2025 Try It Ride Schedule

Get Rolling This Spring with the SoMont, Philly Wiss and Philly Pennypack Youth Mountain Bike Teams!

Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to get kids outside, moving, and connecting with their local parks and trails. Whether your child is already zipping around the neighborhood on two wheels or just curious about mountain biking, our Try It Rides are the perfect way to check out what youth mountain biking is all about—no pressure, just fun on bikes with a welcoming crew.

🚵‍♀️ What Are Try It Rides?

Hosted by the SoMont, Philly Wiss and our newest team Philly Pennypack, Try It Rides are FREE, low-key events where middle and high schoolers (grades 6–12) can hop on a bike, meet coaches and current riders, and get a taste of what it’s like to be part of our team.

Whether you're from southern Montgomery County, NW or NE Philly, we’ve got a team near you. 

📅 2025 Try It Ride Schedule

• April 26 | 10 AM–12 PM | Lorimer Park

• May 3 | 10 AM–12 PM | Blue Bell Park

• May 13 | 5:30 PM–7:30 PM | Twining Park

Just come as you are—bring a bike and helmet if you have them, and we’ll help with the rest. Need a bike? No worries - we can provide you with one for the event.

👉 RSVP Here or scan the QR code in the flyer to let us know you’re coming!

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Why Join a Youth MTB Team?

We’re not just about racing (though we do that too!). Youth mountain biking offers a unique blend of adventure, community, and personal growth. When kids join our team, they’ll gain:

🌟 Confidence and resilience from trying new things
💪 Fitness and strength through fun outdoor activity
🤝 Friendships that span schools and neighborhoods
🌲 Respect for nature and trail stewardship values
🧰 Bike maintenance skills to keep their ride rolling

All Riders Welcome

• 🚻 All genders

• 📚 Grades 6–12

• 🚴 No experience needed—just a willingness to learn and have fun

• 🗓️ Our season runs from July through October, with practices and weekend adventure rides

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Ready to Ride?

The Try It Rides are a great chance to meet our dedicated coaches, see how our practices work, and find out what makes the teams a one-of-a-kind experience for youth in our region.

📞 Call or text us at (215) 690-1298
📧 Email us at info@somontcycling.org

Let’s ride into a new season of adventure, excitement, friendship, and fitness. See you on the trail! 🌄

Visit the Independence Youth Cycling site.

 For the most up-to-date information about youth mountain biking in Montgomery County, NW Philadelphia and NE Philadelphia, please visit the Independence Youth Cycling website, our parent 501c3 non-profit.

🚴‍♂️ Get Ready for an Epic Day of Racing at Twining Valley Park! 🚴‍♀️

This Saturday, August 17th, we’re excited to bring you the SoMont/Philly Wiss-produced Local Dirt race at our very own Twining Valley Park (TVP)! It’s going to be a thrilling day filled with speed, excitement, and some seriously fun mountain biking action! 🎉

Race Day Details:

• Date: Saturday, August 17th
• Location: Twining Valley Park
• Student Athlete Registration Deadline: 🗓️ Thursday, August 15th at NOON
  • Register Here

Event Schedule:

• 8:00 AM: Pre-ride opens 🚴‍♂️
• 8:45 AM: Pre-ride closes - All team HC/TD meeting 📣
• 9:00 AM: Races begin! 🏁

Race Categories:

• High School Girls:
  • 9:00 AM – 3 laps (2.2 miles each)
• Middle School Girls:
  • 9:45 AM – 2 laps (2 miles) including a 1 Lap Fun Lap 🏆
• Middle School Boys:
  • 10:30 AM – 2 laps (2 miles) including a 1 Lap Fun Lap 🏆
• High School Boys:
  • 11:30 AM – 3 laps (2.2 miles each)

Competing Teams:

Invited teams include SoMont, Philly Wiss, Phoenixville, Lower Bucks, Bucks Composite, Lower Merion, TE, and possibly BCYC. Get ready for some friendly competition! 🥇

Course Info:

• Check out the course on Strava: HS Strava of Course
• View the course map with markup: Google Maps Course

We Need Volunteers!

Help us make this event a success by signing up to volunteer! 🙌

• Volunteer Sign-Up Form

Safety First:

• Emergency Action Plan (EAP): TVP EAP

Join us for a day of community, competition, and pure MTB fun at TVP! Whether you’re racing or cheering, this event is sure to be a highlight of the summer. 🌟 Let’s ride!

See you at the starting line! 🚵‍♂️🚵‍♀️

Get Ready to Ride: Join Us for April Try It Rides!

Excitement is in the air as the SoMont Youth Mountain Biking Team gears up for the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling League (PICL) and National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) season with two pre-season TryIt Rides. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the thrill of mountain biking, these events are your gateway to adventure, community, and the great outdoors. Here’s everything you need to know to join in the fun!

Tell us you are interested by filling out the 2024 Season Interest Form. No commitment necessary, we just need some information from you!

Unlock Your Adventure: The SoMont/PICL TryIt Rides

Dates & Locations:

Saturday, April 20th at Lorimer Park, 10 am. 183 Moredon Rd, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006

Tuesday, April 23rd at Twining Valley Park, 5 pm. 1400 Twining Rd, Dresher, PA 19025

TryIt Rides are the perfect opportunity for students in grades 6-12 to dip their toes into the exciting world of mountain biking. Hosted in two locations, Lorimer Park and Twining Valley Park, these rides promise an introduction to the team in a fun, supportive, and safe environment. Guided by our trained coaches, participants will learn the basics of mountain biking, including bike handling, trail etiquette, and safety tips, as well as have the opportunity to meet riders and coaches.

No Bike? No Problem!

We understand that not everyone has access to a mountain bike, and we believe that should never be a barrier to participation. Thanks to Independence Youth Cycling’s commitment to getting more kids on bikes, loaner bikes and helmets are available for those who need them. This initiative ensures that every child has the chance to experience the joy and freedom of biking, regardless of their current equipment.

Why Join a TryIt Ride?

Mountain biking is more than just a sport; it’s a way to build confidence, develop a sense of adventure, and make lasting friendships. The SoMont Youth MTB Team and IYC are dedicated to creating inclusive, supportive communities through cycling, offering an alternative to traditional team sports where no one sits on the bench. By participating in a TryIt Ride, you’re taking the first step toward an active lifestyle, environmental stewardship, and becoming part of a vibrant community of young cyclists.

Ready to Ride with Us?

If you're intrigued by the thrill of mountain biking and ready to join a community of young enthusiasts, sign up for one of our TryIt Rides. Don’t miss out on this chance to kickstart your cycling journey with the SoMont Youth MTB Team and IYC.

As a next step, express your interest in the 2024 Season by filling out our 2024 Season Interest Form. This form is your ticket to becoming a part of our cycling family, where adventure, fitness, and friendship await.

Let's make these TryIt Rides a stepping stone to a season filled with adventure, learning, and unforgettable memories. See you on the trail!

Have questions? Email is at info@independenceyouthcycling.org

What Parents Need to Know for the 2024 Mountain Bike Season

A post from Independence Youth Cycling's blog...

As the 2024 mountain biking season approaches, Independence Youth Cycling (IYC) and its PICL/NICA mountain bike teams are gearing up for another exciting year. Here's what parents should know to ensure their young riders are ready for the trails.

Eligibility and Registration

Our teams welcome all youth in grades 6-12 residing in specified townships and neighborhoods in and around Philadelphia. The 2024 Season Interest Form is now available, allowing parents to sign up for notifications about registration​​​​. Visit the Independence Youth Cycling website and look for the the 2024 Season Interest Form.

Program Goals and Philosophy

IYC teams aim to instill a love for cycling and the outdoors in their participants. They focus on building character, confidence, and a sense of adventure through cycling. This approach not only encourages physical fitness but also teaches valuable life skills​​​​.

No Experience Necessary

Don't worry if your child is new to mountain biking. IYC teams welcome beginners and provide training on biking basics, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all skill levels​​.

Practice and Event Schedule

The practice season starts in July, with the event season kicking off at the end of August. Practices are typically held two to three times a week, with races and adventure weekends scheduled through early November​​​​.

Practice Locations and Attendance

IYC teams practice mainly at Lorimer Park, Pennypack Park, Wissahickon Park, Twining Valley Park and Cresheim Trail, with other locations used occasionally. While regular attendance is encouraged for skill development, the team is flexible, understanding the busy schedules of young athletes​​.

Parental Involvement

Parents should expect to commit time for travel to practices and events. Participation in races, although optional, is highly encouraged as they offer a unique and energizing experience​​.

Costs and Equipment

Joining an IYC PICL/NICA team involves a fee, in addition to the national/state league registration fee. Students need a good-quality bike, helmet, cycling gloves, eye protection, and other essential gear for a safe and comfortable riding experience​​​​. IYC can provide financial aid.

Looking Ahead

With cyclocross coming to IYC in 2024, there will be even more opportunities for young cyclists to explore and enjoy different forms of biking​​.

As we approach the 2024 season, Independence Youth Cycling, SoMont Cycling and Philly Wiss continue their mission to enrich lives through cycling. Whether your child is a seasoned rider or just starting, this season promises adventure, growth, and lots of fun on two wheels!

If you want to explore riding on our non-scholastic based teams like Circle Cycle Racing or via our new cyclocross team, please contact us directly.

 

SoMont MTB Newsletter for Sunday July 16, 2023

SoMont Newsletter for Sunday July 16

Breaking news! Official team jersey and SoMont Fan Gear online stores are going live this week. Be on the lookout for an email within the next few days.

We had a GREAT first week of practices.  We loved seeing our returning riders and coaches, meeting the new student-athletes and families and seeing lots of smiling faces!  

Our goal is to make sure all families know what is going on within SoMont so you will be getting weekly updates and reminders via email.  They will typically come out on Sundays. Please reach out with any questions. 

A few things we noticed:

• Many student-athletes did not bring enough water.  It’s HOT!  Hydration is super important.  Please make sure to have plenty of water.  One water bottle often isn’t enough during these hot summer practices.
• We need parents/guardians to meet their student athletes in the parking lot at the end of practice.  Student athletes should not be leaving the parking lot on their own to ride home.  
• Check your bike before coming to practice (air in tires, brakes working, chain lubed and not stretched out).  At a minimum, every rider should carry a tube that fits their tire in case of a flat.
• Thank you for responding for events in Team Snap.  It makes things run smoothly when we know who to expect.  PLEASE KEEP THIS UP!  This week’s schedule includes THREE practices - Tuesday from 6-8, Thursday from 6-8 and Saturday from 9-11.  All practices this week (7/18 - 7/22)  will be at Lorimer Park.  Next week we will be practicing at Twining Valley Park to prepare for our first Local Dirt that we are hosting. Always check Team Snap for locations as we will make sure the events are updated there. 

The MTB Rider Cup at Twining Valley Park is scheduled for Sunday, August 13th.  Mark your calendars now and update your availability in Team Snap.  We would LOVE to see every SoMont rider attend this event if possible.  Specific information regarding times, etc will come later. 

On Thursday, 7/20 we will also be hosting a New Family Meeting and Gear Swap during practice time.  We will be discussing the events for the season, what to expect and volunteer opportunities.  Please plan to attend.  Returning families are welcome to attend as well.  Many of us have extra gear around that we don’t use.  Let’s give that gear a good home.  

Appropriate items to bring:

• lightly used cycling jerseys
• used equipment like saddle bags
• cycling shoes
• extra water bottles
• Camelbaks/hydration packs
• SoMont supporter gears (t-shirts, hoodies, hats) that you have outgrown

Inappropriate items to bring

• Used chamois
• Broken bike parts
• Cycling shoes that are worn out and unsafe
• Anything unsafe

 

Upcoming events - 2023 spring

 Join us at an upcoming event to learn more about our teams!

Team Information Night for New Riders and Families
Monday April 17, 6pm at Keswick Cycle

• Co-ed grades 6-12 fall/winter 2023/24
• We practice 2/3 times a week starting early July
• We ride at Lorimer Park, Pennypack, Wissahickon/Forbidden Drive and other local trail networks
• Event season late August thru end of October
• Team Registration opens around April 15
• "TryIt Rides" and Get-to-know-ya events April and May
• Financial aid, bikes and equipment available

We're always looking for adult volunteers - reach out!

April Youth MTB "Try It" Ride
SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 2023 AT 2 PM
Lorimer Park

Join us April 29, 2pm at Lorimer Park in Abington for a Try It Ride! That's right -- a TRY IT Ride, not a Try OUT ride. Everyone makes the team in mountain biking! Boys and Girls in grades 6-12 (as of fall 2023) are welcome to attend. No mountain biking experience required, although they must be comfortable riding a bike. This will be a fun event with games, education, and a short trail ride at the end if time permits.

A mountain bike with gears, helmet, and water bottle and cage or camelback-type backpack is required. We may have a few bikes available to borrow for the event if you let us know ahead of time.

Parents are asked to stay and attend a short info meeting with coaches, but they will not be biking with us.

Please fill out this form if you plan to attend.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScf42R8qO-AngGFu_jKLctOGgCVqv3qKyitSJDQVpWj4pftvA/viewform?fbclid=IwAR0xcpkfbzWX7utd4cPwWkf5URR-VHUDWUSH1P2gN4J-oox2En_vvoccF-E

May Youth MTB "Try It" Ride
TUESDAY, MAY 23, 2023 AT 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Lorimer Park

Join us May 23 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Lorimer Park in Abington for a Try It Ride! That's right -- a TRY IT Ride, not a Try OUT ride. Everyone makes the team in mountain biking! Boys and Girls in grades 6-12 (as of fall 2023) are welcome to attend. No mountain biking experience required, although they must be comfortable riding a bike. This will be a fun event with games, education, and a short trail ride at the end if time permits.

A mountain bike with gears, helmet, and water bottle and cage or camelback-type backpack is required. We may have a few bikes available to borrow for the event if you let us know ahead of time.

Parents are asked to stay and attend a short info meeting with coaches, but they will not be biking with us.

Please fill out this form if you plan to attend.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScf42R8qO-AngGFu_jKLctOGgCVqv3qKyitSJDQVpWj4pftvA/viewform?fbclid=IwAR0xcpkfbzWX7utd4cPwWkf5URR-VHUDWUSH1P2gN4J-oox2En_vvoccF-E