Explained
What is Enduro MTB racing?
Enduro mountain biking (MTB) is a challenging and popular off-road cycling discipline that combines elements of cross-country and downhill mountain biking, with races requiring athletes to use a combination of endurance, speed and technical riding skills.
Race Format
Athletes will ride a set offroad course. This course comprises of liaison (transfer) stages which are not allocated towards the race time. Athletes therefore do not need to race between stages, however, an overall cutoff time for completing the full course may be imposed. Designated start times at special stages may also be imposed.
Athletes use the liaisons to get to a number of timed downhill stages (Special Stage). At the start of these timed descents, riders will begin at a start pod on their bike, with one foot on the ground, and tag in (usually using a wrist strap with timing device) which will begin counting the athletes time for the stage. The athlete then race the stage as fast as they can, and tag out at a finish pod at the end of the special stage.
The times achieved in all special stages will be accumulated and result in a total race time. Riders with the fastest race time on special stages win the day!
Nature of Enduro Course
An enduro course comprises of various off-road terrain.
Liaison Stages can include single track, tar roads, or dirt roads for getting between special stages. Some events or bike parks may choose to make use of shuttles or modified ski lifts to transfer riders and bikes.
Special Stages should include a mixture of tight, steep, flowing, rocky, rooted, and technical terrain, designed to test a riders’ technique, endurance, technical skills, and ability to handle changing and varying terrain. Enduro stages can also include flat peddling sections and punchy climbs, but should be 90% descending.
Can I ride Enduro MTB?
Enduro is considered a fun, social and approachable discipline for all levels of riders, as easier B-Line options on technical sections are often provided at events.
Enduro or Trail bikes are an appropriate bike option for this discipline, as they are designed to be durable and reliable, with features like big brake rotors for steep terrain, increased head angles and thick casing tires. However, one can ride Enduro trails with a dual suspension mountain bike.
Enduro venues can vary in the style of trails one can expect to race – some venues are very technical, while other require more fitness than skill requirements – so come and ride a race and try it out!