New Zealand's most popular XC mountainbike series shows no signs of slowing down as it enters its 17th season.
The introduction of the new Croucher Lowrider Super Stages adds another exciting twist to the popular race format. Having trialled enduro segments for the last two seasons, Nduro decided to change things up for 2017 and introduced a new "race within a race".
While the popular one-loop XC format has kept competitors flocking back year after year the super stages give all riders, in all categories, an extra chance to compete for glory and a little prizemoney bonus regardless of where they finish overall.
Event director Tim Farmer said the enduro segments were popular, adding extra excitement and intrigue.
"They did present some additional challenges in the way races played out, so we were keen to change things up.
"We came up with the super stage idea. No two stages will be alike, and we aim to challenge all aspects of riding," he said.
The stages would remain a secret until the startline race briefings. As riders progressed through their race individual timing gates on course would identify the super stage start and the finish points.
At its heart, the Cyclezone Winter Series is MTB XC racing at its most natural with one big loop. Taking in the best Rotorua trails, in unique combinations, to challenge and reward everyone no matter their ability or level of competitive intent.
Short, mid, and long course events are offered at each race. Combine that with seamless organisation, great atmosphere, fantastic locations, and a huge "family" of like-minded MTB riders to hang out with it is no wonder that more than 600 competitors continue to turn out for every event.
This year's series kicks off on July 2 followed by races on August 6 and September 10.
Check out http://wintermtb.co.nz/enter-to-win.html for more.