Hop across the pond to Crankworx Rotorua
Depending on who you are and what you like to ride, Crankworx Rotorua is either an awesome event to get to, a huge party with your mates, the best reason to plan a family holiday to Rotorua, or an iconic global mountain bike festival. And you know what, it can be all those things at once and a whole lot more.
The 2020 dates for Crankworx Rotorua are locked in, and with events falling from 1-8 March 2020, there is no denying that the Crankworx mountain bike festival caters for a broad crowd. At a glance, Crankworx looks set to entertain those who want to see big air, fat whips and a whole host of tricks that none of us would ever attempt. But that’s just a sliver of the festival, the truth is there is something for just about any kind of mountain biker.
I’M ALL ABOUT ENDURO
The Giant Toa Enduro is part of the 2020 EWS Asia Pacific Series and is the first event in the Crankworx Rotorua mountain bike festival. Running on the 1st of March, this will see a mix of the world’s best Enduro racers and the fastest in Australia and New Zealand. And hey – maybe that’s you? If not, you can watch some of the best in the business tackle the variety of trails through the infamous Redwoods.
I’D LIKE TO SEE SOMETHING CREATIVE
Well you’re in for a treat. The Speed and Style event is all about a rider’s creativity on the bike and using the terrain that the course presents, and same for the Slopestyle – but you can’t miss the Deep Summer photo competition. There are four photographers out there shooting to deliver what they believe the essence of mountain biking in Rotorua is. Their photography work will be on display on Eat Street in Rotorua.
ANYTHING JUST FOR WOMEN?
Sure! Liv Cycling book out seven trails at Rotorua Skyline for an afternoon. You need to lock your place in as there is a limit of 80 riders. But there’s no mansplaining, just shredding. It’s not a guided ride but there will be a number of Liv ambassadors there if you’re chasing some advice. It’s a free event, but you do need your Crankworx ticket and to book a spot. This one is popular!
YEAH COOL – BUT WHAT ABOUT MY KIDS?
Not a problem, the Kidsworx arena means that Crankworx offers a complete family experience. This one is for kids 12 and under, so if you see that they get to meet and ride with some of their heroes in the Kidsworx arena, you’ll have to cover up your jealousy. There’s a range of things going on, from scavenger hunts in the expo area to events out on the trails. Any kids aged 6-14 can enter the Kidsworx Challenger events to take part, or the Kidsworx events for those with a competitive streak.
I JUST WANT TO SEE MORE RACING
You’re in luck. Whether it’s the high-speed skill and finesse of the Pump Track Challenge, the Dual Slalom, Air DH or Downhill race – there is a whole lot of racing between the tape and bar to bar. The world’s best athletes come to Crankworx because there is so much to do – it’s a one stop shop for mountain biking.
“Crankworx Rotorua is always a great event for the southern hemisphere,” says Josh Carlson. “It signals the kickoff to the international racing calendar and season of travelling. One thing I enjoy the most is how Crankworx brings together so many different athletes from varying types of mountain biking. All in the one place to enjoy the festival atmosphere and shred bikes together!”
Away from the clock, you cannot miss the Whip Offs, as trains of riders plunge down the slope to hit the big kickers and let it all hang out for the crowd. There is no better way to feel the energy of mountain biking than being course side for the evening of the Whip Offs.
I’M ALL ABOUT BIKES AND GEAR
That’s where the expo comes in, with local and global companies showing off their latest and greatest gear. This is the perfect time to get up close with new bikes, parts and other equipment, and talk to the people involved with the brands.
CAN I STILL GO AND RIDE?
Of course, with so much riding on offer in Rotorua there is always trail time. If you want to find yourself alone in the forest remember there are about 160km of trails in the Redwoods, and that’s before you even head out to Rainbow Mountain, or a little further to Craters of the Moon. There is plenty of trails to go ride when you need to escape the event to find your own trail zen.
SIGN ME UP!
If Crankworx Rotorua sounds like the mountain bike holiday you have been waiting for, then hop to it and get booking! There’s a tonne of accommodation options in and around Rotorua, and there are plenty of ideas on the Crankworx website, along with full event dates, ticketing options and more. Why not tick this one off the bucket list in 2020? crankworx.com/festival/rotorua