It’s that time of year again where I pack up my worldly belongings into and Audi A4 and trailer and make the trip down to Morzine to run Riders Retreat for what will be the ninth year.
LTR - Saracen Myst, Honda CRF250, Saracen Ariel
More and more of my car is being filled with bike stuff – this year there’s a Saracen Ariel, Saracen Myst and Honda CRF250 plus associated paraphernalia and tools. Three helmets, boots, toolbox and workstands etc. leaves just about enough space in the car for a change of underwear and an Xbox 360. Sorted.
Early season exploration on the mx bike
The lifts have only just opened as I sit here writing this and so there’s not a huge amount to report as yet, however, there are rumours galore about new tracks a few of which can be confirmed.
First of all, three official tracks on the Super Morzine side of the valley. These have been a long time due and great to see this side of the mountain being developed. There have always been unofficial trails there, but three of those are being worked on and turned into permanent official tracks, one blue, one red and one black.
The locals hard at work on Super M
The Riders Retreat staff, FlowMTB and Morzine Mountainbike Mechanics plus a load of other locals have all been up there with spades, chainsaws and mattock’s to get the shaping done. It’s great that they have involved the locals in the build and design as we’ve seen plenty of tracks built out here that aren’t quite right.
Work on Super Morzine
There’s also a new black run on the Pleney, which realistically rides more like a red. That said it’s great fun and links into the ‘Stade’ run that was built last year – the one that used to finish with very badly built North Shore. It’s still being built and developed, so no photos as yet.
Work on Pleney 'main line'
I’ve also heard of several new tracks and developments over at the Chatel Bikepark and a new pumptrack over in Morgins. I haven’t made the trip over there this year yet as the lifts have only been open at the weekends but as soon as I do I’ll be sure to report back.
Photos and details of the bikes to come soon once I’ve got to grips with them, but first impressions of the Saracen Myst, built with Hope components where possible are very, very good.
Ressachaux at sunset
For more from Paul and from Morzine check out Riders Retreat – suppliers of top quality accommodation in Morzine and Les Gets.
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