Thanks to the legends at KWT Imports, Mountain Biking Ladies Australia is stoked to announce a key partnership with renown tyre manufacturer Maxxis. Helping keep your wheels on the ground and good times rolling in 2026.

More initiatives from this dream team collaboration and what it means for our community TBA.

In the meantime, check out their website

Happy Riding! #werisebyliftingothers #maxxisorwalk

#wednesdaywisdom

With a month left to go to Otway Odyssey , thought I would address a big fear for many “new to events” riders. What happens if someone rides up behind me? 🤔

With the 30km start, this is far less likely to occur. In an XCM event such as Odyssey where the loop is large, the field does tend to spread so the chances of a different category catching you is also less likely. Third word of comfort, rider behaviour (not naming gender) has significantly improved over recent years. Saying that, here are a few words of advice when you do find a rider behind you:

Communicate. It is the rider in front’s decision for when it is safe to pass. You can see the trail ahead and know your own ability. If the person behind has let you know they would like to pass, tell them that you will when it is safe to do so (let them know if you are new or feeling nervous!). Then when you see a wide opening, or when you feel it is ok to pull over, let them know to pass left or right. Inside line or outside. It is the rider in front who chooses. Remember to say Thankyou, good pass.

Don’t Hurry. The worst thing you can do when a rider who is behind is panic and pull on your brakes. Most of us are out there for a long time that day. A few extra seconds won’t hold them up & keeps you both safe.

Do Move To The Side Of The Trail. It is the polite thing to do to let riders pass when it is safe to do so. If you are not “In it for the win” and you get caught by those trying hard to finish their race (it can come down to a sprint), it can be best to just wait trailside (cheer them on! 🥳).

If you are the rider who is ready to pass:

Communicate. Loudly & Clearly. Let them know you would like to pass WHEN it is safe to do so.

Don’t Pressure The Rider In Front. Panicked rider is likely to react in a way that could bring you both undone. Stay calm. Reassure.

Be Kind. I maintain it would be a really cool prize, we aren’t in it for sheep stations (dammit) 🐑. We are there to have fun & ride bikes.

Please let me know if you have any questions or topics you would find useful.

You got this, We got you! 💪