Mountain Biking

The Mountain Biking Gears Awards are progressive training courses designed to build confidence, competence, and teamwork in cycling through three distinct levels: 1st Gear, 2nd Gear, and 3rd Gear.

Cadets with mountain bikes wear protective helmets and multi-coloured jackets

Step away from the everyday and immerse yourself in the thrill of mountain biking — where hills, trails, and nature become your playground. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a peaceful ride through the wilderness, mountain biking offers endless possibilities for everyone.

The Mountain Biking Gears Awards are progressive training courses designed to build confidence, competence, and teamwork in cycling through three distinct levels: 1st Gear, 2nd Gear, and 3rd Gear. Each level focuses on developing essential skills, starting with the correct use of safety attire, basic bike checks, and an introduction to gears and braking. As participants advance, they will master balance, control, and cornering techniques, as well as gain practical experience in bike maintenance and trail leading. By the final level, cyclists will confidently conduct risk assessments, partake in group rides, and explore the basics of conservation and instructor roles. With each challenge set and achieved, riders will not only sharpen their technical skills but also foster a deeper understanding of safe and responsible cycling.

Gears Cycling Skills – 1st Gear

Correct use of the appropriate safety attire
Basic ‘M’ bike checks
Introduction to proper use of gears
Practical activity to show correct braking, balance and control
Working within the cycling group showing correct riding position
Adherence within group to complete a set course/challenge
Complete a personal challenge set and agreed by participant and instructor

Gears Award – 2nd Gear

Show ability to put on own safety attire
Intro to correct braking, balance and control
Practical ability to show riding position, use of gears and cornering ability
Intro to full ‘M’ bike checks
Basic bike maintenance including tyre changing
Cover basic trail leading skills on different terrain
Working within the group to complete a set course/challenge

Gears Award – 3rd Gear

Competence in the use of safety attire
Able to conduct ‘M’ bike checks unaided
Competent use of the gears, braking system and the adoption of an appropriate body position
Knowledge and understanding of ‘Risk Assessment’, assessing terrain with instructor before moving on to more challenging ground
At an appropriate time, show the ability to lead the group on designated sections of a route
Intro to conservation and effects on your group
Intro to the role of an instructor (Junior / Senior Instructor Awards)

Duration: 5 day residential course

Location: CCAT Capel Curig, Snowdonia National Park

Course fee: £50

Eligibility: Cadets aged 15+ and CFAVs

Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for CFAVs but Cadets must have completed their Two star syllabus.

Course Certification: Successful participants will be awarded the appropriate MIAS Gears Award. Additionally for cadets, this meets the requirement of the three star AT element of the Army Cadet Syllabus.

DofE: This course also meets the requirements of the Gold DofE Residential section.

Please speak to your detachment or contingent commander if you are interested in attending this course.

Adult Volunteer Testimonial

Major Damien Mottram

It’s been educational, challenging, and a brilliant opportunity to learn new outdoor skills in a safe, supportive environment. Whatever your background or ability, just do it—you’ll gain valuable experience to take back to your unit.
Cadet Testimonial

Cdt Cpl Catriona Baxter

I came into the course nervous and unsure about mountain biking, but I’ve learned so much. Today showed me not to be scared—it’s challenging, exciting, and liberating. I’d tell others to just go for it, grow your confidence, and enjoy the experience.
Cadet Testimonial

Cdt LCpl Ella Rose

There were parts I thought I couldn’t do, especially the hills—I hated them at first. But reaching the top felt fulfilling. It was a real challenge to overcome. My advice: go in excited! Maybe practice cycling beforehand so you feel ready.
Cadet Testimonial

Cdt Cpl Ashton Simpson

The course has been fun and challenging, even though I’m fairly fit. I’ve gained experience, friendship and confidence. My advice to other cadets is simple: if you see something you want to do, go for it. I’d definitely come back for more!