Hotlines at the iXS Cup, Innerleithen.

The Hotlines crew turned out to support the iXS guys at this past weekend’s round of the iXS European Cup at Innerleithen, Scotland. The event being the week before the World Cup at Fort William ensured that a good number of the European Pro riders were in attendance giving a terrific level of competition. A completely new course has been cut over the last few months by Steve Dees and the team at Innerleithen MTB – rider comments put this as the best and probably hardest course ever at Innerleithen. Sadly the course will not be available to ride by the public as it crosses many existing tracks and footpaths, so will be closed off straight away.

iXS have only been exporting to the UK for less than 2 years, and whilst momentum for the brand is gathering quickly in the UK, this round of the cup, was a great way to showcase the iXS product line to the public. Many spectators stopped by the stand to pick up freebies and browse the selection of iXS protection and apparel on show.

Hotlines had a good amount of supported riders taking part in the event – including Ben Cathro from MTB Cut who scored top spot on the podium! Good work Ben! Other riders included Sam Flockhart (Lapierre International), Phil Atwill (Tomac), Joe Edge (Tomac), Joe Barnes (MTB Cut – iXS and Straitline), Adam Brayton (Straitline), Martin Young (iXS), Chris Hutchens (Nuke Proof), CRC-Intense team of Matt Simmonds and Ruaridh Cunningham (iXS) and Wyn Masters and Shawn O’Conner from Kenda-Playbiker (Lapierre). Michael Cowan from CRC was also riding his NukeProof DH development bike.

Michael Cowan piloting the Nuke Proof DH development bike to 6th in Masters

Overall the event was a success, with some great racing, superb course and organisation, incredible reception for iXS products and a great showing for Hotlines supported riders! Shame the weather just couldn’t decide what it wanted to do....