All About HMBA Group Rides
Hinton Mountain Bike Assocation (HMBA)
The Hinton Mountain Bike Association (HMBA) often gets asked about its group rides. Every summer, from sometime in May to as late as October, HMBA has two orgranized rides: one on Monday evenings (just for ladies!) and one on Wednesday evenings (everyone!).
"Do I have to be a member?"
You don't have to be a member to try out one of our group rides. Membership provides general liability insurance for our members and gives the HMBA better access to grants to build/maintain our bike park and trail systems. As a member, you get voting privileges at our AGM, can become part of the board as an executive or coordinator, and finally - you have access to great regional business discounts. See our Member page for more info!
May 11, 2015 - First Ladies' Ride of the season! Group 1 of 2.
May 20, 2015 - Wednesday Group Ride
"I'm New to Mountain Biking..."
Fantastic!!! Our group rides welcome all abilities. However, the HMBA has a few tips for those new to mountain biking:
- You will get the most out of your experiences by making sure your bike fits you and is in good working condition. There are several bike shops & bike mechanics in our region that can help you out.
- Know your bike: modulating brakes, changing gears, correct seat height - all these are important to be comfortable with before hitting the local trails!
- By becoming a member, following our facebook group or page or checking the bikehinton.com website - you will be informed of any upcoming skills clinics.
- Practice, practice, practice! Get out on your bike and often! Even if it's just around the neighborhood or local town trails. The more you ride, the more you get to improve!
May 18, 2015 - Monday Ladies, Group of 1 of 2.
May 20, 2015 - Wednesday Group Ride
"Can I Join A Group Ride Later in the Summer?"
Of course! But it is always best to start in May, if possible. If you haven't been riding on your own - you might find it a struggle to ride with those that have been riding since May.
"How Long do Rides last?"
Group ride times generally last 1.5 to 2 hours, with lots of breaks - depending on the group's abilities. Hinton's trails include elevation gains, lots of singletrack, some technical sections such as roots and bridges - basically a little of everything! Trail selections are usually determined at the beginning of the ride, but may change as the ride progresses. Riding in a group is a great way to connect with others and get some good tips on how to tackle different challenges on our trails!
May 25, 2015 - Monday Ladies Ride, group 1 of 3!
May 25, 2015 - Monday Ladies, group 2 of 3.
"I Don't Know the Trails"
All the more reason to join a group ride! To ensure everyone enjoys the groups rides, here a few general guidelines:
- Someone will "Lead" the group and set an appropriate pace and stop for breaks in order for the whole group to catch up. A head count is usually done at the beginning.
- Someone will be the "Sweep" and ride behind everyone. The sweep ensures no one gets left behind!
- All riders should make sure the rider behind them knows which direction to go at intersections.
- If you need to leave the group early - please let someone know!
- Although it's easy to follow others - it helps to ask questions about the trails you are on so that you can easily find your way when you are out on your own or with others!
Happy Trails!!
May 25, 2015 - Monday Ladies
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