FAQs

Ride with the Shredders

Wondering what it's like to ride for the Shredders? These questions and answers will give you an idea of what it's like to join the team.

What towns do the Shredders cover?

If your child lives or goes to school in Sussex County, New Jersey, we're your team! We're a composite team, so riders come from schools all over the county.

Hmm. I don't see my town there. Am I out of luck?

Nope! Check out the NJ league's list of teams to find the team closest to you. If you're not sure, give us a shout and we'll point you in the right direction.

What ages are eligible for the team?

Riders in grades 5 through 12 can join the Shredders. Tell us your rider's grade and we'll help you get started.

Can I give it a go?

Yes! It's not a tryout: NICA has no tryouts and no bench. With a parent or guardian's signed league waiver, a new rider can join the team for a ride before registering. The league's waiver covers one ride, so after that riders register for the season. See Give It a Go for what to bring.

Is NICA co-ed?

Absolutely! The league would love to see more girls on the trails. NICA's GRiT (Girls Riding Together) program is designed to welcome girls to the sport, with mentors, girls-only rides and GRiT events at races.

Is experience necessary?

No. Many New Jersey league riders have never ridden a mountain bike before joining. It helps if your rider can already ride a bike confidently, including braking and shifting. Keep in mind mountain biking is an action sport, and the trails around here are rocky and challenging (which is half the fun!).

My child loves to ride bikes, but I'm not sure they'd enjoy racing. Is racing mandatory?

No. Some riders love racing, and others just enjoy the friends, the exercise and the fun of riding. Most do give it a try, though: about 8 out of 10 New Jersey league riders race at least once a season.

Is a mountain bike necessary?

Yes, your rider will need a mountain bike. Northern New Jersey's trails are rocky and tough, so a real mountain bike is a must. Don't have one? No worries. The NJ league runs a Loaner Bike Program for riders who commit to the season, with priority for families with financial need. Ask us and we'll help you apply.

Will any mountain bike do?

This is a tough one. Lots of bikes are designed to look like mountain bikes but can't hold up to real trails. A good rule of thumb: if a bike shop sold you a mountain bike, you're likely good to go. If it came from a big-box store, it may not be safe on the trails. Ask us before you buy.

When does your season run?

Our season starts December 1. The NJ league's five races run from late March to June, and riders register for the season through the league.

What does the practice schedule look like?

Practice times change with the season and the daylight. Send us a message and we'll share the current schedule.

What if practice conflicts with another sport my child plays?

Kids are busy. Tell us about your rider's schedule and we'll talk it through with you.

Where do you practice?

Our home base is Kittatinny Valley State Park in Andover. We love trying other trail systems to keep it fun, including Stephens State Park, Allamuchy Mountain State Park, Watershed Park in Port Jervis, Allaire State Park and the Dickerson Mine trails.

When and where are the races?

The NJ league holds five races around the state from late March to June. See the league's racing season page for dates and venues.

Cool sports like mountain biking are always expensive. How much is it to join?

The league's All-Access Pass covers the whole season: NICA and league registration, insurance, five races, the loaner bike program and more. See the league's Program Cost page for this year's price. The Shredders don't charge any team fees on top of that. Please don't let money decide for you: needs-based scholarships are available.

Can parents and guardians get involved?

Yes, please! Teams run on volunteers and coaches. Choose "Volunteering or coaching" in the contact form and tell us what you'd enjoy helping with.

Still have a question? Ask us directly.

Still have questions?

Ask us anything. We're happy to help families who are new to the sport.

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