Introduction to Mountain Biking

Introduces foundational skills for cross-country, downhill, and adaptive cycling disciplines. Topics include mountain biking techniques for riding on remote forest trails and navigating rough terrain such as carriage paths, single-track trails, deep sand, slick rock faces, and loose terrain. Skills focus on climbing and descending steep, winding trails, managing a group of cyclists to prevent accidents, injuries, and missing riders, and performing basic bicycle maintenance and field repairs.

Special Requirements: This course involves moderate to high physical activity, the ability to ride a mountain bike and the ability to be active and in the outdoors for a full day in a remote, forested environment in potentially low temperatures and wet weather with late autumn conditions. All students must submit the OLP Health History and Physical Examination Attestation Form, completed and signed by a physician, verifying medical clearance for full participation.

Students participate in off-campus field trips. Students assume any travel and permit/pass costs associated with field trips. Students provide their own, well-maintained mountain bike and bike helmet. Bike & helmet rentals can be arranged with advanced notice.

Schedule: Mondays & Tuesdays from 9 am to 4 pm (4 class sessions)

A student who successfully completes this course will be able to:

1. Describe apply, and demonstrate mountain biking techniques for maneuvering and controlling a mountain bike over rough terrain including carriage paths, single-track trails, deep sand, slick rock faces, loose terrain, and how to climb and descend steep and winding trails.
2. Recognize hazards associated with mountain biking and apply procedures to minimize and avoid such hazards.
3. Perform basic bicycle maintenance in the field.
4. Manage a group of cyclists to avoid accidents, injuries, and missing riders.