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Cornell University

PE 1664: Mountain Biking

Mountain Biking

Mountain Biking is for those who want to learn the skills to ride a bike on single track trails. Skills on the bike include body position, braking, shifting, descending, climbing and navigating natural terrain such as rocks, roots and logs. You will also learn to complete a bike safety check, change a flat tire and navigate on the trails. Classes will take place at different trail systems. Rental bikes are available for a $60 fee.

Details
Course FeeStudents: $295
Community: $325
CU Faculty/Staff: $310
Fee Notes$60 additional fee for Bike Rental, if you need one.
AttendanceFirst class is mandatory.
Students can miss one class and still receive PE credit.
PrerequisitesAbility to comfortably ride a bike. Mountain Biking is geared towards beginning mountain bikers, but it takes place on narrow, uneven trails and basic bike handling skills are a must.
Drop Deadline1/21/25
EnrollmentEnroll through Student Center or by contacting COE at 607-255-6183 or coed@cornell.edu
Links 
Section 1 Schedule
DayDateTime
Wednesday 4/9/256:00-8:00pm (outfitting)
Saturday4/12/2510:00am to 3:00pm
Saturday4/19/2510:00am to 3:00pm
Saturday4/26/2510:00am to 3:00pm
Saturday5/3/2510:00am to 3:00pm
Section 2 Schedule
DayDateTime
Thursday4/10/256:00-8:00pm (outfitting)
Sunday4/13/2510:00am to 3:00pm
Sunday4/20/2510:00am to 3:00pm
Sunday4/27/2510:00am to 3:00pm
Sunday5/4/2510:00am to 3:00pm

How to dress and what to bring to class 

This clothing list is intentionally specific because we want you to be safe and enjoy the out of doors. Comfort is a must when learning about the outdoor environment! Our biking courses will frequently have different weather than the Cornell campus. Expect it to be cooler. It is better to dress with layers so that you can regulate your temperature based on your activity level and changes in weather. We strongly recommend wool or polypropylene because these materials retain their insulated qualities when damp whereas cotton does not. Dressing according to this concept will increase the quality and enjoyment of your outdoor experience.

* These items are provided by COE and are covered in the course fee.
** These items can be rented from the COE Outfitting. Prices below reflect 25% discount, tax not included.

Upper Body

  • Synthetic shirt or bike jerseys
  • 1 insulating layers (fleece, wool or synthetic insulated jacket) if it’s a cold day
  • **1 raincoat or shell (must be waterproof)
  • Elbow pads (optional)

Lower Body

  • 1 pair shorts (Biking shorts with padded are nice but not required) 
  • 1 pair insulated pants (bike or running tights. Must be tapered so they don't get stuck in the chain) (if its cold out)
  •  underwear as needed
  • Knee pads (optional)

Head and Hands

  • Biking Helmet in good condition (included in class fee if you need to borrow one) 
  • Sun Glasses (clear lens glasses provided in the class if needed) 
  • 1 pair cycling gloves or other synthetic gloves with grip (optional) 
  • Thin hat that will fit under the helmet incase it’s a cold day

Feet

  • synthetic or wool socks 
  • Biking Shoes or any Firm-soled athletic shoes

Bike Gear

  • **Bike in good repair and fitted to you (available for rent if needed - $60)
    • Spare tube if you plan to bring your own bike
  • Small day pack or hydration pack (large enough to put layers, snacks and water in)
  • 1 liter of water in biking bottles or in your backpack
  • light snacks (energy bars, nuts etc.)
  • Optional - Clipless pedals if you are bringing your clipless shoes (our rentals have flats)