Ashland Super-D Re-Cap

Two weeks ago, I was lucky enough to get to attend the SRAM 2 x 10 product launch in Ashland OR. They organized a multi-day ride camp with full tech support, a bunch of media, shuttle service and the full line of SRAM 2 x 10 for everyone to sample. I’ve been riding 2 x 10 for about 8 months now, but it was the first time for many of the riders. The SRAM engineers and designers also broke things down and explained the technology behind the designs, the reasons why this stuff works so well and how it all goes together. I know it works like a dream from my own riding and racing experience, but it was really cool for me to understand why it works better. The camp took place in Ashland, OR and we were hosted by United Bicycle Institute for all our class room sessions and bike tunes. SRAM arranged multiple shuttles and rides every day and it was a big change for me to get driven up the hill, dropped off, then ride down.

I left the Era and the 29er hardtail at home and instead had a Safire and Enduro that I was playing around with all week. It was a totally different style of riding and really good skills session for me to ride with Rad Ross Schnell, Kirt and Lindsay Voreis, Greg Herbold and Nathan Riddle. I was definitely schooled, but loved watching and learning some downhill skills from them. The graduation from our 4 day riding camp was to race the Ashland Super D. It’s a 13 mile descent with wicked fast single track, a few little jumps and lots of tight switchbacks. The riding was not as technical as a traditional downhill, but you could definitely scare yourself and the speed was only limited by your own fear. I rode the Safire for the race and it was the perfect choice for this course. I entered the women’s pro division and ended up finishing a respectable 4th place in a strong field. I was a couple of minutes off Kelli Emmett’s winning time. I was elated to get down in one piece, but as soon as I was finished with my run, I wanted to head back up for another one to try to go faster! Even though these Super D races are not my forte, I love taking part in them and pushing myself to get out of my comfort zone. Thanks SRAM for a really great experience!