Crazy eBike race at Sea Otter, 2nd Edition

Bosch eBike Systems invites racers to participate in the 2017 Haibike eMTB Race epowered by Bosch, which will take place at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, April 21st at the Sea Otter Classic.

Bosch’s Brian Sarmiento competes in the 2016 “Industry Challenge,” part of the Haibike eMTB Race epowered by Bosch. Contributed press photo from Bosch

This year’s eMTB race looks to be bigger and better than ever, with a new race course that will test even the best of riders. Scheduled for four laps, each 2.9-mile lap will feature 373 feet of climbing — with 1.4 miles featuring a max grade of 24 percent, which will put these eMTBs to the ultimate electric test. The downhill singletrack sections are fast and flowing with many obstacles along the way including two rock gardens and the “Gravel Speed Trap” — a gravel section designed to stop cars going more than 200mph.

“Last year we had over 110 riders participate in the race, which was an unbelievable turnout for the first year,” said Claudia Wasko, General Manager of Bosch eBike Systems Americas. “This year we look to eclipse those numbers on a new race course that will challenge even the best eMTB riders.”

Even if you don’t own an eBike, you can reserve a bike from among the several vendors offering free demos during the race (first come first serve, subject to availability) after registering for the race online.

Mountain Bike Hall of Famer Nat Ross is participating in the race for the second year in a row, along with other big names like former Tour de France participant Ted King (Cannondale brand ambassador) and Martin Frey (Team Bulls). “The eMTB course has a bit of everything in it and challenges even the best bike handlers in the world,” Ross said. “The sport is evolving quickly and eMTB is here to stay. I’m ready to rumble!”

The eMTB race is open to both men and women who will compete in six age categories and a Bosch sponsored “Industry Challenge” to benefit the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA). The Bosch Industry Challenge for NICA is open to anyone who currently works in the cycling industry. The fastest racer will win a $2,500 purse to donate to one of the 19 NICA leagues operating across America —winner’s choice! Additionally, Bosch will contribute another $2,500 towards NICA’s efforts to expand interscholastic cycling.

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