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The Best Kids Bike Seats for Town Riding

by Annette | Mar 29, 2018 | get Inspired

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][vc_column_text]Using a bike for transport is a really engaging way to move your family around a town or city. Arriving anywhere by bike gives you a sense of being a part of the environment rather than watching it go by. Town riding includes

a short commute to or from work
cycling to playgroup/kindergarten/school
biking to playgrounds/parks/the beach
using your bike for trips to the library/shops/cafes
arriving at events/meetings/appointments

So if you want to start this kind of riding with a young family – from 1yr – what are the best kids bike seats for town riding?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][themeone_spacer height=”18px”][vc_btn title=”Kids Bike Seat Buying Guide” style=”flat” color=”violet” size=”lg” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fgoride-debugclone.mystagingwebsite.com%2Fportfolio%2Fkids-bike-seat-buying-guide%2F||target:%20_blank|”][themeone_spacer height=”18px”][vc_btn title=”Shop Kids Bike Seats” style=”flat” color=”warning” size=”lg” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fgoride-debugclone.mystagingwebsite.com%2Fkids-bike-seat%2F||target:%20_blank|”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_single_image image=”12600″ img_size=”800 x 400″ alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]

Yepp Maxi rear mounted child bike seat for 1 to 6yr olds

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“On” the Bike

The kids bike seat market is expanding with every season so there is a lot of choice and options around where you can place your child when riding with them. From towing trailers to simple top tube seats there is something to please everyone. For a full overview see Bike Seats for Kids – What are my options? When you first start to ride through traffic with a young toddler we believe it is a great idea to have them harnessed on the bike with you. So that they are nice and close making it easy for you to talk with them. You will know that they are safe and the closer they are to you the safer they will feel. This makes rear & front mounting child bike seats the best choice for town riding.[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]

Yepp Maxi Rear Bike Seat $249 to $279 – Great age range, value for money

[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/6″][vc_single_image image=”12325″ img_size=”600 x 400″][vc_column_text]Yepp Maxi seat that attaches to your bike frame[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/6″][vc_single_image image=”15427″ img_size=”600 x 400″][vc_column_text]Around town fun on the Yepp Maxi.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][vc_column_text]A rear mounted seat with good adjustable footrests and shoulder straps can be used through a great age range. We are talking from around 1 to 6 years old. This makes a rear seat by far the best value for money as you can use it for twice as long as a front mounted seat.

Most bike types are compatible with a rear mounted seat. This gives your family the ability to have more than one attachment adaptor meaning different members of the family can go riding with the child.

Rear mounts still give you good options for carrying other things as handlebar baskets can be used. Most good rear seats like the Yepp, will come with adaptors for mounting panniers if you have a rear carrier.

A great feature of the Yepp Maxi is its colour, adding bright colours to your riding set up increases your visibility in traffic. This means drivers are more likely to spot you as they approach. The Yepp Maxi also has 3 rear reflectors which again increase your visibility especially in poor light conditions – weather, time of the day.

Not only can rear seats be used around town but you will find them being used on easy off road trails and also for family bike touring. Being seated right in behind your body gives your child really good protection from air flow. In colder climates this can allow you to use the seat for more of the year.[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1522209795031{background-color: #ffffff !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column delay=”0ms”][themeone_spacer height=”14px”][vc_column_text]

Learn more about the Yepp Maxi

Will a Yepp Maxi Fit on your Bike?

How to Attach a Yepp Maxi Frame Mounted Seat

How to Attach a Yepp Maxi Carrier Mounted Seat

[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”14px”][vc_btn title=”Shop Yepp Maxi” color=”orange” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fgoride-debugclone.mystagingwebsite.com%2Fkids-bike-seat%2Fyepp-maxi-kids-bike-seat%2F||target:%20_blank|”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Yepp Mini Front Bike Seat $219 – Best interaction

[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”45px”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/6″][vc_single_image image=”12302″ img_size=”600 x 400″][vc_column_text]Yepp Mini attaches to your exposed handlebar stem[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/6″][vc_single_image image=”15372″ img_size=”600 x 400″][vc_column_text]Footrest & shoulder harness adjustment is important for good fit[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][themeone_spacer height=”45px”][vc_column_text]Front mounted seats are a great way to introduce your toddler to riding on a bike. The placement of your child right between your arms gives them a sense of safety and gives you the best interaction possible. As you ride along they will see everything you see and you can chat about where you are going and what’s passing by.

A front seat has the smallest of age ranges out of all the child bike seats – from 1 to 3 years old. However, we believe that you will use & enjoy this seat more than others – again this is about the interaction that is possible.

Having a kids bike seat mounted at the front of your bike leaves you with options at the rear. So depending on your family, or future family, this gives you space for attaching or towing another child. It also allows for good storage options in panniers or on a carrier. Riding around town doing simple chores/messages may mean you need this kind of space. Cargo bikes are a great round town option for family riding and front bike seats are designed for use on these styles of bikes. Along with crusier/retro bikes anything that puts you in a fairly upright position will work really well with this seat.

Good quality front sets, like the Yepp Mini, will have adaptor options. This means you can use the Mini with more than one style of bike. For example, it can be attached to a mountain bike or trail bike using an A-Head adaptor. This gives you even more options for use and enjoyment – easy off road trails and family bike touring.[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1522209795031{background-color: #ffffff !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column delay=”0ms”][themeone_spacer height=”14px”][vc_column_text]

Learn more about the Yepp Mini

The Yepp Mini – The Best Front Mounted Kids Bike Seat

Will a Yepp Mini fit on your Bike?

How to Attach a Yepp Mini

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Town Riding With a Kid Bike Seat – Safety

When you have a passenger you must ride within your capabilities and consider the effect of extra weight e.g. brake earlier to stop. Practicing in a safe environment is always recommended before you head out into traffic so you can get used to how your bike responds with your toddler “on” it.

Safety routines for checking before every ride are really important. So make sure you check the child seat is attached correctly & check your bike (30sec pre-ride safety check). That all harnesses are closed and anything that could dangle down is removed or fastened. Helmets are compulsory in NZ for passengers on a bike. Make sure that the helmet is correctly fitted and the right size (watch our helmet video found in this story).[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”50px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1522207542674{background-color: #bc64a9 !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column delay=”0ms”][themeone_spacer height=”14px”][vc_column_text]

get Inspired and goRide – The Best Kids Bike Seats for Town Riding

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Thanks for reading. Used together our stories, resources & products support you to achieve and develop as a rider.

Related Resources:

Kids Bike Seat – Match Your Bike to a Seat

Kids Bike Seats – How to do more riding with a toddler or 2

Kids Bike Seats – Safety & Care

The Best Kids Bike Seat for Mountain Biking

The Best Kids Bike Seat for Bike Path Riding

goRide helps you find your riding SMILE. Now it’s your turn….Contact goRide. Your thoughts, comments or feedback will make us SMILE.

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Other resources to help make you SMILE when you goRide

[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”11960″ img_size=”600 x 400″ alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https://www.goride.co.nz/bike-topics/riding-gear/”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”11787″ img_size=”600 x 400″ alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https://www.goride.co.nz/bike-topics/types-of-riders/”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”11627″ img_size=”600 x 400″ alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https://www.goride.co.nz/bike-topics/places-to-ride/”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13955″ img_size=”600 x 400″ alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https://www.goride.co.nz/bike-topics/women-learning-bike/”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The Best Kids Bike Seats for Mountain Biking

by Annette | Mar 22, 2018 | get Inspired

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”4/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][vc_column_text]Mountain biking can take you into some very beautiful settings and mountain bike parks are doing a great job at providing easy beginner trails that are perfect for family riding. Some examples are

Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park – Kaiteriteri
Craters of the Moon – Taupo
Whakarewarewa Redwoods Mountain Bike Park – Rotorua
Codgers Mountain Bike Park – Nelson

So if you want to start this kind of riding with a young family – from 2yrs – what are the best kids bike seats for mountain biking?[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”38px”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][themeone_spacer height=”43px”][vc_btn title=”Kids Bike Seat Buying Guide” style=”flat” color=”violet” size=”lg” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fgoride-debugclone.mystagingwebsite.com%2Fportfolio%2Fkids-bike-seat-buying-guide%2F||target:%20_blank|”][themeone_spacer height=”18px”][vc_btn title=”Shop Kids Bike Seats” style=”flat” color=”warning” size=”lg” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fgoride-debugclone.mystagingwebsite.com%2Fkids-bike-seat%2F||target:%20_blank|”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”4/6″][vc_single_image image=”15244″ img_size=”800 x 400″][vc_column_text]

Image courtesy of Ride Shotgun Limited

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Mid Mount Kids Bike Seats

As more and more of us are enjoying the pleasures of mountain biking the demand for specialist mountain biking products is growing. Part of this growth has seen the development of kids bike seats designed specifically for placing on mountain bikes.

When attaching a kids bike seat to a bike you have 3 options – front, mid and rear. It is the mid mounted seats that work really well with mountain bikes. Mid mounted kids bike seats place your child between your arms in a really central position on the bike. This means that your centre of gravity is less affected by adding the weight of a child to the bike. Also meaning your balance and steering is less affected, which is important for all riding, but particularly crucial in a mountain bike environment.

A couple of other reasons mid mount systems work for mountain biking are that they are suitable for full suspension bikes (you can not put a rear child bike seat on a full suspension bike). They are compatible with carbon bikes so won’t damage a carbon frame (front & rear seats should not be attached to carbon frames).[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][vc_column_text]

Shotgun Kids Mountain Bike Seat $220 – Fully adjustable, easily removed & attached

[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”31px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/6″][vc_single_image image=”27922″ img_size=”600 x 400″][vc_column_text]Shotgun – adjustable width, angle & tilt[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/6″][vc_single_image image=”12607″ img_size=”600 x 400″][vc_column_text]The Shotgun with handlebar & 2 year old[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][vc_column_text]Our first choice for a kids mountain bike seat is the New Zealand designed & made Shotgun (2 to 5yrs). Shotgun introduced their kids bike seat onto the New Zealand market in 2017 so this seat has been designed with modern mountain bikes in mind. The seat is fully adjustable – not only do the swing arms pivot but the width of the seat frame can be changed and the kids seat can be tilted. The Shotgun team believe their seat will fit any mountain bike frame including all frames with wide, flat top tubes and small frames. It can handle top tubes widths from 30 – 58mm wide, and down tubes widths from 30 – 100mm wide (this also means that the seat will fit any bike with a top tube – not just mountain bikes).

One of the most important features of the Shotgun is that once you have it set for your bike shape it is really quickly removed & re-attached without tools, watch this video. Having the ability to do this means that when you use your mountain bike, for mountain biking, there is no issue with attachments or fittings that could get damaged or the hassle of a time consuming removal/reattachment process.

At the beginning of 2019 Shotgun added another awesome feature – rubber foot straps

To keep the child’s feet secure whilst riding
But designed to break away in the event of a crash

Shotgun also offer an optional kids handlebar that gives your child their own handlebar to grip when riding. This can save any worry you have about where they will hold on. This is really beneficial for young 2-3yr old riders as it helps with their balance and stability. However this does add an attachment that you may want removed when mountain biking by yourself.[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”28px”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner delay=”0ms” css=”.vc_custom_1521688163599{background-color: #fafafa !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][themeone_spacer height=”6px”][vc_column_text]

Learn more about the Shotgun

How to Attach a Shotgun

[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”12px”][vc_btn title=”SHOP Shotgun” color=”warning” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fgoride-debugclone.mystagingwebsite.com%2Fkids-bike-seat%2Fshotgun-handlebars%2F||target:%20_blank|”][themeone_spacer height=”6px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Do Little Kids Bike Seat $155 – good value, versatile

[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/6″][vc_single_image image=”14689″ img_size=”600 x 400″][vc_column_text]Do Little attached to front suspension mountain bike[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/6″][vc_single_image image=”7749″ img_size=”600 x 400″][vc_column_text]Do Little out on the trail[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]

The Do Little is another mid mount seat option that can be used for mountain biking. This seat also works on a lot of other bike frames including a step through frame (no top tube) as you can buy a “Retro” fitting to attach to your frame and mount the seat on. This gives you the ability to have multiple fittings and use the seat on more than one type of bike making it versatile. The age range for a Do Little is therefore slightly wider, up to 6 or 7 – around 1.4m tall. This is because it can be used on bikes that put you, the rider in a slightly more upright position giving you more space for a child.

We have discovered that the rigid frame of the Do Little is not compatible with small mountain bike/trail bike frames but people on the small side struggle to ride for very long with a child between there arms as there is simply not enough space. They need to be on crusier/retro bikes that give them space.

Do Little is also a New Zealand made product, it was the first company to make a mid mount bike seat without a harness and was designed when mountain biking first began to get a following in NZ. This seat works really well with medium to large triangle frames. The low rider fitting (added in 2017) has made the Do Little more compatiable with the modern full suspension mountain bike shape – just be careful with the width of your top tube, anything over 4.5cm will be too wide.

A Do Little can be fully removed if you have used the standard fitting to attach it – it’s just a slower process than the Shotgun involving 3 bolt sets and an Allen Key. The retro fitting is clamped to your frame and more challenging to remove.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner delay=”0ms” css=”.vc_custom_1521688334838{background-color: #fafafa !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][themeone_spacer height=”6px”][vc_column_text]

Learn more about the Do Little;

Will the Do Little fit on your bike?

How to Attach a Do Little

[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”12px”][vc_btn title=”SHOP Do Little” color=”warning” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fgoride-debugclone.mystagingwebsite.com%2Fkids-bike-seat%2Fdo-little-kids-bike-seat-fittings%2F||target:%20_blank|”][themeone_spacer height=”6px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][themeone_spacer height=”28px”][vc_column_text]

Mountain Biking Using a Kid Bike Seat – Safety

When you have a passenger you must ride within your capabilities and consider the effect of extra weight e.g. brake earlier to stop. Also always factoring in that your child is not secured to the bike, if they start to move around this will effect your balance and steering.

You may want to lower your seat at first as you adjust to riding with a child between your arms, this is only natural. Try to return your seat to its normal height as soon as you feel comfortable. This will allow you to maintain your natural pedaling style, improves your power and also increases the gap between you and a larger older child.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1521589502505{background-color: #bc64a9 !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column delay=”0ms”][themeone_spacer height=”14px”][vc_column_text]

get Inspired and goRide – The Best Kids Bike Seats for Mountain Biking

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Thanks for reading. Used together our stories, resources & products support you to achieve and develop as a rider.

Related Resources:

Kids Bike Seat – Match Your Bike to a Seat

Kids Bike Seats – How to do more riding with a toddler or 2

Kids Bike Seats – Safety & Care

The Best Kids Bike Seats for Town Riding

The Best Kids Bike Seats for Bike Path Riding

goRide helps you find your riding SMILE. Now it’s your turn….Contact goRide. Your thoughts, comments or feedback will make us SMILE.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][vc_column_text]

Other resources to help make you SMILE when you goRide

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13956″ img_size=”600 x 400″ alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https://www.goride.co.nz/bike-topics/types-of-riders/”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”11627″ img_size=”600 x 400″ alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https://www.goride.co.nz/bike-topics/places-to-ride/”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13955″ img_size=”600 x 400″ alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https://www.goride.co.nz/bike-topics/women-learning-bike/”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”11960″ img_size=”600 x 400″ alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https://www.goride.co.nz/bike-topics/riding-gear/”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Codgers Mountain Bike Park with Kids

by Annette | Feb 22, 2018 | get Inspired

When we make the effort and take the time to go for a ride 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 – Codgers Mountain Bike Park (Nelson) on some of the beginner to intermediate tracks with Rhea 12yrs old – mountain bikes occasionally, Isaac 9yrs old – mountain bikes occasionally and Roman 9yrs old – first time mountain biking.

Supporting you and your family to SMILE when you ride.

Ride more places

Where is it? What is there?

Located 1km from central Nelson up the Brook Valley on Brook Street. Just look out for the map board and the wide trail start of the Dun Mountain track.

Parking can be found further up Brook Street, by turning left into Tantragee Road, next to Riding for the Disabled where Nelson City Council has developed a car parking area with toilets and bike washing/repair station.

Codgers Mountain Bike Park is run by Nelson Mountain Bike Club in partnership with Nelson City Council. The lower beginner and family friendly tracks do not require a permit to ride in but be aware that other areas require you to be a member of the club (HotBox/Smasher/Lollipop/Turners/Fringed Hill Rd).

If you need to hire bikes see Trail Journeys in the Millers Acre Centre, 37-39 Halifax Street…or Torpedo 7 on the corner of Rutherford & Bridge Street….or if you would like to be guided see Gravity Nelson.

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. For first time riders the layout of the bike can be confusing so find a map and study it before you go.

Biking Distance? The length of this ride is entirely at your discretion you have an extensive network of tracks spread out over 3 hillsides. These tracks range from grade 2, easy, to grade 5, advanced, but if your kids don’t mountain bike as a sport they will be restricted to the easy to moderate tracks at the beginning of the park.

Biking Surface/Biking Skills required/Level of biking fitness: Once you leave the main trail (Dun Mountain Trail) basic mountain biking skills will be needed but again the easiest tracks are well designed for beginners. Just be aware that the tracks will be narrower, have more challenging undulations, climbing sections and tighter corners so ideally your kids should be riding a bike with gears. The biking surface of the suggested route to follow is mainly compact clay/dirt with a few gravel sections to contend with. This park has no flat beginner loop or section. To get to any trails you must climb on a steady ascent for 10/15mins.

Can you ride with Kids Attached? This is a ride that you can enjoy with kids being towed or attached to your bike.

Some additional support may help get the kids riding in Codgers Mountain Bike Park.

- For independent riders : The Tow Whee Tow Rope may help assist getting them up a hill, or keeping up with older siblings.
- Attached to your bike: The Shotgun offers you the ability to enjoy the mountain biking park with your younger kids. You will need to ride to your ability making sure you are keeping them safe.

Climbing the main trail - Dun Mountain Track. Codgers Mountain Bike Park with kids

Compacted, groomed, wide climbing trail – Dun Mountain Track.

Some Trails that our group enjoyed.

For younger and/or beginner riders:

Either from the Brook Street entrance or the Carpark, The Dun Mountain Trail, gives you access to the park & beyond. It is a wide, smooth continuous climb for approximately 10mins – a perfect introduction to off road climbing on a bike. No kid likes to climb so you may need to stop for several morale/water breaks along the way.

You are looking for Tasman Journeys, the first track on your left that is sign posted and not a track exit (be sure not to start climbing up a track that is designed to be ridden down, & note, if you do this loop you will be coming down one of these). Tasman Journeys is a switchback (tight cornering) climbing track that takes you up to a height of 426m. This section is the most challenging of your climbing. All 3 kids I had with me on the day had to stop and rest (and complain). The second time they climbed it with grins and enthusiasm – great what a bit of adrenalin and down hill speed can give you.

About 10mins into your climb on Tasman Journeys you need to look out for the left turn into Crazy Horse.

Crazy Horse is a purpose built 672m of descending track with wide sweeping corners. This is a great way to teach people new to mountain biking about cornering. It is rated an intermediate track because you need to maintain control through lots of turns. Wide corners are made to ride wide or through the outside of the bend. So try to teach the kids this, to keep them out of the inside of the corners where the gravel and stones tend to fall to.

The track ends on the Dun Mountain track you have just climbed up – so now it’s decision time because if you cross the track Lower Crazy Horse carries on down to the very bottom of the hill (more of the same with some fun little flowing sections). However, you can choose to climb 50m up Dun Mountain track and you will be at Tasman Journeys again.

If they are enjoying themselves and have more energy you can continue through the park on the Dun Mountain Track to Tu Meke a 745m rolling, flowing little gem of a track. This was the favourite part of our ride for all the kids. If you do choose to do this you will hopefully have some smiling excited kids, talking about what fun that ride was… 15 to 20 more minutes depending on how often you stop and how fast you are climbing up the hill.

For intermediate riders:

There are just so many options! Climb into the park on Tasman Journeys and when you hit the 4WD road you can turn left and head towards P52 (fun flowing downhill track). Turning right you continue to climb to a skid site where your options are Firball, Hulk & Hogan, Turners (leading to a jump track down into Maitai Valley)… and more. Basically you need to come and give them a go and find your favourites.

Wide open areas with moderate inclines to climb. Codgers Mountain Bike Park with kids

Climbing on the Dun Mountain Track

Ride wide. Crazy Horse. Codgers Mountain Bike Park. goRide

Kids enjoying riding trails to match their level

Codgers Mountain Bike Park - signage. goRide

Sign posts found throughout Codgers Mountain Bike Bike explaining trails

Be safe and comfortable when riding in Codgers Mountain Bike Park.

How far you are venturing away from your base will determine the amount of gear you need to carry. As the riding network is quite extensive it is good to be prepared so you can manage any situation. Whether that be an injury, energy or water requirements. Also the option of layers to ensure everyone is riding at a comfortable temperature.

Gear List for Day Riding

Mountain Biking - Am I Safe to goRide?

Carrying Gear - Mountain Biking

Enjoy the experience and have fun

Some things to look out for on the

The options with the loops we have talked about are great. We know kids (pre-teens/teens) that spend their entire afternoon doing loops of Crazy Horse – going faster, lining up jumps, generally just playing around.
If you are making a day of it in Nelson, right at the end of Brook Street is the Waimarama Brook Sanctuary
Let the kids lead the way. Let them find the tracks and work out what signs and names they should look for along the way. The signs in this mountain bike park are well done so are perfect for those new to map reading.
If you get high enough there are some great views over Nelson City out to Tasman Bay to enjoy

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The goRide team’s ‘great’ mountain biking adventure on the Heaphy Track

by Jo | Dec 12, 2017 | get Inspired

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][vc_column_text]We did it! – A biking group of 4 adults rode the Heaphy Track over 2 days and 1 night with a SMILE. 78km of fabulous back country trail.

Reading stories about cycling adventures helps to

connect you to other women who ride and makes you think about what you and/or your family could achieve. Its that little piece of advice, or that must do, or must stay, that helps with the planning and preparation and helps make your adventure successful and special.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][themeone_spacer height=”18px”][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][vc_btn title=”Shop Women and Family Biking Solutions” style=”flat” color=”warning” size=”lg” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fgoride-debugclone.mystagingwebsite.com%2Fshop-goride%2F||target:%20_blank|”][themeone_spacer height=”18px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][vc_column_text]Read the details about our planning and preparation of a successful multi-day mountain biking adventure on the Heaphy Track. Want to know more about how to have a ‘great’ multi-day mountain biking adventure then read our GUIDE.

WOW! They talk about the diversity of the Heaphy Track from rainforest to flat lands, from mountains to coastal, and your exposure to that diversity is heightened because on the bike you move through those changes so quickly. The track was wonderfully rideable with few places requiring you to get off and walk. The hut facilities are great and DOC has done a great job taking the mountain biker into consideration.[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Day One – Tips and Tales

Browns River Hut through to James Mackay Hut = 38.8 km

With a longish day ahead it was important that we got an early start. We stayed with friends in Bainham (thanks for your hospitality Barbara and Simon – 30km away from the Heaphy) so a quick drive and we were into securing gear to our bikes at about 7:30am (while we did the sandfly slap dance). If you are staying at Browns Hut before starting the track … note you are sharing this space with the sandflies.

The ride up to Perry Saddle 17.5km is a sustained up hill climb. It is a good gradient for riding. The track is very rocky and a lot of power and strength was needed a number of times to get your front wheel up and over stones and rocks. The rocky terrain required a lot of negotiating of obstacles and focus on your chosen riding line. We stopped for food and water at the Aorere Saddle before heading to Perry Hut saddle. We were pleasantly surprised to find the high point of 915m Flanagans Corner (if time allows walk the sidetrack to the lookout) a couple of km before Perry Saddle Hut… so our sustained climbing was done for the day. Lunch at Perry Hut saddle…yum. It was then time to enjoy the tussock lands as we biked through the tops on our way to James Mackay Hut. From enjoying stunning weather over lunch it wasn’t too long before we hit some rain which continued through to the hut.[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13503″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]Bags packed and secured to our bikes ready to start[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13505″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]The rocky terrain on the way to Perry Saddle Hut[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13507″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]Still climbing[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13510″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]Flangans Corner the highest point on the track. All down hill form here! In theory.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13512″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]Had lunched at Perry Saddle ready to enjoy the next part of the track[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13513″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]Riding through the tussocklands of Gouland Downs[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13515″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]Just spotted Blue Ducks (only found in NZ) …so cool![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13518″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]A reminder that we are in the back country and on the Heaphy. From starting the day in gorgeous sun shine to finishing the day in rain.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Day Two – Tips and Tales

James MacKay to Kohaihai River mouth (track end) = 39.2km

Being all early risers we were the first from the hut to hit the trail. Although we started the day in low cloud it wasn’t long until the cloud lifted and we were blessed with a great day. This day was about heading down to the coast and then along the coast to track end. The track is a fun descent with lots of corners and a few rocky creeks to negotiate, along with swing and suspension bridges to cross. In fact one of them is the longest in the world. The rocky creeks contributed to a puncture but the new fantastic hand pump that I had recently purchased meant I could change the tire without any hassle. The beech forest turns into stunning Nikau palm groves and the ride along the rugged West Coast coastline to finish, just cements the diversity of the track.[/vc_column_text][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13516″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]Up early in the hut and all ready to enjoy Day 2.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13519″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]The stunning Nikau Palms[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13520″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]The longest Swing Bridge[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13522″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]Outside the stunning Heaphy Hut[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13523″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]Heading away from the Heaphy across the vast lawn enjoying the vista from the hut.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13524″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]The rugged West Coast coastline[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13525″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]West Coast beaches[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”13526″ img_size=”400 x 400″][vc_column_text]Scotts beach just before track end[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][themeone_spacer height=”41px”][vc_column_text]Here are some other factors that made this bike adventure a success;

We were blessed with warm good weather. We did have rain but the timing of it at the end of day one meant its impact was less.
Starting early each day meant we could enjoy the journey and not feel any need for rushing
We had good balanced set ups for carrying gear on our bikes. We did learn some things. Jo was carrying a pot in a dry bag on her Thule carrier and because it was a hard structure it was challenging to get enough tension on the tie down to stop it from falling off. The solution was shorter tie downs – but a few of them.
If you are wearing 3/4 pants then having long socks that you can pull up makes for an easy quick solution to the sand flies.
We were well prepared for the weather and had planned food well

It is definitely a track that we would all go back and enjoy. Now that we have ticked the box on completing the Heaphy Track we might tackle the track a little differently to minimise the logistic challenges of the start and finish point.

Nic is keen to find someone who needs a car relocated to Karamea end and ride it in a day.
Jo is keen to get a little fitter and ride through to Heaphy Hut day one and enjoy the setting of the hut before returning back to the Collingwood end the next day.
Annette thinks that a three day 2 night adventure would be great. Riding the complete track in both directions. Spending 2 nights at James MacKay.
- Day 1 – Ride up to James MacKay Hut
- Day 2 – Ride down to the West Coast and back to James MacKay (you would carry less gear as you could leave some gear at the hut)
- Day 3 – Ride back to Collingwood end and your car

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get Inspired and goRide – The goRide team’s ‘great’ mountain biking adventure on the Heaphy Track

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Thanks for reading. Used together our stories, resources & products support you to achieve and develop as a rider.

Related Resources:

Planning and Preparation to bike the Heaphy Track

Guide – How to have a great multi-day mountain biking adventure

goRide Sharing – The Heaphy Track

goRide helps you find your riding SMILE. Now it’s your turn….Contact goRide. Your thoughts, comments or feedback will make us SMILE.

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Other resources to help make you SMILE when you goRide

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Biking the Heaphy Track.

by Jo | Dec 12, 2017 | get Inspired

Enjoy this story of 4 adults biking the Heaphy Track 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 biking adventure, we want it to be an enjoyable experience. To help plan your adventure read about goRide’s experience riding the 78km Heaphy Track, November 2017. The Heaphy Track is part of the Department of Conservations (DoC)- Great Walks and is located in the Kahurangi National Park.From May 1st through to November 30th the track is also open to Mountain bikers…and becomes a Great Ride. Check out this link to DOC for details on Mountain Biking the Heaphy Track.

Where is it ?

To ride the Heaphy Track you can start the track either from Brown Hut in Golden Bay (156 km from Nelson) or from Kohaihai on the West Coast (110 km from Westport). It’s not a circuit track. The start and finish is geographically at very distant points when traveling by road. Due to this there needs to be some thoughtful planning and preparation to allow you to complete the whole track. Don’t be put off though, there are many support services. However some of these services are not available during the ‘off season’ – when you are allowed to mountain bike the trail.

What are your options?

Independent – Organise 2 parties to do the trip at the same time. One starting at each end of the track. Drive to the start and swap keys on the track so both parties will have a car waiting at the carpark when they complete the ride (we were fortunate enough to have organised this option). Meet at a common point to switch cars back or drive the other groups car on your first day starting the track.
Car transfer options – There are some companies that will transfer your car to the end of the track, for a fee, while you bike it. Trek Express, Heaphy Track Help
Flight options – Small airports are located near Takaka and Karamea so you can choose to fly to the start or back from the finish. Companies offering these services also offer transportation to the start or pick up from the end of the track to the airports.
Bus options – the bus companies are generally running on their ‘off peak schedule’ during mountain biking season so check availability before you plan any further.

You can find a comprehensive list of support service options on the Heaphy Track website

If completing the whole track is not an option because of the geographical locations of the start and finish consider starting and finishing at the same end. It still makes for a great trip. Also there is the option of biking all the way to the end and back again, turning your adventure into 156km.

The ride and is it doable for you?

The Heaphy Track is 78.4km. It is suggested that you either complete this over a 2 or 3 day journey.

We have chosen to do it over a 2 day journey. With multiple hut options along the track this could easily be ridden over 3 days. Remember you need to carry your own food, so the longer it takes you the more food you will need. Check out the facilities at the huts so you know what you need to carry.

DAY ONE – Browns River Hut through to James Mackay Hut = 38.8 km– is it doable?

Brown River to Aorere Shelter – 10.5 km – Check out details here.

Aorere Shelter to Perry Saddle Hut – 4.5 km – Check out details here

Perry Saddle Hut to Gouland Downs Hut – 7 km – Check out details here

Gouland Downs Hut to Saxon Hut – 5 km – Check out details here

Saxon Hut to James MacKay Hut – 11.8 km – Check out details here

The ride up to Perry Saddle 17.5km is a sustained up hill climb. It is a good gradient for riding. The track is very rocky and a lot of power and strength was needed a number of times to get your front wheel up and over stones and rocks. The rocky terrain required a lot of negotiating of obstacles and focus on your chosen riding line. We stopped for food and water at the Aorere Saddle before heading to Perry Hut saddle. We were pleasantly surprised to find the high point of 915m Flanagans Corner (if time allows walk the sidetrack to the lookout) a couple of km before Perry Saddle Hut… so our sustained climbing was done for the day. Lunch at Perry Hut saddle…yum. It was then time to enjoy the tussock lands as we biked through the tops on our way to James Mackay Hut. From enjoying stunning weather over lunch it wasn’t too long before we hit some rain which continued through to the hut.

Accommodation – James Mackay Hut

We are staying roughly at the half way point – James Mackay Hut. This is a cosy and comfortable hut, the newest on the Heaphy Track built in 2014. Facilities include double-glazed windows, solar lighting, wood stove, gas-cooking facilities, toilets, fresh water, bunk beds and mattresses – is it doable, can you carry what you need to take?

Heaphy-trackday-one-uphill-rocky-terrain-goRide

Heaphy-tracknearing-Perry-Saddle-hut-gpRide

DAY TWO – James MacKay to track end – 39.6km

James MacKay to Lewis Hut – 12.5 km –Check out details here

Lewis Hut to Heaphy Hut – 8km – Check out details here

Heaphy Hut to Katipo Creek Shelter – 7.1 km – Check out details here

Katipo Shelter to Scotts Beach – 5.3 km –Check out details here

Scotts Beach to Ko haihai (track end) – 3 km – Check out details here

If choosing to do it as a 3 day/ 2 night ride consider these options;

Stay Perry Saddle and James Mackay or stay Perry Saddle and Heaphy or stay Saxon and Heaphy.

Being all early risers we were the first from the hut to hit the trail. Although we started the day in low cloud it wasn’t long until the cloud lifted and we were blessed with a great day. This day was about heading down to the coast and then along the coast to track end. The track is a fun descent with lots of corners and a few rocky creeks to negotiate, along with swing and suspension bridges to cross. In fact one of them is the longest in the world. The rocky creeks contributed to a puncture but the new fantastic hand pump that I had recently purchased meant I could change the tire without any hassle. The beech forest turns into stunning Nikau palm groves and the ride along the rugged West Coast coastline to finish, just cements the diversity of the track.

Heaphy-track-start-of-day-2-swing-bridge--gpRide

Heaphy-track-start-of-day-2-homebound--gpRide

What skills will you need to do this ride? This track is graded as an intermediate 3 plus track and in a few places, advanced grade 4 track. he track is ride able most of the way. There are small sections that may require you to push your bike but they are only for very short distances. The track does have many obstacles and is often quite rocky, there are creeks and tight corners to negogiate. You need to be comfortable biking over rocks up and down hills, and negoiating obstacles to enjoy riding this track. Is it doable?

What level of fitness will you need to do this ride? You will need moderate to advanced levels of fitness. Whatever direction you start in you will have a sustained uphill section that is a good ride able gradient. When you are on the tops (the flat lands) there is also short up and downhill sections to negotiate. Consider the distances you are travelling and how long that will take you each day. Make sure you have ridden for that length of time with some load prior to riding the Heaphy – Is it doable?

How could the weather effect the success of your journey? Expect the weather to play a part in your biking journey when you ride the Heaphy Track. You are on the West Coast of New Zealand and thus likely to expereince rain and you are in the backcountry so you need to be prepared for all types of weather – Is it doable?

What to consider to feel comfortable and safe when riding the Heapy Track

Gear List for Multiday Mountain Biking

Carrying Gear Multiday Back Country Riding

Mountain Biking - Am I Safe to goRide?

Our comfort and safety tips for the Heaphy

The Heaphy Track is a back counrty track so you need to be prepared for all types of weather conditions. You are likely to encounter wet and cold conditions at any time of the year.
You are going to be riding on undulating terrain with many obstacles, so mountain bikes are ideal. Our group had three full suspension mountain bikes and one with front suspension only.
You will be on the bike for a number of hours each day, for consecutive days. The surface is bumpy, being comfortable on the bike is a MUST. Make sure you are comfortable on your bike seat, at your handlebars and on the pedals.

Gear set up – Jo

Thule Carrier with rear dry bag and tie downs – pot, food and spare clothes

Backpack and hydration reservoir (Camelbak low rider) – warm top, snacks, water

Frame bag – carrying tools and spare tubes

Handlebar bag with sleeping bag, lightweight food

Gear set up – Annette

Thule Carrier with rear dry bag and tie downs – clothes and food

Backpack (Camelbak low rider) – warm top, snacks

Drink bottle cage – drink bottle carrying water

Seat tool bag – carrying tools/tube and second spare tube taped to the frame

Dry bag – tie downs used to attach to handlebars – sleeping bag, jacket.

Enjoy the experience and have fun

Riding the Heaphy and experiencing its diversity is the fun. The highlight would be sharing that experience with others. Riding through luxuriant rainforest; sub-alpine tussock grasslands; high, rugged mountains; across swing and suspension bridges and along lowland forest and palm-fringed surf beaches. Remember to stop and take the time to enjoy the experience.

Kohaihai River a great swimming spot if finishing at the Karamea end. For a swimming spot at the Collingwood end try The Salisbury Bridge. Neither is probably particularly warm at the time of year you will be riding but a great way to finish the ride and make the trip home a little more pleasant.

There are some great food and drink options in Takaka – Check out the main street and then there is always the The Mussel Inn between Takaka and Collingwood.