March 14 @ 5:00 am – March 15 @ 3:00 am
Crankworx Rotorua 2026: Karearea Downhill & Slopestyle Set for Epic Battles
The action at Crankworx Rotorua 2026 is heating up with two major competitions set to captivate mountain biking fans around the world. The 2026 Specialized Karearea Downhill goes live at 5am CAT, followed later by the 2026 Crankworx Slopestyle in Memory of McGazza at 11pm CAT, bringing a full day of elite riding from New Zealand.
Karearea Downhill: Local Legends vs Global Stars
The 2026 Specialized Karearea Downhill takes riders down the iconic Kārearea track at Skyline Rotorua, a course that is only accessible during the Crankworx festival. Known for its steep terrain, technical sections, and high-speed challenges, the downhill track has become one of the most exciting races on the calendar.
As the second stop of the Crankworx Downhill Series, the race carries major significance for riders chasing the overall title. With valuable series points on the line, competitors will push their limits in pursuit of victory.
Fans can expect an intense showdown between local heroes and international contenders, all battling for crucial momentum early in the season.
Slopestyle in Memory of McGazza: Diamond-Level Stakes
Later in the day, attention shifts to the 2026 Crankworx Slopestyle in Memory of McGazza, where the world’s top freestyle mountain bikers will throw down in one of the sport’s most prestigious contests.
This event marks the second competition in the inaugural Slopestyle Super League (SSL) Regular Season, offering Diamond Level points toward qualification for the season-ending finals at Mont-Sainte-Anne.
With the race for the SSL Playoffs still in its early stages, every trick and every point could make a difference. One flawless run could propel a rider up the rankings, while a single mistake could change the entire leaderboard.
Star Riders Ready to Throw Down
Fans tuning in can look forward to seeing some of the biggest names in slopestyle, including:
These riders are known for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a mountain bike, delivering massive tricks and creative lines that thrill fans and judges alike.
New Feature: The Shootout Round
Adding to the drama in 2026 is the introduction of the Shootout Round.
After the first two runs, any rider within 10 points of the podium earns one final chance to improve their score. During the Shootout Round, athletes attempt one trick on a judge-selected feature, with the opportunity to add up to 10 extra points to their score.
This new format ensures that nothing is decided until the very last trick lands. No safe runs, no early celebrations, and no guaranteed podium finishes.
Don’t Miss the Live Action
With high-stakes downhill racing in the morning and electrifying slopestyle under the lights, Crankworx Rotorua 2026 promises a full day of world-class mountain biking.
Fans can tune in live from 5am CAT for the Karearea Downhill and 11pm CAT for Slopestyle in Memory of McGazza to watch the sport’s best riders battle for glory in Rotorua.
