Grand Junction's First Enduro Race!
Grand Junction hosted its first ever enduro race in May of 2017, which is good news for anyone that likes technical desert riding! The race is set-up as a one day, three stage format with a time trial/practice run the day before the actual race. There are three classes for racers: amateur, pro/open, and master's class. The pro class is required to pedal for the first climb to stage one, but the remainder of the course is equal for all categories. The amateur class gets a bus ride up to the first stage and races the same course from there. The first stage is the Ribbon, where people were clocked doing close to 50mph on the straightaway section. The second stage consists of a flowy bermed out section of trail known as the gunny descent. My favorite stage (the last stage) included free lunch, lemon drop, and moto. This stage has a mix of drops, technical rock sections, and jumps.
The race was very well supported with plenty of aid stations during the transitions. Still, plan on bringing water and food, tools, and something to change a flat. Everyone was happy to help out with trail beta and the overall vibe was laid back and welcoming. Many of these trails were new to me, racing them blind. I would recommend giving yourself a whole day before to ride the technical sections prior to racing, just to be safe (and to scout the faster lines). Overall the racing was challenging - but not so much that an amateur racer couldn’t have fun.
I don't have to recommend this race to anyone that has ridden in Grand Junction, but to anyone that has not - if you like Sedona or Moab then this race will not disappoint. If that is not incentive enough, the prizes are well worth the entry fee. MRP Ribbon forks, MRP guides, and DT Swiss wheelsets are among some of the swag racers can win! The race looks like it will be in June in 2018 so expect toasty temperatures!
GJ recommendations:
First things first COFFEE! The Kiln is located in downtown GJ and has a variety of great microroasted coffee for your morning espresso!
Café Sol- Great selection of locally sourced foods for breakfast and lunch.
Taco Party- Gourmet tacos, guacamoles, and margs what more could you want!
The Bin 707 Foodbar- Get the Bin burger that is all. Oh and maybe a delicious cocktail or beer.
Accommodations: there is plenty of camping minutes from downtown and trails at The Camp for very reasonable prices.