After the successful rebirth of the Malvern Hills Classic last year, we’re looking set for an even bigger and better MTB festival at Eastnor Park this summer. Here’s what we expect to be some of the highlights of the GT Bicycles Malverns Classic 2019...

1. Expo and demo rides

With more than 120 brands showing off their products, you can get up close and personal with all the trick stuff you’ve been admiring from afar. Plus, more than 30 bike companies are offering demo rides over the three-day festival, so you can test out that bike you’ve always dreamed of (pre-registration required). With all the tracks open to the public outside of racing and practice, there’s no excuse not to take something cool out for a cruise.

2. Action-packed racing

From the deceptively challenging cross-country to the chaos of the dual slalom, the Malverns Classic was always famous for its racing, and this year is sure to be no exception. Expect thrilling action all weekend, including the dual slalom, downhill, XC, quad eliminator and enduro. As ever, we’re anticipating the infamous bombhole to deliver the most carnage.

You don't have to be a gravity fiend or have the latest bike to enjoy the racing at the Malverns. Photo: Steve Behr

3. Dirt Wars & Whip-Off Champs

Saturday night will see the country’s best dirt jumpers compete for glory in round three of the Dirt Wars series, followed on Sunday morning by the National Whip-Off Championships. Expect to see some ridiculous talent throwing some equally ridiculous shapes during both events.

4. TRP Lake Ride

The lake has always been a prominent feature at the Malverns, and this year, on the Saturday evening, it retakes centre stage for the TRP Lake Ride. While last year's event was a solo challenge, this year brave souls will battle head-to-head in a dual race across the water, to see who can reach the other side first.

https://youtu.be/HjnUvfjQNYs

5. Kids go free

The organisers haven’t forgotten about the groms – entry to the festival is free for children aged 12 and under, as are all the kids’ attractions, including the Strider Skills Area, dodgems, bucking bronco, bouncy castle slide, trampolines, merry-go-round, airbag and pump track. They can even join in the racing at the Strider Dual Slalom!

6. Festival atmosphere

With live bands, DJs, a large marquee and licensed bar, you can still let your hair down. Surrounded by thousands of like-minded people and even more bikes, what’s not to love about the GT Bicycles Malverns Classic? We’ll be there too, so come over and say hello!

The Malverns Classic is the MTB party of the summer! Photo: Steve Behr

The GT Bicycles Malverns Classic takes place from 14 to 16 June 2019, at Eastnor Deer Park in Herefordshire. For event tickets and to pre-order your MBUK goody bag – containing two issues of the mag, cycling accessories, nutrition samples and more, all for just £5 (plus 50p booking fee) – click here.

MBUK subscriber? Click here for a chance to win an action-packed weekend at the Malverns and some exclusive swag.