BME #3 Keystone

Rugged Keystone Colorado would play host to the third round of the Big Mountain Enduro Tour and mark the fourth event in the North American Enduro Tour series. The terrain at Keystone is considered challenging by most and presents some "sporty" sections for the trail bike. There is still plenty of pedaling, but this was a predominantly a mini-DH race of sorts. Mostly full-face helmets in the photos means that U.S. enduro is heading in the right direction. #notXC

Classic "Cowboy Up" rock garden. Safer on the DH bike. Photo: Nick Ontiveros

This race would prove to be a test of fitness as well as handling skills. The last two BME events were pedal heavy, so this race was a good contrast. Our series is well rounded and offers different types of riding at each venue. The Keystone event is my favorite as it is my home track and my favorite style of riding. Most would agree that this event is the highlight of the series and that this is as true as "enduro" gets in the states. 

Straight hucking! Everyone should hit bottom, a few times per run.

This race was executed with perfection by the BME ops crew once again. Everyone I spoke with about the event was blown away, good work gents! It was Mike Days birthday too, tip one back for him. Justin Park edit below.

BME #3 - Keystone - Course Preview from Big Mountain Enduro on Vimeo.

Racing is rad. Group rides are better. I like showing my racer friends some of the classic high country routs around Keystone. They are only in town for a few days, every few years, so I know they won't be shuttling or showing others the sweet lines. 

Mason trying desperately to keep those feet dry. #fail

Don't forget to actually ride your bike when you are at the races. The tracks are fun, but trails like this will be remembered forever. 

Tyler and Mason demonstrating how Pro athletes rest after the race.

I have rarely gotten this close to a mountain goat. It was pissed off at our presence on his mountain. We happily moved along before we lost Mason. 

Strangest looking dog I have ever laid eyes upon

Check out Devon Balet's full event coverage on Pinkbike here. Absolutely stunning imagery!

Devon Balet photo

The rippin and the tearin! Me chasing Mason down Cowboy Up, Motorhead, and High Speed Dirt.

Keystone Chasin Mason from nate hills on Vimeo.

Event coverage from Daniel Dunn on Enduro-Mtb.com here. Photo of the weekend of Sarah Rawley.

Sarah Rawley, form perfected. Daniel Dunn photo

Eddie Clark is a good dude. He rides his bike, drinks beer, and takes world class photos. Any other questions? Mountainflyer Magazine coverage here.

Eddie Clark photo

After winning the first four stages of the weekend, I backed it off a hair, and almost crashed all over the place. Lesson learned. Trying to "take it easy" is usually a recipe for disaster. On stage six, I had a 30 mph tank-slapper that almost ended my season. Fortunately I rode it out and went on to take my first NAET win of the year. After trying for years to get a legit win at home, racing every discipline invented, I finally didn't screw anything up! #stoked

Head to toe sticky. Thanks for crushing me gentlemen!

Good racing homies! Off to the next one in Park City.

Actually, me, Sarah and the JHK's went and ate sushi that night. Tasted like chicken though...