During a recent visit to the Fort William World Cup pits, we were able to witness firsthand the cutting-edge bikes and technology being used by the world’s top downhill mountain bike riders. Riders such as Greg Minnaar, Tahnee Seagrave, Nina Hoffmann, and other factory team members have access to dedicated mechanics, team managers, chefs, and sports massage therapists in order to maximize their performance on the track. Many of these riders also keep spare bikes on hand in case of emergencies.
However, there are also around 80 privateers who compete at Fort William, taking on multiple roles in addition to racing down Aonach Mòr at top speeds. While they may not have access to the latest technology, their bikes have likely seen more descending than any factory team rider’s bike. Despite this lack of high-tech gear, these privateers work tirelessly to stay competitive in the competition.
What sets these privateers apart is their unwavering dedication to their craft and their passion for the sport. Each one has a unique story about what they love most about their bike, showcasing the resilience and spirit that drives them to take on the challenges of competitive downhill mountain biking.