally from Long Island, NY. Pursuing his expansive education and clinical profession, he spent several years living in Western NY, Central CO, NE Montana, and now Central Oregon. Post-doctorally, Nick has a decade of clinical experience practicing in the acute care (hospital), inpatient rehabilitation, skilled nursing facility, and outpatient clinical settings. His last position found him as Director of Rehabilitation for a small hospital system on the underserved/rural Fort Peck Indian Reservation in NE Montana. Nick and his partner Nicole are recent transplants to Bend, OR, where Nick owns and operates NorthFIT, his independent Physical Therapy and Wellness/Fitness/Performance studio in partnership with Bowen Sports Performance. His mission is to help individuals across the lifespan achieve their unique peak performance in physical function by recognizing all clients as elite athletes in their own lives. Nick serves his mission through a comprehensive and holistic skill set collected across a lifetime of wellness, fitness, performance, and medical learning.
Dr. Nick is inspired by everyday athletes. Whether a full-time professional, a weekend warrior, a fitness junkie, or an aspiring healthy person, you have his respect for putting in the effort to improve your health/wellness and trying to experience life to its fullest. For this reason, Nick attempts to be a health-minded role model in the community. He has been an endurance athlete since highschool, competing in various-distance races in distance running, pool and open-water swimming, cycling, triathlon, and obstacle courses. Most recently, Nick is a year-round podium-winning cyclist, competing in disciplines of road, gravel, cyclocross, cross-country, and fat-tire. He shares his cycling knowledge and experience with the Bend community as a MTB coach with Bend Endurance Academy, and supports local groups by participating and assisting, and leading Meetups with NorthFIT Adventures, Bend Area Cycling Enthusiasts, and the Central Oregon Nordic Club.
Elizabeth Lamer
Hi my name is Elizabeth Lamer. I’m from Hood River, Oregon and I love to mountain bike, ski, and rock climb! I’m super excited to be coaching for the Bend Endurance Academy!
Joe Sciano
Reid Farmer
Reid moved to Bend in 2020 from Chattanooga, Tennessee. He has been riding bikes since he was 2 and competing in various biking competitions since he was 6. Originally an avid XC rider, after coming to Bend, he fell in love with Enduro which has drawn his full attention — with a little Downhill mixed in to keep it interesting. In addition to biking, Reid also loves skiing and anything that takes him outside. Reid is one of BEA’s high school coaches and loves helping kids learn to ride bikes.
