The Return of the Rampage

Rampage is set to reach new heights with its new location for 2018. Photo: Bayo Olukotun

At the footsteps of Zion National Park sits a small crowd of hardcore mountain bikers. Most are just here to help or simply spectate, but a very select group of 21 riders are about to take on the most brutal mixture of dirt, dust and air known in this sport: Red Bull Rampage.

Rampage is one of the marquee events for Red Bull, and the event just keeps getting better. Tune into Red Bull TV to watch the live stream beginning at 10am PDT on Friday, Oct. 25. Photo: Bayo Olukotun

One of the brand’s longest running events, and easily one of the most recognizable, Rampage pits the best freeriders in the world in an epic one day event. Now in its 11th running, Rampage has distinguished itself as the world’s premier gravity bike event, drawing the sports elite by invite only.

With most lines and features now built, riders have been testing out their lines for Friday’s competition. Photo: Bayo Olukotun

In the week prior to Rampage, each rider chooses a digging crew to help build their ideal line through the unique Utah sandstone that could be their path to the top of the podium. A perfect run in this judged competition is not only subjective, but rare. Now this year that rarity is even more pronounced as the event has been shifted to a new location only around the corner from last year’s but a whole new ball game for the riders.

Darren Berrecloth first competed in Rampage back in 2002. This year marks his first time opting to not throw his hat into the ring. Instead he is helping to groom the sport’s next crop of riders with guidance at this unique event. Photo: Bayo Olukotun

New ridge lines, new rocks and new drop-offs mean these athletes are taking what they learned in years prior, and applying it to new terrain. As for the first timers, their best bet is to listen to experienced riders like Cam Zink, Kyle Strait or Darren Berrecloth and choose their lines wisely.

But now is not the time to be second guessing. Now is not the time to change your mind. If you are at Rampage, looking down a narrow ridge, about to let go of your brakes, committing to 750 feet of vertical decent in barely over a minute, now is the time to believe you are about to change viewers perceptions of what is possible.

Red Bull Rampage will begin streaming live on Friday, October 25 at 10:00am PDT for free on Red Bull TV. Be sure to check back here for more coverage.

Cam Zink’s 2017 run (and backflip off of this 60ft cliff drop) landed the veteran rider on the podium. With new features and terrain, how will riders adapt for 2018? Find out live on Red Bull TV. Photo: Bayo Olukotun

Check out my coverage of the 2017 Red Bull Rampage.

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