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Stage Two of the Shimano Volcanic Epic delivered a complete contrast to the alpine opener, with relentless rain transforming Taupō’s Craters MTB Park into a true test of skill, control and resilience.
From start to finish, riders faced wet, slick and demanding conditions across 46.9 kilometres of singletrack, with the weather and local knowledge both playing a decisive role in reshaping the General Classification. 
The response begins, Macky Franklin chasing on unfamiliar terrain.
With seeded starts rolling riders into the course, there was no easing into the stage. The rain set in early and never let up, turning what is typically a fast, flowing trail network into a technical and unforgiving challenge.
Endless ribbons of singletrack wound through pine forest and geothermal terrain, but in the wet, even the smallest mistake carried consequences. Riders were forced to balance speed with control, knowing that pushing too hard could quickly unravel their day.
New Zealand’s Fletcher Adams (NZL) has taken control of the Shimano Volcanic Epic after a standout performance in the conditions, winning Stage Two in 2:13:20 and moving into the overall lead.
After finishing just three seconds off the lead on Stage One, Adams capitalised on the wet conditions to turn the race in his favour, delivering a composed and controlled ride when it mattered most. Fletcher Adams Said it was a good day on the bike. I just rode my own pace from the start, and when a gap opened up, I committed to it. Once it grew, I focused on holding that effort and riding consistently for the rest of the stage. I’m looking forward to the next few days of racing. Rotorua should be a great stage, so I’ll take the same approach and see how it unfolds.”
Stage One winner Macky Franklin (USA) finished second on the stage in 2:16:43, while Rotorua local Stefan Gabel (NZL) placed third in 2:19:11, continuing his strong start to the week. Franklin acknowledged both the conditions and the challenge of racing on unfamiliar terrain.
Macky Franklin said That was such a fun day out there. It was super wet and pretty slippery towards the end, but still an amazing stage. I was riding with Fletcher early on, but when he made his move and I lost contact, it was tough to get back. He clearly knows these trails well, and I was still trying to find my way through sections. He rode really strong today. I lost time, but I’m looking forward to the next stages.”
In the women’s race, Syd Schulz (USA) backed up her dominant Stage One performance with another commanding ride, taking the Stage Two win in 2:43:37 and extending her lead in the General Classification.
Returning after finishing second overall in 2025, Schulz continues to show strong form, handling the wet conditions with composure and control. Japan’s Maiha Takemura finished second on the stage in 2:54:41, reinforcing her position as a key contender, while New Zealand’s Susannah Lynch placed third in 2:55:47, keeping herself within reach as the race progresses. Syd Schulz Said that was so much fun. I haven’t had the chance to race in the rain for a few years, so that was a real treat for us desert dwellers. I loved the new section towards the end alongside the creek — it was super twisty through the native trees and just really special. Overall, it was an amazing day. A lot of fun slipping and sliding out there with some great people.” 
Across the pairs categories, early leaders are beginning to assert control.
Team Spin Doctors continue to lead the men’s pairs after a strong performance in the conditions, while Team Pure Sports Nutrition maintain their position at the front of the women’s field. In the mixed category, Team Shell Pacific Nouvelle Calédonie remain in control, underlining the event’s growing international presence. With three stages still to come, the pairs competition is shaping into a battle of consistency, communication and control, where small mistakes can quickly turn into significant time losses. The E-bike General Classification is taking shape, with New Zealand’s Jason Musgrove leading after two stages, ahead of Philip Billings and Australia’s Michael Brown. Next up, the race heads to Rotorua for the Queen Stage, the toughest day of the week. With rain continuing to fall, the challenge is only set to intensify, as riders face a demanding test of endurance, skill and resilience. General Classification – (After Stage Two) Men’s Solo
Women’s Solo
Ebike Solo
Men’s Pairs
Women’s Pairs
Mixed Pairs
Full results can be found here Photo Credit: Clint Trahan |
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