This web site provides information and resources for the Cycling Merit Badge being offered by Mr. Sheneman. We have provided information on the class schedule, planned rides and alternates, resources for completing the merit badge requirements and web links to other cycling resources. We have tried to provide links to most of the information you’ll need to complete the badge, but you’re expected to read and understand the Cycling Merit Badge pamphlet (#WW33226A). If you have questions about any of the information you find here, please contact Mr. Sheneman.
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Cycling is a very healthy outdoor activity that you can pursue for your entire life. Off-road mountain biking, cycle touring, racing or casual weekend rides - cycling is a sport for the whole family. Cycling allows riders to see the countryside at a slower pace than in an automobile. We frequently see wildlife such as foxes, pheasants, wild turkeys, and even bald eagles on our rides. Cycling allows us to explore the back roads and byways of Hunterdon and the surrounding counties in a way you can’t appreciate by car. Cycling merit badge is one of the choices (others include swimming and hiking) that meet the physical fitness requirement for the Eagle Scout rank. The cycling merit badge program focuses on vehicular cycling, or effectively using your bicycle as a vehicle. This means that most of the rides will be on roadways occupied by other vehicles (cars and trucks). We’ll start with simple shorter rides and work up to longer rides along busier roads. Cycling merit badge requires Scouts to learn and understand local bicycle and traffic laws. They will learn safe bicycle handling, basic repair and maintenance and the important step in planning a ride. Scouts will also learn first aid and emergency procedures for potential cycling injuries and hazards. Completion of the merit badge requires riding a minimum of 150 miles and typically takes from three to five months to complete. We’ll ride two 10-mile rides, two 15-mile rides, two 25-mile rides and a 50-miler. The planned schedule will allow the scouts to learn bike handling and build their endurance for the longer rides. I strongly encourage scouts to ride additional mileage in between the scheduled rides to build endurance, practice hill climbing and gain confidence on the road. Riding three to four days per week with increasing mileage will ensure that you’re in top shape for the longer rides. Keep track of your training miles with the Cycling Mileage Log spreadsheet (see link at left). We will have a few “classroom” sessions, but most sessions will be taught “on the road.” Using this approach, we’ll cover many of the planning, safety, repairs, and emergency information as we cover the mileage necessary to complete the badge. The schedule is subject to change due to weather and other factors, but we will ride as often as possible. IMPORTANT - PARENTAL SUPPORT Parental support is important if a scout is to complete the merit badge. Please read and complete the Permission Form for your son. Parents are expected to provide a good quality multi-speed bicycle that is in good repair. All bicycles will be inspected prior to the first ride. Unsafe bicycles will not be permitted. Parents are required to provide a properly-fitting cycling helmet. Parents are welcome and encouraged to ride with the scouts – please contact Mr. Sheneman if you’re interested. Approved bicycle helmets are required for all riders, including adults. Parents may be needed to drive
to/from the starting locations or to drive the SAG (Support and Gear) wagon
along the longer routes. Parents must provide an up-to-date Class 1 or Class 2 BSA Medical Form for their
son. Please let me know of any allergies or other medical conditions that may
affect your son’s cycling ability. Finally, parents are expected to support
and encourage their scout in this effort. Long-distance cycling can be
physically and emotionally challenging, but with help your son will learn,
grow and improve as a cyclist. |
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Cycling Merit Badge Requirements Cycling Merit Badge Workbook Local Ride Suggestions Basic Cycling Skills |
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Other Cycling Links
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