San Diego REI Outdoor School

Introduction to Mountain Biking (Outing)

Experience the thrill of mountain biking with our instructors as they teach you the proper techniques of shifting, braking, hill climbing and descent, body and pedal position, and navigating minor obstacles on the trail. This is designed as an educational ride, not a guided tour; we want to teach you how to get more out of your mountain biking experience. We’ll start by addressing proper bike fit, making necessary adjustments to improve comfort and performance. Next we’ll demonstrate riding techniques and teach important communication and safety skills to prepare you for the ride. We’ll teach you the trail etiquette techniques that mountain bikers can use to help keep trails open and safe for all trail users. Then it’s off for a great ride to practice all the skills you’ve learned. Novara mountain bikes provided at no additional cost for those without a bike of their own. Recommended for those 14 and older; those under 18 must be accompanied by parent or responsible adult.  NO RIDER IS LEFT BEHIND!

* Advance registration is required. Call or visit any San Diego area REI to sign up.

• Time:

  9:00 am - 3:00 pm

• Cost: Member: $65, Non-Member: $85

Where To Meet:

Meet at the location or REI store listed below. Directions to locations other than REI stores can be found by clicking on the link below.

Get directions to all non-store venues here.

• January 10th Mission Trails Kumeyaay Campground
• February 28th Lake Hodges

WHAT TO BRING:

• Your personal biking helmet.
• Closed-toe athletic shoes with firm soles.
• Cycling shorts or snug-fitting but comfortable shorts with minimal seams (e.g. compression shorts). If the forecast is for cool temperatures, bring along a light cycling jacket (i.e. light layer such as a breathable jacket) or windproof shell.
• Water-resistant or waterproof jacket/anorak in case of rain
• Your own mountain bike if you prefer! We do have Novara mountain bikes available for use. Please be sure you selected this free bike option at the time of sign-up and provided us with your height measurements. If you are bringing your personal bike, please bring a spare tube (our tubes may not fit your tires)
• Padded cycling gloves if you have them.
• Hydration compatible day pack, 70 - 100 oz recommended
• High energy lunch and snacks (gels and fuel bars) that you can carry on your bike with you
• Sun protection (sunscreen and wide brim hats w/ retainers) and sunglasses with retainers.
• Photo ID and Insurance Card
• Change of clothes and footwear for the ride home (leave in car)

REI OUTDOOR SCHOOL PROVIDES:

• Mountain bikes for those that do not have their own.
• Bike pumps, tubes, patch kits, and tools.
• Transportation between REI and trailhead, except when outing meets at venue.
• All park entry fees for riders in the REI Outdoor School van.
• Group medical supplies and area maps.