Transition Bikes Blog

There are few races as iconic as the Downieville Classic.

A race set in the historic gold mining town of Downieville, CA, this race is known to be grueling, punishing and truly test each and every rider. With a 26.5 mile course that goes up, down and through the Lost Sierra's, the terrain couldn't be any more perfect for what we designed the Spur to love. So we loaded up the van and met up with TR athlete, Maghalie Rochette, and TR product development employee, John Richardson, to test their grit, and this yet to be released bike.

Miles of twisting mountain highway lead you up and over mountain passes and down river valleys before you coast into the booming Downieville Classic scene. Small towns long beyond their "Gold Rush" era now once again bustling with people and excitement. The air filled with pre-race anticipation as riders spin up their legs, doing anything possible to be ready for the gut punching climb they are about to experience.  

John crosses the finish line in a very respectable 8th place in pro men's. With a stacked field of veteran Downieville racers ahead of him, this is an incredible result for his first showing at this event that is equal parts endurance, skill and strategy. 

Maghalie showed her true grit and strength this day. Battling a broken hand prior to the race, she went in knowing it would be tough, but only barely managed to hang on for the entirety of the course. With one finger on the brake, and two in a cast, this left just one digit to grasp the bars for a demanding 5,000 ft of descending.

With a bike like the Spur, the race is only part of the equation, the real fun is found outside the tape. John and Mags quickly feeling reenergized by the amazing views and trails just out the door.

With the chamois off and baggies on, John and Mags rip through Tahoe's legendary Ponderosa forest. No component swaps or geo changes needed to enjoy the fast and loose riding in the Sierra's.

Endless views and good times in every direction. The only question was where to next? 

Singletrack heaven. 

We left California with a massive appreciation for the Downieville race and community it brings. So many people lined up that weekend to share an experience that we'll never forget. Sampling the many trails around the region afterwards was just the cherry on top. We'll most definitely be back!

If you haven't had a chance to check out the new Spur, CLICK HERE to learn more.