The following rules are constantly being reviewed and updated in the lead up to the event.
General Rules
Rules applying to all events
- No garbage policy: please don’t litter out on the track. We will penalise you if we see you do it.
- No cheating policy: you must follow the track as set out by the event director, even if bunting has been removed, broken or you unintentionally leave the trail. The track will be clearly marked with arrows, bunting tape, flags and signs. If we see you cheating we will penalise you.
- Rider down procedure – probably the most important rule of all: if you come to an accident out on the track you MUST stop and make sure the rider is ok. If he/she is not, stay with him/her and send the next rider straight back to the event centre to let us know what happened. If you lose time while helping an injured rider we will adjust your lap time at the end of the race.
- If a race is deemed unsafe because of storm, rain, fire etc we will pause it, assess the situation and if possible restart it again later.
- Passing: being friendly out on the track goes a long way. Let the rider you are about to pass know when and on which side. E.g. “rider coming up, passing on your right when you are ready”. Then say thanks and keep on smashing it. If you are riding in a train let the rider in front know how many people will pass him/her. If you are being passed find the next best place to move to the side and let them pass.
- Race numbers must be displayed on the handlebars of the bicycle. The number plate must be readable, so it must be fastened as flat as possible. Altering, cutting or placing of unauthorised sponsors’ logos on numbers is not permitted. You can keep your number plate as a memento of your race.
- Riders must register before they will be allowed to practice.
- All riders must wear a bike helmet that has been authorised by Australian Standards (or approved international standard) at all times when riding and racing. You will be required to wear fully enclosed foot wear and gloves are recommended.
- You must be present or represented at the ceremony at the end of the race to claim your trophy.
- Minimum ages are indicated on each events category table – exceptions are possible but need to be approved by the race director.
- All riders must agree to a Race Waiver when they sign up online or at the race on-site
- Individual event rules may be updated prior to the commencement of that event. Changes will be communicated in rider briefings sent to athletes prior to starting.
- It is the athletes responsibility to read and understand all rules applicable to their events, prior to starting.
Thule Marathon
Thule Marathon rules
The following rules are specific to this event and are in addition to our General Event Rules which can be seen here
- Race numbers must be displayed on the handlebars. Race plates contain the timing chip and must not be cut or folded to ensure the timing chip works.
- The riders must complete the amount of laps they have signed up for or results will be a DNF.
- Riders who withdraw are asked to notify the event team of their name and plate number as soon as possible.
Cut off time:
- Riders must start the last lap by 12:30pm.
- Riders failing to start the last lap by this cut off will receive a DNF.
Neutral Roll Out:
- Whilst on public roads all riders must follow NSW road rules, and the instructions of police, race officials and marshals.
- During the neutral roll out and whilst on the closed Glenella Rd, riders must not cross the centre line of the road regardless of line marking.
- During the neutral roll out riders must maintain ~20km/hr pace set by the police. Stragglers may be removed from the course by the sag wagon
Feed Tech Zone
- A feed/tech zone will be available on Ridge Rd after the lap start/finish.
- Outside assistance may only be provided in the feed/tech zone.
- A neutral feed station at approximately 15km into the lap will be provided with water, PURE sports Electrolyte Hydration and fruit.
- Riders are encouraged/permitted to provide support to other riders out on track
Once finished riders are asked to ride back to the Sea Otter Australia Event Hub.
Smith Optics Enduro
Smith Optics Enduro rules
The following rules are specific to this event and are in addition to our General Event Rules which can be seen here
The Smith Optics Enduro, which is the 2-day format generally operates under the rules of AusCycling and UCI :
General Format and Structure
- Duration: 2 days of racing.
- Special Stages (Timed Stages): 5 special stages must be completed each day (a total of 10 stages over the two days for the full “10 Stage, 2 Day Epic” event).
- Total Time: The winner is the rider with the lowest cumulative time from all 10 Special Stages.
- Mandatory Order: Stages must be completed in sequential order as set out by the race organiser (as is standard for this competitive “Enduro” format, contrasting with “Superflow”).
Start Times and Timing
- Enforced Start Times: Riders will be allocated a specific start time for each day, and for each stage of the day. Riders must stick to the posted schedule for liaisons and stage starts to avoid penalties or disqualification.
- Stage Start: Riders should present to the race official at the start of each stage at least 1min prior to their posted start time. The rider must start the stage on the instruction of the start marshal who will provide a brief countdown (“5,4,3,2,1, Go”).
- Penalties: Riders who fail to report to the race official before their scheduled start time will receive a penalty time based on the below scale:
| Lateness | Penalty |
| Less than 5 minute | 60sec |
| 5 min to 15 minutes | 5 minutes |
| Greater than 15min | Disqualification |
- Riders who are late to a stage must make it to the next stage by their scheduled start time for that stage or receive another penalty
On-Course Regulations
- Self-Powered: The entire course, including liaison and special stages, must be completed under the rider’s and bike’s own power. No shuttling or towing is permitted during the event.
- Course Marking: The course will be clearly marked with arrows, bunting tape, flags, and signs.
- No Shortcutting: Riders must not take shortcuts or ride outside the marked course (bunting). If a rider leaves the track, they must re-enter at the same point before continuing. Penalties (time or disqualification) apply for shortcutting.
- Passing: Be courteous. A faster rider should politely call out, e.g., “rider when ready” or “passing on your [side].” The slower rider must move aside safely as soon as possible. Unsafe passing can lead to disqualification.
- Assistance:
- External Assistance is NOT permitted on race or liaison stages (e.g., getting a lift or having a mechanic outside of designated zones).
- Rider-to-Rider assistance is encouraged (e.g., help with mechanical issues or first aid).
- Helping Injured Riders: If a rider stops to help an injured competitor, they should stay with the injured rider until help arrives. Once the injured rider receives assistance the helping rider must pass the finish beacon of the current stage, notify the marshal, and they will be granted a re-run of the stage.
- Neutral Hydration Station: One Neutral Hydration Station will be provided on the course. This is the only official on-course resupply point. Riders must be self-sufficient otherwise and carry enough food and water for the full course.
Equipment and Safety (Mandatory)
- Helmet: A helmet (approved by Australian Standards or an international equivalent) must be worn at all times while riding a bicycle.
- Full-Face Helmet (fixed or detachable chin piece) is mandatory for all Special/Timed Stages.
- Other Protective Gear:
- Knee Pads must be worn on all Special Stages (knees must be covered).
- Gloves are recommended for all riders, and mandatory for U17 and younger categories.
- Elbow Pads are mandatory for U17 and younger categories.
- Bikes: Only one bike can be used for the entire event. The frame, fork, and wheel rims cannot be changed. The bike must be in perfect, safe working order. Repairs are allowed during the event, but no extra time is granted.
- Race Plate: Race numbers must be displayed on the handlebars. Race plates contain the timing chip and must not be cut or folded to ensure the timing chip works.
Fox Superflow
Fox Superflow rules
The following rules are specific to this event and are in addition to our General Event Rules which can be seen here
- Always respect other riders no matter their skill, speed, age or gender
- If you leave the track you must return to the same point before continuing your run
- No shortcutting or “local lines” outside the bunted track
- No shuttling or towing at anytime during the event
- All bikes and rider safety equipment must comply with the Australian Standards; you can race the Superflow® with any approved helmet and we encourage protection gear but it is not compulsory in this race format.
- eBikes must be unmodified and comply with current Australian standards. Read more about our eBike policy here
- All riders must agree to a Race Waiver when they sign up online or at the race on-site
- All riders must follow the instructions of the starters. Riders must start where indicated and may not have a “run in”.
- Riders may ask for extra gaps to avoid catching the rider in front or being caught by the rider behind.
- Runs are only times from 8.30am and you must start your final run by 2:00pm
Muc-OFF Ottercross
Ottercross Rules
The following rules are specific to this event and are in addition to our General Event Rules which can be seen here
The official regulations for Sea Otter Australia Muc Off Ottercross event is based on Australian national (AusCycling) and international (UCI) standards, adapted for local grading.
| Rule Category | A Grade (Elite/Fastest) | B Grade (Intermediate) | C Grade, Juniors and Sub Juniors (Beginner/Novice) |
| Tire Width (Max Measured) | 33 mm | 42 mm | No Restriction |
| Bike Restriction | Drop Handlebars Required. Must be a Cyclocross or Gravel bike. | Drop Handlebars Recommended. Mountain bikes are permitted. | No Restriction (Any safe bicycle, e.g., Mountain Bike, Gravel, Cyclocross, Road with knobbies). |
| Race Length | 50 minutes (Plus one lap) | 40minutes (Plus one lap) | 30 minutes (Plus one lap) |
| Tech Zone (Pits) | Mandatory use for technical assistance and bike changes. A spare bike is permitted. | Mandatory use for technical assistance. Riders must run to the pit if a mechanical renders the bike unrideable. A spare bike permitted. | Recommended use for technical assistance. Spares can be kept in the pit, but riders may do self-supported repairs outside the pit area if not obstructing the course. |
Key Rule Details Explained:
Tire Width
- A Grade: Enforces the UCI standard of maximum 33 mm measured width.
- B Grade: Uses a wider limit 42mm to accommodate stock gravel bikes.
- C Grade, Junior and Sub Juniors: No restriction to maximize accessibility. Ride what you have.
Bike Restrictions
- A Grade: Strictly drop-bar cyclocross or gravel bikes to maintain the traditional CX spirit and UCI standard.
- B Grade: Relaxed to allow Mountain Bikes, as is common in Australian B-Grade CX, but drop bars are encouraged.
- C Grade, Juniors and Sub Juniors: The “run what you brung” spirit applies. Any safe bicycle is allowed, including mountain bikes, flat-bar gravel bikes, and older road bikes with suitable tires.
The Pits
- The Technical Zone (or Pit) is the only place on the course where external technical assistance (hand-ups, tools, spare parts, bike changes) is permitted. Self-sufficiency is required everywhere else.
- Two-Sided Pit: A double-entry/exit pit will be provided. At approximately 1.2km course length and the 2km mark of a 2.5km lap.
- Technical assistance (including bike changes, wheels, parts, and tools) may ONLY be given to a rider within the confines of the designated Technical Zone.
- No assistance from non-competitors is allowed anywhere else on the course. Riders must be self-sufficient outside of the Pit.
- Riders in A and B Grade may stage one spare bike in the Pit.
- Riders in C Grade may stage one spare bike in the Pit, or use a Mountain Bike as their primary.
- If a bicycle suffers a mechanical failure that renders it unrideable outside of the Technical Zone, the rider must carry or run with the bicycle to the Pit to receive assistance.
- Feeding (hand-ups) are NOT permitted outside of the Technical Zone. Any gel wrappers or bottles must be carried by the rider and disposed of responsibly.
- Beer hand-ups will be ignored in accordance with the spirit of Ottercross.
Shimano XC Crit
Shimano XC Crit Rules
Please see our general rules page here
Additional XC Crit focused rule will be added soon
Maxxis Gravel
Maxxis Effervelo Rules
The following rules are specific to this event and are in addition to our General Event Rules which can be seen here
- No plate no ride
- Always respect other riders no matter their skill, speed, age or gender
- Whilst this is a ride, all riders are asked to stay on the designated course at all times.
- Riders who start and subsequently withdraw are asked to notify the event team of their name and plate number as soon as possible.
- Riders are responsible to maintain their own bikes outside of our dedicated support zones. Support from other riders is encouraged at all times.
- Whilst on public roads all riders must follow dedicated NSW road rules.
The above rules are currently being reviewed and may change prior to the event.
Bosch e Otter MX
Bosch EOtter MX Rules
The following rules are specific to this event and are in addition to our General Event Rules which can be seen here
- eBikes must be unmodified and comply with current Australian standards. Read more about our eBike policy here
- Always respect other riders no matter their skill, speed, age or gender
- Riders should gather in the staging area 15 minutes before scheduled start to be lined up in their Moto order.
- Riders will be called to the start line 1 min before the start of their Moto.
- A new Moto won’t start until the results have been completed for the previous Moto.
- The finish order will be determined by the Finish Commissaire (Finish). A judge panel may assist the Finish.
- Racing incidents will be adjudicated by the Chief Commissaire (Chief). The Chief may delegate oversight of sections of the track where their visibility is obscured to another judge. The Chief’s decisions are final.
- Riders who think they have been impeded during racing must continue to race and finish. A protest can be raised after the race to the Finish Commissaire.
- Riders should remain in the staging pens after their motos to be ready for reseeding.
- A tie on the finish line of a moto will result in the same place given to both riders. A tie for 1st place in the final will result in a rerun of the final.
- Penalties will be marked on the race plate of the rider by the Finish.
- Riders who break the rules but it does not impact the results of the Moto will receive a Warning.
- A rider who receives a second “Warning” at the same moto, will receive a Relegation regardless of the result of the moto. A third warning will result in Disqualification.
- A rider who receives two Relegations will be Disqualified.
- Once disqualified, a rider will not compete in subsequent Motos or Finals.
Penalties
- Riders will be marshalled 15min before the start of Motos then called to the start grid at least 1 min before race start. Penalty DNS
- Riders must start with 1 foot on the ground. A foot on a pedal must have the pedal down (i.e. at the bottom of the pedal stroke). Riders may start with both feet on the ground. Max Penalty Rel
- Riders will be given a 30sec warning and 15sec warning and the start may be anytime after the 15sec warning, marked by a whistle. Riders must not move forward before the whistle. Max Penalty Rel
- Riders must stay within their marked start lane. Start lanes will be marked for at least 5 meters. Max Penalty Rel
- A rider must not deliberately impede a rider in front of them. Max Penalty Rel
- A rider must not deliberately force another rider off the course. Max Penalty Rel
- Where there are multiple lines around features, riders will be required to merge. The rider with their handle bars in front regardless of which line they took will have the right of way when merging. Max Penalty Rel
DNS – Did Not Start
Rel – Relegation
Academy Schools Champs
Sea Otter Schools Championships rules
The following rules are specific to this event and are in addition to our General Event Rules which can be seen here
- No race plate no race
- You ride up to the starts – this time does not count. Shuttling or towing is not allowed.
- You race down on a pre-determined track. Riders are required to stay on the designated marked track. No short cutting the track even if it is not bunted – this time does count.
- Passing: being friendly out on the track goes a long way. Let the rider you are about to pass know when and on which side. E.g. “rider coming up, passing on your right when you are ready”. Then say thanks and keep on smashing it. If you are being passed find the next best place to move to the side and let them pass.
- If a race is deemed unsafe because of storm, rain, fire etc we will pause it, assess the situation and if possible restart it again when safe.
- Riders must register before they will be allowed to practice.
- Race numbers must be displayed on the handlebars of the bicycle. The number plate must be readable, so it must be fastened as flat as possible. Altering, cutting or placing of unauthorised sponsors’ logos on numbers can result in a penalty. You can keep your number plate as a memento of your race.
- All riders must wear a bike helmet that has been authorised by Australian Standards (or approved international standard) at all times when riding and racing. You will be required to wear fully enclosed foot wear and gloves are recommended.
- Riders do not have to be a member of a cycling association or club to be allowed to race.
- Riders are covered under Aus Cycling event insurance. No gao obtain a copy of the COC please email info@seaotter.au
- Riders are required to provide assistance to injured riders by staying with the injured rider until assistance arrives and notifying the next rider to inform the next track official. Riders providing assistance will be permitted to have a rerun even if the allocated time has elapsed.
- Riders must be registered in their own name and not substitute for other riders without the prior consent of the race organiser.
- Riders must not permit another rider to ride their bike with the numberplate attached. If sharing a bike you must remove the numberplate.
- Riders must only use one bike for racing. If a bike replacement is required due to mechanical issues approval must be sought from the Race Director.
- E-bikes are not permitted other than for support riders & roving marshals. All E-bikes used during the event (including practice) must comply with our E-bikes Policy.
Flipper Kids Race
The following rules are specific to this event and are in addition to our General Event Rules which can be seen here
We are currently reviewing event rules and they will be updated here shortly
Freestyle
The following rules are specific to this event and are in addition to our General Event Rules which can be seen here
We are currently reviewing event rules and they will be updated here shortly