Common questions.
Everything parents and riders ask before their first season. Still curious? Email hello@boulderhighmtb.org.
The Season
When is the MTB season? +
Fall. We practice Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:15–6:45pm, August through October. Listed under CLUBS on the BHS website.
What is cross-country mountain biking? +
An endurance discipline that emphasizes speed and stamina across off-road terrain — technical climbs, descents, and singletrack. Think trail riding with a clock.
Is this team a fit for enduro / downhill / gravity riders? +
Yes. Even if XC isn't your primary discipline, the fitness, line selection, and bike handling you'll build here translates directly. Practices typically cover 18–30 miles with significant climbing.
How do I sign up? +
Registration opens May 1 for the upcoming fall season. You must complete Colorado League membership before your first ride. See the Join page for the full three-step process.
Racing
What about racing? +
Four regular-season races qualify athletes for State Championships based on points and ranking. Racing is optional but highly encouraged. Team motto: Finish it.
What is the Colorado High School Cycling League? +
The governing body for middle and high school MTB teams across five states. Originally affiliated with NICA, independent since 2021.
Coaches & Groups
How are ride groups formed? +
By technical ability, fitness, racing aspirations, and personal goals — not friend requests. Each group follows a tailored training plan, and athletes can shift between groups across the season.
How many people ride together? +
Groups are capped at 10 students with a minimum of two Colorado League–licensed coaches per group.
How are coaches trained? +
Every coach is licensed by the Colorado High School Cycling League and trained in ride management, first aid, CPR, and youth mental health awareness.
Costs & Scholarships
What does it cost? +
Team fee: $200/season. Team kit: ~$90. Colorado League membership: $170/season. Race fees: $75 per race. You'll also need a bike, helmet, water bottle, and backpack. Scholarships available — just ask.
Are scholarships available? +
Yes. We offer loaner bikes, fee scholarships, league scholarships, and travel support. Reach out to hello@boulderhighmtb.org — no questions asked.
Logistics
What equipment do I need? +
A bike in good working condition, a helmet, and shoes you can ride in. We have loaner gear if you need it.
Where does the team practice? +
We meet at Boulder High and ride out to every trail and path accessible from school — Marshall Mesa, Betasso, North Sky, Walker Ranch, Valmont Bike Park, and everything in between. When we're heading further afield, we'll occasionally start practice offsite — details go out ahead of time.
Can I store my bike at school during practice days? +
Yes. Bike drop-off is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:00–8:20am at our practice location. Access the storage containers from the south (grass) side — a coach will be there to help. You can also stash backpacks, your Starbucks Strawberry Açaí Refresher, and any other personal gear in there during practice.