Competitive Cross Country Mountain Bike Racing
Guide presented by:
The Racing Course
off-road venues with mixed terrain including parklands, forestry sites, fields and gravel paths
incorporates climbs, descents and technical features
races held over multiple laps of an undulating circuit
number of race laps depends on type of event and rider category - less experienced riders tackle fewer laps
to ensure similar lap times a hilly course will be shorter than a flat course
Competition Types
Racing Categories
elite, expert and sport are ability categories
all other categories are based on age
progression to elite/expert is through ranking points
a full race licence is compulsory to qualify for national ranking points
Racing Equipment
lightweight bikes with front or dual suspension, strong brakes on all wheels and a wide range of gears to cope with mixed terrain
wide knobbly tyres which help with off-road access
bikes must be mechanically sound and capable of safely completing the course
a protective helmet is compulsory
During the Race
a good grid position and start are vital in mass start races
a front number plate must displayed at all times
the use of headphones, earpieces or any communication devices is prohibited
signposts every kilometre indicating the distance remaining to the finish line
bike changes are not permitted
technical assistance can only be given in the dedicated technical zone
feeding is only permitted in the designated assistance zone