27th October 2024

Odawara Forest Bike Park

Our school provides a safe environment where children can enjoy mountain biking while fostering personal growth through the excitement of cycling. Although mountain biking is often perceived as dangerous, with the right guidance and proper instruction, the risk of injury can be greatly minimized.

We start by teaching essential bike-handling skills, such as balancing and braking—skills that are valuable for everyday cycling. Our course is designed with world-class safety standards, allowing children to experience mountain biking in a controlled setting, which significantly reduces the risk of injury.

27th October 2024

Beginner Class

10:00 AM - 12:30 PM

This class is designed for those who are new to mountain biking or have ridden an MTB but have never tackled an off-road course. You’ll learn essential skills such as balancing your bike, properly distributing your weight, and using the brakes safely. We will also address specific challenges, such as building confidence with drops sections, and offer practical solutions. The focus of the day is to help beginners gain confidence in balancing their bike and navigating trails.

Intermediate Class

1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

This class is designed for children who have experience riding an MTB on off-road courses and want to enhance their skills further. Participants will learn how to corner safely, improve their braking control, and master essential techniques like choosing the right line and shifting weight on slippery surfaces. The focus is on developing confidence and refining techniques that will be valuable for more advanced riding.

 

The program also includes a full day at Odawara Forest Bike, offering families the opportunity to continue enjoying riding together after the session ends. Rental bikes are available for the entire day, ensuring everyone has access to the necessary equipment.

PROCESS

1. Meet at the bike park 30 minutes before the class starts. Get changed into comfortable clothes before the lesson starts. If you are renting bikes, the fitting of bikes can be completed during this time.

2. Meet your coaches. Safety first! The lesson starts with stretching and a bike check. It's very important to check the bike before the ride.

3. Start by learning the basics, such as braking, pedal positioning, and balancing on flat ground. Then, practice shifting your weight on the pump track using push and pull movements.

As you gain control and confidence, gradually increase your speed on the track. Finally, apply these skills on mountain trails, navigating turns and varied terrain with ease.

4. After you finish your mountain bike ride, you'll receive a certificate from your coach to recognize the work you've done that day! If you're still eager for more, you can continue riding at Odawara Forest School for as long as you'd like.

You can also challenge yourself on one of the 16 trails at Odawara Forest Bike Park, putting the skills you've learned to the test!

What do I need to bring?

For those who do not have a mountain bike or protective gear:

  • Comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothing

  • Closed-toe, comfortable shoes, such as sneakers

  • Water

  • Snacks.

Please note that mountain bike equipment can be rented at the venue, please order in advance when booking*

For those who have their own equipment:

  • Mountain bike

  • Helmet (mandatory)

  • Knee pads (recommended)

  • Gloves (recommended)

  • Water

  • Snacks