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Anaconda MTB Enduro - Alice Spirngs


Dicko's picture

By Dicko - Posted on 19 March 2010

I've entered the Anaconda MTB Enduro in Alice Spirngs which is a 5 day 7 stage event from May 10 - 14.

Great way of seeing and exploring the red centre, and see what MTB trails are on offer out there.

Is there anybody else from the area, thinking about or has entered the event ?

Has anybody done the event before, and has any tips / advice etc.

D

Antsonline's picture

Hi - yeah, Jenny and I did it last year, and are booked in for this year.
It is AWESOME. By far the best MTB stage race I have done.

Tips - there are loads - so you can pm if you like, but most important is to be conservative with your tyre choice. The rocks are ridiculously sharp, tyres were shredding everywhere. We'll be riding tyres 50% heavier than we normally do in a race.

It really is great - the night stage is unlike anything I have ever done before. Sure, we have all raced at night in 24's etc, but that is staggered. This race is a mass start XC race in the black. The first 2km are ridiculous. Soo much fun.

Well done for entering, it really is something special.
PM or call me if you want some more info...

Ant

Dicko's picture

Yeah from what I read and have heard the place is a killer on tyres.

I am running Tubeless - Ignitor UST on the Front and Crossmark on the rear with Stans sealant. Have yet to have any issues with this combo I the enduros I have done so far - but the Alice seems to be on the harsh side.

My brother and law lives out there, and is always going on about tyres and puncture carnarge.

What's your thoughts with the above combo. I would call this on the conservative side as I am not a fan of the light weight XC tyres.

D

Greg P's picture

I did the Anaconda 2 years ago and am entering this year again. Sensational weather and atmosphere. A really enjoyable week, both socially and from a riding perspective. You have to run UST tyres, the terrain is not too difficult, but different to Sydney. As mentioned previously, lots of sharp rocks off line, but tracks mostly well defined. There are also several good stretches of sand, some of which need to be walked.
I did the sidewall on a non-UST on stage 1 and then changed to heavy duty tyres running tubeless.
Organisation is really good and this year accomodation should be first class.
It is an experience you won't forget.
Happy to assist with preparation if any advice needed. I am helping another first timer now,
Greg

Scottboy's picture

in one of my mountain bike magazine not long ago it gives you a few hints how to ride up there too , it sounds like fun

Antsonline's picture

Your tyres sound fine - but is it a UST Crossmark on the back? I see the Ignitor is UST.
Maybe take one spare tyre with you. The guys running the local bike shops do a great job, but I remember their tyres being 'full-priced'.

Other tips - buy a bucket and sponge/brush when you get there - makes cleaning the bike easier.
Remember you first aid kit - they do check these on the line.

you only need a few pairs of shorts as you can get it washed there.
Tools - dont take anything extravagent - the bike service mob are good. A multi-tool will suffice. There is also a 'shared' track pump.

Pack light - the airlines must have been tipped off last year as they were REALLY tight with weight limits. Big rucksack for hand luggage....

I really cant wait. That hill climb on the first night - awesome fun. Only 1 minute long, but its a minute of total pain!

Dicko's picture

Thanks Ant

yeah running ignitor ust on the front and crossmark ust on the rear. Was planning on taking spare of both so should have that covered.

Sounds like a pretty well orgAnised event.

Hopefully will get out do some trails on the sat / sun before the race to check things out a bit.

Luv to catch up for a brew during the event.

D

Little-Ditty's picture

You could also use dual ply tyres, like dual ply Nevegal, High Roller, Ardent or Minion up front and Dual ply High Roller, Larsen or Block 8 on the rear? Just a though as far as side wall protection goes.

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