SMBA Grom Squad

Learn, ride, and have fun!

Grom Squad is about more than learning to ride a mountain bike. It is an opportunity for kids to build skills, confidence, independence, and connection through a shared love of the outdoors.

Each week, young riders will work with experienced SMBA coaches in small groups, allowing for personal attention, age-appropriate instruction, and a positive experience for every rider.

What Grom Squad riders will do:

• Learn foundational mountain bike skills from certified Sedona mountain bike coaches

• Build confidence with braking, balance, body position, cornering, climbing, descending, and trail awareness

• Ride local Sedona mountain bike trails with skilled instructors and supportive peers

• Lap the Sedona Bike Park while developing bike-handling skills in a fun, progressive setting

• Learn trail etiquette, responsible riding practices, and respect for other trail users

• Practice basic bike-mechanic skills and learn how to take care of their mountain bikes (annual feild trips to learn form the mechanics at Thunder Mountain Bikes!)

• Meet other young riders who share a love for bikes, dirt, trails, and the outdoors

• Have fun while growing their skills in a safe, encouraging, and inclusive environment

Bike & Skill Requirements

For a safe, fun, and successful Grom Squad experience, riders must be able to pedal independently and ride a mountain bike with hand brakes and grippy tires; disc brakes are preferred. Pedal bikes are required - balance bikes and striders are not appropriate for this program.

Riders should be able to stop with both hand brakes, shift confidently if riding a bike with gears, wear a properly fitting helmet, and bring water/hydration pack/snack for every session.

Grom Squad riders must also be ready to participate independently in a small-group after-school setting by communicating their needs verbally, using the restroom independently, following instructor directions, and contributing to a safe, positive, and respectful environment for peers and coaches.

If you are unsure whether your child is ready for Grom Squad, contact info@sedonamtbacademy.com. We are happy to help identify the best next step, including year-round private youth mountain bike lessons in Sedona.

A supportive youth MTB community

At Sedona Mountain Bike Academy, we believe mountain biking is a powerful way for kids to develop confidence both on and off the bike. Grom Squad gives young riders the space to challenge themselves, celebrate progress, learn from mistakes, and support one another along the way.

Our instructors meet each rider where they are. We help beginners feel comfortable getting started on the trail, while giving more experienced young riders the tools and challenges they need to continue progressing.

With small groups and certified instruction, Grom Squad keeps the focus on safety, connection, skill development, and - most importantly - having fun.

Why choose SMBA Grom Squad?

• Weekly consistency: Riders return each week to continue building skills and confidence.

• Certified coaching: Team SMBA instructors bring professional mountain bike coaching experience to every ride.

• Small-group learning: Smaller groups create a safer, more supportive, and more personalized experience.

• Local Sedona riding: Kids get outside and explore the incredible mountain bike trails and bike park in their own community.

• Skills for life: Riders learn bike skills, trail etiquette, basic mechanics, responsibility, resilience, and teamwork.

• Fun-first progression: We create a positive environment where kids can challenge themselves while enjoying the process.