How to Make Family Mountain Biking Affordable (Without Sacrificing the Fun!)

Mountain biking doesn’t have to be a wallet-draining hobby. Sure, it can get pricey if you go all-in on the latest gear and insist on buying everything new – but if your goal is to get out on the trails as a family and have fun, there are loads of ways to make it affordable. In fact, some of the most memorable rides happen on secondhand bikes, with homemade snacks and local trails. Trust me!

Here’s how to keep the costs low while keeping the quality time high…

1. Start with What You’ve Got

If you already own bikes – even if they’re not “mountain” bikes – use them to start exploring flatter, off-road cycle paths or forest trails. No need to wait until you’ve got the perfect gear.

2. Buy Secondhand (Smartly)

Children grow fast, which means there’s a thriving secondhand market for decent bikes and kit. Look out for:

• Facebook Marketplace & local selling groups
• Bike recycling schemes and local workshops
• eBay or Gumtree
• Friends, family or cycling clubs offloading gear

Not sure what to look for? Read our guide: How to Choose the Best Childrens’ Mountain Bike (Without Breaking the Bank)

3. Look for Free or Low-Cost Trails

There are plenty of places to head to with no real costs (maybe just a parking fee at worst). Great options include:

• Forestry England sites with free parking and trail access (if you’re a regular, joining their membership gives free parking at most sites and could be well worth the upfront investment)
• Country parks or local greenways
• Canal paths, bridleways, and woodland loops
• Got a National Trust membership? Some of their sites include some great biking spots
• Practice skills and jumps at local pump tracks or skate parks

Save the popular and expensive bike trails for special trips – you can have just as much fun on quiet, local routes.

4. Share or Swap Gear

Families with older children might be ready to pass gear down. Don’t be afraid to ask around:

• Neighbours or school friends with older children
• Local cycling clubs or MTB Facebook groups
• Set up a swap system with friends who ride

5. Make DIY Trail Snacks

Skip the expensive café stops and keep costs down (and children happy) with homemade trail treats:

• Flapjack and dried fruits and nuts can pack up small but hit big on the energy front
• Let the children help pack their own ride snacks – it builds excitement too!

6. Prioritise the Essentials

It’s tempting to kit everyone out with all the gear every bike shop advertises and insists you need – but the basics will do just fine:

• Well-fitting helmets (non-negotiable)
• Gloves to protect little hands
• Comfy clothes that can get muddy

You can always upgrade later as the love for riding grows.

7. Spread the Cost

If you do want to invest in something new:

• Look for 0% finance deals at bike shops
• For smaller purchases (helmets, gloves etc) look out for PayPal options and utilise their pay in 3, if available
• Take advantage of cycle to work schemes (if your workplace offers it) – be aware that this may not be accepted when adding children’s bikes to your application
• Use cashback or loyalty programs
• Keep an eye out for end-of-season discounts or demo sales

8. Combine Riding with Holidays or Days Out

Turn a day ride into a budget adventure:

• Pack a picnic and combine it with a woodland walk or lake swim
• Plan an overnight camp near a trail centre
• Choose bike-friendly Airbnbs or campsites with access to riding spots

Final Thoughts

You don’t need top-of-the-range bikes or a massive budget to fall in love with mountain biking (we’re proof of this!). With a little creativity, community help, and planning, it’s more than possible to make it work for your family – and to enjoy every muddy, thrilling, minute of it!

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