Veloraptors Blog

The Somerset Hills Veloraptors are recruiting co-ed riders in grades 5–12 for the 2026–2027 season! Whether your athlete is brand new to mountain biking, already loves the trails, or wants to race competitively, there’s a place to ride, learn, and grow with the Veloraptors. Come meet the team at one of our fall Try-It Rides and see what we’re all about.

The Veloraptors are collecting safe, ridable kids bikes in good working order to donate to Greater Newark LifeCamp. If your family has outgrown a kids bike that still has plenty of life left, it could help another child experience the joy and confidence of riding. Minor tune-up needs are okay, but non-functional bikes cannot be accepted. Donation deadline: June 14. Contact Brad Molzen at info@shveloraptors.com to donate or ask questions.

Riding in the heat isn’t just another day on the trail, it’s a completely different challenge. When temperatures climb above 90°, dry trails, blazing sun, and dehydration can take a ride from fun to dangerous fast. For young mountain bikers, preparation is everything. With the right approach, starting the day before and continuing through recovery, kids can stay safe, perform well, and still enjoy every mile on the trail.

One of our riders, Sloan, designed and 3D printed these custom mud guards and coasters himself, after multiple prototypes, testing, and dialing in designs and colors. Then he donated them all to support the team.

Strong start to the season at the Galloway Grinder. The Veloraptors brought 12 racers into tough, cold, and windy conditions and came away with 5 podium finishes, including a JV2 win and two first-time racers stepping up in a big way. From strategic racing on a tight, technical course to all-out sprint finishes, the team showed resilience, preparation, and support for one another throughout the weekend.

The Veloraptors sharpened race skills and team chemistry at Chimney Rock Park with starts, relays, trail riding, and race prep—just days before heading to Galloway for the first NJ NICA race of the season.

An awesome night at Trek Stirling as Veloraptors riders learned hands-on bike maintenance. From fixing flats to dialing in chain care, all while building confidence off the trail.

Finally back on the dirt at Dickerson Mine Preserve with a two-hour ride full of technical climbs, flowy berms, and great early-season trail time.

Read the full update from the Veloraptors coaching team.

A quick 15 miles on Bedminster Gravel

Read the full update from the Veloraptors coaching team.

Here is a summary of how best to prepare for riding with the team during a Veloraptor practice.

Race day is an exciting part of being on the Veloraptors team. As part of the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) and the New Jersey Interscholastic Cycling League, our riders participate in cross-country mountain bike races that emphasize effort, perseverance, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Whether this is your first race or your tenth, preparation is what makes the experience smooth, fun, and successful. This guide is designed for both athletes and parents so everyone knows what to expect and how to show up ready.

The Veloraptors have officially soared to the top.