![\"ccs-41808-0-74573500-1400147871.jpg\"](\"https:\/\/wp-media.bikehub.co.za\/production\/uploads\/2023\/02\/ccs-41808-0-74573500-1400147871.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/p>\nKim Swart enjoys one of the countless stretches of single track heaven through Sappi’s plantations during the 2013 Sappi Howick MTB Classic and this year’s race on Sunday 1 June is set to offer participants a staggering 70% of the 42km event similar single track adventure. \/\/ Image credit: Anthony Grote\/Gameplan Media<\/span><\/p>\n Hosted by the Howick Mountain Biking Club, the event is known for its large dose of world class single track whilst also offering a true, raw mountain biking experience without the frills and fuss of overly manicured trails.<\/p>\n \u201cWe live by and are very proud of our \u2018raw and unplugged mountain biking\u2019 motto,\u201d explained race director Gordon beard. \u201cThe 40km route of the Sappi Howick MTB Classic is a challenging route but a lot of fun and all the trails are in excellent condition at the moment!\u201d<\/p>\n The event\u2019s premier race, the 40km Sappi Howick MTB Classic, is unashamedly a tough test however it is still manageable for the regular MTB rider and both the views and cycling obstacles offer great reward throughout.<\/p>\n \u201cThe course has both technical and not so technical sections, which offers a little something for everyone and, with the scenery of the area and the quality of the trails, participants really are in for another classic Howick treat again this year.<\/p>\n \u201cAs much as 70% of the 40km route is single track and there is about 800 metres of climbing over the 42 kilometres of the longer route. Features such as Harry\u2019s, Rock & Roll, New Track and Puff Adder Pass will undoubtedly prove extremely popular!\u201d added Beard.<\/p>\n While the 2013 event was another great success, there were a few who missed out on some of the enjoyment after they got lost along the way and Beard has confirmed that route marking will not be a problem this time around.<\/p>\n \u201cThe route will definitely be far better marked than in previous years,\u201d emphasized Beard. \u201cThe whole route will be clearly marked with orange day glow stickers and there will be arrows at all major direction changes, so it should be near impossible for riders to get lost this year!\u201d<\/p>\n Title sponsors Sappi are thrilled to be on board again in 2014, further entrenching the forestry giant\u2019s relationship with both the club and the region.<\/p>\n