The night lap was definitely less technical than day. Being lucky enough to be a local I've ridden Pork Barrel (day) and Skyline (night) many times in daylight and darkness. Pork Barrel has plenty of stuff that'll bite at night if you don't see it coming and switching to Skyline was (IMO) a good idea.
Whilst the Scott is indeed marketed at a wide range of skill levels I would hate to see the night laps dumbed down too much. Most people know at least 3 months out they are doing the event so there is plenty of time to get some night laps under your belt. Night riding is a skill unto itself and should be practiced. I applaud any n00b who has a crack at a 24hr event and don't for a second criticize any rider who finds the course tough, but I've gotta say that those people who rocked up to the event having never done a night lap were pretty dumb.
PS: Pursute - this isn't aimed at you as you have obviously done some night stuff before, I just quoted you for context. Stick with the night stuff, once it clicks you will find there is nothing more fun than a hot run down Skyline at night. For me the absolute high point of the Scott was rounding the 1st corner of Skyline at around 10pm to see empty track in front of me.
I agree with all of that cam-o. I think we came in with a bit the old rose coloured glasses as our only other event was at Sparrow.
We all managed to get a few night laps under our belts before the race, however we were not exactly sure what parts to practice, and had assumed that some of the harder stuff would be left out.
I totally agree with you about blasting down skyline at night. That sort of reward makes every burning crank up the hill worth it. I am so hooked.
We will be back next year with more experience and better fitness. Maybe we can give some of you lot a run for your money!