Who is Brave Endeavors?
Every time you purchase an MTB Merino Wool Jersey, we'll donate a $5 to Brave Endeavors Kid's Mountain Bike Camps.
Brave Endeavors goes far beyond a traditional mountain bike camp. It’s a dynamic program where kids build confidence through activities like journaling, engaging in small group discussions, and even drawing creative parallels between mountain biking and life. Every Brave Endeavors program is built on four essential pillars:
- Intimate small group experiences
- Reflective journaling
- Confidence building
- Pure fun!
For Ages 4-5 Year Olds:
Little Pedalers is a fun, beginner-to-intermediate mountain biking class designed exclusively for 4-5 year olds riding pedal bikes (no striders). This program helps young riders gain confidence on the bike while learning essential skills in a safe, supportive environment. Participants practice techniques like standing and coasting with even (pancake) pedals, navigating dirt trails, overcoming small obstacles, and mastering controlled braking with hand brakes.
How Little Pedalers Helps Physically:
- Improves Balance & Coordination: Develops core stability and fine motor skills essential for riding.
- Builds Bike Handling Skills: Enhances braking, steering, and navigating diverse terrain.
- Strengthens Physical Fitness: Encourages active movement, promoting overall strength and endurance.
How Little Pedalers Benefits Mentally:
- Boosts Confidence: Provides a supportive setting where kids celebrate small victories and progress.
- Enhances Focus & Problem-Solving: Encourages kids to think on their feet as they adjust to new challenges.
- Fosters a Positive Attitude: Teaches resilience and a can-do mindset through fun and engaging activities.
For Ages 4-5 Year Olds:
Little Rippers is an exciting step up from Little Pedalers, crafted for kids who are already confident on their bikes and eager to advance their skills alongside a group of ambitious young riders. This program is perfect for those ready to tackle steeper terrain, handle rougher obstacles, and refine their riding techniques.
Who Should Join?
Little Rippers is ideal for kids who are:
- Comfortable standing on pedals with feet level (pancake pedals)
- Confident riding down steep pitches, such as the first hill by the Klee drops or the start ramp to 1st grade
- At ease navigating over small rocks or roots
- Able to carry speed with control and interested in riding faster
- Proficient in braking with hand brakes only (no feet)
How Little Rippers Helps Physically:
- Advanced Bike Handling: Develops the skills needed to ride confidently on steeper and more challenging terrain.
- Enhanced Speed & Control: Teaches riders how to maintain higher speeds safely and execute precise braking.
- Refined Technique: Improves balance and pedal control, further strengthening core riding fundamentals.
How Little Rippers Benefits Mentally:
- Increased Confidence: Encourages kids to push their limits and master more challenging trails.
- Focused Decision-Making: Promotes quick thinking and problem-solving as they navigate dynamic riding situations.
- Teamwork & Ambition: Builds a supportive group environment where young riders motivate each other to excel.
For Ages 6-8 Year Olds:
Brave Beginnings is designed for 6-8 year olds or 1st-3rd graders who are new to mountain biking and eager to build confidence on their bikes. This beginner-to-intermediate program focuses on developing comfort while standing on the pedals, mastering consistent brake control with hand brakes, and improving shifting efficiency—all while having fun and increasing overall trail awareness.
Who Should Join?
Kids should be self-sufficient on their bikes and able to ride in control on various surfaces such as dirt, pavement, or grass. Many riders enjoy two seasons of growth in this program.
How Brave Beginnings Helps Physically:
- Bike Handling Fundamentals: Enhances skills like standing on pedals, braking with hand brakes, and efficient shifting.
- Improved Control & Stability: Builds a solid foundation for riding confidently on diverse terrain.
- Skill Development: Prepares young riders for more advanced challenges as they progress.
How Brave Beginnings Benefits Mentally:
- Boosts Confidence: Creates a supportive environment where kids can overcome challenges and celebrate progress.
- Encourages Focus & Problem-Solving: Helps riders think critically while navigating trails and adapting to new situations.
- Fosters a Love for Riding: Instills a sense of enjoyment and adventure, making the learning process fun and rewarding.
For Ages 7-9 Year Olds:
Young Brave Explorers is an advanced program designed for 7-9 year olds or 1st-3rd graders who are ready to take their mountain biking skills to the next level. This program builds on the foundation of Brave Beginnings, offering a challenging environment for kids who have already gained confidence and are eager to progress further. The focus is on mastering steep descents, riding over small features, learning the fundamentals of jumps and small drops, refining efficient shifting, and tackling climbing challenges.
Who Should Join?
Kids should be:
- Comfortable coasting on the bike while standing with level pedals (pancake pedals)
- Able to demonstrate consistent brake control without dragging their feet or skidding
- Proficient at riding steep descents such as the first or second Klee drop or the start ramp to 1st grade
- Experienced on trails like Float On, Remix, and/or Kleeway
How Young Brave Explorers Helps Physically:
- Advanced Riding Techniques: Enhances skills in navigating steep descents, small jumps, and challenging terrain features.
- Improved Bike Control: Refines braking, shifting, and overall handling for a smoother, more controlled ride.
- Strength & Endurance: Develops physical fitness needed to tackle more demanding trails and climbs.
How Young Brave Explorers Benefits Mentally:
- Boosts Confidence: Empowers kids to push their limits and feel accomplished when overcoming tougher challenges.
- Enhances Focus & Quick Thinking: Encourages riders to make rapid, effective decisions in dynamic riding situations.
- Fosters Resilience: Builds mental toughness by teaching kids to persevere and learn from every ride.