If you can ride a bike and are excited to learn, explore, and have fun, there's a place for you on the Sharks.
We welcome riders:
π¦ In grades 5β12 (rising 4th graders are welcome at select summer programs)
π¦ Of all ability levelsβfrom first-time trail riders to experienced racers
π¦ Who are ready to challenge themselves, support their teammates, and have fun
π¦ Who want to build confidence, skills, fitness, friendships, and a lifelong love of riding
You don't have to be fast. You don't have to race. You just have to be willing to give it a try.
Choosing a team is a big decision, and we know mountain biking can feel intimidating if you've never tried it before.
That's why we offer trial rides for prospective Sharks. Come meet the team, ride with our coaches, ask questions, and see what we're all about before committing.
Email us at headcoaches@cnysharks.com, and we'll help find the right ride group and coach for you.
π΅ A trail-ready mountain bike in safe working condition
βοΈ A helmet (required any time you're on your bike)
π§ Water bottle or hydration pack
π Closed-toe shoes and comfortable athletic clothing
π§ Basic trail repair supplies (don't worryβwe'll teach you how to use them)
Not sure if your bike is trail-ready? Stop by Syracuse Bicycle and they'll help make sure you're ready to roll.
π§€ Gloves
π΅ββοΈ Bike shorts
βοΈ Sunscreen
π¦ Bug spray
β¨ A positive attitude
Every Sharks practice is a little different, but you can expect plenty of trail time, skill-building, games, adventure, and laughter.
Riders are grouped based on experience, confidence, fitness, and social fit to create a supportive environment where everyone can succeed.
Our coaches focus on helping riders:
β Build confidence
β Improve skills
β Step outside their comfort zone
β Support their teammates
β Have fun on bikes
We maintain small coach-to-rider ratios to ensure every rider receives plenty of support, encouragement, and instruction.
Most mountain bikes work great for getting started.
Your bike should have:
π² Working brakes
π² Multiple gears
π² Tires suitable for dirt and trail riding
If you're unsure, just ask. We love talking bikes and are happy to help before your first ride.
photo: @ruddyflics
Being a Shark means more than riding bikes.
We work hard. We have fun. We support each other.
Every Shark agrees to:
π¦ Wear a helmet every time they ride.
π¦ Respect teammates, coaches, volunteers, competitors, and trails.
π¦ Stay with their group and look out for one another.
π¦ Encourage others and create a welcoming environment.
π¦ Come prepared and ready for adventure.
π¦ Represent the Sharks with sportsmanship, kindness, and integrity.
The Sharks are not a race factory.
Some riders race every weekend. Others never pin on a number plate. Both belong here.
What matters most isn't where you finishβit's showing up, trying hard things, supporting your teammates, overcoming challenges, and having fun along the way.
We are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where every rider feels valued, respected, and supported. We celebrate what makes each rider unique and believe everyone deserves a place to belong.
Β Ready to Ride?
Whether you're interested in a GRiT ride, summer program, race season, or simply trying mountain biking for the first time, we'd love to meet you.
Reach out at headcoaches@cnysharks.com and we'll help you take the first step toward becoming a Shark. π¦π