The much anticipated (by me) dates for the 2009 Alpe d’Huez Megavalanche have been announced. The event will be taking place from 6-12 July with entry opening on the 12 January. This may seem like plenty of time but it will fill up in a matter of weeks if not days.
If you’re a mountain biker and haven’t heard of it (do you live in a cave?) then it’s something that has to be entered to be believed. Believed by some (mostly those who’ve entered it in the past) to be THE greatest mountain bike race/event in the world.
It’s a mass start of 400 riders at a time downhill/enduro event. Starting at almost 4000 meters on a mountain top glacier it then drops through some of the most technically and physically demanding terrain EVER.
It isn’t a pure downhill event, it’s definitely an endurance event, albeit mostly downhill but there are climbs, which at these kinds of altitudes are punishing. Accordingly it needs a certain type of bike. A full-blown downhill bike is going to be to heavy and sluggish so something lighter with around 6 or 7 inches of travel is the ideal. Think along the lines of the Specialized Enduro or Specialized Pitch, the Cannondale Moto range or the Commencal Meta 666, a bike specifically designed with the Megavalanche in mind. It’s worth noting that the 4 times winner Rene Wildhaber rides a Scott Ransom, that should give you a good idea of whats required..
A full face helmet and body armour is a must, as you will not be allowed to race without them. Well vented helmets like the Specialized Deviant or the Giro Remedy are ideal. Body armour wise Sixsixone have got all bases covered and you’ll find exactly what you’ll need within their extensive range. Another item which has become a must is some form of tubeless tyre system. Consider using the excellent Stans No Tubes to convert your existing wheels. Match this up with a pair of Maxxis' excellent super tacky downhill tyres and yyou're good to go.
Whatever kit you go for or whatever you decide I can’t recommend it enough. However it’s not to be taken lightly, you need to be fit, experienced and very technically competent just to finish the course. You actually need a letter from your doctor stating that you are fit enough to enter if you don’t hold a race licence.
For all the information you need go to www.avalanchecup.com, and book your holidays now.
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