Words: Newsport Media | Photo: Cherie Vale
The third annual ISUZU Ride the Rock MTB Race returns to the majestic Cederberg region the weekend of 07 – 09 February 2014. Participating mountain bikers can look forward to experiencing mountain bike routes like no other.
According to Hendrico Burger, Technical Race Manager, riders can look forward to experiencing some of the most spectacular and unique views and mountain bike routes. “Most of our changes have been made to the Stage 2 route. The objective was to take out the majority of the district roads. The Cederberg’s weather is unpredictable to say the least. I recommend that riders prepare for all weather conditions, even rain. Chances are however that it will be hot. Be sure to pack enough hydration and sunscreen. The terrain is unforgiving, make sure your tires have enough sealant, pack some plugs and all the basic spares,” says Burger.
“Be sure to ride at your own pace and within your own capability,” continues Burger. “ISUZU Ride The Rock is suitable for all mountain bikers, however as is the case with all stage races you need to have trained and be capable of riding an 80km stage on a mountain bike. Riders can explore the famous Cederberg landmarks at their own leisure after each stage”.
“ISUZU Ride The Rock is renowned for its setting,” says Alexa Cunningham, Event Manager. “After a unique mountain bike experience, riders can relax without the constant distraction of laptops, iPads and mobile phones as there is no reception in the Cerderberg. ISUZU Ride The Rock is used by some of South Africa’s biggest names in mountain biking as the ideal training camp to kick-start their season and we look forward to welcoming them back, along with many new faces to the event.”
Route information
Race Village: Sanddrif
Stage One / Friday, 07 February 2014:
Start: 06:30
Distance: 81km / 1600m vertical ascent
Description: The Endurance Stage of the event. Be careful on the 4x4 decent after Voelvlei leading down to the first feed zone just outside Wupperthal. Riders can look forward to the longest climb - the infamous concrete jeep track that leads from Wupperthal to Eselsbank.
Stage Two / Saturday, 08 February 2014:
Start: 07:00
Distance: 60km / 1000m vertical ascent
Description: Known as the Play Stage because of its fun single track. There will be some technical sections with a few compulsory portage sections for rider safety, none of these sections however will span over more than 10m at a time.
Stage Three / Sunday, 09 February 2014:
Start: 07:00
Distance: 55km / 1200m vertical ascent
Description: This stage is fast and features a combination of district road, jeep track and single track. Riders can look forward to experiencing the longest downhill single track (5km) of the event.
Event details
ISUZU Ride the Rock is a full service individual MTB stage race that offers riders the opportunity to ride on the most spectacular routes in the heart of South Africa's Cederberg Conservancy. Each stage’s route is challenging yet rewarding, while encapsulating the pristine beauty of the Cederberg.
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