Bright 3 Hr, Rock Shox Epic or Surf Coast

[Mark S]

Hi, I'm looking to do my first race in the next couple of months, either a 3 hour or 50km. My concern is that I run a 1x9 setup. Looking at the three events in the title, which one would have the least concerns for me ie: which would be the "flattest"? Regards, Mark.

[Le Matelot]

Well, the surfcoast has the added attraction that if it all becomes to hard, just jump in for a swim halfway around the lap.

The sight of people heading out on a lap with a beach-towel last year was a first for me.

[leftieant]

By the Bright 3hr - do you mean the Bright 6 Hour (Nov 16) - http://www.alpinecyclingclub.com.au/6hour.html

Their commentary on the course:

The Course: The course is approximately 11km long and consists of about 5km of single track. The remainder is bush tracks or dirt road. On the first lap only there will be 500m of bitumen. The tracks will be traffic free with plenty of passing opportunities. The course is about half flat, with the remainder being undulating with one steep, but rideable uphill section. There are no sections where riders will have to dismount. The course is 100% rideable for anyone with reasonable mountain bike skills.

[Grover]

no experience with bright or the rock shox, but can vouch for the flatness of the surf coast course. very comfortable on the single speed last year for the 3hr solo...plus it's an excellent 'event' as well as race, perfect for a first timer.

[thematrix]

maybe not quite the answer you want but why not turn up and do the yowie this weekend at the you yangs, you can do a 33k loop and the geelong events are pretty fun with good prices.
if there are a couple of steep sections no one will care if you walk as the riders come from all levels on skill at their events.

[Mark S]

Hey, thanks for the responses. The Yowie's a bit too soon for me, but will keep an eye out for future events. The Surf Coast sounds like the one for me at this stage. Regards, Mark.