FAQs
What equipment is needed to participate?
A mountain bike with 26”, 27.5”, or 29” wheels with a front suspension fork or full-suspension design is required. The NICA rulebook also states the bike should have gears. Mountain bikes need to be maintained during the season by a professional mechanic or by a parent/guardian. We partner with these local shops who offer small discounts to the team during the season:
• Camas Bike and Sport, Downtown Camas, WA
• Bike Clark County, Downtown Vancouver, WA
Riders also need a helmet, water bottle or hydration pack, and flat repair kit.
How much does the season cost? (Approximately $450 for the season)
Panthers—Team dues are $155 per rider for the season ($150 if paid in person by check or $155 if paid online which includes processing fees). Dues include a team jersey, team t-shirt, lunch on all race days (and some weekend rides), swag awards at practices, end-of-season team celebration, and season awards. Team members will need a headlight for late-season practices. The team will coordinate a group purchase of lights from Trek Bikes for about $60 each with the team discount.
NICA—Oregon League dues are $300 for the season, which covers four regular-season races. Those dues are paid separately and not linked through this website. Additionally, racing in the Oregon State Championship requires a small fee. Scholarships are available through the Oregon League at www.oregonmtb.org
Can I ride with my kid during practice?
Parents are welcome to ride with the team during preseason rides. After July 1, a parent may join for one ride, with a valid team waiver. Continuing to ride with the team requires certification as a Level 1 volunteer. We encourage all our parents who ride to join the Panthers family and complete the Level 1 coach training. Ask a coach about it!
If I don’t want to ride is there a way I can still help the team?
Absolutely! The Panthers Auxiliary is a group of parents who take charge of some team activities during race weekends to include shopping and meal preparation, tent/pit zone setup, teardown, and general coordination of athletes. Additionally, parents and Panther Auxiliary members can volunteer for race day responsibilities with NICA and the Oregon League. Races require many parent volunteers. Ask a coach how to connect with the Panthers Auxiliary.