Gravity enduro

[Twistygit]

I'm a fat old man who has never entered into any races or anything competitive, but had a stupid idea couple of weeks ago to enter into an enduro race at hamsterley forest in the beginning of August but was wondering if anyone had done these before and if these are a little to professional for my first one, or any advice really

[vwsurfbum]

I have done a few Grravity enduro's around the country, My top tips would be get some DH practice in, and learn to climb as the transitions are usually very steep.

[anonymous-user]

You really do need body armour.

I have a mate who has severely fked himself up by competing in gravity enduros without enough body armour. You may try to take it easy but you will get the competitive buzz and you will go faster than you probably would normally becuase you know there is a clock on somewhere and there is someone coming behind you... on that note get very good at quickly getting out of peoples way, if a quicker rider makes a cock up in seeding, they will be making up time in the race and will be catching the riders in front up...

Edited by anonymous-user on Friday 26th June 10:36

[Twistygit]

The enduros you've done were they UK Gravity enduro, because my main concern was that they look very professional and maybe I'm not good enough and should I try and find a little one to begin with

[Thorpy]

I did one of the PMBA Enduros a few weeks ago and it was brilliant fun! The transitions weren't timed so you could go as fast or as slow as you want. Am i right in thinking UKGE's have timed transitions if so you will have to be quick.

[Kermit power]

Twistygit said:

The enduros you've done were they UK Gravity enduro, because my main concern was that they look very professional and maybe I'm not good enough and should I try and find a little one to begin with

I was having similar thoughts to you about it possibly being fun, and read a couple of articles about it being suitable for all levels including beginners. Now I'm not so sure!

[joema]

Transitions have time limits and are fairly relaxed if you have a decent base fitness. Most are just fire road pedals

I don't know you're level but the UKGE aren't that beginner friendly and there is more grass roots racing out there. That said if you're competent on a bike and reasonably fit you'll be fine.

[Twistygit]

I just thought it would be handy for my first one to be at hamsterley as its very close to where I live and I know it quite well.
When I've read the rules you have to wear a full face helmet when on your bike which wouldn't be very good on a hot day climbing a hill, probably a bigger health risk to falling off. Also you have to have insurance does anybody have any idea on cost? Would I be able to get cover just for the race or a month? This is with UKGE if anyone could suggest any other races I'll have a look

[james0]

I use Dogtag insurance, its flexible, I think I paid about £70 for ten days for two people Extreme sports cover. Done a few varied races over the years, XC, DH, Enduro, Megavalanche and there's always been Newbies. In fact there has to be or no one will ever get into it.

Invest in some decent tyres make sure the bike is running well and try to enjoy it. A wrist watch is handy I found.

Edited by james0 on Friday 3rd July 12:17

[joema]

You need personal accident insurance. Try cycle plan as it's about £17 for the year. May even do a shorter period of time.

[phil-sti]

enter the PMBA series as its a lot more laid back and easier for beginners.