Mountain Bike Orienteering

What is MTBO? 

Mountain bike orienteering (MTBO) is a navigation sport suitable for participants of all ages and abilities. Like foot orienteering, the idea is to navigate your way around a series of checkpoints (controls) using a map and compass. Unlike foot orienteering, the idea is to ride a bike! The main difference is that in Australia, mountain bikes have to stay on tracks, so the style of navigation can be quite different to the cross-country navigation used in foot orienteering.

Several courses are available, ranging from 10-30km in length. At the top end of the field, competitors need good technical bike handling skills and the ability to navigate at speed. However, the shorter courses are easily achievable by beginners, non-mountain bikers and families.

Equipment:

Required equipment:

  • mountain bike or decent hybrid bike
  • helmet
  • map (provided by the organisers)

Recommended equipment:

  • map board to attach the map to your bike (can be hired at events)
  • compass (can also be hired at events)
  • water bottle or hydration pack
  • spare tyre, pump and other bike tools

Events:

The 2011 MTBO series is now over.  The 2012 series will be announced early next year, and will consist of six events spread through the winter orienteering season (April to October). You can just turn up on the day and enter any of the events

MTBO events, dates, locations and directions are included in the main OAWA events calendar.

 

 

At an Event:

  1. Find the registration table and have a chat to the friendly event organiser! If in doubt, look for people in bright orange "Official" vests. They are there to help you.
  2. Fill out a registration card and pay at the registration table.
  3. Some events use electronic timing, and the organiser will provide you with a timing chip.
  4. Listen to the beginners' briefing - you will need a few tips to get you started. They will show you what the maps and checkpoints look like, and can answer any other questions you might have.
  5. Go to the start area, where you will receive your map and be sent on your way.
  6. Have a great time! If it is your first event, take it slowly and concentrate on keeping track of where you are. This will help you a lot more than riding fast in the wrong direction.
  7. Go to all the checkpoints (controls) in order, then check in at the finish
  8. Stay around afterwards to meet other participants and discuss the course
  9. Afterwards, look on the OAWA website for results, and have a look at other peoples routes (and draw in your own!) on Routegadget.