NewsInformation

Former professional MTB rider Jun Matsuo provides instruction from basic operation to course riding.

JPF Co., Ltd., Ltd. (main office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director: Shuntaro Watanabe; hereinafter "JPF") has been commissioned by Toyama City to hold an "MTB Challenge (Experience Event)" for inexperienced and beginner riders on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at NiX Sports Academy Cycle Park (Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture) as part of the city's "Urban Sports Appeal Promotion and Popularization Project".

This event is for people aged 5 and over who can ride a bicycle without training wheels and stand while pedaling. Participants will experience everything from basic MTB operation to riding on a course. Former professional MTB rider Jun Matsuo, who belongs to JPF, will provide instruction from the basics, including how to use brakes and gears, and how to maintain balance.

[Held as part of Toyama City's project to promote and popularize urban sports]

In Toyama City, urban sports, which are gaining attention, especially among young people, will be held as an opportunity for beginners to easily get started with introductory sessions and competitions. JPF has been commissioned by Toyama City to manage this project. These introductory sessions will allow participants to experience the operation of mountain bikes, which are different from everyday bicycles, and the fun of riding on beginner-friendly courses, providing a new opportunity to become familiar with Cycing sports. (A total of four sessions are planned.)

[Former professional MTB rider provides instruction from basic operation to course riding]

On the day of the event, the program will progress in stages, from preparing before riding to practicing control on flat ground and riding on a beginner-friendly course. While the number of MTBs and protective gear is limited, rentals are available with prior application.

First half: Review the basics before riding, such as adjusting the saddle height and using the brakes and gears.
Mid-stage: Learn balance and riding techniques in a flat open area.
Second half: Using what we practiced, we drove on an easy course suitable for beginners.

[Instructor Profile]
Name: Jun Matsuo
Date of birth: November 10, 1991 (age 34)
Qualifications: Japan Sports Association Certified Coach Level 3 (Cycling)
He started mountain bike cross-country racing at the age of 18 and competed in races while belonging to a professional team.
After retiring from competitive cycling, he became involved in mountain biking as a mechanic for the Japanese national team.

[Event Overview]
Name: MTB Challenge (Trial Session)
Date and Time: Saturday, July 18, 2026, 13:30 - 15:00 (Registration starts at 13:00)
Venue: Mountain bike course around the Kubusugawa Dam in Toyama City (NiX Sports Academy Cycle Park)
16-2 Kiritani, Yao-machi, Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture 939-2333
Organizer: Toyama City
Operated by: JPF Co., Ltd.
Target audience/Capacity: Ages 5 and up / Approximately 10 people (first-come, first-served basis)
*Those who can ride a bicycle without training wheels and stand while pedaling.
Participation fee: 1,000 yen per person (insurance included)
Application method and deadline: Apply via the Toyama Prefecture Electronic Application Service / July 13, 2026 (Monday)
Instructor and main content: Jun Matsuo (affiliated with JPF Co., Ltd., former professional MTB rider) / Basic operation, balance practice, beginner course riding
Related URL:https://www.city.toyama.lg.jp/bunka/sports/1010564/1018949.html
Application form: https://shinsei.pref.toyama.lg.jp/SksJuminWeb/EntryForm?id=dNXBMfyQ
Grant provided by: Japan Sports Safety Association, "Sports Activity Promotion and Encouragement Program"
Note: This event is scheduled to be held a total of four times.

【お問い合わせ先】
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富山市 市民生活部 スポーツ健康課
TEL: 076-443-2141 
E-mail: sports-01@city.toyama.lg.jp
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株式会社JPF スポーツ・地域振興部（担当：明珍・田中）
TEL: 03-6697-7166