Mountain biking is a versatile and rewarding activity that has increasingly included the very young and old as beginner trails proliferate and bike technology advances. The sport not only offers physical benefits, but also important mental health and social benefits.
Ben Colona, owner of Base Camp Bike & Ski in Killington and formerly the manager of the Killington Bike Park, is also the president of the Killington Mountain Bike Club. Colona says he sees many families riding together — and the youngest riders are getting younger. Base Camp now sells 20-inch full-suspension bikes with disc brakes for riders as young as 5 years old. The large tires of mountain bikes allow young riders to get a feel of the trails with increased stability and grip.
Some families aren’t even waiting until their kids are 5 to get them going. There are now shotgun seats that fit just behind the handlebars of an adult bike for toddlers (18-months old and up) and bungee-style towing devices to help young children keep up or join in on longer rides.
Colona said the sport is fast-evolving, not only for young riders but new riders of all ages.
For kids, mountain biking helps develop coordination and confidence. For older adults, mountain biking can also help maintain fitness, strength, flexibility and balance.
“The trails have gotten more accessible and the bikes have gotten better,” Colona explained.
Full-suspension bikes and ergonomic grips can increase comfort for older riders, too.
Colona equated the rise in trail networks throughout Vermont to the low entry barrier, more programs and more beginner-friendly terrain.
“There is amazing progress and it’s happening,” he said.
With the right approach, equipment, and attitude, mountain biking can provide lifelong benefits for both young and old, fostering physical health, mental well-being, as well as strong family connections.
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