Ready to Try Your First Enduro? Here’s a few tips from racer and MTB guide Lucy Allan
Thinking about diving into your first enduro but not sure where to begin? Let me share some tips and insights to help you start on the right pedal.
My First Race Experience back in 2012
My first mountain bike race was a local cross-country event back in 2012. I showed up in DC trainers and black Primark leggings…
It’s important to note that you can give racing a go, no matter what you’re wearing or riding (as long as it’s safe of course).
However, here are a few tips to make your first enduro experience a bit easier.
What is Enduro Mountain Biking?
Enduro’s typically spans over two days – one for practice and one for racing. You’ll cover approximately 30-40 km, either with friends or solo. The actual racing time is often less than 20 minutes, as you’re only timed on the downhill segments. While professional races have cut-off times for transitions, most amateur races don’t. So, pace yourself to make it around the course, as they can be quite demanding!
The Importance of Practice
When starting out in enduro, practice is crucial. Don’t rush it! Spend time on tricky sections to build confidence and watch others tackle them. Often, you might not be allowed to go back up the track during practice, so watch or walk a technical section first, then ride it when you’re ready. It’s perfectly okay to walk sections, even during the race. It took me years to ride most sections confidently. Just be ready to jump off and back on, and be mindful not to block anyone. If someone shouts “rider please” or “on your right” to overtake, let them pass with a smile. Bonus points for a friendly “Well done!” Don’t get disheartened if you’re overtaken; it’s all part of the racing experience.
3 Race Day Tips
1. On race day, aim for an early start to avoid rushing!
2. Pack high-energy foods like dried mango, emergency gels, and something savoury in case you overload on sweets. On my last race I took dairylee dunkers! Stick with foods you are used to from your usual rides. Avoid changing your diet dramatically for the race.
3. Also, don’t get too caught up on your times or mistakes made throughout the day, you never know how your competitors are getting on until the end, so don’t give up because you make a mistake or have an off.
Races to Look Forward to in 2025
Some of my favourite races to look forward to in 2025 are Boltby Bash, Ard Rock, and Ard Moors. These events are part of festival weekends, and the atmosphere is always friendly. Tickets sell out fast, so mark the release dates or try to get a ticket from someone who can’t attend via Facebook.
Celebrate Your Achievement
Don’t forget to celebrate completing the race! Enduros are all about having fun on the bike, not just the results. After the race, enjoy the high-fives, take lots of pictures, and indulge in some well-deserved food!
My current favourite racing attire
As I said earlier, you can race in any old sports kit, but here’s a rundown of my current favourite items:
Bike:
Sonder Evol SX Eagle 160mm aggressive trail bike
RRP £2,299 (depending on spec)
There’s nothing better than a bike that feels like it was made for you.
Pedals:
FLATS! Sonder Distortion Flat MTB Pedals
RRP £59.99
Switching to flat pedals has significantly boosted my confidence, especially in the world of enduros.
Jersey:
Ladies MTB Jersey Ombre Print 3/4 Sleeve in Coral – Trailbloom
RRP: £39
Lightweight and breathable, perfect for long rides
Trousers:
Trail Bloom trousers - Black
RRP: £95
Durable and flexible, these trousers are so lightweight and easy to pedal in and they are fully elasticated so give great movement. They have a rip resistant finish to them so keep me protected!
Helmet: Giro Insurgent Helmet or Bell Super MIPS 3R with a detachable chin guard. Better safe than sorry when it comes to dental visits.
Back Protector:
Fox Baseframe Sleevless MTB Protection Vest (worn under my top)
-or-
Evoc Rucksack with an integrated back protector
Both options provide important protection.
Padded Shorts:
Endura
Essential for those long rides, providing much-needed cushioning.
Trail Bloom do a great female specific padded short, I am yet to try but they are on my shopping list!
Socks:
These are just the perfect length and comfort for racing - Trail Bloom do a great pair of organic cotton socks in colours to match their jerseys.
Waterproof:
Gravitas | Women's Ultralight Waterproof Jacket
Super lightweight and packable for unpredictable weather conditions during the race.
Finally: Encouraging More Women in Mountain Biking
I hope this helps get you started! We’re seeing a steadily growing number of women racing, and it’s only going to get bigger and better. But it takes us to be brave and put ourselves out there. The more we support and encourage each other, the more we can break barriers and make our mark in the world of mountain biking. So, gear up, be bold, and let’s hit those trails together!