How to choose your Enduro MTB
Enduro MTB: a demanding sport
For those who love doing sports in nature and live for the thrills, the discipline of enduro mountain biking has been tailored for them. It is indeed a sport associated with the mountain and which is essentially practiced in downhills, where the riders rush forward one at a time in single tracks and are noted based on their chrono. It is therefore necessary to be fast and technical downhill, while performing and enduring uphill.
The Enduro mountain bike racing, inspired by the motorcycle enduro, appeared in the 2000s and is gathering more and more followers. It is a fast-growing discipline where you can quickly have fun. Moreover, it is accessible to the greatest number by combining competition and leisure. Halfway between cross-country and DH (downhill mountain biking), the enduro MTB is practiced on routes comprising several stages. A circuit includes time-trials in downhill parts and a "transfer" stage that must be completed under a time limit, which is comprised of a with a rolling part to connect the stages between them as well as untimed uphills. Enduro MTB racing requires good training, good physical abilities and a versatile bike to perform well both uphill and downhill.
Several races are organized for this discipline, notably the Enduro World Series created in 2012, which includes several circuits like the Enduro Séries in France and the Super Enduro in Italy. In competition, the passage times downhill have become ever more closer, in such an impressive manner that, in recent years, it reached such a high level that it's now reserved for a few elites.
Which MTB to choose for enduro?
If you are a beginner or mainly practice enduro for leisure, a rigid frame will allow you to master the bike's controls. Lightweight and sturdy, it will give you a good pedaling performance. For the more seasoned riders, a semi-rigid or full-suspension frame with a 140 to 160 mm displacement will allow you to gain in speed and manoeuvrability.
For those who compete in enduro and are looking for performance, you(ll need a dynamic and lightweight carbon bike.
Be prepared for the ride
Enduro is a quick-paced sport where you're not safe from a fall. Thus, it's necessary to be well- equipped before leaving, with a lightweight integral helmet, long gloves and protections for the spine, forearms, elbows and knees. In enduro, you'll seek to optimize weight and comfort, so light and suitable equipment is available for this discipline.
Alltricks' advice
It's recommended to have a lightweight backpack to carry the bare minimum for repairs (co2 cartridge, inner tube, multi tool, quick factener, first-aid kit, snacks, glasses case...). Better safe than sorry, so be ready and prepared for any eventuality if you leave without any assistance.
Choose a light bag, for example the increasingly popular bumebags (like for enduro motorcycles), wich make a very good compromise.
