​Equipment
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Required Equipment
Riders are required to have all of the following equipment when riding.  For safety, we cannot allow them to participate at practices or races without it.  All riders are expected to carry all of  their own equipment.

Bike

• Riders are required to have a safe functioning mountain bike to participate. If your rider does not have a mountain bike, a limited number of loaner bikes are available.  First year team members will have priority over these bikes.  Loaner bikes are also available through the MCA.  Please contact us for more information.
• Each rider is responsible for maintaining his/her own mountain bike. We suggest that every rider establishes a relationship with a local bike shop for bike tune ups, equipment maintenance and questions. Many local shops offer discounts to team members, registered with the MCA, for equipment and repairs.  Make sure to ask when you visit.
• Riders should show up to practices and races with their bike ready to ride.
• You can expect a quality bike for race type purposes to start around $800, if purchasing new.  Make sure your rider is fitted properly by a local bike professional. If you are unsure if your bike is suitable or would like support in selecting a new bike, contact one of our head coaches.
• Kick stands are not allowed and should be removed.

Helmet

• ​A good fitting helmet is required for all practices and races. There are many good brands and models, but the helmet fit is the most important consideration.  You should work with a professional at one of our local bike shops to ensure appropriate fit and protection.  Coaches will not allow you to ride without a helmet.

Close-toed shoes

• The common pedal with no attachment to the shoe is called a “platform” pedal. These are used with sneakers or bike shoes referred to as "flats", which have a harder sole, preventing them from getting chewed up by the spikey pedals. The platform pedal with flats is our suggested way to begin training and racing.
• There are also special cycling shoes for biking that attach to compatible pedals. These are call "clipless pedals". It is not recommended to start with these, however, with time and experience many riders choose to switch to these. The clipless system can help keep the feet on the bike during bumpy terrain as an added safety feature.

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Water bottle or hydration pack

• Hydration is extremely important when you are riding.  Lots of options for water bottles are available, just make sure that it fits securely to you bike so it does not fall off.
• Some riders prefer using hydration packs instead of water bottles.  This is acceptable and up to the rider's preference.

Repair tools and tube

• Riders should come with their own spare tube, multi-tool, CO2 cartridge or mini-pump, and spare chain master link.  Supplies should be able to fix your specific bike, during on-the-go trail repairs.
• It's best to find a saddlebag to attach to your bike for carrying these supplies.  Bike shops have lots of options to choose from. Some prefer to use a small backpack or their hydration pack instead.

Team jersey

• Team jerseys are required to compete in races. Information on how to purchase jerseys will be provided to the team before each season starts.
• The deadline to order a team jersey has passed.  Dates will be announcement to the team for the next ordering opportunity. 

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Highly Recommended Equipment
The following equipment is not required but we strongly encourage riders to have it for additional safety and preparedness.

Gloves

• Falls can happen when riding.  Gloves will help prevent you hands from getting scrapped up and provide traction on handlebars.

​Sunglasses/eye protection

• Low hanging tree branches or dirt kicked up from the rider in front of you can get into your eyes.  Having eye protection on the trails will help keep you eyes safe from these hazards.
• Sunglasses work well but can make things too dark on the trails at times.  We suggest some yellow tinted eye protection to allow for more contrast. Inexpensive workshop safety glasses work well.