Route
The course runs from the Point of Ayre at the northern tip of the Island to the Calf Sound at the Southernmost tip. The course varies slightly each year but remains fundamentally the same. Top riders have completed the course in a breathtaking 3 hours - but most mortals will take between 4 and 6 hours to cover the varied and demanding terrain. The 75km full distance with 1500m of climbing is aimed at the serious mountain biker.
Starting from the Northern tip of the Isle of Man the course warms you-up by skirting along the ‘flattish’ North West coast of the Island. After crossing the TT motorbike course you start climbing across the mountains in the north of the Island with stunning views out across the Irish Sea to Ireland. You then start your hair raising descent along fast and loose fire road trails into St. Johns where you can congratulate yourself on reaching halfway, just the small matter of the second half to go. As you ride over the southern half of the Island you’ll enjoy ripping up the singletrack through the forests as well as the winding switchbacks on the moorland of Cronk Ny Ary Laa Mountain as you speed into Port St Mary. Now you just have the small matter of Howe Hill to take you to the satisfaction of the finish where you will earn you bragging rights. It’s now time to chill out before the beers and food of the prize giving meal.
Check Points and Marshalling
The route is way marked and marshals are present at road crossings and some of the gates. Remember to say thanks to them as they are all volunteers. The Check points are there to allow us to count riders through so we can ensure your safety. Check Point closing times (see instructions section for more details) are in place for safety reasons, firstly to be fair to the marshals who already spend a long day on the hills and to provide safety for the riders, if you don't manage to make the cut off times then it may not be sensible or safe to continue. We are reasonable with the cut off times at the check points. The cut off times are designed that if you make the first two check points you will probably make the third and finish within the time limits. Also, if conditions are poor we will make allowance for this in the closing times. These cut off times are there for the safety of the riders and marshals. All in all you will have up to 7 hours to complete the challenge. Don't worry, last year every rider who was able to go the distance did so within the time limits.