Details have been announced of this year's Gore Bike Wear TransWales (powered by Mercedes-Benz Vito Sport). The seven-day mountain bike challenge will take place from 13-20 August and will once again start and finish in Builth Wells.
New for 2011 is a the Gore Bike Wear Prologue Marathon – a 40km ride on 13 August which includes an optional special stage where riders will get the chance to test their ‘racing skills’.
The Prologue isn't compulsory for TransWales riders but should provide a good warm-up. It's also open to non-TransWales riders who'd like to get a taste of the event.
Returning this year is the Mini TransWales – a three- or four-day version of the main event, taking place from 13-16 and 17-20 August. Participants will ride the same course as those doing the full event, with access to the same facilities.
The full TransWales will follow the same format as in previous years, with an international field taking part in a series of un-timed linking stages and timed special stages that will test their hill climbing, descending and general trail riding abilities. Riders can compete solo or in pairs.
This year's reworked course will cover a broader area and will include lots of new and unused sections. Overall distance will be around 550km, with 15,000m of climbing. Full details will be released later in the year. To find out more or to enter, visit www.mtbtransuk.co.uk.
