The XChallenge is a whole lot easier to ride on technical sections than the bigger bikes - no doubt. Hats off to those on the big bikes over some of the obstacles on the routes. Two things stood out for me - 1. The unfit guys took strain at the end of the days. 2. Most of the riding is green anyway, the difference is in the special stages. Some of it tough but if you got going early and took care over the obstacles they were manageable.
The bikes that did come to grief were being ridden to hard/fast for the rider's ability and or the conditions. If I am not mistaken most of the accidents happened on the open public gravel roads, routes shared by all colours. Bash plates did get hammered, it is a crap design, I think there is some money to be made by someone clever enough to mount that sucker to something other than the sump!
It remains to be seen if the 450's will be allowed to the GSC, I suspect that the red routes will be more difficult in the years ahead as the orange caters for most riders needs, and the red will test a riders ability to the max. Still amazed that there are 1150/1200's two up on some of those sections, I was in awe. :hello2:
For me the GAGSC was not about the pub, the showers, the food or the entertainment. It was about the single track riding in unbelievable locations with some very nice guys who showed me a trick or two and will inspire me to lift my game for next year. Guys from all walks of life enjoying a common pastime. If next year is half as good I can't wait. See you there!
