Interested & Incoming Riders

Check out this Orientation Deck for information about the team.

We develop skills and train for XC style mountain bike races that are exclusively designed for High School Riders by NORCALMTB.  These race events are designed for and accommodate ALL skill levels.   Every rider participates & rides – no benchwarmers.

We are here to:

• Provide developing riders an understanding of the sport and to present a fun and challenging cycling experience.
• Advance intermediate riders skills and fitness to access broader trail range and terrain.
• Amplify advanced riders proficiency and fulfill individual objectives.

FAQ’s & comments to Infamous Statements

Do I have to register or something?

Yes – 3 step process:

1. Sign up with the Terra Linda Mountain Bike Team first
2. Additionally, riders will need to register through NICA to practice.   https://www.nationalmtb.org/pit-zone-faqs/   There is a fee; there are waivers & there is a code of conduct for students and adults.  You’ll need to sign up with the Terra Linda team (step 1) and a coach or team director will initiate the invitation for registration through the ‘Pit Zone’
3. To race – you will need to register via www.norcalmtb.org.  Updates and timing to be announced.

When should I sign up

Now is a good time.  We will start riding and building technical & fitness foundation in the Fall; Conditioning starts in December and racing in the Spring.  tlmtbcoach@gmail.com 

I want to ride enduro (or downhill): 

This one goes out to all of our Graveyard riders in the neighborhood.  We know you want to crush the downhill and send the gap jumps.  Guess what – you NEED to develop your bike handling skills and improve your fitness if you want to develop in the sport and XC is a proven development platform.

I’m not fast enough

That may be true at the beginning of the year, but if you stay committed to practices and are willing learner, your skills will improve and your fitness will improve and we’re winning!

I do not feel that comfortable on a bike

That may be true at the beginning of the year, but if you stay committed to practices and are willing learner, your skills will improve and your fitness will improve and we’re winning! (this answer feels familiar)

Can I do another winter or spring sport?

Each student is different in their ability to manage their schedule and time.  More than one sport creates a very full student schedule.  Contact tlmtbcoach@gmail.com for an early conversation and anticipate frequent conversations through the season.   Do not over subscribe.

How many races do you want me to ride

I love this question – yes… I want you to race all of them.  Not every student can make this commitment, so the next answer is ‘as many as you can’.  

What are performance expectations on race day

Racing is different for every student – but with every student the objectives are largely the same.  Improvement.  Each ride and race we’re looking for improvement.  For some this is targeting specific placements and for others it is getting through the course.  Both achievements are equally respectable and rewarding.  

I don’t want to race

This is the toughest question to answer – and it’s up to each individual to determine what mountains to climb and what races to enter.  As an organization we’re developing and training riders for these race events.  Not racing might be a little like baking cake, and then not tasting it.  We want you to try.  The events are festive and if we’re successful, you’ll cry a little, laugh a lot and ride away feeling a sense of accomplishment.

I do not have the right bike

Let’s start with what you have and work from there.  We can help guide a purchase that fits what’s right for you and your family.  There are also opportunities with loaner bike programs and other options.  Contact tlmtbcoach@gmail.com for more information and discussion.

I have not been riding that much

That may be true at the beginning of the year, but if you stay committed to practices and are willing learner, your skills will improve and your fitness will improve and we’re winning! (again, this answer feels familiar)

I do not understand the racing

There is a giant rule book.  Alternatively, show up, peddle, finish; smile for the camera & boom – you got it.

Looking for more inspiration:

Check out some media postings by our League

https://www.norcalmtb.org/media-center-2/