How to prepare your bike for the Motatapu Mondraker Mountain Bike 2025

The Motatapu is a classic fixture on the annual adventure event calendar, giving participants a unique, once a year opportunity to ride, run, or hike from Wanaka to Arrowtown through unforgettable high country scenery. 

The 47km route starts at Bike Glendhu at Wanaka then wends its way through Glendhu Station, to Soho Station and Motatapu Station, before finishing in Arrowtown. The Motatapu trail is challenging, but still achievable for most riders, and the vistas along the way are mind blowing– which is why the event attracts so many repeat participants. 

Outside Sports’ Support on the Trail 

This year Outside Sports will be there alongside our friends at Mondraker who are sponsoring the mountain bike an ebike events. Bike mechanics from Outside Sports Wanaka and Queenstown bike stores will be posted at aid stations along the route with breakdown assistance for riders if they need it. 

However, all riders are expected to start the race with their bike in top condition and fully equipped with everything on the mandatory gear list.

Bike Preparation Checklist 

The Motatapu is a true test of bikes and riders, so you both need to be up to the challenge. Here’s what to check to make sure your bike is ready for the event – you don’t want to get to the start only to be told your bike is disqualified for not being in good enough condition. 

Frame  

No structural damage or corrosion to the bike frame, handlebars, or set posts. No excessive play in the bottom bracket, headset, wheels, or suspension components. 

Brakes  

The wear on brake pads needs to be above the minimum line, but nothing gives you peace of mind like a brand new set of pads before an event like this. 

Chain and Cogs  

There is lots of climbing and placing pressure on a worn drive train can cause chains to drop off and gears to jump – and ruin your event. 

Tyres and Pressure  

Check for cuts or damage to the tyre casing and that the tread is still nice high – you’ll want the grip and puncture resistance fresh tyres give you. Before the start pump to them to the optimal pressure for the trail conditions on the day. If it’s wet you’ll want to run a lower pressure than you would in dry conditions to increase the tyres contact patch for better grip in mud. 

Seat Post  

Tightly fitted, with no damage.  

Handlebars  

Tight, with bungs inserted at the ends so water can’t get in. 

Final Checks

Ensure bottle cage/s are firmly screwed in, pump is secured with a velcro strap (or in your saddle bag / backpack) and the mandatory tool kit is securely fastened. 

Helmet 

Safety standards approved AS/NZS 2063:2020.  

A good fit. We recommend a helmet with rear bracing. Talk to Bike by Outside Sports to check your helmet fits properly. 

No cracks or de-lamination of the outer layer due to sun or heat damage.  

No damage to the straps or buckles. 

Optional Pre-race Safety and Reliability Assessment 

If you’re unsure about anything on your bike you can get a pre-race check up at Outside Sports bike stores in Wanaka and Queenstown. This check is optional and costs $20 but is well worth it for the peace of mind – and anything that needs work can be fixed in their workshop. You can book your assessment online here, noting you’re registered for the Motatapu (proof is required at the counter). 

Mandatory Gear List – Get a Free Emergency Bag

Every participant in the Motatapu must carry certain mandatory safety items. The full list is here. A Survival Bag is part of the mandatory gear list. Get a FREE Black Peak Emergency Bag when you spend $100 or more at Outside Sports and enter the Code MOTATAPU at checkout. Ensure you add the Survival Bag to your cart first. You’ll also receive free shipping on NZ orders over $100.

Need a bike? Get a Mondraker at Outside Sports 

Outside Sports are the Southern Lakes home of Mondraker which comes to us all the way from Spain. Trail conditions there are very similar to the South Island, so Mondraker bikes are a great fit for Kiwi riders and events like the Motatapu. They have Mondraker analogue and ebikes for sale, demo, and hire at their Queenstown and Wanaka bike shops.  Find out more here