CHAQUIÑAN

A LIFETIME ADVENTURE IN ECUADOR

Unleashing the Spirit of Adventure with Nico Vink and William Robert

If you're a thrill-seeker with a passion for mountain biking, brace yourself for an epic tale of adventure, raw nature, and unadulterated freedom. Our latest video "EL CHAQUINAN" has already captured the hearts of over 250K viewers, and now, we bring you the story behind the ride that redefined the essence of mountain biking.

Rediscovering the Roots: The Story of El Chaquinan

In the heart of Ecuador lies a trail steeped in history and tradition. Known to the Quechua tribes as "El Chaquinan," this path once served as the vital link between remote villages, cutting through tropical jungles and volcanic landscapes. Today, it stands as a symbol of pure mountain biking freedom, a place where riders like Nico Vink and William Robert reconnect with the soul of the sport.

The Journey Begins: Quito to GuaGua Pichincha

Nico Vink, a seasoned racer and trail builder, teamed up with his French mate William Robert, fresh off his first participation in the Red Bull Rampage. With local trail builder Manuel Combo from Cotopaxi Bike Park as their guide, the adventure kicked off in Quito. Joined by filmmaker Pierre Henni and photographer Jesus Gonzales, the multicultural crew set the stage for an unforgettable journey.

Their first challenge? The ascent of GuaGua Pichincha, a 4700m volcano east of Quito. Battling altitude sickness, harsh weather, and treacherous terrain, the crew experienced the full spectrum of emotions. The wild beauty of this untouched freeride zone offered fresh trails, rocky ridges, and the thrill of the unknown.

A Community Like No Other: Cotopaxi Bike Park

Between volcano missions, the crew found solace and camaraderie at Cotopaxi Bike Park. Built by Manu and his brother, this spot has become a hub for local riders, offering perfect dirt and incredible flow. Nico and William spent their downtime here, shredding trails with locals, fueling up on coconut milk, and soaking in the pure joy of riding.

Conquering Cotopaxi: The Ultimate Test

The climax of the adventure was the ascent of Cotopaxi, one of the world’s most beautiful active volcanoes. Standing at a staggering 5300m, the climb was a grueling test of endurance and willpower. Battling the elements and their own physical limits, Nico and William pushed through pain and doubt, rewarded with breathtaking views and a deep sense of achievement.

The descent was nothing short of legendary. A 1500m ride down Cotopaxi offered limitless freeride options—playful spines, natural kickers, flowy ridges, and wide-open playgrounds. The pinnacle moment? Cruising down during the golden hour, accompanied by wild horses running alongside. It was a scene straight out of a dream, a memory etched forever in their minds.

The Soul of Mountain Biking

"EL CHAQUINAN" is more than just a video—it's a celebration of mountain biking's true spirit. It's about reconnecting with nature, pushing boundaries, and sharing unforgettable experiences with friends. Nico Vink and William Robert's journey through Ecuador is a testament to the raw beauty and boundless possibilities of our planet.