New Rollercoaster Series
The first round of the 2016 Rollercoaster series isn’t too far away and Rocky Trail has made some changes that aim to better differentiate their Rollercoaster and Red Ass Downhill events.
The Rollercoasters have always been gravity oriented events that are tailored towards riders on regular trail bikes; something with 4-6 inches of travel. However a few of their courses have closely resembled full on downhill events; Del Rio and Glenworth Valley for example.
For 2016 the steeper and rougher courses will be reserved for the dedicated DH series and the new ‘Superflow’ Rollercoaster will stick to trails that can be tackled comfortably on a regular trail bike. Aside from the Thredbo round, there won't be any shuttles at Rollercoaster rounds. Each event will also run between two and four different timed courses; in this regard it more closely follows the original concept of enduro racing.
If this leaves you feeling a little disappointed because you liked the more technically demanding tracks like Del Rio - or maybe you just loath pedalling uphill - Martin from Rocky Trail suggests that you give their new 'Downhill Enduro' events a go. The Red Ass Downhill Enduro is a five event series with rounds at Thredbo, Del Rio, Awaba, Green Valleys and Lithgow. Full face helmets are compulsory at these events and younger riders (U17 and below) need knee and elbow protection as well as full finger gloves. All rounds will have a shuttle service and for 2016 your finishing race time will come from the combined total of your two runs — consistency will be the key!
The Superflow series on the other hand won’t require a full face helmet (although you can still wear one if you wish), the courses will involve more pedalling and your regular mid-travel trail bike will be perfect for the trails.
The 2016 Superflow rounds are as follows:
|
Series Round |
Race Date |
|
#1 - Ourimbah MTB Park, NSW |
28 February 2016 |
|
#2 - Thredbo, NSW |
2 April 2016 |
|
#3 – Stromlo, ACT |
24 April 2016 |
|
#4 – Killingworth, NSW |
10 July 2016 |
|
#5 - TBC |
6-7 August 2016 |
Check the Rocky Trail Entertainment site for all the details.
