A MOUNTAIN bike event described as the “toughest downhill race in the world” is returning to the hills near Machynlleth this year.

The Red Bull Hardline is set to take place in Dinas Mawddwy on September 15 on a course designed by four times national champion Dan Atherton featuring a 55ft gap jump.

Organisers say 20 of the most progressive riders have been invited to come together to tackle the challenging race this year.

Llanfyllin based rider Kaos Seagrave finished seventh in last year’s event.

The 2017 edition of the event was plagued by difficult, rainy conditions which saw the start line moved further down the course for safety reasons as slippery, steep rocks, slipping pedals, rain and fog all added to the difficulty levels for the riders.

Despite the difficult ride Craig Evans managed to secure the title of 2017 Red Bull Hardline Champion, with 2016 champion Bernard Kerr finishing two seconds behind in second place.

A spokesperson for the event said: “The 2018 race has been described as “riders vs the course” and is set to be the most competitive year yet with even more big name riders to be announced later in the year.

“The star of the show is the road gap. It’s 26ft high and rider trajectory is the height of four double-decker buses. Riders have to come off the gap at full speed to clear the road and land heavily into a big berm which transfers them back into the trees.”

To purchase spectator tickets visit https://www.redbull.com/gb-en/events/hardline