Rules, Expectations, and Required Equipment

As a member of the Utah High School Cycling League and NICA, our riders are required to know and

abide by certain rules and safety etiquette.  We expect all riders to read through these with their

parents so that you know what is expected of you. 

 

Equipment that Student Supplies

  1. Properly Maintained Bike
  2. Helmet that fits properly
  3. Closed Toe Shoes
  4. Gloves
  5. Eye Protection
  6. Repair Kits – Spare Tube, Tire Levers
  7. Water Bottle or Water Pack
  8. Transportation and Lodging at all Races – (We try to carpool to practice rides)
  9. Bikers Edge gives a discount if you show your NICA registration card.

Safety

  1. There are definitely risks associated with this sport; however, we try to make sure that these risks are minimized to the best of our ability.  Here are some ways to minimize the risks
  2. All adult volunteers at a minimum must pass a background check and a CDC concussion certificate course
  3. Coaches must pass Risk Management Course, Wilderness First Aid, and CPR class.  We bring first aid kit to every ride and event
  4. We rely on you to tell us if your student has a medical condition that we need to watch closely, i.e. asthma, diabetes  
  5. We enforce proper riding gear, especially helmets.  Please invest in a properly fitted “mountain bike” helmet.  **Road bike helmets don’t protect the back of the head enough**
  6. We preach hydration on every team ride.  We will not let a student ride without a water bottle or hydration pack
  7. Always at least one adult riding “sweep” during every ride and every race
  8. We will evaluate skill levels during our 6 fun rides and teach basic skills to those that need additional help
  9. We will not ride if we do not have the appropriate amount of NICA licensed adults.  Minimum 2 on EVERY RIDE + Minimum 1 Level 2 Coach per ride + 1 per 6 students ratio
  10. RACE DAY SAFETY – There are EMT’s, ambulances, medical tents, and other medical personnel on hand at every single race

Riders should plan to attend most practices to prepare for races. Developing fitness and riding skills dramatically improves safety and enjoyment at both the practices and races.

Riders who miss practice should plan to ride on their own to maintain fitness. Team rider fitness improves dramatically from week to week. Riders who do not regularly attend practice with their category tend to fall behind their peers and may have to be moved to another category. 

 

IMBA RULES OF THE TRAIL

These guidelines for trail behavior are recognized and honored around the world. https://www.imba.com/about/rules-trail
Rules of the Trail Video

1 – Ride Open Trails

In the past, riders who played by the rules opened up the places we all love today. With so many open trails available, there’s no reason not to find one.

▪ Respect trail and road closures—if you’re unsure, ask a land manager.
▪ Don’t trespass on private land—get a permit or other required authorization.
▪ Never ride in areas protected as state or federal wilderness—it’s against the law.

2 – Leave No Trace

The primal appeal of mud doesn’t justify a splatterfest that damages the underlying trailbed.

▪ Muddy trails are vulnerable to damage — consider other options if a trail is soft.
▪ Stay on existing trails — never create a new one.
▪ Don’t cut switchbacks.
▪ Pack out at least as much as you pack in.

3 – Control Your Bicycle

Keep your head up and your adrenaline in check.

▪ Obey all speed regulations and recommendations.
▪ Stay alert — inattention for even a moment can put yourself and others at risk.
▪ Always ride within your limits.

 

 

4 – Yield Appropriately

Learn the rules below as well as the local rules. You want every encounter to be a happy one.

▪ Always let other trail users know you’re coming — give a friendly greeting.
▪ Anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners.
▪ Yield to non-bike trail users
▪ Yield to riders headed uphill whenever you’re riding downhill (gently enlighten them if the trail is clearly signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic).
▪ Make every pass a safe and courteous one.

5- Never Scare Animals

A frightened animal can be both vulnerable and dangerous. The only thing that keeps animals safe from you is you.

▪ Stay alert — animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement or a loud noise.
▪ Give animals enough room and time to adjust to you.
▪ Use special care when passing horses — follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain).
▪ Never disturb wildlife, cattle or other domestic animals.

6 – Plan Ahead

You should also research your trip and pack wisely — preparing well is always easier than triage on the trail.

▪ Know your equipment, your ability and how to properly prepare for the area where you’re riding.
▪ Be self-sufficient — keep your equipment in good repair and carry supplies for changes in weather and other conditions.
▪ Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.

 

NICA rulebook is posted on utahmtb.org