RIPPERS Grade school team registration and info

 Program Description:

 We focus on fun and inclusion.  There is an emphasis on skill development but it is delivered while riding, moving and having fun.  Kids will be moving most of the practice.    

This is an introductory mountain biking program for your aspiring ripper (2nd – 5th graders). Participants will build confidence riding single track trails, including climbing and descending. Some prior off-pavement experience is helpful. Games and group rides build friendships and bike skills through an upbeat and energetic environment. 

The program relies heavily on parent volunteers to ensure that all kids thrive.  On-bike volunteers need to be certified as a WSCL or NICA Level 1 Coach, but doing so is a fairly simple (online) process. Off-bike volunteer opportunities are available as well.

Registration for the RIPPERS Grade School team is guided though our TeamSnap registration portal.  The registration fee is $65 per child for fall.  Please read the info below before registering.  

Rippers Registration Portal

The RIPPERS Grade School MTB Team is organized and operated by Bikes Are The Answer, an all volunteer 501c3 nonprofit.

Fall 2026

Practices will be Monday and Wednesdays from 5:30 to 7:00 beginning Monday Aug 31 and concluding Wed 30 Sep.  Monday Location is typically Minnehaha Park on Beacon Hill but may vary due to conditions.  Wed Practice will likely follow the middle/ high school Bombers' locations so we will update registrants once this is more clear.  

All practices are optional.  Riders are encouraged to signup even if there are occasional conflicts with other activities.

SKILLS:

Each week we will focus on having fun.  Skills seem to accumulate when kids have fun so, as licensed coaches, we try to stay focused on the key ingredient.

Must have a functional mountain bike, helmet and be able to dress for a extended adventure in  the weather.

Must be able to ride a bike on roads and easy trails. Fourth and Fifth graders typically do well in groups with coaches.  Younger riders may need a parent to become a coach so please reach out us via our contact us link for details if you have younger kids that want to participate.

The grade school team will separate into pods so younger riders are challenged but not overwhelmed and the more experienced riders get the extended adventures they need to thrive.