At 13, George November has already developed a strong passion for mountain biking, a sport that clicked for him the very first time he tried it.

 

An eighth grader who lives on Wagar Road, George was introduced to the sport by his dad. “My dad mountain biked when he lived in Breckenridge, Colorado, and offered to take me to Ray’s Indoor Mountain Bike Park, which is located here in Cleveland,” George said. “I immediately fell in love with it.”

 

That first experience sparked a four-year passion. Over time, George has developed not just skills, but a genuine appreciation for every aspect of the sport. “I love the progression element, the gear, jumps, and creating content on the sport,” he said.

 

Like many riders, George admits mountain biking comes with its challenges. One of the toughest parts, he says, is mental. “After falling on a hard trail, getting up and riding back down, especially if you fall on a rock, is the hardest part.”

 

Despite the risks, George embraces both the fun and competitive sides of biking. He said, “Participating in races is fun, but riding with friends is equally fun!”

 

When it comes to favorite riding spots, George currently ranks Holimont Bike Park in Ellicottville, New York, at the top of his list, though he’s already looking ahead to new terrain. “This summer, I’ll be going to Whistler Bike Park, in British Columbia, Canada, and I can’t wait”, he said.

 

At Holimont, two trails stand out to him. “My favorite trail is either Canfield Funnel for the flow and line options, or Dirty Bird for the challenge,” George noted. He especially appreciates the technical difficulty of Dirty Bird, calling it his most challenging run so far. “It’s rated a double black diamond, the hardest at the bike park.”

 

While some riders enjoy the climb as much as the descent, George is clear about his preference. “Downhill rides; I don’t find the uphills fun,” he said.

 

Though he isn’t sure how long his longest ride was, he estimates it was around three hours. Since he started riding, George has continually refined key skills. “My whips, bike control, and speed,” he said, are the areas he’s worked hardest to improve.

 

Crashes are part of the sport, and George has had his share. “Yes, multiple times,” he said. His most recent fall was particularly intense. “The most recent crash I had was on Dirty Bird, when my handlebars clipped a tree, and I went over the bars and landed on jagged rocks.”

 

Still, proper gear helps keep him safe and confident. George rides a Yeti SB140 LR full suspension bike and a Transition PBJ dirt jumper. When it comes to essentials, one item stands above all. “The helmet; never ride without it,” he emphasized. He’s also a fan of his riding apparel: “My TASCO MTB gloves and jerseys are the best quality gear on the market.”

 

Looking ahead, George already has his eye on an upgrade. “I would like to get a PROPAIN Rage 3 CF downhill bike, with full Fox Factory suspension,” he said.

 

Much of George’s enjoyment comes from the people he rides with. “I usually ride with my dad, mom, and friend Luke Oatey,” he shared. “I also ride with Allen Messersmith here and there.”

 

And while he’s already experienced some great trails, his dream destinations are still ahead. “I’m looking forward to riding at Whistler Bike Park in Canada, and maybe one day I’ll ride Bikepark Leogang in Austria!” he said.

 

For those thinking about getting into the sport, George offers practical advice. “Buy a high-quality but affordable hardtail, learn the basics and how to take care of your bike, and don’t spend a bunch of money on gear until you’re hooked.”

 

With his passion, determination, and growing experience, George November is clearly just getting started on the trails and enjoying every ride along the way.