More riding spots: Frauenfeld, Switzerland. By BdJ

Apr 21, 2023

Written by Bart de Jong

Read 1236 times

While in Switzerland for the MXGP we also managed to find a Velosolutions pump track in the town the Grand Prix was held. This one was actually huge and had two sections; one for beginners and a longer one for more advanced users. The fence around it defined the spot and keeps lunatics in cars or other large vehicles out of the pump track. Sounds strange, but we've seen photos.....

Once again the Velosolutions pump track was well designed with no flat sections or misplaced turns. The triple turn was cool as well as you were leaning into that turn three times and generated speed at the same time to jump the three doubles right after it.

Doing multiple laps was exhausting. Could also have to do something that this was the 4th spot we rode that day. Frauenfeld had this one built for the kids in 2018 and it's still in prime condition and well used. The smaller beginner park was full of inline skates and little ones on scooters where the bigger section had some BMX activity and the older scooter kids. At some point some British MX-ers took their hired e-scooters to the track and did a few laps. Anyway, fun was had by all.

As with anything pump track designs keep evolving. There is no standard and there shouldn't be. Being creative in design will keep the interest going and we've seen some great new designs with wallrides, bowls, jump lines etc. in the pump tracks. We are seeing little drainage putholes being added, water fountains in place and lights being added for the winter days. For bike control, pump tracks are great. For fitness also. Main thing is that the designs need to be on point. With different ones being built worldwide, give them a shot when you're in a new place. Always good fun, at least for a little session.

BdJ