The Veloraptors are a co-ed youth mountain bike team based in the Somerset Hills region of New Jersey and welcome girls and boys from communities including Basking Ridge, Bernardsville, Warren, Bedminster, Far Hills, Peapack-Gladstone, Bridgewater, and surrounding towns.
We ride trail systems such as Chimney Rock-Washington Valley Park, Lewis Morris County Park, and Six Mile Run State Park, all close to our New Jersey towns. Check out the race locations for our 2025-2026 season! We don't just stick to those three all the time. We do spread out to other fun locations to enhance our skills on all types of terrain.
Riders develop trail skills step by step, with clear coaching and progression.
Safety, sportsmanship, and responsible decision-making are central to every practice and race weekend.
Athletes are encouraged to support each other, celebrate progress, and feel part of a team from day one.
Riders build resilience, accountability, and confidence they carry into school, friendships, and daily life.
Trail time builds fitness and healthy routines around movement, recovery, and outdoor stewardship.
Through the NJ NICA league and the national NICA organization, Veloraptors riders have access to several programs designed to support youth development through mountain biking. If your family is new to the league, start with What is NICA?.
GRiT (Girls Riding Together) - Encourages more girls to ride and race by building confidence, mentorship, and community. Learn more on our GRiT and girls-riding page.
Teen Trail Corps - Gives student-athletes opportunities to give back through trail stewardship and service projects.
Leadership and Community Initiatives - NICA programs that help riders develop responsibility, teamwork, and environmental stewardship.
Learn more about these programs at nationalmtb.org.
Veloraptors exists to help young riders build confidence, skills, and character through mountain biking. We believe every rider should have the opportunity to grow in a supportive, inclusive environment.
Whether your rider is brand new to the trails or aiming for the podium, they will find coaching, teamwork, and encouragement here.
Veloraptors is an independent nonprofit team competing within New Jersey NICA and the National Interscholastic Cycling Association network.
Families exploring youth mountain biking in New Jersey can also review our league overview and parent resources.
