Welcome back to my blog series about the most exciting mountain bike events in Europe! As announced in the last blog, this time I'm taking you to Innsbruck for Crankworx, which took place from June 12th to 16th, 2024. The Crankworx in Innsbruck is almost a tradition for me, as I've been there every year since 2018. It was very important for me to go there as it was the last time the event took place.
An early start into the biker week
My arrival in Innsbruck was early, and I was ready to start the week with a bang. The starting shot was given with the movie premiere of “Deathgrip 2” - an absolute highlight that kicked off the week before the actual event. And of course you could already meet pretty much everyone else there who was also going to Crankworx.
Besides the movie premiere, I used the time to visit Area 47 - a good opportunity to brush up on my tricks on the Dirt Jumper and prepare a little for Speed and Style. As my big bike season started very early this year with the Migratio Avium film project in March, I spent very little time on the Dirt Jumper and felt a little rusty.
Variable weather and unexpected changes
Unfortunately, the changeable weather in Innsbruck, as well as throughout Europe, ruined many plans. Almost all competitions were postponed, resulting in a slightly chaotic schedule. Despite the weather-related interruptions and changes, the mood among the riders and audience remained relatively positive. However, due to the strong winds, the laps of the Speed and Style were shortened.
After an hour of waiting, the “Round of 32” had to be canceled and so my final run also fell into the water. Despite this disappointment, I was able to settle for a qualifying position of 20th - my best Crankworx result so far!
In the middle of the action
During the festival, I took part in three exciting events: Whip-Off, Speed and Style and Dual Slalom. Each event offered its own challenges and adrenaline rushes. Especially the Whip-Off event was a lot of fun because the jump with the beautiful view is simply unique.
As always, the event itself was the most fun of the whole Crankworx week. Because the Step-Down jump was still a bit steep at the beginning and caused some anxiety among the riders, the lip was flattened a bit before the final. After that, it was perfect for riding.
In my opinion, there is no better jump for a Whipoff - which I have ridden so far - than the one in Innsbruck. The weather also played along really well at the Whipoff for once. Only on the way back to the main event area did it get quite chilly.
Downhill & Camping
This year, the downhill race did not take place as the course was closed and a UCI World Cup was being held in Val di Sole at the same time. As a result, many downhill riders who normally come to Innsbruck were not there. This gave us more space to camp and enabled us to secure a better place in the then “Team Pit Padio”.
Goodbye and outlook
Crankworx Innsbruck 2024 also offered a lot of fun and entertainment besides the competitions. The food stands were fantastic - my absolute favorite was the Alpenburrito. The nighttime trips into the city rounded off the experience. Innsbruck has a vibrant night scene that offers plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation after a long day of action.
It's a real shame that it was the last Crankworx event in Innsbruck and that the atmosphere was a bit dreary. The location is breathtaking with its view of the mountains and biking also seems to be alive in Innsbruck.
Overall, Crankworx Innsbruck 2024 was an incredible experience full of action and unforgettable moments. Stay tuned for more adventures and reports from the best mountain bike events in Europe!
Until next time!