HELTER SKELTER 2021. MTB MARATHON TRAILS

Helter Skelter MTB Marathon in Rabac is a real treat for every serious mountain biker. A race full of singles, steep climbs and flow trails, slight places to rest and somewhat space to overtake.

In 2021 we prepared two trails and gave them original names – “Longer” and “Shorter”. Both trails are 100% drivable, but don’t be fooled by the length and altitude figures – because the kilometers and altitudes in Rabac are earned by blood and sweat. Helter Skelter is looking for physical strength, ascent and descent technique, a top bicycle, strong legs, strong arms and, perhaps most importantly – a strong head.

Shorter trail / 1.001 meter altitude / 31,3 km

The first challenge in the Helter Skelter race is how to “get out” of Rabac at all. Because Rabac is located next to the sea, and the eastern coast of Istria is steep and a bit wild. Here we have a good news – the uphill macadam path has been “ironed out” so this part of the route will be slightly easier than in previous years. But, there are still parts with over 15% of the climb and it’s still macadam. Those who manage to look around will enjoy beautiful views towards Rijeka and Cres. The next part of the trail is ascent to Standar and then follows a long descent, this time all the way to Plomin where the first feed zone is. After a close look at the tallest building in Croatia (chimney of Plomin power plant, 340 meters high), follows a long series of ascents and descents, with an emphasis on ascents. Macadam, singles, some roads, grass, dirt paths, another “water point” and the final descent on the Espresso (the most famous singletrail built just for MTB fans), back to Rabac.

Important note: The start time and end time measurement will be approx. 500 meters from the race village, so you don’t have to race down the promenade among the pedestrians and swimmers, and can spin your legs gently to the finish line where the feed zone and fans will be waiting for you. Oops… no fans. The race is without spectators.

Longer trail / 1.605 meter altitude / 62,4 km

The first 20 kilometers of the “Longer” trail are shared with the “Shorter” one. Ascent from Rabac on fine macadam, a series of long descents to Plomin, the first feed zone and ascent back to Labin on singles and paths which will guide you towards turn for Labin. Passing through the center of Labin and then into one of the most attractive labyrinths of paths and trails in Croatia – Skitača. Pavao Roset (multiple XCO champion of Croatia and current selector of the national MTB team) here created some kind of “The best of Skitača”, a space he knows well as his pocket. Expect a real cross country and, at the top of Skitača, a tourist view towards Cres, Lošinj and half of Istria, because the view stretches from Učka to Pula. There is also a second feed zone. The return to Labin is equally attractive and demanding, and the last 10 kilometers of the race you’ll share the trail with the drivers from the shorter route. Espresso for the last descent towards Rabac and here you are at the finish line.

On the long route there are 2 feed zones + 2 water points + feed zone at the finish line.

Important note: The start time and end time measurement will be approx. 500 meters from the race village, so you don’t have to race down the promenade among the pedestrians and swimmers, and can spin your legs gently to the finish line where the feed zone and fans will be waiting for you. Oops… no fans. The race is without spectators.

HELTER SKELTER 2021. MTB MARATHON

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RAB ISLAND HERO 2021. MTB MARATHON
KRK’N’ROLL 2021. MTB MARATHON