FAQ & Getting Started
New to the team? Here are answers to the questions that come up most.
›What is the Spain Park MTB team?
A club team of 6th - 12th grade, boy and girl riders, from Berry Middle School and Spain Park High School as well as a group of volunteer coaches, parents and riders who all ride in the Alabama Cycling Association.
›When is the season?
The season officially starts on December 1 and the first race is usually the last weekend of February. Check the racing schedule to find out when and where each race is. ACA allows each team to have a pre-season that runs from October 1 to November 30.
›When and where do you practice?
Normally, we practice on Sundays at Oak Mountain State Park and on Tuesday / Thursday for a spin class. We will move around to other parks through out the area with advanced notice.
›What do I need to participate?
Required Essentials: - Mountain Bike, Helmet, Cycling Gloves - Start with whatever mountain bike you have. - The local shops can help you upgrade (with a league discount!) when you're ready. - We also have a limited supply of team bikes, so we can help you get started! - Water Bottle required - Hydration pack optional. - Race Jersey - Nutrition - It's difficult to ride if you are not fueled properly. Other items that are nice to have: - Padded Cycling Shorts - Cycling Shoes (Flat or Clipless Pedal Shoes) - Cycling Glasses - Gear Bag - Breathable clothes for layering in the winter.
›How big is the team, and is anyone cut or are there tryouts?
Over the past few years we have had between 25-30 riders between 6th and 12th grade from Berry Middle School and Spain Park High School. There are no tryouts and we will coach and teach new riders; however, all riders must have a willingness and a want to improve their riding ability.
›What is the cost?
- Alabama Cycling Association (ACA) Fee: $175 - Riders are allowed 1 "test" ride with the team. Registration required thereafter. - ACA Race Fee - all 6 races, if rider chooses to race: $170 ($300 after December 31st) - Spain Park Mountain Bike Team (SPMTB) Fee: $125 - ACA Coaching Fee: $25 - Oak Mountain Entry Fee: $5 per adult, or $230 Annual Family Pass As of Oct 1, 2026.
›What are races like, and do I have to race?
The races and the race weekends are a great showcase of what the mountain bike community is and how that community comes together. Beginning riders will race around 4-6 miles and usually consists of two 2-3.5 mile laps in middle school and 5-10 miles and usually consists of one or two 5 miles laps for high school. You do not have to race if you choose not to.
›How do I get started?
Fill out this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScp2WP2zO-zmolyAfYcFVlWlEn99sVhy5ggkqJny1ArCPbzdQ/viewform and email admin@spainparkmtb.org