Who is Cycling Dev?

Cycling Development is volunteer-run, non-profit program that organizes and coaches the 13 high schools and 3 jr. high schools in Placer, El Dorado and Sacramento county. We mentor, train, and enrich the experience for kids in the sport of mountain biking.

Who is NorcalMTB?

Norcal Cycling League is the governing body that organizes the races for the 90 (and growing) schools in the Northern California region.

Who is NICA?

Founded in 2009, the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) develops interscholastic mountain biking programs for student-athletes across the United States. NICA is about having amazing adventures with your teammates while tackling both small and epic challenges.

Practices & Races

Practices

Riders will practice 1-2x a week with Cycling Development and 1-2x a week with their individual team during the season.

• Saturday mornings - Cycling Development brings together all the high schools in our network and practice together. The student athletes are grouped together by their levels. From 1A, B, or C (the fastest and most experienced) to 4A, B, C (student athletes that are just starting out). There are certified Level 3 coaches for each of the groups, along with volunteer Level 1/2 Coaches who are there as guides and support. 1 coach for every 8 student athletes.
  Typical start time: 9:00am - 12:00pm

• Monday evenings - Cycling Developments hosts the evening practices with the same group breakdown.
  Typical start time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm

• Thursday evenings - The school teams practices in their local trails. The school head coach is in charge of the route along with the help of parent volunteers.
  Typical start time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm

• Wednesday evenings - Not standard, but some teams offer spin classes to level up their fitness. Some additional financial support may be required if the team provides this program.

Transportation

Student athletes and their parents are responsible for their transportation to and from practices and races. If this is an issue, many coaches and parents are available to carpool and help out. 

Camping & Lodging at Races

Parents and student athletes are responsible for accommodations at camp sites and hotel lodging. Refer to the schedule for more details. It is encouraged for the student athletes to pre-ride the race course the day before the race. Pre-riding the course is both a safety and a race advantage.

Race Schedules 

There are 5 official races during the season. Here’s a link to the calendar. 

Due to the popularity of the sport, NorcalMTB has split into two Regions to accommodate the number of athletes. Depending on which school your child belongs to, they would race against their regional category. The championship at the end of the season will combine both regions. 

Equipment, fees, and Team kit

Bike and Other Equipment Required

1. Mountain bike*. Est. $1,800+
   Ideally, under 30 lbs, with at least a front suspension. If you’re unsure of what type of mountain bike is required, please consult with the head coach for guidance. Other maintenance costs will likely incur during the season such as replacing of tires, chain, brake pads, cables, and other bicycle parts.

2. Helmet. Est. $50+

3. Gloves - Est. $20+

4. Cycling Shoes with appropriate pedals - Est. $50+

5. Protective eyewear - Est. $20+

6. Lights for night rides - Est. $50+

Fees and Dues

1. $60 - Athlete Season Registration

2. $40 NICA Student Athlete Season Membership

3. $55/ Race Fees (x4 = $220)

Total: $320 (2024-2025 dues may vary and installment plans are available)

Note: We never want finances to be an obstacle to join our mountain bike team. We offer sponsorships and financial assistance for families.

Purchase your Team's Cycling Kit/ Uniform. Costs may vary and not all of the items are required. * required

1. Jersey SS - $114*

2. Padded Lycra Cycling Shorts - $149*

3. MTB Shorts - $106

4. Vest - $108

5. Leg Warmers - $38

6. Arm Warmers - $31