Tips for photographing a moutain bike event (mountain mayhem)?

[mhuk]

Some friends of mine are taking part in a 24hour mountain bike race this weekend (Mountain Mayhem).

I've not taken photos at an event like this before. Can someone give me any tips - speed, iso, apertyre, lighting etc. Is off camera flash useful (or a flash on a camera mounted L-bracket)? And also, are there any types of photos that are more interesting than others.

Sorry if this is an oft-asked question; if so please point me to the relevant thread.

Many thanks :)

[Craikeybaby]

Have you seen the Manx Downhill shots in the sports section? Or the XC shots, both posted over the last few days, they are a good starting place for inspiration!

[mhuk]

Cheers.

The "Some MTB shots from Sunday's race" thread had some good shots- a shot of the lights and their placement would be useful :)