Steve Torley and Richard Conner finish 6th in the TransWales

The 2008 Merida Bikes TransWales is based on a combination of un-timed linking stages and timed special stages, a bit like a car rally for mountain bikes.

The order of the day on the linking stages is to conserve energy, minimise the impact on equipment and simply enjoy the day riding through some of the greatest sceneries the UK has to offer.

The special stages however are the complete opposite – here speed, finesse and timing are the key to success. Riders will ride against the ticking clock and a simple mistake can make the difference between standing on the podium or being in front of it at the end of the day.

Well done to Steve and Rich. Hopefully an indepth report will follow.

Andy