Cyclo-cross sportives are gaining in popularity at the moment, taking ‘cross bikes away from the school playing fields were races are normally held out into the wilds of the UK countryside for an all-day epic. That’s great news for those of us who love riding cyclo-cross bikes, but don’t particularly have much interest in racing for an hour.

The latest is the KinesisUK Hell of the West Cyclo-X, which heads to Dartmoor, Devon on 1 July. Don’t be put off if you’re thinking “but I don’t have a cyclo-cross bike!” as it’s open to mountain bikes as well, regardless of wheel size. 26, 29 or 650b, they’re all welcome.

“It’s a ‘run what you brung’ 100km epic that should see the fittest duelling it out for a chance to win a Kinesis Pro 6 frameset and the rest of us taking in a challenge that will be etched on our brains for a lifetime,” shouts the press release.

Event organiser SpikePR’s Simon Young said: “We’ve got a truly memorable course that is not only scenic, but varied and challenging. If you want a fast time you’ll have to really work hard for it!.” Backed up with with some great prizes for entrants and finishers alike it’s shaping up to become the new classic Dartmoor event.”

Rory Hitchens of KinesisUK is excited about the partnership between Kinesis and the event, adding: “KinesisUK bikes love to ‘ride it all’ and the Hell of the West will be a true test of man and machine. We love mixing it up and bringing a better ride experience in the process. Our UK designed Crosslight range of frames and bikes deliver on all levels. The Pro6 model introduced last winter is our first disc specific frameset with race pedigree geometry yet practical features. We think it makes the perfect bike for a Cyclo Cross Sportive. Kinesis UK and Hell of the West…a match made in heaven!”

The Hell of the West is also supported by the National Trust, the scenic surroundings of Parke Estate make a natural gateway to Dartmoor. Jim Pascoe from the National Trust said: “Cycling is a key part of the Trust’s ambition to get people outdoors and closer to nature. There’s no better way to show that Dartmoor is a great place to get off the beaten track on a bike than by supporting the Hell of the West.”

In-flight refreshment will be provided by Accelerade before riders return to the Hell of the West post-ride lounge and enjoy a glass of Dartmoor Ale. Tim McCord from Dartmoor Brewery recognises the cyclists’ need for quality ale, “Dartmoor brewery is delighted to be a sponsor of this inaugural event – that not only encourages visitors to the beautiful countryside of Dartmoor but also promotes a healthy outdoor lifestyle (and a thirst!).”

Coaching specialists Elite Velo will also be on hand to help riders through the day as well as offering coaching and preparation to all riders that have signed up for the event with a monthly email, “Elite Velo is all about releasing the rider’s potential, our team will be ensuring everyone gets the most out of their day” said Elite Velo’s Roy Wyle-Smith.

Enter now at www.hellofthewest.co.uk