FAQs
So what is the difference between a Introductory and Intermediate Skills Course?The Introductory course is suitable for anyone who can ride a bike, the intermediate course builds on the skills from the introductory course and covers more technical obstacles such as taking drops with speed and bunnyhops. For teh Intermediate course you need to be able to lift the front wheel over logs up to 20cm and also roll off of drop offs up to 60cm, We would anticipate that unless you have either completed the Introductory skills course or have been a regular Mountain Biker who is experienced in riding different terrain in challenging weather conditions you should attend the Introductory Course first.
How fit do I have to be to attend a skills course?
The instruction courses are not designed to be a fitness test and the course is tailored to fit the ability of the group, however all participants should be active in daily life to be able to gain the most from the course. We would anticipate that anyone who does not exercise aerobically at least once a week or doesn't have age on their side (!) may appreciate the Novice Skills COurse which runs at a slower pace adn for 3 hours only.
Do you take Children?
Our standard skills courses are designed for Adults however we understand that children also enjoy mud, water and mountain biking! With this in mind we run various childrens mountain biking courses in the better weather for children aged 8 years and upwards. We can also run private family days for those who wish to attend as a family.
How good at cycling do I have to be?
You do not need to have cycled off road to take either the Novice or Introductory Skills Courses however, you should be able to ride a bike on road. For the Intermediate Skills Course we would suggest that you have undertaken the Introductory Skills Course or that you have experience of mountain biking such as regular off road riding. For guided rides pleasesee the ride descriptions as some rides can be quite techncial in nature and we would hope you ride more than you walk!
So why should I book with you and not another company?
Apart from the fact that we are a national business that have been rnning for several years with several instructors and also having years of instruction experience and holding the relevant qualifications, insurance and risk assessments we also go the extra mile - whether this is sending you website links you asked about on a course, helping you with MTB holiday suggestions or offering a go at clipless pedals on the Introductory course, we also include essential trail repairs on our courses - something you'll definitely need to know at some point if you don't already!.
Do you teach Downhill Mountain Bike skills? The basic mountain biking skills are taught on our Introductory and Intermediate courses, these courses cover the core skills and techniques you need to know for any style of mountain biking. For developing these skills further you will find very few companies offering these type of courses due to the health and safety risks if things go wrong (which are more likely as you are learning). If you wish to have specific downhill tuition we would suggest that you go with a recognised company with a solid reputation and good insurance cover.
What do I need to bring?
- Yourself
- A fully serviced Mountain Bike - these can be hired at a cost of £20 but must be booked in advance on the Booking Form
- Bike helmet (sorry but no helmet = no ride however we can supply helmets for a free loan
- Gloves - full finger if its cold
- Suitable shoes and clothing for cycling such as trainers that you don't mind getting muddy but not jeans.
- Waterproofs - if rain is forecast
- Spare jacket or fleece - you may get cold when we make stops
- Lunch (plenty of it!)
- Drink - we suggest water or a carbohydrate drink for summer and in addition a flask of something warm in the winter (we mean coffee not alcohol!)
What will the Instructor will bring?
- Spare helmet
- First aid kit
- Spare food (energy bars/gels/drink)
- Rescue blanket
- Whistle
- Small Toolkit (including puncture repair kit and pump)
- Mobile phone
- Sat nav/GPS/Map - Your emergency contact details
What do I need to wear?
Please wear appropriate clothing such as tight jogging bottoms, leggings or tracksters (or if its sunny - shorts!) Loose clothing can get caught in the chain, please do not wear jeans. Footwear should be trainers, lightweight walking shoes, cycle shoes or similar.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Although there is no conclusive research on the benefits of wearing a helmet, a helmet is highly recommended whenever you are cycling off road. For insurance purposes a helmet is required to be worn on all Get Mountain Biking Courses. If you do not have a helmet please contact Get Mountain Biking in advance for the (free) loan of one.
Can I hire a bike?
Bike hire can be provided however this MUST be prearranged via the Booking Form. Once booked and paid for we will bring a bike and spare helmet with us on the day.
I have a medical condition
Please check any medical condition with your doctor and obtain their permission to attend the course before you book with us, there is a medical declaration on the Booking Form that you are required to complete, for you own well being.
How big is the group?
The maximum group size for skills courses is limited to 6 riders per instructor for maximum benefit, safety and enjoyment. Guided Rides are limited to 10 riders per Guide.
Is the course accessible by train?
Harlestone Firs - the nearest train station to Harlestone Firs is Northampton which is a 3.5 mile bike ride away from the meeting point. The train line runs directly into London Euston/Birmingham New Street.
Woburn Trails - the nearest Train station is in Woburn Sands and is a 1 mile bike ride away from the meeting point. please note that the trains do not run on a Sunday. You will have to change at either Bedford or Bletchley to catch the local train (this is accessible from either London Kings Cross or London Euston as well as the Midlands). Bletchley Station is approximately 4 miles ride from the Bow Brickhill side of Woburn Trails.
Thetford - the local station is Thetford which is accessible from the Norwich main line. Please see National Rail for more info and train times/costs.
Can you recommend accommodation?
The following B&B's all have secure facilities for the safe storage of bikes
Local to Woburn Sands;
The Strawberry Farm Salford Road, Aspley Guise Village
South Lodge B&B Cross End, Wavendon Village
The Granary Brogborough Village, 1 mile from J13, M1
Milton Keynes Youth Hostel, Vicarage Road, Milton Keynes
Local to Harlestone Firs;
Highgate House Creaton, Northants - special rate £55 single or £80 double room B&B - please quote "Get Mountain Biking" when booking.
Heyford Guesthouse Nether Heyford Village, Northants
local to Thetford Forest:
The Old Rectory, Thetford
Thorpe Woodland Campsite, Thetford
Local to Otley Chevin;
Haworth Youth Hostel
Please note that Get Mountain Biking cannot be held responsible for external links, information or the quality of the accommodation provided.
If you have any further questions please contact us.