There’s a moment in every ride when the city fades behind you, the air cools, and the mountains open up in front of you — quiet, wide, and full of possibility. That’s the experience we’re bringing to LA Critical Mass.
Our new XC mountain biking program invites you to trade pavement for panoramic views, discover routes you’ve never imagined, and ride together in a way that feels fresh, challenging, and unforgettable. If you’ve ever wanted to push your endurance, explore new terrain, or simply see Los Angeles from above, this is your next adventure.
LA Critical Mass has always been about movement, community, and exploring Los Angeles together. As our rides continue to grow, we’re expanding beyond city streets and into the mountains with a new program centered on XC (cross‑country) mountain biking — the endurance‑focused, accessible side of off‑road cycling.
XC mountain biking is built around long‑distance adventure, scenic terrain, and group unity. It’s the perfect fit for our community of road cyclists, fixed‑gear riders, BMX riders, and anyone ready to experience a new dimension of riding.
Why XC Mountain Biking?
XC is the most approachable form of mountain biking. Instead of steep drops or extreme downhill features, XC focuses on:
- Fire roads
- Service roads
- Mild singletrack
- Rolling climbs
- Smooth, predictable descents
It’s designed for exploration and endurance, making it ideal for riders who enjoy long miles and shared movement.
A Discipline That Matches Our Culture
XC mirrors the same energy that defines LA Critical Mass:
- Group‑focused riding
- Long‑distance stamina
- Scenic routes
- Accessible terrain
- A welcoming environment for all skill levels
It’s simply the off‑road version of what our community already loves.
The Bikes Built for XC
XC bikes are engineered for comfort and efficiency over long distances. They feature:
- Lightweight frames
- Fast‑rolling 29” wheels
- Short‑travel suspension
- Wide‑range gearing
- Balanced geometry for all‑day riding
These bikes make mountain riding smooth, stable, and enjoyable — even for riders new to off‑road terrain.
What Our XC Rides Will Look Like
Our upcoming XC rides will explore the mountains across Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties, including:
- High‑altitude ridgelines
- Forest routes
- Flowing singletrack
- Scenic fire roads
We avoid extreme downhill terrain, rock gardens, and technical features. XC is about distance, not danger.
Fully Supported Rides
Just like our century rides, every XC event includes:
- Support vehicles
- Hydration and snacks
- Gourmet meals
- Energy boosts
- Fully scouted routes
We make sure every rider feels supported from start to finish.
Access for All Riders
To make XC accessible, we’re developing partnerships to offer:
- Free demo bikes
- Low‑cost rentals
- Opportunities to test XC bikes
All XC rides are free for registered participants.
A New Way to Ride Together
XC mountain biking brings LA Critical Mass into a new world of riding — high above the city, surrounded by nature, powered by endurance, and strengthened by community. It’s the next evolution of our movement, and we’re excited to ride it with you.
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