Tough off-road routes are renowned for high scratch rates, but even getting to the start line proved to be a challenge for riders at this edition. Thanks to illnesses and injuries, just nine riders set out from Brimscombe, where Mountains of the Merfynion was starting for the first time.
As well as this new start/finish point, the route had been adjusted slightly after more recces earlier in the year. A more challenging but more scenic option from Machynlleth to Dolgellau was added, as well as some hilltop double-track above Hirnant Pass. But most importantly, the long hike-a-bike before Nant-y-Moch was removed and replaced with an almost entirely rideable route around – much to the relief of riders.
The riders were treated to mostly dry and sunny weather throughout, despite relatively cool conditions. Philippe Bechet was first home, but he spent several hundred kilometres riding with a gradually failing carbon crank arm. Thanks to a combination of soft pedalling and walking on steeper gradients (of which there were many), he managed to nurse his bike to the finish.
Follow their ride through the photos below.
Photos thanks to Rob Gardiner (@robgardinercyclist) and Nadia Shahanaz Hussain (@nadiashahanaz)
