Netro by MTB from Mongrando: route, difficulty and what to wear
The Netro loop starts from Mongrando, runs through the Elvo valley and measures 36.9 km with 760 m of elevation gain. The route sheet lists medium technical difficulty and medium physical effort. It is therefore a ride for those who already have some hill outings in their legs, not a first approach to MTB. One detail changes both the pace and what you wear: much of the positive elevation comes right away.
Where to start
Open the starting point pin on Google Maps: Mongrando (45.524918614, 8.006824320)
Route map
The line follows the GPX track published by the indicated source. Use it to orient yourself, but always check signage, conditions and notices before setting out.
We’ll send you links to this route’s official GPX track and its starting points.
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Highlights along the route
Route sheet
- Length: 36.9 km
- Elevation gain: 760 m
- Maximum elevation: 853 m (calculated from the GPX track)
- Loop route: yes
Before you set off, check the day's forecast, the updated trail conditions and any official notices. With a climb so close to the start, the most common mistake is dressing too warmly. Shortly after you are soaked under a layer you don't need.
To see bike jerseys, shorts and accessories while you read, open the cycling selection of Ski Sises.
What to expect from the Netro loop
The indicated start is the Polivalente hall in Mongrando, with convenient parking. From there take Via dei Giovani up to the fork. Then reach the provincial road SP500, turn left and follow it to the castle in the hamlet of Croceserra.
You stay on the provincial road for 5.5 km, until just past the square in Zubiena. This stretch matters when you choose your clothing too. On the road you need visibility and garments that don't flap, concerns that matter less on a forest trail.
Why the first section sets the pace
The ride is a loop and tackles much of the positive elevation from the outset. Don't count on a long warm-up: start more gently than your instinct suggests. Those who push on the first climb usually notice it in the second half.
Temperature follows the same pattern. You warm up while you are still near the car park. Later, when the gradient eases and the road descends, the sweat you have built up cools on your skin. Start with a touch of chill and keep the layer for the descent in your backpack.
Medium level: for those who adapt
A medium technical difficulty calls for some bike handling as well as stamina. Medium physical effort, spread over 36.9 km and 760 m of climbing, assumes you are used to being in the saddle for a few hours. If you mostly ride in town or on flat cycle paths today, build up to it with a few shorter hill loops first.
For the surface and suitable bike type, consult the ATL Terre dell'Alto Piemonte route sheet and the GPX track published by the same body. If you load it onto your GPS, you may see length and elevation slightly different from the sheet. This often happens with recorded tracks.
Before getting in the saddle: what to check
The sheet lists winter, spring, late spring/summer and autumn as seasons. Precisely because on paper the ride works all year, the morning checks decide whether you go out. An article cannot tell you what state the road will be in today.
- Same-day weather update, also checking wind and temperatures on the upper part of the route.
- Trail conditions and official notices on works, diversions or closures, from ATL and the local authorities.
- Hours of daylight: from November to February the days get shorter, so plan your return with a margin.
- Brakes, tyre pressure, a spare inner tube and tools for minor repairs.
- Water and food brought from home, without assuming you will find somewhere to refuel.
On the SP500, follow the traffic code and make your bike visible even in daylight. Clothing with reflective details helps you be noticed, but it does not make a stretch of road safe.
How to dress for a ride that climbs right away
You shouldn't be warm in the car park. You need to stay dry on the climb and cover up within seconds when the descent begins. This is where the selection criteria come from: a jersey that lets heat out, shorts that don't hinder pedalling, and an extra layer that takes up little room in the backpack.
Try the size in the position you will ride in, with your arms forward and your back leaning. A jersey that is too loose flaps on the provincial road. One that is too tight pulls across the shoulders when you stand up on the pedals.
Spring to autumn: light jersey and MTB shorts
For him, the T-shirt Reform Enduro Men Turmaline Navy of POC is designed for mountain biking and enduro. The product description stresses freedom of movement and breathability, and the jersey is made from recycled materials. This jersey works well with the Essential Enduro Men's Shorts Epidote Green. They are in lightweight nylon with an elastic component, water-repellent, have pre-shaped knees compatible with knee pads and several pockets. The reflective elements come in useful on the provincial road when the light fades.
Products mentioned in the article
These shorts, however, do not declare a padded liner, and over 36.9 km the saddle makes itself felt. The Pantaloncini Re-cycle Boxer Men Uranium Black have a wide pad and a lightweight, breathable fabric that dries quickly. They do not have the compression typical of models with straps. The boxer format is the one to consider as a layer under the enduro shorts.
Products mentioned in the article
For her, the T-shirt MTB Pure 3/4 Jersey Women Epidote Green is in lightweight mesh, designed for the warmest conditions and quick drying, with 3/4 sleeves. The hidden zipped pocket holds a card or a small valuable item. The cut is compatible with protectors. Underneath go the Essential Enduro Shorts Women Uranium Black, in lightweight, durable nylon, with reinforced stretch fabric pre-shaped for pedalling. They also have good water repellency and an elasticated waistband. Here too the description says nothing about a padded liner. If you don't already have a padded undershort, factor one in.
Products mentioned in the article
Winter and mid-seasons: a layer that opens up
In the cold months the scheme stays the same, but with less margin: you climb sweating and descend into cold air. For her, the Women’s LS Half Zip T‑shirt White of Rewoolution is in 100% Merino wool Reda Active®, with natural thermoregulation and odour resistance. On the Netro, the half zip has a specific job. You open it on the climb and close it when the road levels out or starts to descend.
Products mentioned in the article
Merino alone is not enough for winter descents, for her or for him. Over it you need a windproof layer that closes well and packs into the backpack, along with gloves suited to the season. If you already have a lightweight cycling jacket, before buying another, just check that it doesn't tighten across the shoulders in the riding position.
When enduro clothing is more than you need
Part of the Netro runs on the provincial road. If your usual rides are mostly on asphalt and easy gravel, shorts set up for knee pads may be more kit than you need. It makes sense if the same gear also goes with you on more technical trails and you prefer one outfit for everything.
If instead you often pedal in the woods, a durable fabric and shorts compatible with protectors will serve you when you change terrain. Decide based on where you ride each week, not on the particular route you do once a year.
If after the Netro you want longer descents
In the Biellese area, mountain biking and downhill are also practised starting from Oropa Sport, at about 1900 m, to reach Biella at around 400 m. It is a ride of a very different kind, with prolonged descents and protectors to be assessed separately. Before going, check the openings and the conditions communicated by the operator.
For a medium loop like the Netro, one breathable kit for the climb and an extra layer for the descent are enough. If you're unsure about jersey or shorts sizing, browse the cycling collection and write to us before ordering: we'll help you judge the fit.
FAQ
How long is the Netro bike loop from Mongrando and how much elevation gain does it have?
The Netro route measures 36.9 km with 760 m of elevation gain. It's a loop in the Elvo valley that tackles much of the climbing right away, so it's wise to start at a cautious pace.
What level is needed for the Netro mountain bike loop?
The route sheet lists medium technical difficulty and medium physical effort. Some riding skill and the habit of pedalling for several hours are needed. It's best not to choose it as your first hill ride.
Where does the Netro route start and where can you park?
The start is at the Polivalente hall in Mongrando, where a convenient car park is signposted. From there, follow via dei Giovani to the fork, then take the SP500, turning left.
In which season can you do the Netro bike loop?
The route sheet lists winter, spring, late spring/summer and autumn. In any season, check the weather, trail conditions and official daily warnings, as well as the daylight hours available.
What should you wear for an MTB ride with a lot of climbing at the start?
Start with a light layer on, since you warm up quickly on climbs. Choose a breathable jersey and shorts that leave your pedalling free. On long rides add a chamois. Keep a windproof layer in your pack for the descents.
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