OMM LITE/BIKE is an event I’ve participated in every year since the very first one. It’s a team navigation race where you read a map, efficiently visit checkpoints, and compete for points.
This year, it will be held on Saturday and Sunday, July 23–24, at Hakuba Iwatake.
Registration is already open. It always reaches capacity, so be sure to sign up early.
OMM LITE/BIKE HAKUBA,OTARI 2022
https://theomm.jp/omm-lite-bike-hakuba-otari-2022/
OMM BIKE is a gravel race
While there are more all-terrain bikes appearing like gravel bikes and all-road bikes, OMM BIKE is one of the events where their performance truly shines.
Checkpoints (CP) are set in a variety of places—in the mountains, along forest roads, in ski resort brush, on riverbeds, at shrines, or on field paths—and to reach them, you have to conquer all kinds of terrain, including paved roads, gravel, and sometimes even bushwhacking or hill climbs. It’s the perfect place to showcase the capabilities of an all-terrain bike.
What makes OMM interesting is that being fast isn't enough. You need to read the map to navigate without taking wrong turns and visit checkpoints efficiently, which requires a different set of skills than standard bike races.
The rules are based on mountain survival methods
OMM isn't just about map reading; the regulations are based on real mountain survival know-how. For example, competing as a team of two or more is required because you need a partner to help if someone runs into trouble, and the mandatory equipment list is also designed to help you handle emergencies in the mountains.
Since it covers all the necessary elements for mountain riding and hiking, the experience you gain at OMM will prove useful in your everyday rides and hikes as well.
LITE/BIKE is fun even for beginners
While it might sound demanding based on the description, in reality, many people participate at a leisurely pace since you're riding as a team. OMM has a more intense main event, but this LITE/BIKE category is set up with easier rules and a lower difficulty level. It’s fun even for beginners, so please give it a try!
If you’re interested but don’t have a riding buddy, feel free to consult with us at Circles. We have a staff team, and we might be able to match you with someone based on your level. Coordinating your team outfits can also make the experience even more fun!
Hakuba is a world-class mountain resort
Another joy of OMM in Hakuba is the beautiful nature of Hakuba and Otari, along with camping at night. It might not be as widely known in Japan, but Hakuba is a world-class mountain resort with an outstanding environment.
Beyond the mountain bike courses at Hakuba Iwatake, there are countless famous spots and breathtaking views to see. The organizers, who know the local area well, set up very clever checkpoints, and you'll ride paths that aren't even on Google Maps, allowing you to fully enjoy the charm of Hakuba.
Check out the #ommbike tag on Instagram as well.
Let's take proper precautions against COVID-19
We believe it’s important to continue with activities and economic life even during the pandemic. The OMM BIKE race involves very little close contact and carries low risk, but it is still important for everyone to take thorough precautions and not push themselves too hard. Please remember to be considerate of local residents and other participants so we can all enjoy the event safely.
Photo by Eri Tanaka , Welldone , Circles
OMM LITE/BIKE HAKUBA,OTARI 2021
Dates: July 23 (Sat), 24 (Sun), 2022 *July 22 (Fri) Pre-event
Location: Hakuba Iwatake Ski Resort, Hakuba Village/Otari Village, Nagano Prefecture
Website: https://theomm.jp/omm-lite-bike-hakuba-otari-2022/