The Niseko Area Mountain Bike Association (NAMBA) is about to host a special event at Twin Peaks Bike Park next weekend (August 22 – 25): the Downhill Series! This summer marks the first full season of operation for the park, promising a range of exciting activities for mountain biking enthusiasts. With a packed schedule and diverse activities, this event offers not only the chance to tackle challenging trails but also to immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural scenery of Niseko. Don’t miss the opportunity to join in and enjoy a vibrant summer in Niseko!
Dirty Dames – Women-Only Group Ride
Immerse yourself in the world of Dirty Dames, a women-only cycling event where a love for spinning wheels and a passion for conquering trails will unite enthusiastic hearts. After a year of anticipation, this special event is back, promising memorable moments.
The intimate meet-up starts at Rhythm with warm smiles and aromatic coffee, followed by a ride from 10 AM to 11 AM, taking you through stunning trails. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, this is the perfect opportunity to meet, mingle, and face challenges together in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. Get ready to explore, connect, and enjoy the thrill of the ride!
Downhill Series: Strava Contest – Kicking Off a Challenging Season
Next weekend, Twin Peaks Bike Park will come alive with the launch of the Strava Contest, running throughout the season. Designed for speed enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, the race features exciting categories for both King of the Mountain (KOM) and Queen of the Mountain (QOM), divided by age groups. This is your chance to showcase your skills, improve your performance, and aim for the title of champion by the end of the season. The winners will be honored at the end of the season, and you’ll have the entire season to strive for the crown.
What is the Strava Challenge?
Strava is a GPS app that allows you to participate in a virtual race at Twin Peaks Bike Park! On race day, you’ll be notified of the specific segment chosen as the race course. Your results will be recorded via a GPS device or smartphone. The leaderboard will list the fastest times, and exciting prizes await the top riders.
Note: A virtual race means that the races or challenges do not occur in real time and do not require you to compete simultaneously with other athletes. Instead, you can complete the race or challenge at your own pace, record your results on Strava, and then compare your results with others.
Joining is Easy
The race is open to everyone (except NAMBA members) and participating is simple:
• Download the Strava app on your GPS device (phone, smartwatch, etc.).
• Record your ride on Strava and set the privacy to “public.”
• Share your results and compare them with other participants.
Join in, challenge yourself, and dive into the excitement of the race at Twin Peaks!
Rhythm Opening Party
To enhance your weekend experience, this event is partnered with Rhythm to add extra fun for attendees, featuring activities such as:
• Live Music: Enjoy the vibrant tunes of a live band.
• BBQ Feast: Savor delicious BBQ plates at 1,500 yen per plate.
• Free Activity Center: Take advantage of the opportunity to try out Rhythm’s activity center for free; including the kilter board, bouldering wall, pump track, skate park, and more!
• Bike Rental Discount: Enjoy a 50% discount on bike rentals for the day.
• Winter Discounts: Shop for winter goods with discounts of up to 50% off.
4-Day Schedule for the Downhill Series Event
Get ready to create thrilling memories on the trails and enjoy a weekend filled with fellow riders who share your passion for cycling at Twin Peaks. Whether you’re looking to compete, connect, or savor the beautiful outdoors of Niseko, this is the perfect place for you!
Day 1 itinerary (August 22)
| 9:00 AM | Activities hub at Rhythm | Rhythm Japan |
| 5:00 PM | Event ends |
Day 2 itinerary (August 23)
| 9:00 AM | Twin Peaks Free ride – a chance to ride the trails at your leisure | Twin Peaks Trail Head |
| 4:00 PM | Pack down – a good time for a shower and a nap before the welcome party! | |
| 5:00 PM | Downhill Series welcome party at Rhythm Japan Base – join us for beers and bites at the Rhythm Base! | Rhythm Japan |
| 8:00 PM | Event ends |
Day 3 itinerary (August 24)
| 8:00 am ~ 13:00 | Reception | Niseko Annupuri |
| 8:30 AM | Riders’ Meeting (in front of the reception) | |
| 09:00 ~ 13:30 | Test run | |
| 2:00 pm | Timed qualifier lap |
Day 4 itinerary (August 25)
| 8:00 AM ~ 12:00 | Reception | Niseko Annupuri |
| 8:30 AM | Riders’ Meeting (in front of the reception) | |
| 09:00 ~ 13:00 | Test run | |
| 1:30 PM | Timed race lap | |
| ~ | The award ceremony immediately after the end of the main game |
Parking Locations
Parking at the trailhead is strictly prohibited – please use one of the parking locations below:
• Hirafu Gondola Parking
• Hirafu Welcome Center Parking
• Sunsports Land Parking
You can watch a summary of this event in our video.
Get ready for an unforgettable summer at Twin Peaks Bike Park with the Downhill Series 2024! Whether you’re a professional rider or an adventure enthusiast, this event promises unforgettable experiences on Niseko’s incredible trails. Don’t miss the chance to join this thrilling race and immerse yourself in the vibrant cycling community. We look forward to welcoming you to Twin Peaks Bike Park and creating lasting memories together this season!
Read more: 4 legendary Niseko ski resorts you simply must experience
Source: NAMBA
