Alex Sabin – pedalnorth

Racing mountain bike marathon in Austria

Pedalnorth Website — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 14:20:54 +0000

My Road to Salzkammergut

16th overall — 10h 07min — 202 km — 7,000 m of elevation

Salzkammergut is one of the toughest mountain bike races in Europe, and after finishing it, I can honestly say that the elevation profile doesn’t really tell the whole story. Austria has a particular image for all of us who love the mountains, and this race was something both beautiful and testing.

I had a small plan going into the race, but since this was my first time racing for around ten hours, I knew most of what I needed to learn would happen out on the course. The elevation profile makes it look like the biggest challenge comes at the beginning and the end; but in reality, the climbs in the middle are the ones that slowly destroy you. They don’t necessarily look impressive on the graph, but after hours of riding they become brutal. They slowly eat into you and your reserves of energy and willpower. The race is a battle in so many ways.

Planning and preparation

My only real preparation specifically for the race was getting used to waking up much earlier than usual during the two weeks before it. The start was at 5:00 AM, which meant breakfast at 3:00. I arrived in the area on Wednesday and, much to my coach’s frustration, rode a little more than planned because I wanted to recon as much of the course as possible. That turned out to be extremely useful, especially towards the end. I rode the final two long climbs, the last descent and several of the flatter sections between the villages, so I knew what was waiting for me when things got difficult.

The day before the race, the organisers also required an official bike inspection – something new for me. After racing, I understood why they take it so seriously: they check things like brake pad wear, possible cracks and other details that become important when you are asking a bike to survive 200 kilometres and 7,000 metres of climbing. In truth, these things are aspects that we all need to pay more attention to when riding into the mountains.

I managed a short nap during the afternoon and then slept around four hours before the race. For an event like this, the important rest happens in the days before because you probably won’t get much sleep on race night anyway.

Early starts for epic events

Anyway, at 3:00 AM, bright and early, I was awake and eating my special oats. And by the ungodly hour of 4:10 AM, I was already in the start area, with around 500 riders lining up for the main event. No sensible person would be awake and riding – but that’s what makes mountain bike marathon so special.

The weather forecast looked good, even though it had been raining continuously until about 30 minutes before the start. When the torches came on, we were off. My plan was to stay as controlled as possible. The first climb immediately started splitting the field, and you could already see some riders making the classic mistake of going too hard too early. It reminded me about focus and the need to stick to my plan, and I joined two guys and started ticking off the kilometres at a steady pace, following one of them on the descents because he clearly knew the lines better than I did.

A huge part of the course runs on incredibly smooth forest roads, which sounds easy but is actually quite dangerous from a pacing perspective. They make you want to ride very fast and can tire you out much more than you expect. It’s these elements that you really need to be disciplined when riding. Then, when the course suddenly changes and throws you onto a technical trail, you have to change your rhythm and concentration instantly.

Early injuries to test my willpower

That is exactly what happened to me around kilometre 40. After about 30 minutes of flying down forest roads, I entered a technical, rocky section, my front wheel locked up and I went over the bars, landing face-first into the rocks and my handlebars. I saw a white flash, then a lot of blood on my clothes and legs. The left brake lever moved inwards, and that’s how I rode for the rest of the race.

When I reached the first support point where Teodora was waiting, she didn’t tell me just how bad my face looked. I left the small backpack I had started with and continued. I didn’t feel any major problems, although every time I ate or drank my face burned badly and the bleeding would start again from time to time. I think half of the official race photos have me riding around with blood all over my mouth. And yes, the crash definitely affected me on the next few descents; but as long as I could pedal, I decided that everything was fine. Living and working in the mountains, I know that we have to be tough at times – and this was one such time.

By kilometre 95, everything was still more or less on schedule. We were around halfway through both the distance and the elevation, and I picked up my small backpack again for the next 40 kilometres. This was also where the longer course merged with some of the shorter races, creating a bit of chaos and causing me to lose the group I had been riding with. The next 20 kilometres alone were much harder than they looked on the profile. Actually, that became one of the main lessons of the race: many sections were considerably harder in reality than they looked on the graph.

Group riding for aided motivation

Then came around 30 kilometres of flatter riding, where I joined a group from one of the shorter races. It wasn’t exactly the pace I wanted, but riding with a group was better than doing it alone. I reached kilometre 140 with an average speed of around 20 km/h and started getting a little disappointed. The hardest climbs were still ahead, and I was convinced my pace would only get worse. Nutrition had worked almost perfectly for the first seven hours: around 120 grams of carbohydrates per hour. Then, little by little, I couldn’t take that much anymore, so I dropped to around 80 grams per hour, and during the final hour and a half I managed only one gel. Before the penultimate climb, I finally got rid of the backpack and mentally prepared myself for the suffering.

I knew this climb because I had ridden it three days earlier. It was brutal, with steep sections coming after many hours already spent on the bike, and my knees were beginning to give up. Somehow, though, I managed to maintain a surprisingly decent pace. I descended into the opposite valley and found Teodora waiting with a very welcome Coke. I had been racing for eight and a half hours and was around kilometre 160, so I told her I wasn’t going to make my ten-hour target. There were still 40 kilometres and another 1,000 metres of elevation to go.
And then something strange happened…

Almost inexplicably, I rode the final big climb at the highest pace of the entire race. Pushing around 320 watts after nine hours was an incredible experience and probably one of the best fights with myself, I’ve ever had on a bike. It was a truly unique and strange moment – but welcomed by me.

The final descent brought another surprise: the sky opened up. Cold rain, hail, almost zero visibility, and we were still flying down a forest road. I started counting the kilometres, just wanting to get back into the valley where I could see the sun again. The final ten kilometres became a time trial when I realised I might still be able to make my original target. I didn’t know the finish very well and thought the last five kilometres would be mostly asphalt, but instead the course sent us back onto trails around the finish area. That cost me a few minutes, and I eventually crossed the line seven minutes outside my original ten-hour target.

I didn’t get much time to celebrate because I had to go to hospital for some checks. Thankfully, nothing serious — just three nasty cuts on the inside of my lip that needed stitches. So instead of the burger and fries I had been dreaming about, I got a week of soup.

Was ten hours ever realistic?

Honestly, I had set the target without thinking about it too much. I wanted to raise the bar, but I wasn’t convinced I could actually do it, especially since I had never experienced how my body would react to such a long effort. And, in the end, I finished 16th overall. At one point I was even riding in the group fighting for the top ten, but for that level I still have a bit more bread to eat. The race itself is absolutely brutal. At some point I started thinking the organisers must have been laughing at us.

“You want to pedal? Fine. Here you go.”

When they designed the course, I imagine the conversation was something like: “Where should we take them?” — “Everywhere.”

And they really did. Forest roads, village roads, technical trails, buildings, lakes — at some point I genuinely felt like I had been riding for at least two days.

Racing with support

I also think it is extremely difficult to achieve a really fast time here without support. Pretty much everyone in the top 30 had someone helping them, with bottles and gels waiting at different points. Even though the race has aid stations roughly every ten kilometres, having someone hand you exactly what you need is incredibly valuable because you don’t have to carry so much with you. I started with a small backpack for the first two hours because I wasn’t sure exactly how Teodora would manage to get from one support point to another and didn’t want to take any chances. Officially, the rules are quite clear: outside assistance is allowed only in designated areas and cars are not allowed on certain sections of the course.

In practice, things are a little more relaxed. You don’t necessarily have to be exactly inside the designated area to receive support, especially because it isn’t always possible to reach every section by car. The same goes for the car restrictions: sometimes there simply isn’t another way to get somewhere, and nobody seems particularly bothered by it.

The race admin and organisation

The organisation is impressive when you look at the scale of it: around 1,000 volunteers spread across 200 kilometres, plus hundreds of spectators along the course. Putting this together is truly impressive and helps to make this a world-class event and worth travelling for.

The course itself isn’t heavily marked by Romanian standards. The organisers mainly use arrows and X signs at the major intersections, while smaller junctions are often completely unmarked. And yet, I didn’t see anyone getting lost. Everyone had the GPS track and everyone was paying attention. If we had a course marked like this back home, I suspect 70% of the field would get lost! Note for riders reading this: learn map and compass navigation!

I’ve said many times that mountain bike marathon racing is also about being able to read the terrain and understand where you are going, and I hope we eventually reach this level of experience at home. The public roads aren’t closed, and some aren’t even restricted, but the locals know about the race. They stop immediately when they see riders coming, check before leaving their driveways and give riders priority, while tourists sometimes find themselves completely stuck when a hundred cyclists suddenly come through.

I think I saw only two police crews during the entire race. In Romania, something like this would probably generate plenty of complaints, but we simply don’t have the same sporting culture yet, so I understand why things work differently here.

And it’s not like we can’t organise races well ourselves. We can. The difference is the customer.

The part nobody sees

The thoughts and emotions during a race like this are probably the hardest thing to explain. There were long moments when there was almost nothing in my head except rhythm: pedal, breathe, eat, drink, repeat. The thoughts became much louder during the moments of weakness, but I always knew someone I cared about was waiting for me at the next support point. I also knew that the longer I stayed out there, the harder it would be to recover, so the only option was to keep moving and finish as quickly as possible.

I don’t even know if this was my best result, but I know it was my hardest effort, especially considering the crash at kilometre 40. What I do know for sure is that this was the hardest race I’ve ever done.

And, having now competed in the race, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone.

Seriously. The smaller races are more than enough. Now, if you are like me, you’ll probably take on the challenge anyway!

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Mountain Biking Adventures in Madeira

Pedalnorth Website — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:10:40 +0000

Madeira Mountain Biking – Like Nowhere Else on Earth

There are beautiful places in this world—and then there is Madeira

By Alex Sabin

I first visited the island three years ago, with no expectations beyond simple curiosity. But from the moment I arrived, I knew this place was different. Some destinations impress you; others stay with you. Madeira did both. It sits now within me, as one of those places that we instinctively know that we will always return to. And, I left knowing one thing for certain: I had to return, and next time, I had to bring a bike.

What I didn’t realize then was that Madeira is considered by many to be one of the very best mountain biking destinations not only in Europe, but in the world. Riding in the Carpathian Mountains of Romania, and elsewhere in Central and Eastern Europe, I’d been busy as a semi-pro rider, and I simply hadn’t realised that growth in trail riding on the Island. Anyway, a year later, I returned to support someone close to me racing MIUT, one of the most spectacular mountain ultra races on the planet. During that trip, I rented an MTB and got my first real taste of the island’s trails and it simply confirmed what I already felt.

Travelling for mountain bike adventures

Despite being fortunate enough to ride in world-class destinations such as the Canary Islands, Costa Brava, Costa Blanca, Andalusia, Liguria, Antalya, Cyprus, and Sicily, my thoughts kept drifting back to Madeira. This spring, after postponing my usual winter training camp, everything finally aligned for three full weeks of mountain biking on the island. I was excited and couldn’t wait – everything I needed awaited me. And Madeira delivered everything I had hoped for — and more. In truth, when you look at Madeira in detail, few places in the world offer such an extraordinary diversity of terrain packed into such a compact space.

Yes, from pine forests to volcanic rock, from alpine meadows to tropical jungle, from perfectly shaped trails to raw wilderness… From high mountain peaks to the ocean, it is, without exaggeration, one of the most varied riding environments I have ever experienced. But Madeira is not easy.

This is not a destination for effortless riding or casual trail cruising. The island demands respect. It demands full commitment, positivity and determination. Climbs regularly sit at 10–12%, with steeper pitches reaching 20–25%. Unless you rely entirely on shuttles, every descent must be earned. And once the climbing is over, the real work begins. Because Madeira’s descents are long — often brutally long, and often brutally technical. However, they test far more than your technical ability. They test your endurance, your concentration, and your upper body strength. It asks questions of you as an athlete. By the end of a proper descent, your arms are burning, your hands are numb, and your focus has been pushed to its limit.

The Wild North

The northern side of the island feels raw and untamed. AS a landscape, it is wetter, moodier, and less predictable, often covered by mist and sudden rain showers. Trails here are fewer, but they hide some of the island’s most breathtaking scenery. Riding in the north feels more exploratory—less polished, more adventurous. It’s a place that rewards curiosity. Take your bike and see where the wheels roll and take it all in – you won’t be disappointed.

The Southwest Playground

For pure trail riding, the southwest is Madeira’s mountain bike hub. Starting from the small village of Prazeres, riders climb on smooth asphalt before gaining access to a dense network of descending options in nearly every direction. This area offers everything from flowing blue trails to steep, technical black descents, all spread across one of the island’s rare plateau-like landscapes.

Estaca – My Favorite Trail in Madeira

Further inland, near Funchal Ecological Park and Funchal Alta, lies my personal highlight of the trip: Estaca.

It begins high above the island, among barren volcanic rock and exposed alpine terrain. From there, the trail follows ridgelines before diving into pine forest, then into thick jungle, changing character constantly as you descend. It feels less like riding one trail and more like riding through multiple ecosystems in a single run; and it ends with a long, flowing finish that carries you almost all the way into town.

Riding Above the Atlantic

Toward the east of the island, the terrain opens into another unforgettable zone around Machico and Porto da Cruz. And here you’ll find one of the most dramatic trails anywhere in the world: Boca do Risco / Vereda do Larano, a narrow ribbon of trail cut into steep cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean. There is space for one bike – no more. And it is absolutely not the place to make mistakes. It asks even deeper questions of you, physically and mentally. Your focus and concentration are however rewarded.

Finally, if you keep heading farther east, to Ponta de Sao Laorenco, the landscape gradually transforms until you reach the driest, most desert-like part of the island.

Built for Riders

One of Madeira’s biggest strengths is how rider-friendly the island has become. Nearly every trail is mapped on TrailForks, most entrances are clearly signposted, and many trails are linked together through logical connecting roads and transitions.

The infrastructure makes exploring easy while still preserving the island’s wild feel. Getting to Madeira is also easy, and they’ve been catering for tourists for a very long time. Everything you need is accessible on the island.

Final assessment

Madeira is not just another riding destination. It is a place where every ride feels bigger, steeper, longer, and more dramatic than expected. It is physically demanding. Technically rewarding. Visually overwhelming. And once you ride here, it’s hard not to compare every other destination against it. In many respects, Madeira can easily be called one of the true homes of mountain biking. And if you are searching for the ultimate riding escape during the colder months, few places come close. Take my word for it and book yourself a Madeira mountain biking adventure!

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Bike computer alternatives – the Coospo CS600

Pedalnorth Website — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:12:28 +0000

Half a Season on My Handlebars

The Story of the Coospo CS600

Madeira. The first road and MTB races back home in Romania. The Salzkammergut Trophy. Over the past six months, the Coospo CS600 has been there for every important kilometer of my season. This isn’t a review written after just a couple of rides, nor is it a list of technical specifications. It’s the story of a cycling computer that earned its place on my handlebars through consistency, reliability, and one simple fact: at some point, I completely forgot I was testing it. As far as I’m concerned, that’s a real product recommendation.

There are seasons you quickly forget, and there are seasons that shape the entire year. For me, everything started in Madeira, with endless climbs, spectacular roads, and countless hours in the saddle. I knew a busy season lay ahead, filled with road races, MTB events, training camps, and long training rides. Among the new pieces of equipment I packed was the Coospo CS600.

Earning a place on my handlebars

To be honest, I initially saw it as just another bike computer device to test. I wanted to find out whether it deserved a permanent place on my handlebars or if it would be replaced after a few races. What I didn’t expect was that six months later it would still be there, becoming one of those pieces of equipment you simply stop thinking about because it just works. More often than not, riders talk about and then choose Garmin. However, we like to think differently; and that means taking a look around at developing brands that deserve a place in the conversation – brands like Coospo.

Madeira – The First Real Test Madeira is the kind of place where every piece of equipment is put to the test. Unfamiliar roads, long climbs, fast descents, and constantly changing weather mean you need gear you can trust. Thankfully, the CS600 locked onto GPS quickly, the navigation was clear and easy to follow, and the bright color display remained perfectly readable even under the island’s strong sunlight. After just a few days, I had stopped checking the battery level altogether—a good sign that battery life was never something I needed to worry about. It performed perfectly throughout the event and was easy to use on the go. The battery life was also good, and it stood up to the rigours of the terrain.

A bike computer that functions week after week

Back home, the race season got underway. Weekend after weekend, whether on the road or on mountain bike trails, the Coospo was always there. It paired instantly with my heart rate monitor, power meter, and cadence sensor, recorded every training session and every race without issue, and—perhaps most importantly—never demanded my attention. That’s exactly what I want from a cycling computer: to let me focus on riding instead of the device itself.

The biggest compliment I can give it is this: at some point, I stopped saying, “I’ll grab the Coospo.” I simply said, “I’ll grab my bike.” It had become part of the bike. I never worried about charging it before every ride or wondered whether the battery would last. I simply trusted it to do its job.

Then came the Salzkammergut Trophy. Endless hours in the saddle, thousands of meters of climbing, and one of Europe’s toughest mountain bike marathons. In races like these, you don’t need flashy gadgets—you need equipment you can rely on. The CS600 performed exactly as it had in Madeira and throughout the Romanian race season: quietly, consistently, and without a single surprise. Beyond the real-world experience, the Coospo CS600 delivers everything you’d expect from a modern cycling computer.

Function, features and form, delivering performance

It features a bright 2.4-inch color display, up to 36 hours of battery life, onboard navigation, ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity for heart rate monitors, cadence and speed sensors, power meters, cycling radar, and electronic shifting systems, plus seamless synchronization with Strava and other training platforms through the CoospoRide app. The maps are clear and easy to see, easy to set up and easy to use on the go. While riding, the CS600 shows your real-time location, alerts you if you go off course, and notifies you when you reach your destination. This way, you can ride confidently even on unfamiliar routes.

It doesn’t try to impress with unnecessary gimmicks—it simply delivers the features that cyclists actually use, and does so reliably.

Final thoughts

When I left for Madeira, I thought I was taking a cycling computer to review. To see how this quietly growing brand would stand up against more established tech such as Garmin. Six months later, I see it differently. It has been with me through every important training session, road race, mountain bike event, and finally the arduous Salzkammergut Trophy. It recorded every climb, every descent, and every finish line without ever getting in the way. And that’s probably the most honest review I can write. At some point, I simply forgot I was testing it.

Ultimately, how does it perform against the more established Garmin option? Who cares. It does as you’d expect from any leading tech brand, and it does it extremely well on the toughest of terrain and at a better price point. If you’re looking for a bike computer for your own adventures, then all I can say is fit this one to your own handlebars and enjoy the ride!

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ALÉ men’s winter cycling clothing

Pedalnorth Website — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 19:54:04 +0000

ALÉ Men’s Winter Cycling Clothing

Your Winter Breakaway

by Alex Sabin, with images by Andre Dina

As a pro level mountain bike racer, with experience competing on the roads, too, cycling kit performance and comfort is crucial to me. It has to stop the elements in winter, allow me a good degree of movement, and give me that extra security that comes with high-performance and comfortable winter cycling clothing. Thankfully, working closely with many of the world’s top cycle teams in the pro peloton, Italian brand Alé understand this, and their latest Fondo & Clima Warm range of men’s winter cycle clothing carries forward their adherence to excellence. Testing Ale is always reassuring, reminding me what good cycle clothing should be.
Alé Pragma Jacket Fondo 3.0

In terms of a winter cycle clothing choice, the Pragma Jacket Fondo 3.0, together with the Clima Warm Plus 2.0 tights and the Klimatik shoe covers, create a well-balanced winter cycling setup designed for low temperatures and variable conditions. It should be perfect for winter cycling here in Transylvania – so, let’s see!

When it comes to training, there aren’t many moments for you to catch your breath. After that well-deserved month off following a full season, comes… winter. The weather takes no prisoners, either, and you have to be dedicated – which is why good kit is critical. There are days when it’s not safe to head out on the road, but there are also days when… by having the right equipment and clothing, it makes the difference.

Ultimately, that’s why ALÉ comes with a collection designed for the cold season.

Ale Pragma Fondo 3.0 Jacket

For me, the Ale Pragma Fondo 3.0 jacket stands out through a successful combination of protection and breathability, offering enough warmth for winter rides without feeling bulky or restrictive. Well, yes that’s the technical description – but what does it feel like in real conditions and a cold winter in Romania? It actually does what it says; made from high-performance and multi-stretch fabrics, this well-cut jacket is close enough a fit to feel right, but with the benefit of allowing me freedom of movement on the bike. The fabric is not too heavy and not too light, ensuring that warmth and breathability is regulated, whilst the coating also beads a good degree of the moisture if required.

Yes, when the going gets tough, the innovative and technical membrane provide good wind protection and repels light rain, while the thermal interior helps maintain a stable body temperature even on descents or in exposed areas. All of this means that I remain smiling and comfort, helping me to maintain that all-important performance.

Finally, then, the fit of this stylish winter cycling jersey is sporty and performance-oriented, typical for Alé, sitting nicely on the bike without flapping at speed, and the eucalyptus color adds a modern and elegant look that is easy to match with other kit pieces. It has the usual 3 pockets at the back, allowing plenty of on-the-ride storage, a good high collar to keep the wind out and away from my neck, and a strong zip that seems as though it will last the test of time – always useful on winter clothing. Do I like it and did it work well – absolutely. And, it carries forward the Alé badge of quality and styling that should last you for a long time.

Alé Clima Warm Plus 2.0

The Alé Clima Warm Plus 2.0 winter bib tights perfectly complement the Pragma jacket, delivering a high level of thermal insulation for the lower body and making them ideal for long rides in cold weather – viola! When the temperatures drop here in Romania, that really is important to me; but these bibs did their job and kept me warm and comfortable.

We all know the importance of this, alongside the close but unrestricted fit, in this case due to Alé using high-quality multi-stretch fabric with good compression, and choosing the panelling in a body-mapping way. The fabric is as I mentioned, stretchy in the right way, yet still having reasonable compression. In use, the bibs feel relaxed and comfortable, adapting well to the riding position, and protecting efficiently against cold and wind without restricting movement. At the same time, the breathability is good enough to prevent overheating during sustained efforts. All good for a hard winter training ride, then!

When it comes to pads, whether you’re a pro rider or a weekend warrior, quality is the difference between a successful ride and pain. Fortunately, the material and structure used by Alé is up to expectations and I didn’t experience any issues. One thing I appreciate about all Alé pants are the braces. I have never tested a pair of pants that I didn’t like the braces on. The craftsmanship and the fact that they fit perfectly on the body are a real plus.

With the Clima Warm model, Alé managed to create perfect equipment for cold days, but he didn’t skimp on quality either, and you don’t feel like you’re overdressed.

Alé Klimatik shoe covers

The Alé Klimatik shoe covers are for me, an essential part of this winter setup, providing excellent protection against cold and moisture, and keeping the feet warm and dry even in wet or rainy conditions. In terms of the fit, they fit well over cycling shoes, feature a solid and well thought out and tough construction, and add an extra layer of safety thanks to reflective details. The zipper is always an area of weakness for overshoes. Alé have thought about this and spent time selecting a tough zipper, which works will with the stretch waterproof fabric.

Overall, this latest Alé kit is an excellent choice for those cyclists who train or ride long distances in winter. It offers you that all-important balance between comfort, protection, and a premium look, without major compromises in performance.

Is it something that I would choose myself – absolutely, and the remainder of this winter will only clarify this for me.

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Pirelli Scorpion Mountain Bike XC Tyre Reviews 2026

Pedalnorth Website — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 14:09:44 +0000

Pirelli Scorpion Mountain Bike XC Tyre Reviews

Scorpion XC M Pro-WALL 29×2.4 & Scorpion XC RC LITE 29×2.4

By Alex Sabin – Pro Racer and Writer

Scorpion XC M & XC RC – my choice for racing setup

Choosing a race-ready, fast and stable tyre for XC mountain biking can be tricky. You need to find that balance between a tyre that flows and maximises your effort, against one that holds you firm and rides effortlessly on technical terrain. Looking at the recent the release from Italian brand, Pirelli is always interesting, with their heritage and attention to detail.
Both tyre in this test belong to Pirelli’s Cross-Country (XC) line, and are redesigned and manufactured in their new Italian factory using a new Race Compound, focused on high grip, durability, and rolling efficiency – all of those key ingredients that I’m generally looking for. So, how do they stack up. Let’s get the technical data out of the way first, shall we.

Key features of 29×2.4 XC tyres:

Wider profile for improved comfort and traction on varied terrain
Tubeless-ready construction for easy setup and reduced punctures
Two casing options:
- Pro-WALL – reinforced sidewalls for increased protection
- LITE – lightweight casing for maximum speed and efficiency

Pirelli Scorpion XC M Pro-WALL – Versatility and control

Okay then, it’s time to focus on the Pirelli Scorpion XC M Pro Wall. It’s a tyre tested on the uCI world cup by the Trek and Pirelli team riders, and is generally well respected. It features a more open tread pattern, with aggressive knobs that dig into the trail when you ask it of them, delivering excellent cornering control and stability when required. Technical terrain is what they’re all about, with the Pro Wall casing doing its job and providing a strong sidewall protection against bumps and bushes, making it ideal for lower pressures and rocky and root-filled trails – of which we have plenty here in the forested mountains of Romania and Transylvania.
How do they perform generally though, when the going gets tough… and fast.

Performance

• Excellent balance between grip and rolling efficiency, suitable for mixed terrain (dry and slightly wet conditions)
• Slightly heavier than the LITE version, but much more resistant to punctures
• Works well both front and rear, especially appreciated for cornering stability

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons then, because after all, these are a premium tyre and you need to know what I think of them in action. Generally, they’re easy to fit, and they remain stable and keep the bike rolling as intended.

Pros

Excellent sidewall protection
Strong grip and control on mixed terrain
Ideal for technical XC and marathon riding

Cons

Heavier than the LITE version
Slightly slower on very fast, hard-packed surfaces

Weight is a key issue on tyre choice when racing. However, this has to be balanced against staying upright when moving fast over technical terrain, and the bike staying on line where I aim it. The tread patten and firm sidewalls ensure that this is the case with these tyres, giving me the necessary grip on mixed terrain. Yes, they are slightly slower on hard-packed surfaces; but when used on technical terrain they come into their own and have proved themselves to be a grin-inducing XC tyre choice for me.

Pirelli Scorpion XC RC LITE – Speed and agility

Looking finally at the Pirelli XC RC Lite tyre, it’s a tyre designed for speed and agility, and so as a pro racer I wanted to see if it matched its hype. It has a thinner casing, and this does bring some risks on certain trails, but this also gives you that lighter weight for hard-packed and fast flowing terrain.

It’s a tyre that is clearly orientated towards speed and acceleration, which I’ve found myself, minimising rolling resistance and keeping the power on as I race and train. The tread pattern is minimal and closely packed, producing a somewhat risky ride in the wet and in rough conditions. However, this also ensures that speed over hard-packed trails – which is the overall purpose of this tyre.

Performance

This is an excellent choice of tyre for XC races or fast, compact trails where efficiency is key. Yes, it has less sidewall protection than Pro-WALL, but is significantly lighter and more responsive when asked of it – which is a key requirement for XC racing.

Pros

Low weight & fast acceleration
Excellent rolling efficiency on hardpack
Ideal for racing and fast XC riding

Cons

Reduced sidewall protection ? more vulnerable to cuts and punctures
Slightly less grip in very rough or wet conditions

Conclusion

My conclusions then are this: the Pirelli Scorpion XC M Pro-WALL is definitely recommended if you want a robust, versatile tire that performs well on technical terrain, offers excellent cornering grip, and provides strong puncture protection.

Looking at the Scorpion XC RC LITE, it’s the lighter and faster option, and is ideal for riders focused on XC racing and fast, compact trails where low weight and rolling efficiency matter more than maximum durability.

My own choice of a front M + rear RC combo is one of the most balanced setups for XC riders who enjoy a mix of terrain — from fast rolling climbs and fire roads, to twisty singletrack with roots and rocks. It gives you confidence at the front and efficiency at the rear, which translates to better control, faster average speed, and less rider fatigue on long rides.

Pirelli have used of their expertise and experience with the UCI World Cup events and teams in creating this rage of XC tyres. Each has a specific role play and does it as Pirelli intended. And, if that fits your own style of riding and local trails, then the Pirelli Scorpion XC range is definitely a good tyre choice.

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Defining Cycling Culture and Style

Pedalnorth Website — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 15:03:05 +0000

Cycling culture and style

Understanding the changing face of cycling

Cycling culture is difficult to define, as there are so many facets to the global cycling community. And, as cycling has developed, particularly in recent years, it’s becoming harder to pin down what cycling culture and style means. In truth, it’s a tapestry of cycling types and styles, all woven together – often loosely – and yet all sharing one central them: seeking adventure and sharing a spirit for life. Whether your cycling lifestyle involves a short spin around town, taking in the coffee stop on the Chicago boardwalk; or a gravel biking epic across the white roads of Tuscany, we’re all part of that global village of cyclists. In truth, the greatest display of modern cycling culture is probably that seen daily within the Netherlands, and nearby in Belgium, where families exist with cycling as a way of life, a way of transport, a way of leisure and of sport. Elsewhere, we tend to add little bits and call ourselves cycling nations… but, are we really?

Pedalnorth always tries to be as organic as possible, evolving with the changing cycling scene – to be representative at least, of a few elements within the tapestry of the global cycling culture. In terms of our own cycling culture and style, this year we’ve taken on new writers from road racing, cyclocross, bikepacking and gravel biking, mountain biking and leisure cycling, and increased our women’s cycling blog area, to better represent the too frequently under-represented area of women’s cycling. We believe that cycling of all genres can sit together on one portal, and that our platform can provide relevant and interesting cycling lifestyle themes, such as our ‘Yoga for cyclists’ project with Diane Vilarem, alongside the bikepacking expeditions that Scott Cornish enjoys and once wrote about for us. We’re constantly reviewing what cycling culture and lifestyle means to us and to our readership. If it involves people having the best time on a bike, then it’s a good starting point for us.

Style too, evolves and changes within cycling as often as High Street fashions. It’s false and unrepresentative to try and focus solely on the urban centres, as London cycling culture can often have little in common with the club rider from the Yorkshire Dales. Converseley, cycling in any single geographical area or genre isn’t a full and accurate representation of cycling culture either – it’s merely a brief glimpse of a particular element.

The role of the cycling industry

A case in point is the recent issues surrounding the iconic Rapha brand within the global cycling culture scene. Whilst this iconic brand took off in London and the south of the U.K., it unfortunately never really made the same impact in the tough and rugged conditions of the northern National Park areas, where riders were more frequently seen in the Italian brands such as Castelli and Ale, or more reasonably priced and stylish home-grown brands. Ultimately, a jersey that costs up to £300 must do something special when the rain is hitting you and the wind is literally tearing at your face.Rapha do make excellent products. However, that special style element isn’t always going to be the tapestry of choice for all riders. In terms of the local bike shop too, they have to purchase multiple jerseys in varying sizes just to sell the size that fits you. Culture and style can come with a price tag.

And, when the sun has retreated and the cold weather warriors come out to play on the cyclocross race circuit, a £300 jersey just won’t cut it through the mud-strewn courses of Flanders and elsewhere. You need spiked shoes and the heart of a lion to climb the off-camber slopes and descend into the unknown of bike handling gymnastics. No, cyclocross refuses to take prisoners, and that expensive jersey will look just as dark and dirty as one half the price, when the battle is over. Cycling culture isn’t about Instagram poseurs looking aimlessly up into the air and pointing their cycling shoe toes like a somewhat ridiculous trainee catwalk model – men and women. Yes, I’ve seen some utterly ludicrous images of men on bikes, doing their best to look cool and striking the same overly-false and caraicature style pose on every image, in hope that some frankly limited thinking marketing exec will send them a few more jerseys to wear just once, as they continue with their inane act, producing unrepresentative and soulless images of modern social media cycling.

The best photographic representations of cycling culture often come from activity and motion, and those online images that seem to have movement within them. That may be a group of cyclists in the Netherlands using bikes as part of daily life; or it may be a group of friends tackling a climb together in the Yorkshire Dales. It may even be that group of friends at the cafe, or simply smiling naturally together on a ride out. However, social media has distorted the thinking of marketing agencies who confuse voyeurism with promotional success on Instagram in particular, as too often we see those aimless images of cycling statues.

Social media – in too many ways – skews our impression of what cycling culture and style is. Unfortunately, brands have frequently become drunk on it, as they continually throw out samples to aesthetic clothes horses who represent nothing more than their own egos, on an all-to-familiar journey towards false fame and hidden loneliness as just another forgotten Z-lister. This isn’t cycling culture, nor a sub-culture strand of cycling – it’s simply a sad reflection on modern life, where the influencer culture has become badly mixed in with that smaller group of genuinely talented and skilled marketeers within the online and social media world, who truly want to inspire, to encourage and to ride into adventure. And yet, their value and the culture that they portray has become diluted as the cycling industry wrongly aligns them with the pouting mannequins who look aimlessly into an empty sky.

Yes, good content that accurately reflects cycling culture and style costs money, because it costs good writers and good media creators time and effort to produce the content. Content that includes an abundance of knowledge, skill and familiarity with the truth of what cycling culture and lifestyle is… or could be. We need to press pause on the static pouting poseurs and mannequins – men and women – and start valuing those who want to inspire and encourage that spirit of adventure, and not simply influence through a false aesthetic that adds to the distortion of cycling culture and which ultimately harms the bottom line for already struggling cycling brands, desperate to find the pot of gold at the end of the culture rainbow.

The role of clubs in defining cycling culture

Cycling clubs have always been the bedrock of U.K. cycling culture, and indeed, cycling culture throughout the global village. Clubs such as Otley CC in Yorkshire, continue to produce world class riders such as Lizzie Deignan and Tom Pidcock, whilst the nearby town of Ilkley, surrounded by steep hills, has the largest cycling club in the U.K., enabling riders of all ages and all levels to find a group to ride with and to learn about the magic ingredients of cycling culture – the tea and cake stops, the quick bike fixes, and how to improve your performance on the bike as you serve your apprenticeship in the club cycling peloton.

It’s the same in Italy, Spain and France, too – and other European countries – which have a far richer and more vibrant cycling club foundation than the U.K… Clubs form the pattern of their cycling sport agendas, and help to support thriving race series’, feeding the higher tier clubs and teams that in turn feed the UCI with a conveyor belt of world class riders. Belgium is a testing ground for many young riders, who use the country as a base as they begin their journey, with the cold winds of Flanders testing them on winter training rides.

Technology and cycling culture

The online world and the cloud now have its own version of an international cycling culture and lifestyle, as apps such as Zwift, Whoosh, Rouvy and Wahoo allow cyclists around the world to easily interact and race each other from the comfort of their homes. Add to this the rise of gravel biking and those seeking off-road adventures and exploration, as people seek something different, to escape from chaotic and crazy society and world that too frequently seems to be filled with economic woes, wars and environmental destruction. Yes, joining in with the global cycling culture and finding your fix on 2-wheels can be therapeutic – both physically and mentally – adding to the changing face of the global cycling culture.

E-bikes have enabled far more people to enter our global cycling culture. Whether it’s simply a means to extend adventure, add to the adrenaline or for health reasons, E-Bikes are now a common site at trail centres and mountain venues, bringing a new cohort into the outdoors. In the main, pedal assist motors simply allow people to enjoy that aspect of cycling that adds something positive to our lives, and we all need to embrace and accept this new form of cycling culture. Festivals such as the U.K. ‘Ard Rock Endura’ at Swaledale have become the Glastonbury of off-road cycling, attracting riders from across the world, and with E-Bikes easily outnumbering traditional bikes.

No, it’s not always the big trade shows, and certainly not aesthetic and style orientated shows such as Rouleur Live that provide consumers with the best cycling shows in the world. It’s the absolute awesomeness of events such as ‘Ard Rock, Dirty Reiver (gravel), Roc d’Azure and L’Ardéchoise, a large, annual amateur cycling event held in the Ardèche department of France, and bigger than the Tour de France for participation community. These are the events that truly define our varied and simply beautiful global cycling culture. Not the fading menu of old fashioned trade shows, or the over-priced and over-inflated brand fests tucked away in cities, without even a defined cycle parking area, and which simply provides a very small and very expensive stage for the industry peacocks to show off their expensive feathers.

Modern cycling consumers want interactivity and particular vibe. EuroBike is developing this at its Frankfurt venue, but has a way to go still. Consumers want inclusion and action and bikes that can be seen to offer that adventure that so many cyclists are now seeking – at every price point. The aesthetic based trade events simply fail on every level to truly represent the average cyclist who still uses the average bike shop, and who still wants to pay a reasonable price.

Style versus substance

Style is always difficult to define, and it forms a central theme in cycling culture. Back in the day, cycling style was focused for many around their club kit and how they reflected their participation and membership of a defined group. In more modern times, cycling style has been more expressive and exciting, with brands such as Ale, Beihler SYN, Rosti, MAAP, Attaquer, and of course Rapha, redefining what cycling culture, community and style ought to be.

It’s easy to say that the price of jersey isn’t relevant, because it is. There is an invisible price-cap for many peoplle – and yet they still expect style and comfort and performance. Frankly, charging upwards of £250 for a short sleeved cycling jersey is obscene for most cyclists. It’s not supposed to be an iconic item of wearable art. They want a jersey to keep them warm, keep the sun at bay, hold off the wind and look smart as they tackle that tough climb or ride the rolling hills into the valley. Cycling culture is a social thing, a sporting lifestyle… not a competition to display your position in societies economic hierarchy. Let’s leave that to the golf clubs.

In terms of women’s cycling culture, the old-fashioned attitude of ‘Pink it and shrink it’ is no longer acceptable, as brands such as DS Pro and Jelenew have set new standards that balance performance, technicity, comfort, and feminine style in equal measure. Women are finally being allowed to look and feel like women on a bike – whilst sexism does still exist in many areas, including within the professional ranks, where the UCI has only recently grasped the issues. Cycling culture is accepting that women are built differently – funny really, when you consider that they haven’t just evolved with their own particluar form and requirements! The patriarchy has simply taken too long to accept that they might just have been wrong. Women have always been able to hold their own on a bike. However, how many bike shops have you been in and seen only two or three women’s jerseys on sale, whilst there are rows and rows of jerseys for me! Frankly, it’s a disgusting display of openly being sexist and failing to market towards a growing base of cyclists with a disposal income and a willingness to buy cycling products designed specifically for their needs – women!

Personal choice versus chasing personal fame

Ultimately, cycling culture is whatever we want it to be. I love riding with my cousin to the tea rooms at Jervaulx Abbey, returning along the 2014 TdF route. I also like nightriding across the technical trails and hills of Wharfdale on my mountain bike or sharing a city ride with my son in London. Colleagues here at Pedalnorth likewise mix up their riding; with Kristi riding road for a pro team in the summer and changing to cyclocross in the winter. Alex rides mountain bike as a pro in Romania and yet took to the Stelvio recently, along with Teo – albeit then descending the off-road alternative!

And then there is Nadezhda – a bundle of electricity and energy. Nobody here defines the spirit of cycling more, as she travels the world ,seeking new cycling challenges; climbing the Tourmalet not once but twice – 2 days running – before heading to Italy and riding in the early morning darkness, simply to see the sunrise from the top of the Stelvio. That for me is cycling culture. It reminds me of climbing trips in my youth, when we would travel in the early hours, hiking in to the mountains as dawn came, so that we could climb alongside the sunrise and feel the warmth on us as we ascended. Those magical moments are what define cycling culture, and style how we prepare and how we cloth ourselves in a way that outwardly displays our own indiviual spirit and personality. Cycling culture is defined by that seemingly endless stream of young cyclists in the Netherlands, making their way to school. It’s their parents on the cycle commute into work or into town to shop and socialise. It’s Nol Van Loon on a multi-stage gravel adventure on the Silk, Road. It’s Tudor Oprea in Romania, creating the TRIADA festival for off-road riders of all ages and abilities. It’s the Sunday morning club ride to the cafe, or the Thursday night mountain bike ride across the Yorkshire Dales with friends.

Cycling culture is ultimately up to you

Cycling culture is simply that spirit that lives within each of us – once we accept it and set ourselves free in pursuit of adventure! It’s not about the poseur on a bike that’s more expensive than their ability requires, and nor is it solely about the commuter on their £300 bicycle shaped object, wrapped against the morning cold on their way to work. It’s all of these and more, and cycling culture will continue to evolve and change, as new styles enter the global cycling community. Nobody owns it or has a more important place in our culture than anyone else.

Quite simply, cycling culture belongs to you, and it’s yours to define, as you ride in any way and in any direction you choose. It’s a revolution that will never end, and it’s simply quite beautiful, as independent spirits continue to take to 2-wheels and set themselves free.

Pedalnorth.com – where cycling culture & style lives in freedom

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Three Day Mountain Bike in Transylvania – Romania

Pedalnorth Website — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 13:05:58 +0000

Explore Sibiu on a Mountain Bike

3-Day Experience in Transylvania

This is a simple account of three days on trails between mountain peaks and old villages — where every pedal stroke finds its rhythm and your breath blends with the scent of pine. However, there is nothing simple about the nature of the ride or the wealth of history and culture that it embraces. It’s a trip into the mountains of Transylvania that you can participate in, too – simply by reading on and then contacting me – Alex – and joining me in these magical mountains!

The Sibiu region hides an impressive network of mountain biking routes, from gentle climbs through cool forests to technical descents along alpine ridges. Whilst away from the more common areas of the European Alps, it is part of the same extensive mountains, and has a feeling of wilderness that is long missing from elsewhere. During these three days on the bike, we discovered not only the beauty of the landscapes but also the perfect balance between effort, nature, and peace.

It’s an adventure that blends sport with exploration — leaving behind not just tire marks, but memories that stay long after you’ve stepped off the bike. Is there anything better for a biking adventure!

Few places in Romania – or indeed Europe – offer such diversity within such a small radius. In a single day, you can climb through beech forests toward the Cindrel peaks, descend into Saxon villages, and stop at a mountain sheepfold where time seems to have stood still.

Sibiu, as a World Heritage Site city, offers a rare mix of untouched nature, good infrastructure, and an active MTB community, developing a trail network that renews the spirit of that mountain biking sub-culture of years gone by – but with technology attached. The trails are varied — from natural singletracks and scenic ridge roads, to technical sections that challenge even experienced riders. The scenery also constantly shifts: shaded forests, blooming meadows, crystal streams, and breathtaking views of the Făgăraș Mountains.

But perhaps the best reason to ride here is the feeling of freedom. Between mountains and villages, with each kilometer becoming a story, and every stop — a meeting with true stillness.
Up next: a 3-day MTB adventure that could be your next getaway in Sibiu, Transylvania.

Day 1: Creasta Porumbelului Ridge

A classic mountain bike route near Sibiu — ideal for riders seeking authentic ridge trails and panoramic mountain views.

Distance: 55 km Elevation gain: 1000 m

The ride starts at the foot of the mountains, near the ancient Dacian fortresses, and climbs along the old Roman road toward the highest-inhabited village in Transylvania — where shepherding has shaped generations.

Gradually, the route reaches open ridgelines with sweeping views of the Cindrel, Șureanu, and Făgăraș Mountains — a ride that perfectly blends history, nature, and adventure.

Day 2: Păltiniș – The Best Trails

Păltiniș is Sibiu’s iconic mountain resort — the oldest in Romania, founded in 1894. From here, some of the most spectacular MTB trails in Transylvania begin: natural singletracks, alpine panoramas, and thrilling descents that test your skills.

You can start the ride either from the base of the climb or directly from the resort. Both routes take you up to Vârful Bătrâna (1,900 m), offering 360° views over Transylvania. From the summit, descend via the Bătrâna Trail, climb back to the Repeater Hill, and choose between Releu Trail, Mitraliera, or the local favorite — Rollercoaster, one of the most scenic and flowing descents in the area.

This tour can easily be split into two shorter days, depending on your fitness and schedule.

Long route: 60 km – 1,700 m elevation
Short route: 40 km – 1,000 m elevation

Day 3: The Hills Around Rășinari

Distance: 40 km Elevation gain: 1,500 m

Rășinari is a vibrant village that’s becoming a hub for outdoor sports. Local events and MTB races are now part of the community’s rhythm, and many riders come here to train on the surrounding trails. Although the route doesn’t reach high altitudes, the climbs are demanding — requiring a decent level of fitness — and the descents reward you with pure, flowing fun through meadows and forest paths.

Route profiles

Creasta Porumbelului Ridge profile

Paltinis Trails profile(s)

The Hills Around Rășinari profile

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Accommodation

Sibiu and the surrounding area have a wealth of options for you, as a recognised international cultural city. The link here gives you one place that we’ve used before and recommend.

Accommodation for up to 3 persons is available through these people, and it’s local.

Bike Hire Option

You can hire bikes if you do not want to bring your own. E-bikes can be hired from e-biketime.ro and bikeshow.ro locally.

Airport pickup and 3-day travel

Pick up – drop of airport if possible (in case I will be in Sibiu in those days).
Travel between each start point is with Alex and provided.

Meals

The cost does not include meals, which can be obtained with accommodation, and lunches dependent on where we stop each day. Possible lunch during ride at one of mountain hut.

Are You Ready to Ride?

Three days, countless trails, and one unforgettable experience in the heart of Transylvania.
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, scenery, or peace of mind — Sibiu delivers it all, one pedal stroke at a time.

Click below to read my account of the initial tours from 2025

Riding with new friends Three days - Three mountains

Email an enquiry

Contact Alex about this tour

Three days – three mountains – Riding Romania by Mountain Bike

Pedalnorth Website — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 11:35:19 +0000

Three Days, Three Mountains

Riding Romania with Peter from Ireland

Some trips stand out not just for the trails, but for the stories that unfold along the way. Our first trip with Peter from Ireland was one of those special ones — three unforgettable days of riding across the best trails around Păltiniș and Rășinari, filled with breath-taking views, great conversations, and the kind of mountain magic that reminds us why we love doing this.

Peter is a true mountain biking nomad. He’s travelled with his bike to nearly every corner of the world — from the Scottish Highlands to the Andes, from the forests of British Columbia to the deserts of Morocco. But this was his first time riding in Romania, and we couldn’t wait to show him what our mountains had to offer.

Day One — Creasta Porumbelului: The Ridge of the Doves

We kicked off the adventure with a local classic — Creasta Porumbelului, the “Ridge of the Doves.” The morning started cool and clear, sunlight flickering through the beech trees as we pedalled out of the village. The trail climbed gently at first, then steepened into a steady ascent through pine forest.

When we reached the top, the reward was instant. The ridge stretched ahead like a ribbon of trail between sky and valley, rolling across open alpine meadows with views that seemed to go on forever. Peter stopped for a long moment, taking it all in. “I’ve ridden a lot of places,” he said, smiling, “but I’ve never seen anything quite like this.”

The descent was pure joy — technical in spots, fast and flowing in others, with wide-open corners that begged for speed. By the time we reached the bottom, everyone was buzzing with adrenaline and grinning ear to ear.

Day Two — The Long Ride through Păltiniș

Day two was all about distance and discovery. We set out early for a full day exploring the Păltiniș area — a long route connecting the best of the local trails into one epic loop.

The weather couldn’t have been better: crisp mountain air, perfect trail conditions, and sunlight streaming through the trees. The climbs were steady and satisfying, rewarded by long, flowing descents that danced through the forest. We passed through quiet glades, crossed wooden bridges over small mountain streams, and stopped often to admire the views. The highlight came in the afternoon when we dropped into the famous Rollercoaster section — a twisting, rolling ribbon of dirt that had Peter whooping with delight all the way down. “That’s world-class,” he said at the bottom, shaking his head in disbelief.

Day Three — Magura and the Hills of Rasinari

Our final day took us to one of the most beautiful and underrated areas in the region: the rolling hills of Rasinari and the trails around Magura Peak.

The route began with a steady climb through forest and pastureland, passing shepherd huts and curious cows who looked up as we pedaled by. The air was softer, the light golden, and the whole landscape seemed to slow down. At the top of Magura, the view stretched all the way to the Fagaras Mountains — a sea of peaks and valleys bathed in sunlight.

The descent was the perfect finale — a mix of flowing lines, natural rock gardens, and meadow trails that carried us all the way back toward the village. Peter was in his element, carving through the turns and laughing the whole way down. “If I lived here,” he said at the bottom, “I’d never stop riding.”

We finished the trip with a relaxed lunch in Rasinari, sitting outside with local cheese, bread, and coffee. The conversation drifted between trails, travel, and the shared feeling that we’d just experienced something truly special.

We finished the trip with a relaxed lunch in Rășinari, sitting outside with local cheese, bread, and coffee. The conversation drifted between trails, travel, and the shared feeling that we’d just experienced something truly special.

The End — and the Beginning

As Peter packed up his bike, the mountains stood quiet in the background, as if waiting for the next ride. For him, it had been a first taste of Romania — three days that combined adventure, culture, and connection. For us, it was a reminder of how powerful these trips can be: strangers becoming friends, trails turning into stories, and moments becoming memories.

Before he left, Peter said, “This won’t be my last time here.”

We believed him. And as the mountains glowed in the late afternoon sun, we couldn’t help but smile — because neither will it be ours.

Three days, three mountains, one unforgettable adventure!

Click Here to see the details of this tour and to book it for yourself!

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Riding the best Mountain Biking Trails in Romania and making friends

Pedalnorth Website — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 09:49:41 +0000

A Ride to Remember

Two Epic Days with Chris and John in Păltiniș

Every great ride tells a story — about the trails, the people, and the moments in between. Our first trip with Chris from the UK and John from South Africa was exactly that kind of story: two unforgettable days of mountain adventure, world-class riding, and the kind of camaraderie that only comes from sharing the trail.

Chris and John are true globetrotters on two wheels. They’ve pedaled through the wild landscapes of Peru and the lush jungles of Costa Rica — always in search of that perfect mix of challenge, flow, and freedom that defines great mountain biking. When they arrived in Romania to explore the trails around Păltiniș and Rășinari, we knew we had something special to show them.

Day One — Discovering Păltiniș

The trip kicked off under a clear blue sky, the air crisp and cool — perfect riding weather. After a hearty breakfast and the usual round of gear checks, we rolled out toward the forest. The Păltiniș trails were in ideal condition: dry, fast, and grippy, weaving through tall pines and open meadows.

From the very first descent, it was clear that Chris and John were in their element. Chris rode with that effortless British smoothness — always composed, always in control — while John brought his trademark South African energy, attacking every section with a grin and a cheer. The combination made for the perfect pace: fast enough to keep it exciting, but relaxed enough to soak in the beauty of the Carpathians.

We spent the day exploring the best of Păltiniș: flowing descents, tight switchbacks, and punchy climbs that opened up to sweeping views across the valleys. Every stop turned into a photo session and a moment to just breathe in the mountain air.

The highlight came in the afternoon, when we dropped into Rollercoaster — one of the most beloved trails in the region. True to its name, it’s a thrilling ride of perfectly shaped berms, smooth jumps, and rolling flow that carries you from start to finish with a smile plastered across your face. When we regrouped at the bottom, both Chris and John were speechless for a second — then came the verdict.

“That,” Chris said, shaking his head with a grin, “is one of the best trails we’ve ever ridden — anywhere.”

Hearing that from two riders who’ve traveled the world on their bikes meant the world to me.

Day Two — The Ridge Above Rășinari

The next morning greeted us with rain. Soft at first, then steady — the kind of rain that makes you wonder if it’s worth riding at all. But as every true mountain biker knows, sometimes the wettest days become the most memorable ones.

So, we geared up and headed out for the ridge above Rășinari. The trails were slick and challenging, but the misty atmosphere gave the landscape a completely different kind of magic. The forest dripped with rain, the smell of pine was stronger, and the mountains disappeared and reappeared through rolling clouds. The climbs demanded focus, the descents tested our grip, and yet every muddy corner only added to the fun. There was something raw and real about it — the kind of ride that strips away everything except the joy of movement and the connection with the place around you.

At the top of the ridge, we stopped to take it all in. The village lay below, wrapped in mist, and despite the rain, the mood was pure happiness. We were soaked, muddy, and smiling like kids. “This,” John said, laughing as he wrung water from his gloves, “is one to remember.”

By the time we rolled back into Rășinari, the rain had eased and the clouds were breaking apart.

A Perfect Start to exploring with clients… and new friends

When Chris and John packed up their bikes and we said our goodbyes, there was that familiar post-trip feeling — part satisfaction, part nostalgia, and already a hint of excitement for what’s next. In just two days, we’d shared more than trails. We’d shared experiences, challenges, and stories that connect riders across continents.

The Carpathians had once again proven what makes them special: diverse trails, spectacular views, and a sense of freedom that keeps you coming back. And, as Chris and John said to me before leaving: “Romania deserves to be on every rider’s map.”

For us, this trip was a reminder of what mountain biking is all about — good people, great trails, and memories that stay long after the mud is washed away.

Here’s to many more rides like this one.

Click Here to read about how you can book this trip and ride with Alex in the fantastic Faragas mountains of Romania!

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Elite Arion Rollers

Pedalnorth Website — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 20:43:27 +0000

Elite ARION Rollers

Pre-race warm-ups and winter core work

I’m still quite new to the race world of cycling. I entered my very first race six years ago – just out of curiosity. I was deeply passionate about cycling and wanted to see what a competition actually felt like. Fast forward six years, and I’m now racing at elite level and proudly hold the title of National Vice-Champion in the Romanian XCM Marathon. I was also lucky enough to be chosen to race for the national road team, in the recent Tour of Romania – a real honour and surprise for me.

It has been, and still is, a long and challenging journey. Looking back at where I started and seeing how far I’ve come, I can only feel grateful and proud. However, there’s no rest and I have to be on tip top form when the racing begins – and, that means having the right equipment to help me. At home, I have a superb indoor setup from Elite. However, on race day, I need something more flexible.

Pre-race warm up kit

I still remember how, in the early days, I used to watch the top riders warming up before the start. They weren’t just pedaling casually – they had these devices where they mounted their bikes and spun endlessly, almost like little… hamsters. I was amazed at how they managed to stay balanced and how ready they were to launch into the race as soon as the start signal was given.
And now, after six years, thanks to my position as a writer and editor at Pedalnorth.com, and our relationship with world-leading brand, Elite; I can finally warm up like the pros pre-race, with the Elite ARION roller – making my pre-race routine more efficient and effective.

So, what is a roller?

Parabolic rollers guide your wheel towards the middle for balance and good control. Magnetic resistance and a simple adjustment on the side of the rollers provide 3 levels of hill-type work. Parabolic rollers, 85mm in the middle, 100mm at the sides aid balance, by helping you to ride central and to improve your pedal action as you get better and staying central. The roller surface is made from smooth, anti-static plastic that reduces noise and tire wear, too.

It may look like a simple device, but it’s absolutely crucial when it comes to performance, safety, and reliability. There’s more to than meets the eye; and the design has been developed more than you’d think. It takes some battering from all of those warm-up routines.

Yes, the Elite ARION roller is lightweight yet sturdy, offering excellent stability and a natural ride feel. Along with the Misuro B+ sensor, it transforms into a complete indoor training partner whenever the weather keeps you from going outside. Slotting easily into the side of the roller unit, the Misuro B+ reads data based on the type of home trainer being used. I can pair it up with the ‘My E-Training Software, and it turns your Elite ARION roller session into an advanced digital instrument that displays and manages fundamental training data. This has been useful in ensuring that I don’t over-cook things pre-race.

Light and portable for flexibility

One really great aspect of the Elite Arion rollers is the practicality and ease of transport. Being light and easy to carry, it is quickly foldable with a single movement, reducing storage space by up to 50% when not in use, and tucks neatly into the car alongside race kit and bikes.

Riding mainly mountain bike, but also training on the road, I like that the ARION is compatible with both road and MTB wheels. The ARION’s front roller can be adjusted in 10 different positions, ensuring perfect alignment with your bike’s frame – voila!

Riding with balance

Thankfully, I have a strong core from racing; however, the rollers will help you to improve your core, whilst helping with your cycling balance. It can be intimidating at first though – ‘will I fall’ is the obvious question! Thankfully though, it’s easy to pick up the technique, and you can practice at home by putting the Elite AXION in a doorway and testing it out. This way, with your elbows out, you can use the close proximity of the door frame for reassurance.

Once you’ve gained confidence, you’ll be riding the rollers freely like a pro.

Whether at home or trackside, Elite ARION is the perfect partner for warm-ups – preparing your body to perform at its very best when the race begins. It’s also a great short training session in itself, with the music playing, just to pedal away freely at home. Riding the AXION is a great way to develop your pedal technique and efficiency. The smoother your technique, the more in the centre of the roller you stay!

As we head into winter here in Romania, and the snow starts to fill the mountain roads, I’ll be retreating indoors more and more; and whilst the fixed bike set-up will be taking the strain, my Elite ARION Mag rollers will be helping out too, ensuring that I work my core and balance on the bike too! Riding the rollers is something that all cyclists can benefit from – from Elite racers to those beginning and who simply want to improve balance and core strength on the bike.

The ARION Mag rollers from Elite are ideal for everyone, and will last you for a long time, helping you to be the better cyclist to tackle those personal cycling challenges. Now, isn’t that what we all are aiming for!

Read Our Blogs

Alex Sabin – pedalnorth

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