NZ Made Bike Gear by goRide

NZ Made Bike Gear by goRide

by | Feb 18, 2021 | get Inspired

Finding the right bike gear for women & families can be a tricky thing.  The bike industry serves male riders first and foremost so we often can not find the solution we are looking for.  This has lead us to making some of our own products which has been a hugely rewarding journey.

Supporting you and your family to SMILE when you ride.

Shop NZ Made by goRide
Shop goUnders - Padded Bike Pants

Choosing NZ Made is Important

There are lots of great reasons why we choose to have goRide bike gear made in NZ.  Here are a few of our favourite…

Keep NZ talent working – supporting local people to continue to do what they know and love.  Unfortunately the NZ manufacturing sector has seen a major decline in factories so the people out their still trying to make a living need to be supported.

Quality guaranteed – with everything we make being overseen here in NZ it is easy to maintain a high level of quality.

Made for Kiwi women & families – being designed, tested and made here in NZ means that each product is well thought through before reaching the market.  Small batch runs allow us to vary colours and make quick design changes that react to the feedback we receive.

Choose the correct chamois

Good for the planet & minimises waste – again with production here in NZ we can be confident in how the process is run. This allows us to minimise waste and choose fabric & accessories that are kind to the planet.

Proud – Making bike gear that is not only practical but colourful & fun is a really important part of what we do.  We want women & families to be comfortable and feel confident when they choose to ride in our beautiful country.  We want you to be able to choose NZ Made and wear or use it proudly.

NZ Made Bike Gear by goRide

We started our NZ Made journey way back in 2015 with our Kids goUnders – Padded Bike Underwear.  Both Jo & I had young kids at this time who we loved to take biking.  We wanted to take them on some biking holidays but couldn’t find padded bike pants that were fun & be interesting for them to wear.  We decided to make our own.

From there our vision grew and now includes padded bike underwear for women.  The brief style underwear come in two waistband heights – high waist and mid waist.  The padded underwear range continues to expand and includes a Boy Leg padded underwear for women & teenage girls.  Winter 2022 will see men and teenage boys covered with a Boxer style undie!

We have always aspired to making riding more fun for kids.   This has led us to make our own hand painted bike bell range, along with a cute handlebar bag for toddlers to take exploring.  All of these products are intended to make kids smile when they ride.  These simple products are made in our studio in Nelson by Annette and her talented, artistic daughter.

Who We Support – Other NZ Made/Designed Brands

Whenever we can we support NZ Made products so we have some great NZ brands in our online shop.

This includes the amazing natural Biomaxa Chamois Cream. Which is made from Manuka honey and lanolin – a very special mix of ingredients to support your skin.

Other companies based in NZ and using some incredible design talent include; Scribbler Jackets, Therm Kids Outdoor Active Wear, DoLittle Kids Bike Seats and Loose Line Bike Tees for Women or Kids. 

Our Commitment to NZ Made

Made in New Zealand is a goal that we will maintain for as long as practically possible. We will continue to support the talented, skilled, generous specialists that are part of our team.  From digital pattern makers, to cutters, the construction girls and our hand painting artist.  Every time you buy NZ Made bike gear you are helping us to keep this dream happening… so thank you & please spread the word!

Your bike riding success is different to others… use our stories and support, get the right solutions.

Ride More Places

Read stories about NZ trails, tracks & parks.  Find out what other families & riders are doing. Be inspired! Is this ride an option for you or your family?

Bike Gear Stories

A collection of stories that will help you learn about bike gear. goRide supporting you to get the right bike gear solution for the type of riding you do or want to do.

Women and families learning ...

Read our stories that support you to learn about all things biking related.  Be confident that you know how to safely ride & care for your bike.

Buying Guides

Use our full range of buying guides to get the right solutions for you and your family.

Solution Finder

We are here to help. Use goRides quick and easy Q&A forms to receive personalised support… support specific to you and your family.

Types of Riding Stories

Stories in Types of Riding support you to learn about riding a bike in different environments.  So you can successfully choose to ride more place, more often.

Support and inspire other riders and families to ride

Share your riding outings, adventures and experiences on our quick and easy question and answer forms. Join us in helping others ride bikes. All entries receive a free shipping coupon and go into our seasonal prize draw.

goRide SHARING FORM

goRide supporting women and families to SMILE when you ride

Family Riding Alps to Ocean with Kids Attached – goRide Community Sharing

Family Riding Alps to Ocean with Kids Attached – goRide Community Sharing

by | Dec 2, 2020 | get Inspired

Riding the Alps to Ocean – With Kids Attached (Bike Trailer)

goRide Community Sharing – Read this story from a family who enjoyed riding the Alps to Ocean with their child attached – riding in a bike trailer. Read about their experience and discover whether this could be an option for your family,

Supporting you and your family to SMILE when you ride.
tow rope
goRide Sharing Form

Have you ridden a trail with your family or a group?  Your story could support others to ride. Simply hit the goRide Sharing button above and complete the questions.

We are collecting and sharing family experiences of riding so you can see what others have done. This will give you some confidence and understanding of whether your kids may be capable of doing the same type of ride. The age is only a guide – you are better to focus on matching your families capability or riding experience.

Alps to Ocean – Towing a Child Under 2yrs using a Bike Trailer

Family Details & Date of Ride

October 2020 from Lake Tekapo to Oamaru in 6 days with our daughter Matilda, 18 months. We’ve spent quite a lot of time cycling with her previously and she was always happy to go back in the trailer, often putting her helmet on herself signalling she was ready to go.

Bikes/Gear/Kids Bike Seat – Attached or Towed

We towed Matilda in a Thule Chariot double behind Colin’s mountain bike and she did really well. I rode my Surely Long Haul Trucker with 4 pannier bags and 2 bags on the rear rack. Colin has a rear rack on his bike with a bag too.

Describe how the ride was done – multi day ride

Originally we planned 10 days expecting to only do 30km a day, but we ended up doing it in 6 days because everyone was happy!

We rode Tekapo – Lake Pukaki Doc Campground – Ohau Lodge – Lake Benmore Holiday Park – Kurow Holiday Park (a big day because the council campgrounds we meant to stay in around the lake were quite yucky with lots of broken glass – the chariot got a puncture!) – Duntroon Domain – Oamaru.

alps to Ocean with kids
Canal roads between Tekapo & Lake Pukaki
Adult Comments/Kids Comments:

It was a glorious trip and we’re so happy to be able to spend times like this as a family.

The campgrounds were actually really great because Matilda had so much space to play. also used the washing machines to wash our nappies. Even if you weren’t camping I think cabins might be preferable to other accommodation options as you can relax and not worry about a toddler breaking anything!

We camped every night in our tent and we’d leave camp around 11:00 after Matilda had a good play and she’d fall asleep soon after. We’d then ride until she woke up, have lunch for a couple of hours and then she’d nap again. Often she’d wake up about an hour before camp and we had plenty of snacks to get her through. She had gone to one nap a few months ago, we certainly weren’t expecting so much sleeping, but it certainly made it easier.

 

After climbing Tranbrae Pass, heading to Omarama
Tips for Other Families

Matilda got bounced around a bit, but she only got upset by it twice in the rockiest sections over the pass out of Ohau, which makes me think she was happy with the rest of the bumps. Colin is a keen mountain biker and I think that certainly helped to have the control to be able to ride the best lines.

To get through the barriers we’d slant Colin’s bike under the arch then I’d line up the trailer and it would just squeeze through.  On about 2/10 occasions we had to disconnect the trailer.  Then I’d push my bike through the pinch gate and then Colin would lift the back wheel over because the panniers wouldn’t fit through! It was a bit tricky but we got quite efficient at it.

Your bike riding success is different to others… use our stories and support, get the right solutions.

Ride More Places

Read stories about NZ trails, tracks & parks.  Find out what other families & riders are doing. Be inspired! Is this ride an option for you or your family?

Bike Gear Stories

A collection of stories that will help you learn about bike gear. goRide supporting you to get the right bike gear solution for the type of riding you do or want to do.

Women and families learning ...

Read our stories that support you to learn about all things biking related.  Be confident that you know how to safely ride & care for your bike.

Buying Guides

Use our full range of buying guides to get the right solutions for you and your family.

Solution Finder

We are here to help. Use goRides quick and easy Q&A forms to receive personalised support… support specific to you and your family.

Types of Riding Stories

Stories in Types of Riding support you to learn about riding a bike in different environments.  So you can successfully choose to ride more place, more often.

Support and inspire other riders and families to ride

Share your riding outings, adventures and experiences on our quick and easy question and answer forms. Join us in helping others ride bikes. All entries receive a free shipping coupon and go into our seasonal prize draw.

goRide SHARING FORM

goRide supporting women and families to SMILE when you ride

Front vs Rear Kids Bike Seats – What should YOU choose?

Front vs Rear Kids Bike Seats – What should YOU choose?

by | May 20, 2020 | get Inspired

Want to ride with your young child on a bike seat attached to your bike? You have a few choices. Read on for advice on Front and Rear Bike Seats and what might be the right type of seat for you and your family.

Supporting you and your family to SMILE when you ride.
tow rope
Shop Riding with a 1 year old
Riding with Kids - what are your options?

Why choose a front or rear seat?

Both seats offer you something a little different… so let us get some understanding of the advantages of the two types of seats.

Rear Bike Seats are the most versatile kids bike seat.   There is a solution for most bikes and it offers your family a solution for a wide age range. It is a suitable first bike seat. Suitable for children from 1-6 years. A weight range of 9-22kg. Your child needs to be able to sit independently and fit a bike helmet to safely ride in this seat.

LEARN MORE: Rear Kids Bike Seat Buying Guide

Front Kids Bike Seats allow you to ride early with a very young child securely harnessed to a seat. The slightly reclined seat is suitable from 1 year of age through to 2-3yrs depending on the size of your child. A weight range of 9kg up to 17kg. These seats achieve the ultimate in interaction with your child seated between your arms sharing the view and experience with you. Your child needs to be able to sit independently and fit a bike helmet to safely ride in this seat.

LEARN MORE: Front Kids Bike Seat Buying Guide

 

Things that will influence your decision?

Price: The initial outlay for a rear bike seat is more than for a front bike seat.  However, rear seats are better value as you will be able to use the seat with your child for more years, approximately 2-3 more years. Make sure you consider the full cost… do you need any additional adaptors or a carrier for your bike? Do you want to have the flexibility of attaching the seat to a second bike?

Where you ride:  stopping lots or in traffic, commuting to work while doing a childcare drop off, a rear seat just seems to work for families.  Protected by the adult riders body your child will not be as effected by the temperature you are riding in. Compared to quiet roads, cycleways, bike paths or bike trails where a front seat is just awesome to have your child between your arms and so easy to interact with.  Best early introduction to riding in warm weather.

Type of bike: your choice of seat may primarily be influenced by what will fit on your bike.  Bikes are not always compatible with kids bike seats;

  • Rear seats do not work with rear suspension or carbon frames.  Rear seats come in different designs that will either attach directly to your bike frame or to a bike carrier that is attached to your bike.
  • Front seats are best suited to upright step through frames & urban commuting bikes – adult in an upright position.  Attaching a front seat to any other kind of bike means you will be sacrificing something in the way of your comfort while riding.  Usually that is space between your chest & the back of the seat or space to dismount off the front of your saddle when you stop.

Which Kids Front Seat will fit my bike? 

Will a Rear CARRIER MOUNT Seat fit my bike?  Will a Rear FRAME MOUNT seat fit my bike?

 

How will the seat effect your riding?

Riding with Added Weight
  • Rear seats add weight that is high at the back of your bike so you need to be aware of the tipping effect where your front wheel can lift off the ground if there is too much weight in the back of your bike.  This does not tend to happen with bike frames that are medium or larger.  It is more likely to occur when your child is older and heavier.
  • Front seats are placed on your handlebar stem so it will take a couple of rides to get used to the change in the feel of your handlebars.
Starting & Stopping
  • Rear seats prevent you from swinging your leg over your rear wheel to dismount from your bike.  To stop you must come off the front of your saddle and and then manoeuvre your leg somehow.  This is super easy with a step through (no top tube) frame.  Not so easy or elegant with a high top tube.
  • Front seats may prevent you from coming off the front of your saddle/seat to stop.  This is more likely with a sport/trail or mountain style bike that positions the kids seat & your body close.  It will definitely happen with all small/x-small bike frames.  Some people are happy to get around this by lowering their seat so they can touch the ground and remain seated when coming to a stop (again a problem for shorter people – how will you now see around the kids seat?).  If you have a seat dropper you can adjust your seat as you approach a stop so your feet can reach the ground.  If you don’t lower your seat in some way the only alternative is to completely dismount with every stop – leg over rear wheel to come to standing next to the bike.

1 year old riding in a Thule Maxi Rear Bike Seat wearing a Toddler Helmet

Smiles… riding in a Thule Nexxt Mini Front Bike Seat.

Practising at home in a safe environment with a newly installed front bike seat.

Your bike riding success is different to others… use our stories and support, get the right solutions.

Kids Bike Helmet Buying Guide

Get advice about choosing the right kids bike helmet for the type of riding your child does.

Biking with Babies on Board

Advice about riding a bike with a very young child.  What are the NZ laws?

Cargo Bikes Explained

A quick overview of cargo bikes and how good they are for family riding!

Buying Guides

Use our full range of buying guides to get the right solutions for you and your family.

Solution Finder

We are here to help. Use goRides quick and easy Q&A forms to receive personalised support… support specific to you and your family.

Kids Bike Seats - What are the options?

Our most read story.  This overview of all the options helps you to understand what might work for you and your family.

Support and inspire other riders and families to ride

Share your riding outings, adventures and experiences on our quick and easy question and answer forms. Join us in helping others ride bikes. All entries receive a free shipping coupon and go into our seasonal prize draw.

goRide SHARING FORM

goRide supporting women and families to SMILE when you ride

The Remutaka Cycle Trail, NZ – multi day ride with kids

The Remutaka Cycle Trail, NZ – multi day ride with kids

by | Feb 11, 2020 | get Inspired

Enjoy of story of the John whanau (Mum, Dad, 14 year old boy and a 12 year old girl) riding the Remutaka Cycle Trail situated in the lower part of the North Island, New Zealand over 2 days

Supporting you and your family to SMILE when you ride.
Ride more places

When we make the effort and take the time to go on a family biking adventure like riding The Remutaka Cycle Trail, we want it to be an enjoyable experience. To have a ‘great’ multi-day biking adventure it comes down to planning and preparation.

The Remutaka Cycle Trail is part of the NZ Cycle Trail Network making up one of the 22 great rides.

Where is it and how to get there?

It is located in the lower North Island starting in Petone and finishing in Oronogorongo.  It is graded from easy to advanced by the NZ Cycle Trail. We did a variation on this ride:

We traveled from Central Wellington to Maymorn on the train, with our bikes (located just past Upper Hutt). Biked from Maymorn over the Rimutaka Incline to the Waiarapa and down to the south coast (Ocean Beach). Along the coast (wild coast ride) and around to Days Bay where we caught the ferry back to Central Wellington. Our  trip was approximately 100km and we completed it over 2 days.

The ride and is it doable for you?

How far is the biking journey? Approximately 98km.  We choose to do this ride over 2 days, staying a night near Lake Waiarapa. To complete this journey your family needs to be able to ride between 40-60km per day. Given the variable weather conditions that you can encounter in this part of New Zealand if you have any doubts then I suggest you either;

  1. Finish at Oronogorongo (there are shuttle pick ups available) or
  2. Stay an additional night at Orongorongo (Riverstone Cottage) making this a 3 day journey
DAY ONE – Maymourn to Cross Creek – 38km – It is 17km to the summit of the Rimutaka Incline is it doable?

Section 1: Maymorn to Cross Creek – 25km… it is 17km to the summit of the Rimutaka Incline

The day starts with you making your way along a gravel and sealed road to the start of the Rimutaka Incline. Once on the incline it is a nice gradual climb on compacted gravel up to the summit. This very family friendly section has lots of points of interest and fun to keep all the family inspired and smiling.

  • The regular information posts make for a lot of interest and nice regular breaks as well as regular opportunity for the family to regather.
  • The are 3 tunnels to enjoy on your journey up the Remutaka Incline: Mangaroa Tunnel, Pakuratahi Tunnel and Summit Tunnel… so carry a torch!
  • We found a spot under one of the bridges for a refreshing dip in Pukuratahi River.

Section 2 : Cross Creek to Karaka Cottage on Waiorongomai Station Ocean Beach 13km.

This section is traveling towards the coast on a sealed rural road – Western Lake Road to Karaka Cottage.

Where we stayed

We stayed at Karaka Cottage on Waiorongomai Station located 13km along Western Lake Road from Cross Creek. This was great accomodation but is probably best suited to riding the trail over 3 days offer a better balanced ride for km/day. Karaka Cottage also offer catering options. Combine this with staying at Riverstone Cottage at Orongorongo or you can finish up at Orongorongo for a 2 day ride.

The best place to stay if choosing this 2 day itinerary is Te Rakau Birding that has a couple of converted railway cabins (located near Ocean Beach)

If you have the ability to carry gear then camping at the basic DOC campground at Corner Creek just beyond Ocean Beach on the south coast may be an option.

DAY TWO- Karaka Cottage to Ocean Beach and onto Days Bay – 59km  is it doable?

Section 1 : Karaka Cottage to Ocean Beach 21km

This section is traveling towards the coast on an undulating sealed rural road – to Ocean beach

Section 2: Ocean Beach to Orongorongo 17km

This section along the Wild Coast is exposed and rugged. You are riding on course sand which can provide challenges for traction and also gravel and rock sections. There are a few places along the way that require you to walk your bike to get over the rock. See photos.

Don’t be put off though, 90-95% along here was ride-able for our family and getting off didn’t cause any issues at all.  The key is to allow time as this on/off type riding and the terrain means that the distance you can travel is a lot slower.

Section 2: Orongorongo to Days Bay 21km

From Orongorongo you need to bike approximately 2km up the valley on the sealed road to a bridge so you can cross the Wainuiomata River. Once across the bridge you have a bit of a steep climb up the sealed/gravel road – up and over Baring Head and then down – back to the coast. Turn right and continue to make your way around the coast continuing past Pencarrow Lighthouse. Yes, its worth a stop.  It can be busy with day trippers so carrying a lightweight lock to lock the bikes together so you know they will be safe as you do the short walk up to the old lighthouse.

Continue to ride the coast to Eastbourne along the Eastbourne Esplanade to Days Bay…where you can catch the ferry to Wellington (bikes travel free).

What skills will you need to do this ride? This track is graded as an easy to intermediate track. The track is a combination of sealed road, compacted gravel, course sand and rock (which will require you to dismount your bike and walk across). The technical riding comes from being comfortable riding on sand and small rocks and being comfortable getting on and off your bike.

What level of fitness will you need to do this ride? You will need moderate levels of fitness. The Rimutaka Incline is well graded trail but at other times along the way you will need to do some short climbs. You will need endurance to complete the ride – although there are many options and variations of the number of days and your start and finish points. Simply, you can tailor the ride to suit your families capabilities.

How could the weather effect the success of your journey?  The location of the track, in the Wellington region, and being a very exposed track means that weather can play a large part in the success of your journey. This is a challenge to manage as a family as you obviously cannot control the weather. Some things to help – keep your days shorter (so maybe complete over 3 days).  Have some flexibility on the days you can choose to ride.

Is this ride possible with kids attached or towed? The ruggedness of this ride as well as the daily distance means it is not an ideal ride for kids attached. We carried a  Tow Whee tow rope  with us and we used it.  It is easy and light to carry and it assisted my 12 year old girl at the end of day 2 when struggling against a very good Wellington wind.  Also up and over Baring Head.

The ride through to Ocean Beach is a good option if you have kids attached. You will have to sort a solution for getting through the gates when riding the incline, 

Off the train at Maymorn Station and ready to start the trail

These gates are at regular intervals on the Rimutaka Incline… please consider ease to get through them if using a kids bike seat, trailer or panniers.

Infromartion posts that provide interesting history at regular intervals along the Rimutaka Incline

Be safe and comfortable when riding the Remutaka Cycle Trail

This trail is quite remote. Though you are near small towns you do not pass through any so you need to self sufficient for your ride. Once you reach Eastbourne on the Eastcost of the Wellington tthere are cafes and shops there.

Gear List for Multiday Mountain Biking
Carrying Gear Multiday Unsupported
NZ Cycle Trail - Am I Safe to goRide?
Our comfort and safety tips for the Remutaka Incline
  • Bring a torch/ lights for your bike as there are many tunnels to ride through.
  • There are a few gates to negotiate on the way up to the summit that can be a little tricky if you have panniers on or have kids attached or towed.
  • There are rocky sections on the south coast that may require you to get off your bike and walk.
  • We carried a tow rope which can be helpful to assist the kids. It was very welcomed by Hollie when we had a section of the trail into a very good Wellington head wind.

Towards the end of day 2 – a tired Hollie and a good Wellington head wind – required the tow rope we were carrying to be attached and we continued our journey with SMILES still on the kids faces.

An example of the rocky sections of the trail that may require you to dismount your bike and walk

We were blessed with a beautiful day… but the weather can certainly be more rugged on this exposed part of the trail.

Enjoy the experience and have fun

Riding the Rimutaka Cycle Ride and experiencing this part of New Zealand on a bike is very rewarding. There is great variation over the ride…lots for all ages of the family to enjoy. The Rimutaka Incline has great history and the information boards are full of interesting information.  The tunnels, and the Siberia Swing Bridge… fun fun fun. On the southern coast there is wildlife to enjoy… we saw a large pod of dolphins and there is a seal colony at Turakirae Head. The Pencarrow Lighthouse makes for another destination to get to along the way.  Finishing in Eastbourne/Days Bay which has plenty of cafes to enjoy and if the weather allows a dip in the sea before you head back to Wellington on the ferry. 

Bring a torch…there are tunnels to go through and the summit tunnel incline is long

Siberia swing bridge…super fun to ride…maybe we went back for a second go. It can get windy here so a little caution if it is blowing

We were blessed with a beautiful day… but the weather can certainly be more rugged on this exposed part of the trail along the coast

Your bike riding success is different to others… use our stories and support, get the right solutions.

Ride More Places

Read stories about NZ trails, tracks & parks.  Find out what other families & riders are doing. Be inspired! Is this ride an option for you or your family?

Bike Gear Stories

A collection of stories that will help you learn about bike gear. goRide supporting you to get the right bike gear solution for the type of riding you do or want to do.

Women and families learning ...

Read our stories that support you to learn about all things biking related.  Be confident that you know how to safely ride & care for your bike.

Buying Guides

Use our full range of buying guides to get the right solutions for you and your family.

Solution Finder

We are here to help. Use goRides quick and easy Q&A forms to receive personalised support… support specific to you and your family.

Types of Riding Stories

Stories in Types of Riding support you to learn about riding a bike in different environments.  So you can successfully choose to ride more place, more often.

Support and inspire other riders and families to ride

Share your riding outings, adventures and experiences on our quick and easy question and answer forms. Join us in helping others ride bikes. All entries receive a free shipping coupon and go into our seasonal prize draw.

goRide SHARING FORM

goRide supporting women and families to SMILE when you ride

Christchurch Adventure Park with Kids

Christchurch Adventure Park with Kids

by | Jan 23, 2020 | get Inspired

When we make the effort and take the time to go for a ride at a fun destination, like Christchurch Adventure Park with kids, we want it to be an enjoyable experience. To have a ‘great day’ on the bike with kids there are simple things to think about, plan and do.

In this story we are riding in the Christchurch Adventure Park in Christchurch on some of the beginner to intermediate tracks with Isaac 11yrs old – new to riding an adult size full suspension mountain bike and learning to jump.   
Supporting you and your family to SMILE when you ride.
Ride more places

Where is it?

Located on the Port Hills in Christchurch, South Island New Zealand at 225 Worsleys Road

What is there?

The Christchurch Mountain Bike Park is part of the Christchurch Adventure Park, There are activities other than Mountain Biking to enjoy if you choose to do so. There is a cost to ride in the Mountain Bike Park.  There are a huge range of ticketing options depending on what you need.  Anything from a single lift pass to an annual membership. Check out all the relevant info here on the christchurch mountain bike park website  We purchased an all day family pass and enjoyed a variety of trails for the day.

There are a wide range of activities at the park including bike hire and workshop.

The ride – is it doable for you?

This park has something for everyone. It is a matter of working out what will work best for your family.

Biking Distance? The length of this ride is entirely at your discretion you have an extensive network of tracks spread out over a large area. The park has been well designed for progression in riding.  There are trails from beginner mountain biking to pro line expert.

The trails are colour coded

  • Green – beginner
  • Blue – intermediate
  • Black single diamond – advanced
  • Black double diamond – expert
  • Red triangle – pro line

Biking Surface/Biking Skills required/Level of biking fitness:  The surface, the level of skills required as well as your fitness requirement will depend on the level of difficulty of that particular trail. Match the trail to your requirements. These types of riding days, where you get assistance to the top – by gondola or shuttle are all about the downhill.  To enjoy your day you need to be confident up off your seat in a balanced yet relaxed riding position.  You need to be used to braking and cornering.  Jumping is not an essential skill but the majority of the tracks give you the ability to execute this technique.  On some tracks jumping skills are a must as there will be gaps in the trail and no easy route or “out” option – please be aware of where you chose to ride!

Can you ride with Kids Attached? At the time or riding no kids bike seats or kids trailer were allowed in the park,,,so you will need to check this out

Some Trails that our Family Enjoyed.

To have a good day prepare by getting familiar with the map, park layout and where you want to ride, Whenever you ride in a new environment it is really important to warm up and get used to what you are doing with your first run.  Take it slowly and be prepared for obstacles.

Track selection is totally up to you and the people you are riding with.  You can chose to ride the same track over and over again to learn it and get the most fun out of it.  Depending on the ability of the child you are riding with, this may be the best way to start.

WARM UP – BEGINNER TRACKS – As you exit the gondola, still facing up the hill, the beginner tracks are found to your left.  Duncans Donuts is the name you are initially looking for.  This leads into Active Rest and Non-Compliant with an option to include SnakeObs which is a more technical beginner track – fine for any child who has experience mountain biking down switchbacks.

The beginners tracks are all wide, open, dry loose gravel/rock tracks.  They have an easy steady descending gradient and lots of switchbacks.  This is a great way to start the day to get used to your bike and get your confidence up.

INTERMEDIATE RUN 1 – Heading this time to the right or as you exit the Gondola pass the map board and head down into Summit Connection.  This track takes you along the hill top to the second half of Flying Nun which is a speedy flowing track.  After Flying Nun you will connect up with Choir Boy – a wide cross hill track that leads you to all the interesting stuff.  We paused for a rest then looked for the intermediate ‘flow’ tracks.  Name This Trail, track #15 was the first one we tried. Around 2.5km of machine built single track through pine forest.  This was Isaac’s favourite track – one he choose to return to and ride again later in the day because of the jumping.  It was at a really manageable level for someone new and practising this skill.

INTERMEDIATE RUN 2 – Taking the same route to end up on Choir Boy we followed this track all the way to its end point.  Here you take Loess Rider down 2.6km of great flowing fun.  This is my track of the day.

The Adventure Park website holds a lot of information and videos of some of its tracks.  A great page to check out is the Track Preview Page.

Match your helmet to the level of riding you are doing

Showing the network of trails

Maps with different riding trails matched to different riding levels

Full suspension mountain bikes are recommended for the park

Be safe and comfortable when riding the Christchurch Adventure Park – Mountain Biking

First things first….to be allowed on the Gondola at the Adventure Park you need to be over 1 metre tall and able to self load your bike

To be safe make sure someone in your group carries a basic biking first aid kit.  The emergency number for assistance is 0508727572 ( please check this).  When riding with kids it is always good to be prepared especially if it is a new environment.

BIKE: A full suspension mountain bike is recommended for use in the park.  At a minimum a trail style full suspension bike will allow you to ride the beginner and some intermediate tracks in comfort.  Anything above this level is best ridden on a downhill full suspension.  Bikes are available for hire.

PROTECTION: A performance level helmet that matches the type of riding you are about to do.  Many riders chose a full face helmet (helmet with chin bar covering the entire face).  It is compulsory to have closed in shoes.  Gloves, knee and elbow pads are recommended.  Gear is available to hire.

An extra layer of clothing is recommended for the gondola ride, which can be cold especially if you are sweating from previous rides.

Gear List for Day Riding
Mountain Biking - Am I Safe to goRide?
Carrying Gear Day Mountain Biking (coming soon)

Enjoy the experience and have fun

The location of the Christchurch Adventure Park makes it very easy to get to.  So you can be enjoying a mountain bike experience with the kids that doesn’t put you in a remote location.  The network of tracks gives you lots of options.  It does however take time to complete a run.  The Gondola ride is around 10 mins and depending on how fast you can ride with your child and how fit they are or tired they are…a downhill can take over 20mins.  Add into this rest breaks, food, toilet stops or any bike repairs needed and your day disappears pretty quickly. There are lost of options of the fun you can enjoy 

  • 25 downhill bike trails accessed via a Gondola that takes mountain bikes
  • a climbing track
  • coaching/lessons/holiday clinics
  • pump track & trampoline
  • zip lining
  • sightseeing (gondala and walking trail)
  • great cafe

Your bike riding success is different to others… use our stories and support, get the right solutions.

Ride More Places

Read stories about NZ trails, tracks & parks.  Find out what other families & riders are doing. Be inspired! Is this ride an option for you or your family?

Bike Gear Stories

A collection of stories that will help you learn about bike gear. goRide supporting you to get the right bike gear solution for the type of riding you do or want to do.

Women and families learning ...

Read our stories that support you to learn about all things biking related.  Be confident that you know how to safely ride & care for your bike.

Buying Guides

Use our full range of buying guides to get the right solutions for you and your family.

Solution Finder

We are here to help. Use goRides quick and easy Q&A forms to receive personalised support… support specific to you and your family.

Types of Riding Stories

Stories in Types of Riding support you to learn about riding a bike in different environments.  So you can successfully choose to ride more place, more often.

Support and inspire other riders and families to ride

Share your riding outings, adventures and experiences on our quick and easy question and answer forms. Join us in helping others ride bikes. All entries receive a free shipping coupon and go into our seasonal prize draw.

goRide SHARING FORM

goRide supporting women and families to SMILE when you ride

What to Wear Over a Pair of goUnders?

What to Wear Over a Pair of goUnders?

by | Dec 10, 2019 | get Inspired

What to wear over a pair of goUnders?  You have a huge choice and are only restricted by what is safe and practical to wear on a bike.

Supporting you and your family to SMILE when you ride.
Choose the correct chamois
Shop Womens Bike Clothing
Shop Padded Pants

What are goUnders?

goUnders are underwear, with padding, to be worn when cycling.  They are designed to be worn under everyday clothes, clothing that supports movement instead of your normal underwear so you can benefit from the protection & comfort that padding offers. The Italian made padding provides cushioning without too much bulk.

Being able to wear everyday clothes, recreation clothes or work style clothing with the padded underwear gives you the ability to ride in comfort to a variety of places. Having more flexibility in what you can wear when you bike… means you can dress for the season, the weather, the destination… your mood the choice is yours.

The idea for this product came about because we didn’t want to turn up to places in our tight lycra riding pants. Even though this kept us comfortable on the bike it was at times socially uncomfortable to be off the bike at our destination in short tight black pants!! We also felt a bit over prepared going for simple rides around town or riding with our young kids in a lycra outfit.

Range of goUnders – Styles for Women, Men, Kids & Youth

Clothing Ideas to Wear with goUnders:

Performance Pants & Top

Perfect because: This combination allows for some coverage while being very practical yet stylish.  A good option for any type of riding over distance.

Places you can go: Town riding, visiting a cafe, riding with kids, bike paths, trials, mountain bike parks, multi day riding.

 

Safety: Generally a performance garment will be made with movement in mind so the design is more than likely going to be safe on a bike.  Great choice for more coverage with the ability to create airflow and wick moisture.

riding clothing guide

Dresses & Skirts

Perfect because: Full or flowing style dresses and skirts allow for unrestricted leg movement which is perfect on the bike.  It will keep you cool in summer as it allows air flow.

Places you can go: Town riding, commuting to work, an outing with friends, visiting a cafe, going to an event.

Safety: Watch the length of these items.  Always tuck the skirt under your bottom so that you are sitting on the back part of the skirt.  This stops it from draping over your back wheel and getting caught up or just dirty!

Casual Pants & Top

Perfect because: This combination allows for some fashion while being very functional.  A good option in cooler weather.

Places you can go: Town riding, commuting to work, an outing with friends, visiting a cafe, going to an event, riding with kids, commuting to school.

 

Safety: Make sure your pants have some fullness over the hip & knee area or some stretch in the fabric so your movement isn’t restricted. Long pants need to be tapered below the knee, anything too wide in this area has the potential to get caught in your moving chain.  If you do want to ride with wide leg pants either roll them up, tuck them into your socks or get a safety band/elastic band that will hold them in against your leg.

riding clothing guide

Shorts & T-Shirt

Perfect because: Whether it is a sporty look or a bit more dressed up, these 2 items allow for great movement, keeping you relaxed & comfortable in a range of situations.  Great for summer riding.

Places you can go: Bike paths, trails, mountain bike parks, riding around town, riding with the kids, to the river/pool/sea, for a picnic.

Safety: Watch that your t-shirt is long enough to cover your back that way you don’t risk sunburn or any unwanted exposure of skin.  Does the style and fabric in your shorts allow for good movement?

Tights & Sports Top

Perfect because: Tights with stretch – whatever length – are great for riding as they allow freedom of movement.  When made from wicking fabrics they will help to control your temperature and keep you comfortable for long periods of time on the bike.

Places you can go: Bike paths, trails, mountain bike parks, riding with the kids, long commutes, tour riding.

 

Safety: Watch that your t-shirt is long enough to cover your back that way you don’t risk sunburn or any unwanted exposure of skin.

endurance MTB grip & bell

Comfort & Safety

Being comfortable & safe on your bike is hugely important.  Without these 2 factors working well for you, you are unlikely to spend very much time on your bike.  A big part of comfort & safety is the clothing that you choose to wear while riding.  Being able to wear clothes that you feel good in helps you to ride more as well.  But there are a few things to think about to keep you safe and moving freely while on the bike

Don’t wear anything too tight unless it has a good amount of stretch in the fabric.  You need to be able to move your body, particularly your legs

Think about things that could get caught up in moving parts of your bike.  This includes long flowing skirts, trousers that are flared, anything with cords or tassels that could hang down.  If you choose to tie a jacket or sweatshirt around your waist be aware that it could hang down onto your rear wheel.

padded cycling underwear
padded cycling underwear
padded cycling underwear
padded cycling underwear

Your bike riding success is different to others… use our stories and support, get the right solutions.

Bike Clothing Guide

Get advice and support for choosing the right bike clothing for the riding you do.

goUnders Style Guide

Get advice and support for choosing the right goUnders to best suit you and your riding

Bike Top Style Guide

Get advice and support for choosing the right bike top for the riding you do.

Bike Pant Style Guide

Get advice and support for choosing the right bike pant for the riding you do.

Stories and Support Bike Jackets

View the full range of goRides Bike jacket stories and support.

Be visible on the bike Buying Guide

Being visible on the bike can help keep you safe. Understand how you can be seen.

Want more from your riding?

Be supported to Ride as a Family, Progress Your Riding and/or receive Seasonal Inspiration. So you can SMILE when you ride.

All new members are automatically entered into our Seasonal Prize Draw.

JOIN

SMILE when you ride

Support & Inspire other riders and families

Share your riding outings, adventures and experiences on our quick and easy question and answer forms. Join us in helping others ride bikes. 

All entries are automatically entered into our Seasonal Prize Draw.

goRide SHARING FORM