Kids Club : Bike Guidance
The right equipment to help young riders feel comfortable and confident.
The right bike makes everything easier
A well-fitted, well-maintained mountain bike is one of the best things you can give your child before their first session. It doesn’t need to be expensive – but it does need to be the right size, in decent mechanical condition, and actually designed for trail riding.
If you’re not sure whether your child’s bike is suitable, bring it along and we’ll take a look. If you’re thinking about buying a new bike, get in touch before you spend anything – we’re happy to point you in the right direction.
WHAT TYPE OF BIKE?
A mountain bike – hardtail or full suspension – is what we’re looking for. Flat pedals, knobbly tyres, quality brakes, and a frame sized correctly for your child. That’s the checklist.
Road bikes, hybrid bikes, balance bikes, and BMX bikes are not suitable for our sessions. Department store bikes, Aliexpress bikes the kind sold in supermarkets and large retail chains – are rarely fit for trail use and frequently arrive with brakes and gears that don’t work properly. If in doubt, ask us first.
eBikes for kids are not acceptable, there are too many valuable skills and lessons to be learned on a bike that don’t require a throttle or pedal assist.
PRE-SESSION BIKE CHECK – WHAT WE LOOK FOR ON ARRIVAL
We run a quick M-check on every bike before the session starts. Here’s what we’re looking at:
- Tyres – knobbly tread, properly inflated. Slick or worn tyres don’t grip on trail.
- Brakes – both must work independently and bring the wheel to a full stop. If levers touch the bars, they need adjusting before you arrive. Inoperative brakes are a safety risk and bikes will not be allowed to ride
- Handlebars and stem – no play, tightened correctly. Bar end plugs must be fitted – open bar ends are a safety risk and bikes without them will not ride.
- Saddle – secure, at an appropriate height for the rider.
- Chain – present, lubricated, not hanging off or skipping.
- Wheels – spinning freely, no significant wobble, axle bolts secure.
Please prepare your child’s bike before arriving. We carry basic tools and can help with minor adjustments, but we cannot repair bikes that aren’t trail-ready – and if a bike is deemed unfit to ride we can’t offer a refund for that session. The less time we spend on mechanical issues at the start, the more time we spend riding.
SPARES & TOOLS – WHAT RIDERS SHOULD CARRY
Riders are expected to be self-sufficient for a three-hour session away from the base for the day. That means carrying their own kit for basic trailside repairs:
- Spare inner tube – correct size and fitment for the wheel
- Two tyre levers
- Mini pump
- Multi-tool with 4, 5, and 6mm Allen keys
- Chain lube – a small bottle goes a long way
- A spare gear hanger for your model of bike
We carry tools and a small supply of spares at every session but we can’t guarantee specific parts. Come prepared to save disappointment.
Find out more
Everything you need to know about D!NK Scotland Kids Club can be found below. From session information and equipment guidance to safety, FAQs, and what to bring, these pages are designed to help riders and parents feel prepared, informed, and ready for the trails.
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