Need a great excuse to get another bike or dust off that expensive bike with nobbly tires you have in the spare room, but never ride? SKCC has affiliated with Mountain Bike Australia (MTBA). SKCC members can take up the MTBA ‘value add’ option for $50 and you’re then good to go at any MTBA sanctioned event.

How you join MTBA through SKCC is fully explained at the SKCC link. To learn more and get all the latest MTB news and events click on the MTBA and Mountain Bike Victoria links.

Melbourne is spoilt for MTB trails and there are a keen bunch of male and female members (at all levels) who regularly hit the trails. SKCC mountain bikers have their ownFacebook group, click on the link to join and start networking. Check out SKCC’s Brad Davies story on the Terra Australis (7 Days of Heaven or Hell) on the Cycling Tips Blog.

Winter provides a great chance to get on the MTB and give the road bike a rest. Over the next few months we plan on organising some MTB skills sessions, some training rides, promoting SKCC compatible MTB events (top shelf custard doughnuts and coffee), giving some regular updates in the e-newsletter and pulling together a training camp. Pencil in theChase the Sun series at Lysterfield Park, the Gravity 12 hr and the Jeep 24hr, events well attended by SKCC members.

Remember all the cycling shops which support the Club, including Giant and Total Rush can help you with a new dirt machine, MTB accessories, clothing or a service. Also SKCC memberPat the MTB Jedi Master Fitzpatrick offers skills coaching, bike setup advice and adventure ride tours.

We hope these new activities around MTB and Track will expand your cycling experience and skills, allow you to meet new friends and reinvigorate your love of the humble bike.