Junior MTB Challenge 2026

The Junior MTB Challenge offers cross-country races for riders aged five to sixteen, held alongside most KTM Mountainbike Challenge marathon events. The organizers consider the junior series integral to their youth development efforts, designing courses specifically for children and teenagers, distinct from the adult marathon routes. A reliable, fully functional bike is required for every participant, and helmets and gloves are mandatory. The competition features short-course XC racing, with categories determined within the junior field. The overall ranking is not solely based on the fastest rider; points are calculated from each rider's time difference relative to their class winner. To be included in the overall standings, a rider must complete at least three events, and only their best four results are considered. This format allows children to compete in multiple rounds without a single subpar performance impacting their overall series standing.