Hattie Harnden of AON Racing has become the first elite rider to win a UCI Downhill Mountain Bike World Series race on a belt-driven bike, claiming the €100,000 Gates Belted Purse in Les Gets, France.

Photo: Gates

The race was held in Les Gets, Haute-Savoie, France, where Harnden raced a Gamux bike equipped with a Gates Belt Drive system. Gates said 20 riders competing in the event were equipped with its Belt Drive system.

Gates introduced the €100,000 Belted Purse in 2024 as a prize for the first elite rider to win a UCI Mountain Bike Downhill race on a Gates belt-driven bike. The prize remained unclaimed through the 2025 season before Harnden claimed it at Les Gets in 2026.

Harnden said the Gates Belt Drive delivered smooth, consistent performance without dropped chains or skipped gears, allowing her to focus completely on her run.

Photo: Gates

Gates General Manager of Mobility Chris Sugai credited the achievement to collaboration among riders, mechanics, engineers and support crews. He also thanked Gamux for developing a frame for the Gates Belt Drive system.

The Les Gets victory marks the first elite UCI Downhill Mountain Bike World Series win for a belt-driven bike, with Harnden claiming the €100,000 Gates Belted Purse.

Photo: Gates