Danielle Rider

Danielle Rider - Cross-Country Mountain Bike Champion

Fitness, endurance and machine control all combine to make Danielle Rider a top Cross-Country rider. All Riders start together and compete on a marked lap (typically three to six kilometres) with climbing, descending, single-track and technical sections (tight turns, narrow tracks, rocks, mud or other difficult terrain). Less experienced riders tackle fewer laps. Elite level riders race for up to 2 and a half hours and an even longer "Marathon" category made its debut at the 2003 World Championships – Marathons can be 50km, 100km or even 150km in length.

Clothing is light - not dissimilar to that worn by Road riders - with an emphasis on cooling qualities and comfort. Bikes are extremely light and often very technically advanced. There has been a move towards full suspension (suspension for both front and back wheels) in recent years, but for some courses and conditions a "hardtail" is still favoured by many competitors. Frames are light aluminium, titanium and in increasing numbers carbon fibre. Tyres are light and generally knobbled, though a variety of tread patterns are available for different conditions. Disc brakes are increasingly popular.

As well as hard-core Cross-Country and Marathon racing, there has been a huge growth in Enduro racing in recent years. Enduros comes in many forms - 100km and 12 and 24 hours (often with two and four man team options) are just some of the popular options. Huge fields make a for a great atmosphere and, whilst the more able riders treat them as seriously as any other race, for many they are a chance to enjoy riding in company or have a weekend away with friends.

This website is designed to keep you up to date with the latest news from Danielle Rider and her Mountain Bike Events. You can keep up to date with her blog or visit the gallery to see some photograghs. Please also visit Danielle Riders Sponsors - CLICK HERE