Winter is Coming: How Australian Bike Parks are Prepping for the Off-Season
While our mates in the northern hemisphere are prepping for the World Cup in Leogang next week, we're facing a different reality in Australia. The frost is setting in, and for many of our favourite parks, that means it's time to build.
As the lifts stop spinning at Thredbo and Mount Buller, the real work begins. We caught up with a few trail crews this week to see what's on the menu for the winter build season. From radical drainage upgrades to massive new jump lines, the goal is clear: make next summer even bigger.
The Winter Grind
Winter in an Australian bike park isn't just about waiting for the snow. It�s the only time of year when the ground is soft enough to really move dirt. At parks like Maydena and Derby, the focus is on sustainability. With the increasing intensity of our storm seasons, drainage is the number one priority to keep those hero-dirt berms from washing away.
What to expect next season?
Rumour has it that several major parks are planning new "all-weather" trails�trails designed with high rock content that can be ridden even after a heavy Victoria downpour. This is a game-changer for those of us who don't want to hang up the bike just because it's a bit damp.
Gear Up for the Cold
Just because it's winter doesn't mean the riding stops. It just means you need to be smarter with your setup. Mud is the enemy of your seals and your grips.
Winter essentials for the dedicated rider:
- ENLEE Carbon Mudguards � Absolute necessity to keep that grit out of your eyes and your fork seals.
- Bucklos Lock-On Grips � Because a wet grip is a dangerous grip. The knurled texture on these is a lifesaver in the rain.
- ZTTO CNC Top Cap Kit � Anodised finishes hold up way better against the winter grime than cheap stock parts.
Keep an eye on our socials for build updates from the parks. The dirt is looking prime.
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