DH mountain biking has been in the (UCI) International Cycling Union’s calendar since 1993 and the world championships take place every year between the end of August and the middle of September. Downhill (abbreviated DH) is a mountain biking discipline that takes place along single timed runs on dh tracks with various difficulty levels. Dh riders can reach a speed of up to 80 km/h. Dh bikes must have specific characteristics including the following: full suspension bicycles, with 160 mm to 240 mm of rear suspension travel, handlebars are wider than normal mountain bikes, hydraulic disc brakes and tires with raised knobs.
The DH track in Val di Sole is known for being one of the most technically demanding tracks in the world with an average 22% slope gradient that along several sections reaches a 40% gradient. The track begins with a fast flow section with banks, a thrilling road gap and several jumps with a counter slope landing. From here the track enters right into the wood, where all the action and the most famous features of the Val di Sole track start: rocks, roots, elevated slope gradients and hair raising sections that cut right through the forest where every year thousands of incredible spectators literally hold their breath as they watch these amazing athletes race down the track at top speed. After the world champs, the track line has been modified and additional curves have been added to this 3.15 minute race where athletes reach the bottom of the track with an average speed of 40km/h. These athletes are just like race drivers on a track. The final section of the track called “the hell” hasn’t been changed at all, a wall of rocks and roots right before the Pippo Jump, where the most fearless will take a 20 m dive into the air. Guaranteed LIVE excitement!
Access to tracks:
To access to the path races : DH, 4X and XCO you have to enter from the main entrance and follow the signs. We reccomend to reach the 'VIEW POINT HOT-SPOT', the most spectacular spots. Crossing the course is only possible at the 'CROSSING POINT' and please remember to obey signs and marshal directions. Whistle's marshal indicate the arrival of the rider.
To watch the race:
The course starts at a height of 1400 m, then down to a height of 800m at the finish area, therefore the best thing to do is to take the gondola lift up to the middle station and then walk down alongside the track, in order to see all of the different sections of the track right down to the finish area. Boots or hiking boots and comfortable sports apparel are highly recommended. For those who want to walk up alongside the course you must follow the directions displayed and the trails in the wood. About half way along the course, you will find a kiosk with music where you can quench your thirst.
What to dress and what to bring:
We recommend that you wear boots or hiking boots, and to take a hat with you just in case it's very sunny. Wearing layers of comfortable clothing is appropriate in nearly all weather conditions. If you want an autograph from your favorite athletes, take everything you need with you and don't forget your camera.
Help us to respect the environment:
Carry any litter or rubbish to the bottom of the course, in the World Cup Village! Don't leave it on the woods.
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