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@Veloraptors
Race highlights and coaching clips
Watch on YouTubeRiders from Somerset County NJ Towns Including:
Basking RidgeBernardsvilleBedminsterBridgewaterFar HillsPeapackWarrenWatchung
Confidence on the Trail. Character Beyond the Bike.
The Veloraptors are a co-ed youth cross-country mountain bike team for diverse riders in grades 5–12 in the Somerset Hills region of Somerset County, New Jersey. Through expert coaching, skill development, and a strong team culture, riders build confidence, fitness, and character on and off the bike.
Come try a practice before joining! New to Mountain Biking? No problem. Many Veloraptors riders start with little or no racing experience.
30+ Riders16 CoachesNJ NICA Championsco-edGrades 5-12NICA Certified Coaches
“My son had never ridden trails before joining. The first few practices the coaches were incredibly patient, and now he’s the one asking when the next ride is.”
Parent of 6th Grade Rider
Follow us
Follow the Veloraptors on the Trail
Stay connected for race highlights, practice updates, team culture, and rider stories from throughout the season.
facebook.com/groups/veloraptors
Team announcements and event recaps
Follow on Facebook@somerset.veloraptors
Practice moments and rider spotlights
Follow on InstagramFeatured Video
Featured Team Video
Watch this featured Veloraptors video, then explore more race and team content on our channel.
Open on YouTubeThe Veloraptors Team
Who We Are
The Veloraptors are a co-ed youth mountain bike team for girls and boys in grades 5–12 in the Somerset Hills region of New Jersey. Through NJ NICA, part of the National Interscholastic Cycling Association, we provide coaching, skills development, and racing opportunities in a fun, inclusive team environment.
Our riders range from first-time trail riders to experienced racers, and every athlete progresses at their own pace with the support of certified coaches and teammates.
New to youth mountain biking? Start with What is NICA? and learn how programs like GRiT support riders and families.
Where Our Riders Come From
- Somerset Hills NJ
- Basking Ridge NJ
- Bernardsville NJ
- Bedminster NJ
- Bridgewater NJ
- Far Hills NJ
- Peapack-Gladstone NJ
- Warren NJ
- Watchung NJ
What We Build
Trail Skills
Cornering, climbing, descending, and bike control taught through progressive, coach-led instruction that builds confidence on real trails.
Fitness & Endurance
Structured practices improve aerobic fitness, strength, and stamina so riders are prepared for long rides and race days.
Race Readiness
From pacing and race tactics to nutrition and preparation, riders learn how to perform their best when the start whistle blows.
Teamwork & Leadership
Riders support one another on and off the bike, developing leadership, encouragement, and a true team culture.
Confidence & Resilience
Mountain biking challenges riders to push through tough climbs, crashes, and setbacks, building grit and self-belief.
Safety & Responsibility
Every ride emphasizes trail awareness, responsible progression, and safe riding habits that protect athletes and others.
Inclusive Community
Our team welcomes riders of all backgrounds and abilities, creating a supportive environment where everyone belongs.
Stewardship of Trails
We teach riders to respect trails, nature, and the broader cycling community through responsible riding and trail care.
Affiliation
Proudly affiliated with NJ NICA and NICA
Veloraptors is an independent nonprofit team racing under the New Jersey Interscholastic Cycling League within the National Interscholastic Cycling Association.
Families can read our NICA explainer and learn how GRiT supports girls riding.