Cycling and the Trail to Eagle
Cycling Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 5 main requirements for Cycling. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Do the following:
- a.Explain the hazards you may encounter while cycling and what you should do to anticipate, prevent, and respond to them.
- b.Show that you know first aid for injuries that could occur while cycling.
- 2
Explain the importance of wearing an approved bicycle helmet. Show how to properly wear one.
- 3
Clean and adjust a bicycle. Prepare it for inspection. Demonstrate fixing a flat tire.
- 4
Describe how to safely ride in a group.
- 5
Take four rides of at least 10 miles each, two rides of at least 25 miles each, and one ride of at least 50 miles.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Cycling Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Cycling, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Cycling is usually earned anywhere. Pick whichever setting lets you work with your counselor most consistently.
3. Budget the time
Expect about 2 months for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 7 Cycling requirements for you.
Cycling Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Cycling merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
Yes, as part of a choice group. To earn Eagle, a scout must earn Swimming, Hiking, or Cycling. Cycling satisfies that requirement, and any other badge from the group can count as one of the 8 electives.
How long does the Cycling merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Cycling in about 2 months, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Cycling merit badge?
Cycling is most often earned anywhere. Any registered merit badge counselor for Cycling can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Cycling merit badge have?
Cycling has 5 main requirements with 2 sub-requirements, for 7 items in total.
