The new race format of the Bosch eMTB Challenge supported by Trek celebrated its premiere on Lake Garda: Within a certain time frame, the participants have to pass various checkpoints and complete so-called stages. These individual stages are timed and the total time counts. There is a 10-second penalty for mistakes such as skipping a checkpoint or putting your foot down.
The format was very well received there, as you can ride with friends and only race against the clock on the stages - just like in enduro races. As not every hobby biker rides with a "cup or hospital" mentality, there is a Hobby and an Advanced class.
We are given the map right before the start: ten checkpoints and four stages are on the plan. You have to find the checkpoints using the map, there is no set route. The organisers have put up yellow flutter tape to help. A quick glance at the map is all it takes to get started.
After the first checkpoint, the first stage awaits us: the special stage takes place on a single trail that goes downhill all the way. There is a choice between a more difficult line and an easier but longer line. As the routes are ridden on sight, you don't know which line is faster.
This is followed by another check point and then the first uphill stage. No footing is allowed in the "no feet" zone, otherwise there is a time penalty. This stage is surprisingly dry and easy to ride. More checkpoints have to be passed on the way to the next stage. Waypoint number five proves to be tricky, as it is the only one that is not directly on the route and is overlooked by many bikers. The second downhill stage winds its way through the steep forest in tight bends. The difficult line requires solid riding technique. At the end of the stage, a meadow slalom awaits the participants - thankfully on a dry meadow.
Battery management also proves to be an important factor: the last stage is uphill again - and really steep. If you want to burn a good time into the forest floor here, you have to fire up the turbo. However, even turbo mode is of little help in the steep mud. Pushing is the order of the day here. After the stage, you have to find four waypoints before you reach the finish line.
On the last few kilometres, many participants have to struggle with empty batteries and have to crank against the resistance of the motor. Those who have saved at the start can cruise relaxed to the finish. At the end of the day, Rene Wildhaber wins the race. Andre Wagenknecht comes second, Marko Haas third.
