A properly fitting helmet is absolutely essential for safety. If a rider’s helmet doesn’t fit correctly—whether it’s too loose, too tight, or sits improperly on their head—it won’t provide the necessary protection. Additionally, helmets with visible damage, cracks, or signs of wear are no longer effective and should be replaced immediately. We strongly recommend purchasing a new helmet in these cases to ensure full protection. This is the single most important item on our gear list, and for safety reasons, we cannot allow any rider to participate without a properly fitted, undamaged helmet.
Your safety is our top priority!
Ensuring your bike fits properly is critical for both comfort and safety. In addition to proper fit, we highly recommend having the bike thoroughly checked by a bike mechanic or yourself before camp. A well-maintained bike means a smoother, safer experience for your rider, ensuring they’re ready to tackle the trails with confidence.
– Riders are required to bring a mountain bike to camp. City or commuter bikes will not be permitted, as they are not designed to handle the demands of off-road terrain. At minimum, a mountain bike should have a suspension fork, disc brakes, and a gear shifter. To ensure safety and performance, we will ask riders to remove any extras like baskets or kickstands before riding.
– While not mandatory, we strongly encourage the use of a full-suspension mountain bike. It offers better shock absorption and control, especially on rough or technical trails, making the ride more comfortable and enjoyable for your rider.
Your rider’s backpack must be properly fitted, as they’ll be wearing it throughout the ride, carrying essentials like snacks and lunch. Comfort is key—an ill-fitting backpack can quickly become a distraction or discomfort during a long day on the trails. We do *not* recommend drawstring bags or oversized hand-me-downs, as they often lack the support and functionality needed for mountain biking.
– We also encourage packing a personal repair kit inside the backpack. While our staff is equipped to handle common issues, it’s a great habit to have your rider come prepared. A basic kit may include a multitool, spare tube, CO2 cartridge, master link, and tire levers. These lightweight items won’t add much bulk to the bag but can make a big difference in keeping your rider moving if a mechanical problem arises on the trail
Snack and Lunch:
– We advise against using thermoses or metal lunch containers as they tend to be too heavy and bulky for backpacks. Instead, we recommend lightweight, reusable lunch boxes that can easily be stored once the food is eaten.
– Please note that we do not provide snacks or lunches during camp. Riders must come fully prepared with enough food to meet their needs throughout the day. However, coaches will surprise riders with two special post-ride treats at some point during the week.
Water:
– While not required, we highly recommend using a hydration pack, such as a CamelBak, to make staying hydrated easier. If cost is a concern, affordable alternatives are available—off-brand bladders with hoses and mouthpieces can be found for under $30 at most retailers or online. Alternatively, water bottles stored in a backpack or attached to the bike are perfectly suitable for the rides.
MTBX policy is to not disclose private medical information of any staff or rider.
