Originally Posted by
Sierra_rider
On a positive note, there is a lot of development that goes into <18 local MTB racing. There are quite a few high school teams as well as some youth development teams and the youth classes are often the only classes with a deep field. Even if those kids don't stick to racing, hopefully they can at least be part of some sort of resurgence in cycling.
HS MTB teams are growing in my area. MS, too. I have good friends that are coaches for 3 different high schools, and every year they get more participation. I love riding in my local area on the weekends, and coming across groups of young riders out in the dirt. I also love that they are being taught about proper trail etiquette.