TRAVERSE Issue 25 - August 2021 | Page 13

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technical sections that see natural talent come to the fore , rugged terrain that see man and machine broken , and ludicrously steep hills that point to some place beyond this world where even the toughest of riders weep and ask themselves , ‘ why ?’.
Pushed well beyond the comfort zone of mere mortals , Hard Enduro riders never find themselves on courses that are the same , in fact many change with the passing of the day . Rhythm is important , committing a course to memory , well , that ’ s just impossible .
Hard Enduro organisers enjoy skilful riding and competition , yet with whispered tones and perhaps a beer or three , you ’ ll understand they want action , they want challenges , they want riders forced to drag , push , and lift their bikes as much as ride them . And there is the success of Hard Enduro .
Required skills aren ’ t just about riding fast , tackling the occasional jump or obstacle . No . Hard Enduro riders must have the full range of skills to be a successful competitor ; motocross , rally , trails , road racing , hell , even hooning it through your best friends fifth floor apartment comes in handy . These riders are elite athletes yet , make
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