On Day Six of the Commonwealth Games 2014, many of the Home Nations medal hopefuls will be competing at the mountain biking event at Cathkin Braes. And with Scotland rated as a leader in mountain biking, all eyes will be on the Scottish cross-country riding competitors. The Glasgow 2014 mountain biking names to look out for are Lee Craigie and Kerry MacPhee in the women’s races and Rob Wardell, Gareth Montgomerie and Dave Henderson in the men’s races. English riders include Annie Last, the 23-year-old English Olympian, as well as Liam Killeen and Paul Oldham, to name a few. The Cathkin Braes Mountain Bike Trails are an exciting new addition to Glasgow’s sporting landscape. The venue makes the most of the varied terrain to provide a challenging cross-country course for riders. Set against a backdrop of ancient woodland, steep slopes and wide open spaces, the trails also offer a spectacular panorama of the city beyond. The race, which sees competitors completing laps in a set time, is sure to be filled with thrills and spills – and will be one of the most action-packed sports so far in Glasgow 2014.

Inspired to ride?

Many spectators are talking about how much the Glasgow 2014 events are inspiring them to give the sports a go. Mountain biking is likely to be a huge motivator for anyone who has left their mountain bike languishing in the shed or who simply fancies doing a bit more riding. And where better than Scotland to go for an epic cross-country mountain biking trip? Here we suggest five great routes that are perfect for mountain bikers.

Top 5 Scottish mountain biking routes

The West Highland Way is a fantastic waymarked route to walk, and also an increasingly popular mountain biking adventure. Some people aim to ride the 96 miles from Milngavie to Fort William in just one day, while others take it at a more leisurely pace and aim for up to four days. This is a classic Scottish trail route and one to tick off your mountain biking bucket list, although it is very challenging in places. The Great Glen is another amazing long-distance trail in Scotland. This route, from Fort William to Inverness, follows the geographical fault line that splits Scotland in two and includes a stunning section alongside iconic Loch Ness. From relaxing canalside riding to flying along singletrack , the Great Glen Cycleway is a fabulous way to spend a couple of days. The Scottish Coast to Coast route is another must-ride trip. The route starts in Fort William in the Highlands and finishes in Montrose on the east coast after 200 miles of amazing riding. You’ll enjoy singletrack, fantastic descents and some of the best off-road riding you’ll ever come across. Sligachan Circuit is another classic off-road cycling route in Scotland. The circuit is challenging and remote but hugely rewarding if you have the skills, experience and energy. The route is almost 28 miles and starts and finishes at Sligachan on the beautiful Island of Skye. Another epic and challenging Scottish mountain biking route is the Cape Wrath Trail. Also a popular walking trail among serious hikers this route heads from Fort William to Cape Wrath, the most northwesterly point in mainland Scotland and over 250 miles. It is a rough and demanding long-distance cycling route but hugely rewarding in terms of scenery and atmosphere. But, for now, why not take in some of the fantastic riding at Glasgow 2014. #glasgow 2014 #bringiton