Mountain bike racing: from Go-Ride to the Nationals
How UK mountain bike racing works, from Go-Ride Racing for under-16s to race licences and British Cycling's national XC, downhill and enduro events.
In this guide
- What it is: Competitive cross-country, downhill, enduro and marathon racing.
- What you need first: Nothing for Go-Ride Racing (under-16s). For licensed races, you need British Cycling membership. A full licence is needed to earn points.
- What's next: Kit, costs and safety.
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Start here
- Go-Ride Racing: for any rider under 16. Events are run by more than 350 Go-Ride Clubs, with beginner-friendly formats where almost any bike is welcome.
Licences
Members and Premium Members get a provisional race licence automatically. You can add a full racing licence as a bolt-on. Race on a provisional licence and you won't earn licence or ranking points.
The national scene
British Cycling runs the Lloyds National MTB Cross-Country Series and the Lloyds National Downhill Series, plus National Championships in cross-country (Olympic and short course), downhill, cross-country marathon, and enduro and e-enduro. For 2027 dates, see our British competitions 2027 guide.
Source: Go-Ride Racing, Cycle racing licence requirements 2026 National Championships, 2026 Enduro and E-Enduro Championships results and 2026 National Series calendar, British Cycling, checked October 2026.
Governing body: British Cycling. It sets the UK safety standards and training awards for mountain biking, so it's the official place to find out more.
Typical prices, checked October 2026. The club or coach sets and bills the price.
The club map lists some of the UK clubs for this sport. It is a starting point, so check with the club before you travel. To have a coach found for you, use the enquiry form.
