News has arrived that the crew that organise Yak Attack, the highest mountain bike race on earth, have added another event to their calendar; although Pokhara IV is more down to earth than its high altitude big brother.
Like Yak Attack, Pokhara IV will be held amongst the Himalaya, the highest and most stunning mountain range on the planet, but this time the high mountain passes have been exchanged for the lower altitude foothills. Less gruelling hike-a-bike, more flowing trails and smiles!
Pokhara IV will be based entirely around the area surrounding the tourist enclave of Pokhara and riders get to stay at the same hotel for the duration of the race. The event will consist of a series of 4 different loops of jeep and singletrack which never exceed 2000m in altitude but will take riders into areas very rarely ridden before.
Stages include Fewa Lake, Kristi Hill, Begnas lake and Bat cave with the average daily distance being around 50km with approximately 1500m of ascent. In true Mountain Biking Worldwide style, the trails are demanding enough to test the best of riders, but being closer to civilisation, are equally attainable for the more mainstream contingency.
During down time, there are many activities to keep riders occupied in Pokhara, including chilling at one of the many lakeside restaurants, renting a rowing boat, paragliding, tackling the world’s longest zip wire, or merely taking in the stunning panoramic views.
Pokhara IV is being held in mid-February when daytime temperatures average an ambient 25c and night time temperatures rarely drop below 5c.
Looks good to us!
As it will be the inaugural edition of the event, Mountain Biking Worldwide are inviting riders to enter at a highly discounted entry fee of just US$395, which includes return transfers from Kathmandu to Pokhara, 5 nights accommodation at a 3* hotel and full race support.
Numbers will be limited to 40 riders for the 2018 edition, but companions and families are more than welcome to also take advantage of the discounted entry fees.
The big appeal for Pokhara IV will be accessibility. Not many people can train to be ready for the difficulty of racing at high altitude like at Yak Attack. But 4 days of trails below 2000m? If you’re riding regularly and have a sense of adventure – you’ll love it.
Want more details? Head online.