Thousands of people from all over the world will arrive in Fort William this weekend for one of the most popular events in the sporting calendar.
The downhill action at the UCI Fort William Mountain Bike World Cup starts tomorrow, but fans have been warned that roads to the town will be very busy and to take extra care.
The only UK-leg on the World Cup circuit will see the fastest downhill riders go head-to-head against the clock down the slopes of Aonach Mor.
Peter MacFarlane, managing director at Nevis Range, said: “This is a fantastic family-friendly event and one of the busiest weekends of the summer providing a massive economic boost to the Lochaber tourism sector.
“But we’d like to remind fans travelling to Fort William on Saturday and Sunday that the roads will be very busy. While there is no spectator car parking onsite, there is a free park and ride service in operation from Blar Mor. We’ll also be reopening the downhill track for enthusiasts to put their skills to the test after the event.”
Local rider, Greg Williamson from Inverness, along with Danny Hart from Teesside, will be hoping to secure their first ever Fort William title in the men’s downhill against a host of current and former champions, including last year’s winner, Greg Minnaar from South Africa.
Alongside the downhill action, Dougie Lampkin, who won the Scottish Six Day Trial for the 11th time in Fort William earlier this month, will be bringing a spectacular show – with another aspect of two-wheel handling skills – to the finish arena.