The Downieville Classic, a premier mountain biking event in California’s Sierra Nevada, challenges riders with its unique combination of cross-country and downhill races. In 2026, the Pro Men’s category showcased exceptional talent and cutting-edge bike setups. Here’s an in-depth look at the machines that propelled the top three riders to victory.
Tobin Ortenblad: All-Mountain World Champion
Santa Cruz’s Tobin Ortenblad clinched the All-Mountain World Championship by securing second place in both the cross-country (XC) and downhill (DH) events. His weapon of choice was the Santa Cruz Blur 5 CC, a lightweight frame designed for versatility across diverse terrains.
Key Specifications:
- Frame: Santa Cruz Blur 5 CC – XL
- Fork: RockShox SID Ultimate Flight Attendant, 120mm
- Shock: RockShox SIDLuxe Ultimate Flight Attendant, 120mm
- Drivetrain: SRAM XX SL Transmission, 38t Chainring
- Brakes: SRAM Motive Ultimate Brakes – 180mm CLX Rotor F&R
- Wheels: Reserve 28|XC Wheels w/DT 180 hubs
- Tires: Maxxis Rekon Race EXO 2.4” 120tpi F&R (no inserts)
- Dropper: RockShox Reverb AXS – 150mm
- Pedals: Time ATAC XC 12
Ortenblad’s choice of the 38t chainring provided the necessary torque for the flat, pedally sections of the course, while the Maxxis Rekon Race tires offered a balance between speed and grip.
Andrew L’Esperance: XC Champion
Canadian rider Andrew L’Esperance dominated the XC race, finishing first with a time of 1:57:44. His setup featured the Ibis Ripley SL, a frame known for its efficiency and responsiveness.
Key Specifications:
- Frame: Ibis Ripley SL
- Fork: Fox 34SL – 120 mm – GripSL with remote lockout
- Shock: Fox Float SL with 0.4 volume spacer and 164 PSI remote lockout
- Drivetrain: Shimano XTR Di2 RD in fast shifting mode with 2 shifts max when the shift button is held
- Brakes: Shimano XTR 9220 “Trail” brakes – 4-piston calipers and metal pads. 180 mm front rotor and 160 mm rear rotor.
- Wheels: Raceface EraSL with Enduro Ceramic bearings
- Tires: Maxxis Aspen AT in 2.4 – EXO casing and MaxxSpeed compound with Tannus insert in the rear
- Dropper: Fox Transfer SL with 100 mm drop – Fox TwinStik dropper/remote lockout lever
- Pedals: Shimano XTR
L’Esperance’s setup emphasized lightweight components and efficient power transfer, crucial for the demanding XC course.
Marco Osborne: DH Champion
Enduro specialist Marco Osborne secured the DH victory with a time of 44:11, showcasing his downhill prowess. He rode the Transition Spur, a bike tailored for aggressive descents.
Key Specifications:
- Frame: Transition Spur, size Large, High mode, 120mm travel
- Fork: Fox Factory 36 SL, 140mm, 92 psi with 2 volume spacers
- Shock: Fox Factory Float SL, 120mm, 213 psi
- Drivetrain: Shimano XTR Di2, 36T chainring, 165mm cranks
- Brakes: Shimano XTR 4-piston, 180mm rotors front and rear
- Wheels: WTB Carbon (unreleased) w/ White Industries rear hub
- Tires: WTB Peacekeeper 29” x 2.4”, no inserts, High grip 23 psi front, Fast-rolling 26 psi rear (WTB sealant, tape, and valves)
- Dropper: Fox Transfer Neo 200mm
- Pedals: Shimano XTR
Osborne’s setup prioritized stability and control, essential for navigating the technical DH course.
These meticulously chosen setups highlight the riders’ strategic approach to the unique challenges of the Downieville Classic, blending performance, durability, and adaptability to conquer both XC and DH disciplines.