How do feed zones work in cross-country racing?

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Accepted Answer

From the 2026 AusCycling Mountain Bike Technical Regulations, 3.01.03 and 3.14: Zones: State/Territory level events and above must have a designated, managed feed zone. It must be at least 40 metres long, on a slight incline or flat ground with a slow, clear entry and exit, and where possible on the right side of the course. The technical zone must be at least 20 metres long, ideally on the same side. Feeders: only one allocated feeder per rider (teams may also use one feeder per rider), and every feeder needs an allocated feed zone pass. Feeders stay behind the second line until their rider is within sight of the zone, and stay stationary for the whole feed. Handing over: items may only be passed by hand. Feeders may not throw items or place them in or on the rider's bicycle. Support personnel must not pour or spray liquid on riders, although a rider may be handed a bottle (lid optionally removed) to tip on themselves to cool down. Riders: may only travel forward in the feed and technical areas. Eyewear may only be exchanged in the technical zone. No technical equipment may be stored in the feed zone. Contact: contact between a mechanic or feeder and the rider is permitted only in the technical zone. Pit lane: if a pit lane is used, riders may not use it to gain an advantage, and may be disqualified for taking it for no valid reason. Short course: a feed or technical assistance zone is not allowed in XCC. Breaches: failure to comply may result in relegation or disqualification. Glass: no glass containers of any kind are permitted on or near the race course.