Question 1

What type of skill level does my child need to have?

Accepted Answer

Participants can comfortably ride on dirt trails, grass fields or gravel conditions can use hand breaks and can physically change/reach gear shifts.

Question 2

What type of bike does my child require?

Accepted Answer

Mountain Bike with functioning gear system, hand brakes (no coaster breaks – disc breaks recommended), kick stands removed.  Visit one of our cycle shop sponsors to find the perfect bike. Go for a lighter weigh bike – it make a difference for little legs!

Question 3

What other equipment does my child require?

Accepted Answer

Mandatory:
Bike Helmet (CSA,CSPC, ASTM Approved, Water (mounted bottle or hydration back pack), Closed-Toed Shoes Mandatory.  
Recommended:
Riding/Clear Glasses, Long Socks, Bike Gloves

Question 4

What if we are late to the ride?

Accepted Answer

All rides start promptly at the designated time. Due to the nature of riding in the forest, latecomers are unlikely to join their group. Please arrive at least 15 mins prior to the start of the ride.

Question 5

Do Shredders ride in inclement weather?

Accepted Answer

YES! We ride in the rain. Dress for the weather! Multiple days of rain/extreme duration rain can affect trail quality if we ride. Upon consultation with trail & conservation authorities, we will send a broadcast email the day of the ride to all Shredders if the trails are deemed closed. Pending the schedule availability and Mother Nature, Shredders will try our very best to reschedule the ride; we cannot guarantee a reschedule.

Question 6

What about inclement weather + air quality during a ride?

Accepted Answer

In the event of a storm during a ride, all participants will promptly return to the main meeting location. This is where parents or guardians are expected to pick up their children.

How does Durham Shredders address poor air quality concerns?
Durham Shredders takes the health and safety of its participants seriously, especially concerning air quality. We use the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) to guide our decisions:
AQHI 1 to 3 (Low Risk): Training sessions will proceed as planned.
AQHI 4 to 6 (Moderate Risk): Training may be adjusted in intensity or duration to ensure participant safety.
AQHI 7 or above (High Risk): Training sessions will be canceled to protect everyone’s health.

How will I be informed about changes due to air quality?
We use TeamSnap to communicate any changes to training schedules resulting from air quality concerns. Participants and parents are encouraged to stay informed about local AQHI values by visiting AirHealth.ca or downloading the WeatherCAN app.

Are there refunds or pro-rates for sessions canceled due to weather or air quality?
Unfortunately, Durham Shredders is unable to offer pro-rates or refunds for sessions affected by weather or air quality issues. We strive to ensure the safety and health of all participants and appreciate your understanding in these matters.

Question 7

What about bike repairs, adjustments, tire air etc?

Accepted Answer

Please check your child’s bike before EACH ride to ensure proper tire inflation, seat height, etc. We only have limited tools and volunteers day of rides.  Our local bike shop sponsors offer great discounts for Shredders on repairs and parts. A  Pre – season check up is highly recommended!!

Question 8

What about Poison Ivy?

Accepted Answer

Most forested areas in Durham region have an abundance of poison ivy. Stay on the trails & in parking lots to avoid contact. Long socks and or lightweight bike pants and biking gloves can help prevent contact. IF you may have come into contact with Poison Ivy, keep a bottle of DAWN dish soap in the shower and have your rider wash with it after the ride! Wash bike clothing separately & right after the ride.

Question 9

We will not be able to make all rides. Is a price adjustment available?

Accepted Answer

Our coach-to-participant ratio is very low to maximize your child's experience. Shredders pre-plan based on registration & demand. As a Nonprofit youth club, we offer the best rates for an awesome program and usually have waitlists on most nights. Unfortunately, we cannot offer pro-rated or discounted rates for our programs.

Question 10

Where can I purchase a new bike and accessories? How about a tune up?

Accepted Answer

We support local Durham region dealers. Here is a list of retailers who can assist you with all your MTB sales and service:
 
Impala Bicycles (Whitby) 
Cycle Life (Pickering) 
Evolution Cycles (Richmond Hill) 
Side Hustle (Port Perry)

Question 11

How do I register? How can I pay?

Accepted Answer

Registration is easy, simply visit durha,mshredders.com/programs. Online payments via our registration page & process are our accepted method of payment. Sorry no cheques or cash.

Question 12

Do you offer financial support programs?

Accepted Answer

Shredders is a non profit organization who strives to be inclusive to all youth who want to enjoy the outdoors, riding and meeting new friends.  Shredders has a discretionary fund to help families with program costs, please contact us for more information!

Question 13

How do I get more information on the Youth Racing Team?

Accepted Answer

Interested in trying out our Youth XC Race team?  Are you competitive but new to MTB?  We would love to discuss the program with you!  Come tryout a new sport! Make MTB your cross-training for your winter activity!  Email us at info@durhamshredders.com

Frequently asked questions