Mystery of self-supported long-distance races

Zwei Radfahrer fahren auf einer kurvigen Bergstraße durch einen Nadelwald mit schmelzendem Schnee am Straßenrand.

What is Ultra-Distance Cycling?

Ultra-distance cycling refers to riding extremely long distances or participating in corresponding races – so-called "Ultras". Unlike in competitive cycling, there's no clear definition in the cycling scene of when something is considered an ultra. You can use around 200 km or six hours as a guideline.

When we talk about a race, it usually means that the clock runs non-stop. This means that the drivers themselves decide when and how much of a break they take. Some organizers specify the route. Others only define a number of checkpoints and leave the choice of route to the drivers.

Ein Radfahrer in gelber und schwarzer Radkleidung steht vor einer alten Steinhütte, zieht eine Jacke an und bereitet sich auf eine Tour vor; daneben Fahrräder und Ausrüstung.

Since riders in ultras often spend several days or even weeks on their bikes, this discipline requires not only physical fitness, but also mental endurance and strategic planning of the route, nutrition and rest periods.

The races – sometimes referred to as events to remove the competitive aspect – are defined by a set of rules. Many are labeled "self-supported," meaning that the riders are not supported by a team and may only use resources that are equally available to all riders (such as a public bike repair shop located on the route).

Radfahrer mit Helm und Sonnenbrille fährt ein voll bepacktes Rennrad bergauf auf einer kurvigen Bergstraße bei sonnigem Wetter, umgeben von Felsen und Nadelbäumen.

What is the appeal of Ultras?

Ultra-marathons are tough. The dropout rate is high. For many, the appeal lies simply in whether they can even manage to complete a particular race. To push and expand their own limits.

Overcoming exhaustion and difficult conditions strengthens mental resilience and self-confidence.

Others find satisfaction in spending so much time alone on their bikes and in nature, and experiencing specific areas or countries.

Long-Distance Races – 3 Races in Focus

The Mountain Races

Transcontinental Race

Three Peaks Bike Race

Founded by Nelson Trees, the "Mountain Races" series comprises three challenging gravel packing races: the Atlas Mountain Race in Morocco, the Silk Road Mountain Race in Kyrgyzstan, and the Hellenic Mountain Race in Greece. The events take participants through some of the most remote and challenging mountain regions in the world and demand not only physical endurance but also self-sufficiency and navigation skills.

Kurvige Straße an einer Felswand bei dichtem Nebel, mit Gehweg und niedriger Steinmauer auf der rechten Seite, begrenzter Sicht und wenigen Bäumen im Hintergrund.

The Transcontinental Race takes riders across Europe and is considered one of the most challenging ultra-distance races. It covers approximately 4,000 km through a wide variety of European countries and landscapes, with riders having to plan and navigate their route independently between a few predetermined checkpoints. Depending on the route and conditions, participants are on the road for between 10 and 16 days. The route is mainly on asphalt, with short sections on gravel or mountain bike trails.

Fahrradfahrerin mit Sonnenbrille und Helm fährt auf einer kurvigen Bergstraße nahe einem Tunnel durch felsige Landschaft.

The Three Peaks Bike Race is a bikepacking race that has taken place annually since 2018, always starting in Vienna. The finish line and three mountain peaks or passes, which serve as checkpoints, change with each edition. The riders choose their own route, leading to distances exceeding 2,000 kilometers and elevation changes of approximately 20,000 to 40,000 meters. The race is mainly held on asphalt, but unpaved sections can also be used.