Purgatory Resort hosts Big Mountain Enduro (BME) event Aug. 28-29. Courtesy photo

BME News:

The Big Mountain Enduro (BME) rolls into Purgatory Aug. 28 for two days in the saddle with grueling climbs and rowdy descents set against the backdrop of the San Juans.

BME is billed as North America’s premier enduro bike racing series, drawing pros and amateurs from around the country who enjoy mixing aerobic, cross country-type fitness with white-knuckled downhill racing skills.

This highly anticipated race series offers some of the biggest and most challenging mountain bike terrain in the US, featuring a combination of backcountry and lift-accessed stages at each tour stop. An established pathway to over 400-miles of high alpine singletrack, Purgatory Resort is the not-to-be-missed stop on the BME.

More than just a race, the BME provides opportunities for spectators, first-timers, and youth to experience world-class racing and a community of passionate mountain bikers, trail builders, and like-minded outdoor enthusiasts. Riders and spectators alike are invited to enjoy the festivities at Purgatory’s base area throughout the weekend of racing.

The event is capped (and sold out!) at 400 riders who will compete in eight separate events including uphill races and downhill time trials at Purgatory Resort. Finishing times are added up from all eight stages to give the riders a final time and ranking. BME races incorporate a variety of terrain, testing riders on trails ranging from rough and steep to smooth and flowing.

For this year’s series, trail builders at Purgatory have created an outstanding trail system, including a combination of lift-accessed and backcountry trails, with 1,800 feet of descent to challenge the most competent of riders, without being intimidating for newbies.