Introducing kids to the thrill of riding on a pump track or dirt jump track can be an exciting adventure! These specially designed tracks are perfect for developing bike-handling skills, building confidence, and having fun. If you're planning to take your kids to a pump track or dirt jump track for the first time, here's what you need to know to make it a safe and enjoyable experience.

Find a Track

The first step is finding the right track. Pump tracks and dirt jump tracks are popping up all over, from parks and recreation centers to privately run bike parks. Here are a few ways to locate one nearby:

• Check Local Parks or Recreation Departments: Many cities and towns are adding pump tracks to local parks. These are often free and open to the public.
• Ask at a Bike Shop: Local bike shops often know where to find the best pump tracks or dirt jump parks in your area.
• Search Online: Websites like Trailforks or MTB Project can help you locate pump tracks and dirt jump trails near you.
• Social Media and Community Groups: Facebook groups or local cycling forums may also have recommendations for family-friendly spots.
• Google: Search Google Maps for terms like “pump track”, “bike park” and “dirt jump”

Once you've found a track, it's a good idea to visit it beforehand to assess its difficulty level and to make sure it is suitable for your child.

Protection and Full-Face Helmets

Safety is important and beginners tend to put their safety gear to use while they learn the ropes.

• Full-Face Helmets: A full-face helmet is highly recommended for pump tracks and dirt jumps. It offers additional protection for the face and chin, which regular bike helmets don't cover. Many kids may ride with a standard helmet. But putting children, particularly beginners, in a full-face helmet will go a long way to reduce the likelihood of a day ruined by a face-to-dirt interaction.
• Close-Toed Shoes and Gloves: Kids should be in close-toed shoes - preferably ones that fit snuggly with laces or velcro (as opposed to slip-on style shoes that can fall off if a foot is dragged on the ground the wrong way). Gloves are also a good idea. When kids crash, it’s common for them to catch themselves with their hands. In even very mild crashes, a palm sliding on the ground can be painful. Gloves help mitigate this.
• Other Protection: Many kids wear elbow pads and knee pads at the bike park. This is a matter of personal preference for the parents and kids to decide. Keep in mind, however, that pads should not impede mobility.  Long pants can also help reduce the risk of abrasion if a kid slides on dirt.

Bike Prep and Type of Bike

Before heading out, ensure your child’s bike is ready for the track. Pump tracks and dirt jump tracks require a different riding style than regular bike paths, and the type of bike plays a role in how well your child will do.

• Type of Bike: Most avid bike park riders ride either BMX bikes or specialized dirt jump bikes. These bikes are purpose-built to be durable and easy to handle over jumps. Dirt jump bikes are typically heavy duty single speed bikes, with a suspension fork and a rear disc brake. But, if it’s your first time at the bike park, you probably just want to make sure your kids enjoy it before you invest in a specialized piece of equipment. Ride what you got.
• Derailleurs: If the bike has a derailleur, especially one without a clutch, it’s likely that the derailleur will bounce when landing a jump. In some circumstances, this can cause slack in the chain and cause the chain to come off the chainring. It’s common for inexpensive kid's bikes with multiple gears to have this issue. Many kids ride bike parks with these kinds of bikes, so don’t let it stop you from enjoying the bike park with your kid.
• Tire Pressure: Make sure the tires are inflated properly. Slightly firmer tires help with the speed and flow needed for pump tracks, where the rider gains momentum by pumping rather than pedaling. This also helps to prevent pinch flats from tubes getting folded inside the tire in a hard landing.
• Bike Check: Riding in a bike park can put stress on a bike. Ensure the brakes are functioning properly, the chain is in good condition, and the handlebars and axles are secure. A quick once-over will help prevent any mechanical issues on the track. One trick is to lift the bike about a foot off the ground and drop it and listen for any rattles. Identify the source of any rattle and make sure nothing is loose.

Etiquette

Just like any sport, pump tracks and dirt jump tracks come with a certain set of unwritten rules. Teaching your kids proper etiquette not only keeps them safe but also ensures they have a good time with others.

• Take Turns: Take a moment to watch the other riders and understand the track.  Some tracks are small and can only handle one rider at a time. Others can handle multiple riders.  But even if multiple riders can be on the track at a time, riders still need to start one at a time and take turns. Take note of the spacing between riders and the direction in which they are riding.  
• Be Aware: Stay aware of your surroundings and other riders. Be especially careful when crossing the track.
• Stay in Your Comfort Zone: Encourage your child to ride within their abilities. Some tracks have varying difficulty levels, so it’s okay to stick to easier sections until they feel more comfortable.
• Respect Others: Remind your kids to be polite and mindful of others. Always give space to other riders.
• Introduce Yourself: This one is optional, but if you take a moment to introduce yourself and your kid to other riders, you might get some helpful local advice and make friends in the process.
• Keep the Track Nice: Dirt tracks require regular maintenance. In many bike parks this maintenance is done by volunteers. You can show your appreciation for their work by trying to avoid behavior that can damage the track. Don’t walk or ride on a wet dirt track. Don’t litter. Avoid skidding

Safety

Safety should be your top priority when taking your kids to a pump track or dirt jump track. In addition to wearing proper gear, follow these safety tips:

• Get to Know the Track: When you first arrive, take a moment to get the lay of the land. Many (but not all) tracks are designed to be ridden in one direction. Some have specific beginner sections. Many dirt jump tracks have features that are dangerous for beginners. If the track is professionally built (most tracks built on public land with the support of local governments are), then obstacles that could be dangerous to beginners are often built to be obvious.
• Warm Up: Help your child warm up with some light riding before they hit the jumps or the pump track. Stretching and a few slow laps can help avoid muscle strains or stiffness.
• Start Slow: If it's their first time, encourage your child to take it slow. Focus on building their confidence with the smaller features first before tackling any jumps or more technical sections.
• Watch the Weather: Wet or muddy tracks can be slippery and dangerous. Check the weather beforehand and avoid riding in poor conditions.
• Hydrate and Rest: Pumping and jumping can be tiring, especially for little riders. Ensure they stay hydrated and take breaks as needed to avoid fatigue.

Taking kids to a pump track or dirt jump track for the first time can be an incredibly rewarding experience. By ensuring you have the right gear, teaching track etiquette, and emphasizing safety, you’re setting your child up for success. Riding these tracks helps build strong bike-handling skills and offers a fun way for kids to gain confidence on two wheels. So grab the helmets, prep the bikes, and get ready to enjoy the ride!

*IMBA sends a special thanks to Prevelo for their donation of TWENTY youth bikes to support Take A Kid Mountain Biking Day events all across the country! Prevelo is another example of industry partnerships that level-up the mountain bike community and events like Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day.