The 5th race of the iXS European Downhill Cup 2025 is the ultimate challenge for every downhill racer. The LES ORRES Bike Park in the Hautes-Alpes region is recognised as a national and European reference point for downhill racing. A racetrack on which the French downhill elite compete for the best time.

Bike park Les Orres

Since its opening in 2004, the LES ORRES bike park in the Hautes-Alpes region has established itself as one of the best bike parks in the French Alps. The bike park offers 13 downhill trails and 3 enduro trails with a total of almost 30 kilometres of marked trails for all skill levels, from beginners to experts and professionals.

The Place

Nestled in a breathtaking natural landscape, Les Orres attracts numerous mountain bike fans every year thanks to the variety and quality of its infrastructure. The mountain resort is located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Situated at an altitude of between 1,550 and 2,720 metres, the resort is known for its ski slopes, numerous summer activities and breathtaking nature. In the valley, the largest reservoir in Europe awaits all water lovers, inviting them to enjoy numerous water activities.

The Track

The ‘Black Patrol’ racetrack stands out due to its extreme technical demands. This track, categorised as an elite DH track, is reserved for the most experienced mountain bikers and represents a real challenge for experienced riders. The ‘Black Patrol’ starts at an altitude of 2,235 metres and ends at 1,670 metres. It has an impressive difference in altitude of 565 metres. Its challenging layout combines berms, forest sections, many stone fields and spectacular jumps.

French Cup and National Championship

Since its creation, the Bike Park LES ORRES has hosted numerous prestigious events, and the « Black Patrol » has been the stage for high-level competitions. In 2022, it served as the venue for the French Downhill Mountain Bike Championships, bringing together the country's best riders. In 2024, it was chosen to host the final of the French Downhill Mountain Bike Cup, further cementing its reputation as a must-ride track on the French and international scene.
The Bike Park LES ORRES, with its iconic trail and commitment to organizing major competitions, has become a premier destination for mountain biking enthusiasts, whether they are competitors or spectators.

Real Time 'Black Patrol'

Local Antoine Vidal testing the track for the French National Championships in 2022.

The Times

Antoine Vidal from the Commencal Les Orres Bike Park team took the 2022 French championship title with a time of 3:55.03. He was followed by Loic Bruni (3:55.04) and Amaury Pierron (3:56.27). But it was Antoine Pierron who set the current best time of 3:52.23 at the final of the 2024 French Downhill Mountain Bike Cup.
In the women's category, Mélanie Chappaz, winner of EDC#4 Les Deux Alpes 2024, currently holds the best time with a 4:36.69. This secured her victory in the French Cup 2024.
These are all ideal conditions for one of the most exciting and best races of the season. And with the reputation of the LES ORRES bike park, perhaps one or two World Cup riders will also make an appearance.

À bientôt aux Les Orres!

The race in France will be the season highlight. Registration opens May 27 at 5 pm. Here you find more information about the race in Les Orres.